Richard Pikulski

Richard Pikulski, 77, of East Hampton, CT, beloved husband of Julie Ciucias died at home (June 30, 2024) with peace and love after a long illness caused by toxic agent orange exposure in Vietnam resulting in a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Richard was born in Staten Island, New York on Mach 31, 1947, the son of Zygmund and Mildred Pikulski. In addition to his devoted wife and caregiver, he is survived by a sister, many nieces and nephews, family members, furry children Bella Nutmeg, Saffron, and Gigi, heartbroken closest friends Charlie & Dennis, Kenny, Hal, Bob, Jack and Tom and caring next door neighbors the Rubegas and the Tuttles. He also leaves numerous former work colleagues, friends and his compassionate caregivers, Bianca, Linda, Karen, Akua, Kelly, Jenn and Tiana who took care of him like he was family. His family would like to thank his home care nurse, Sandra, and his providers Dottie Leighton APRN, Dr. Ruskin and Dr. Durham for their dedicated care. Richard was predeceased by his parents, his in- laws, several aunts and uncles and family members and pet’s Cinnamon and Ginger all who loved him dearly. Rich was a cradle Catholic, altar boy and went to Catholic schools including St. Peter’s High School. While at St. Peter’s Rich took Latin and was known for his vocabulary and ability to spell. He became a bookworm which lasted his entire life, reading 3 to 4 books a week (primarily about history). Rich credits praying the 16th century Prayer to St. Joseph daily with saving his life while in Vietnam . Richard went on to graduate from St. John’s University with a degree in Business Management after which he enlisted in the armed services. Rich served as a Staff Sergeant with D Co, the 23rd Infantry Division (Americal), 1st Battalion 46th Infantry Vietnam, 196th Infantry Brigade (Light) U.S. Army from July 1969 – June 1970. He received numerous awards and commendations including the Exp M-14- Expert M-14 rifle badge, Army Commendation Medal and The Bronze Star Medal for outstanding meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. After his tour, Richard went to Florida to heal and recover where he enjoyed the beach, Dance competitions and working in a motorcycle shop. Rich took 2 motorcycle trips around the US to visit Army buddies or the families of those who sons were lost in the war. With the encouragement of lifelong friend, Carolyn, Rich returned to NYC where he attended Baruch College graduating with an MBA in Management. He worked in NYC, then for IBM, eventually being recruited to Connecticut. He worked his entire career as a Senior Business Analyst for a software and consulting company traveling domestically and to South Africa until illness forced him to retire. Richard met the love of his life, Julie in 1988. They eventually married in 1996 surrounded by friends and family, and in 1997 built their lovely home in East Hampton. Rich loved adventure, travel, cruises, Broadway shows, music, trivia, the NY Yankees and Giants, poker, bowling, horseshoes, running, tennis, golf, reading, video games and his Cocker Spaniels. He loved house projects and could “make a radio out of a coconut”. Richard was known for his sweet, calm, even temper, exquisite sense of humor and patriotism. He would wake up and say, “It’s a beautiful day, I am alive”. A funeral Mass will be held on July 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM, in St. Patrick’s Church, East Hampton followed by a graveside burial with military honors in Lake View Cemetery. Donations in his name can be made to Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Heal Our Patriots, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607. 

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