Richard Blaise Garofalo, formerly of Monroe, New York and a 27-year resident of Pittsfield, passed away on May 18, 2023 after a long illness. He was born to Stella and Philip Garofalo on July 30, 1943 in Queens, New York.
He attended Flushing High School, and joined the U.S. Army National Guard after graduation. Upon completing his military service, he began his career in the construction industry in New York City and soon became a high rise construction supervisor. He worked in Iran in the 1970s for an American based construction company as a Superintendent Project Manager. After returning home to the U.S., he started his own construction/renovations business where he worked until his retirement.
Richie Garofalo loved spending time with family and friends. His door was always opened and he entertained often whether it be a small dinner gathering or a large party. Of course, the large parties always included dancing in the garage to rock and roll music of the 1950s.
He was an avid skier, golfer, cyclist and enjoyed tending to his garden in his spare time. But his true passion was skiing. He enrolled in the Professional Ski Instructors Clinic (PSI) and received the “Top Gun” certificate of his class. He loved to teach kids and volunteered as coach for both the Killington Ski School Superstar Program and the Killington After School Ski Program for many years.
He also volunteered for various events sponsored by Killington Resort including the Women’s Ski World Cup for four years and the junior golf championship (AJGA) for seven years.
Richie Garofalo never discussed politics but was determined to get his point across when it came to his personal life.
He used that same determination when it came to others. He would be the first one to step up if needed. He was a caregiver for many years for a friend who had no one else. A task he took on without question.
He was a loyal friend and devoted to his family.
He is predeceased by his parents, and survived by his long-term companion Paulette Pagnotta, two daughters Audra Castelli and Tricia and her husband Matt Darch, two granddaughters Olivia Castelli and Avery Darch, two brothers Philip and wife Fran, Blaise and wife Linda and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
