Ricardo Stack

Ricardo Stack, age 72, of Guilderland, NY, passed away peacefully at home on November 6, 2024, while napping—just as he had always wanted. Born on October 29, 1952, in Charleroi, PA, Ricardo was the only son of Stanley and Laura Stack. 

Ricardo graduated from Mon Valley Catholic High School and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. He began his professional career in Buffalo, NY, where he met his first wife, Susan Stack (née Krause). The couple later moved back to Pennsylvania to raise their daughter, Elaine, while Ricardo continued his career at Elliot Company. After Susan's passing, Ricardo reconnected with a childhood friend and, at his wedding, met MaryEllen, who would later become his second wife, encouraged by his daughter Elaine. Together, they had a second daughter, Margaret, who, to Elaine's chagrin, was not a Smurf. 

The family relocated to Gardner, MA, where Ricardo worked for GE for the next 13 years. When the Fitchburg plant closed, they moved to Guilderland, NY where he retired after over 20 years of service with GE Schenectady. Later, he took a retirement position with Airline Hydraulics.

 Ricardo is survived by his beloved wife, MaryEllen Stancoven Stack, "Queen Brat"; his daughter Elaine Stack Taylor, "Thumper," and her husband Bryan; his daughter Margaret, "Dr. Princess Brat"; and his cherished granddaughters, Kelley Taylor-Harasiemowicz, "Tree Toad," and her husband Eddie, Emma Taylor, "Emmer," and Fable (Bridget) Taylor, "Birthday Granddaughter." He also leaves behind numerous cousins and pets who brought him joy throughout his life.

 Ricardo was predeceased by his first wife, Susan; his in-laws, Catherine and George Stancoven and “Tootsie” and George Krause; and his parents, Stanley and Laura Stack.

 Ricardo will be remembered for his quiet strength, dry wit, and unwavering love for his family. He lived life on his own terms, and his passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him. His family finds comfort in knowing he is at peace. 

A calling hour will be held on Wednesday, November 13, from 11-1PM for family and friends at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY, 12205.

In lieu of flowers, which Ricardo never particularly cared for, donations in his name can be sent to: The Schenectady County Public Library's Gift and Memorial Fund, due to his love of reading or The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, in honor of his beloved pets, both grand and great-grand.