Obituary of Richard Handabaka
It’s with a heavy heart we must announce the passing of Richard Handabaka, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Hamburg, NJ on Sunday, August 20, 2023. Richard, also known to many as Rich or Richie, was born at The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, NJ on December 9, 1958 to Rita Marie and Richard Handabaka. Rich was raised in Rockaway, New Jersey along with his siblings, Cecelia Plante-Handabaka and Thomas Handabaka. Richard was a graduate of Morris Hills High School class of 1978 and went on to attend culinary school. Rich graduated from The Culinary Institute of America in 1980. Rich was a chef for many years, most known for working at The Exchange in Rockaway, NJ. Rich was a member of the Laborers’ International Union of North America and was looking forward to retiring from the Laborers’ Local 3 in December of 2023. Rich was also a chef at Crystal Springs Resort and owned his own business, Old Man and a Paintbrush. Rich was a hardworking man who took pride in his craft and whose skills will never be forgotten.
Rich had four children he loved deeply. Charissa, 37 of Taylor, PA; Brittany, 36 of Eustis, Florida; Allyson, 26 of Wantage, NJ; and Aric, 24 of Mount Arlington, NJ. Rich loved spending his time with his kids. He taught them how to fish, ride bikes, and of course, cook. He was famously known for his chicken parmesan, chocolate mousse, and cheesecake. He shared his love for classic rock, good coffee (black!), movies, and the WWE with them. Growing up, afternoons were spent at the baseball field or camping in the backyard. Rich was their coach and biggest cheerleader. Rich loved his motorcycle and going on rides any chance he got. Rich emphasized the importance of trying new things, like rollerblading down big hills or trying wasabi. Rich’s heart was so big, his children’s best friends often considered him a second father. Rich’s four children regularly joked with him about who his favorite was. The answer is none of them, his 6 grandchildren were his favorites. Nothing made Rich happier than spending time with Dominick, 15; Zachary, 4; Khyrie, 4; Noah, 1; Kinsley, 1; and Cooper, 1. They were his pride and joy.
Rich had an infectious personality with the biggest smile and could make anyone laugh. He was generous and would help anyone in need. Rich had friendships spanning decades, friends who remember late night chats, hanging out at the Exchange, or meeting up at the beer tent at the Denville Carnival. He had more hair on his face than his head, never sent a text without a typo, and always joked about being an “Old Man”. Rich was always eating then would complain “why’d you let me eat so much?!” If you ever had the opportunity to meet him, he was most likely wearing a bandana, a t-shirt with the sleeves cut off, and flipping the bird with his tongue out. If you tried to reign in his behavior, you’d be quickly met with a “Blah, Blah, Blah!” or “Yeah, whatever!”
Though Rich’s sudden passing has caused great sorrow, Rich wouldn’t want anyone to be grieving over him. He’d want us to celebrate his life, share memories, and have a drink for him. Taking comfort knowing he is at peace, Rich’s memory will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren and their families: Charissa and Matthew Zumbach and their two sons, Zachary and Noah; Brittany Mathe and her son’s Dominick and Khyrie; Allyson and James Courtright and their son, Cooper; and Aric Handabaka and Shannon Turer and their daughter, Kinsley. Rich is also survived by his older sister Cecelia Plante-Handabaka, her children Kyle Plante, Jacqueline Plante, and Dillon Swann; and younger brother, Thomas Handabaka, sister-in-law Teri Handabaka, and their children Colby, Reed, and Riley Handabaka. Rich has many surviving aunts, uncles, and cousins who he created so many fond memories with growing up. Preceding Rich in death was his mother, Rita Marie Price (Handabaka) and her partner Thomas Murry, along with his maternal grandparents, aunts, and uncles.
Rich’s life will continue to be celebrated and his legacy will live on within his children and grandchildren. God made a mistake taking Rich so soon, Heaven doesn’t know what they’re in for. Don’t cause too much trouble up there Dad! Hope you can finally enjoy a day off.
Rich’s family will be hosting a private Celebration of Life to honor his memory. Donations can be made in Rich’s name by clicking here in Memory of Richard Handabaka.
