Richard A. LaPorte

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard A. LaPorte, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Richard left us peacefully on February 3rd, 2024, in Wilson, PA.

Born on August 26, 1952, in Elizabeth, NJ, and raised in Roselle, Richard was a proud graduate of Abraham Clark High School. He served with distinction as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps as a helicopter gunner and mechanic in Vietnam, a period of his life that shaped much of his character and values. Following his military service, Richard worked at Public Service Electric and Gas in Newark, NJ, where he dedicated 39 years to passing gas as a Systems Operations Supervisor.

In 1985, Richard married his soulmate, Mary Anne, at the Polish National Home in Harrison, NJ after meeting on a blind date exactly one year prior. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of their two daughters, Jessie and Danny-Girl. Richard was a devoted grandfather to Silas, Zeke, and Cassian, whose adventures and smiles were the light of his life (unless they got too loud).

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Mary Anne LaPorte (née Izbicki); daughters Jessica Allman-LaPorte and her wife Jennifer, and Danielle Zangakis and her husband Jeremy; grandchildren, Silas, Ezekiel, and Cassian; brother, Jack LaPorte and his wife Nancy; sisters, Kathy Brzyski and her husband Steve, and Erin Golden; many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly; and his faithful dogs, Kato and Tessie. He is predeceased by his parents, Daniel LaPorte and Kathryn LaPorte (née Lynch); brother, Andrew LaPorte; and his Uncle Richard “Dick” LaPorte, whom he held in high regard.He is predeceased by his parents, Daniel LaPorte and Kathryn LaPorte (née Lynch); brother, Andrew LaPorte; and his Uncle Richard “Dick” LaPorte, whom he held in high regard.

Rich had a passion for watching NASCAR and the New York Giants as loudly as possible, an impressive collection of flashlights, and enjoyed the pursuit of a good hot dog. Known for his generosity and willingness to do anything for those he loved, Richard’s legacy is one of unwavering loyalty and love.

A Viewing is scheduled for Friday, February 9, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Finegan Funeral Home, 4080 William Penn Highway, Easton, PA. An additional Viewing Hour will be held at the funeral home the following day, Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, with a Funeral Service to begin immediately afterwards. The interment will then be at Gethsemane Cemetery, Easton, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Richard’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart.

We invite you to share your memories and stories of Richard as we remember a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved.