Richard J. Minichelli

Richard J. Minichelli

Richard J. Minichelli, age 90 of Erie, died on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. He was born in Erie on May 3, 1932, the son of the late Emidio and Lucia (Pallotto) Minichelli. Richie lived a humble life and was a great man.

Richard graduated from Tech Memorial High School as a printer, with Honors and also medaled in Math. He entered the work force at a very early age to help support his family. Richard had a very strong work ethic throughout his career. He was employed and retired as a foreman at the Firch Baking Company and then later worked at the Hammermill and International Paper Companies from which he also retired. He was also a proud Korean War Veteran; serving 4 years as a radio mechanic in the US Air Force before being honorably discharged.

As a young man, Richard loved to bowl, play softball, and had a passion for playing a challenging game of cards; where he had an ability to easily memorize the deck and know exactly what all the other players were holding in their hands. He was an avid horse racing fan. Over the years, "going to the track" with his eye on the prize always became the hot topic of conversation. Richard was a lifelong member of Saint Paul Church.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his eldest brother; Egidio Minichelli, and his niece, Jane Marie Minichelli. He is survived by his 2 brothers, Robert A. Minichelli (Lillian) and Frank D. Minichelli (Constance), 4 nieces and a nephew; Karen DiMichele (Vincent), Patty Bensur (Dan), Judy Minichelli, and Dr. Mark R. Minichelli (Julie). He is further survived by 4 great nieces and 2 great nephews. To Karen, Jane, and Mark he was extra special because not only was he their Uncle Rich, but also the Godfather to all three.

Nothing was more important to Richard than his family. He was a loyal, caring and generous person not only to his family but also to his friends, and even strangers. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.

Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Saturday, November 26th at Saint Paul Church, 1617 Walnut Street, at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Second Harvest Food Bank, 1507 Grimm Dr., Erie, PA 16501.