Richard Felix Sierski passed away on Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. He was 75.
Richard (also known as Dad, Uncle Richie, Richie or Rich) was born in Germany on Feb. 22, 1949, and moved to the United States with his family when he was 3 years old.
He lived the majority of his life in Sparta.
Rich had a huge heart, a kind soul, and a gentle and sweet temperament. He was extremely generous and he would do anything at any time to help a family member or friend.
An avid cyclist, golfer and hiker, Rich took frequent trips to the Delaware Water Gap, Mount Mitchell and Sandy Hook among other places. He even rode his bicycle all the way to Cape May from Newton when he was younger!
Rich also loved to read and was always sharing recent New Yorker articles with his family and friends.
He enjoyed biking and going to Panera with his daughter, Sherri; golfing and playing tennis with his brother, Joe; gardening, having tea and visiting with his sister Jenny; sharing knowledge and new experiences with his nephew Jason; visiting his sister Liesa and her husband Mike in Florida; and exploring some of his favorite spots with his sister Chrissie.
In addition, Rich was an animal lover and had several pets throughout his life, including his cat, Bubba.
Rich will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends. We love and miss you so much, Dad! You’re the best!
Rich was predeceased by his parents, Feliks and Charlotte, and his brother Joseph.
He is survived by his daughter, Sherri Christine Young; his sisters, Liesa Jackovich and her husband Mike, Genevieve Lyons and Christine Wilson. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Margie Sierski; nephews, Jason Hoffman, Adam Wilson, Eddie and Denny Foraker; and nieces, Leah Wilson, Suzette Foraker and Maria Williams.
Rich also maintained a close connection with his daughter’s family members, Pamela Young and Sheri Jo Young, as well as having a longtime friendship with Sherri’s late grandparents. David and Virginia Young.
A private celebration of his life was held.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the American Civil Liberties Union or Doctors Without Borders.