Richard T. Kowalczyk

Richard T. Kowalczyk, 80, of Amsterdam, NY passed away on Thursday, October 18th, 2018, at St. Mary's Healthcare in Amsterdam with his family by his side. Born on September 22nd, 1938 in Amsterdam, NY, he was the son of the late Leo and Julia (Kryczak) Kowalczyk. Richard was a truck driver for Olbrych's Dairy and Cushing Stone Company. He also delivered newspapers for The Recorder and Nevulis Amusements. For 60 years his passion was riding motorcycles, and was an avid hunter. Richard is survived by his 3 daughters, Charlotte Smith of South Carolina, Suzan (Steven) LaPratt of Johnstown, NY, and Linda (Keith) Releford of South Carolina; his grandchildren, Amber, Greggory, Amy, and James; his brothers, Joseph Kowalczyk of Perth, NY, and Daniel Kowalczyk of Amsterdam, NY. Several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. The family would like to give a special mention to his cousins, Stephen and Joanne Kowalczyk; his nephews, Joshua Messer, Peter Kowalczyk, and Joseph Kowalczyk Jr.; and his longtime friends, Richard and Harrol Gutowski, Doug Miller, and Bobby Schleski. Richard is predeceased by his wife Fay (Messer) Kowalczyk; his parents, Leo and Julia Kowalczyk; and his sister Janice Ruberti. Richard will be interred with his wife Fay at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Upper Steadwell Ave., Amsterdam, NY at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Betz, Rossi, & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, NY 12010. Those wishing to express their condolences to the family may do so by signing our online Memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com.