Richard Joseph Palasz

Wynantskill -

Richard Palasz, 62, passed away suddenly on November 7, 2024, at home, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a zest for life that touched everyone who knew him.

Rick - always the life of the party, always ready with a dad joke was known for his boundless optimism and infectious spirit. Whether he was cracking a joke, playing cards, or taking over the microphone during karaoke, Rick's presence was impossible to miss. His laughter was contagious, his energy never-ending, and he could always be counted on to lift the mood in any room.

Rick's greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Rose, who was the love of his life; his mother, Betty; his two sisters, Terry (Vic) and Mary (Bill); his brother Ziggy (Mary Jane); two step-sons, Dennis (Kerri) and Andrew; his biological son Mark and daughter Amber; countless friends, and his two loyal dogs, Thunder and Ollie.

As a proud member of the U.S. Army National Guard, Rick served with honor, including tours in Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and supporting military operations in New York City after 9/11. He retired in 2021, after a distinguished career, and embraced his civilian life with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything. He could often be found working in his garden, tending to his pond, caring for his chickens, or simply enjoying time with Rose at their favorite camping spots each summer. If there was a good time to be had, Rick was sure to find it.

Rick's love of life was only matched by his generosity. He was always the first to offer a helping hand, and his positivity and encouragement inspired everyone around him. Whether you were playing a game of Bingo, grabbing a bite to eat, or dancing the night away. Rick's enthusiasm was infectious. He could always be counted on to lift you up, make you smile, and remind you that life is what you make of it.

In honoring Rick's memory, the family asks that you embrace the values that Rick held dear: love your family fiercely, laugh often, and never forget to find the joy and humor in every situation. Hug your loved ones close, because Rick wouldn't have it any other way.

Rick will be deeply missed for his warmth, his sense of humor, his giving spirit, and his ability to brighten any day with a smile. The world is a little quieter without him, but his legacy of love and laughter will live on in all of us.

Visitation will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet on Monday, November 11, 2024 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home at 1:30 pm. Interment will immediately follow in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St Jude's Children's hospital, a cause close to Rick's heart.

We'll miss you, Rick - but we'll keep laughing, keep loving, and keep finding the silver lining, just like you would have wanted.

To share a memory of Richard or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.