Obituary of Richard A. Charette

“Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.”

― J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan

Richard A. “Rick” Charette passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on June 15, 2024 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville. He had shared 68 years of infectious laughter, unconditional love, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born in Boonton Township to the late Thomas and Marilyn Charette, Rick grew up in Denville alongside his younger sister, Jackie. He graduated from Morris Knolls High School, Class of 1974. For many years, he had worked alongside his father at the family store, Duffields Hardware in Morris Plains. He thrived as small engine repair Mechanic. He discovered his passion for cars and motorcycles early in life. Rick was very good at opening up the hood of any automobile to see what he could accomplish. He had worked as a Service Advisor for multiple auto stores throughout Morris County. Rick and his partner, Jennifer, spent nearly 35 years together settled into Boonton. They loved taking rides on the motorcycle together until they became parents, then Rick rode off alone. In fact, Rick found it quite difficult to commit to plans too far in advance. It may have to be a riding day, depending on the weather. If you know, you know.

His enthusiasm for soccer was unmatched! Rick jokingly had created for himself, a career in soccer! He loved being a Coach and also a Referee. He was the Soccer Instructor at Morris Knolls Night School, and reffed anywhere else he was needed. He was a member of NJ State Referee Committee which included games for both children and adults. He even brought the family on many road trips to attend soccer games; he was even able to make it to a few World Cup games. To be completely honest, Rick legally aged, but he never really grew up. He truly was just like Peter Pan, a big kid at heart who just wanted to play, enjoy life and have a good time! He flourished playing soccer, street hockey, and more with his nieces and nephews. With the whole family he loved taking the kids on tractor rides, going sledding, and the annual trips to Wildwood for boogie boarding. He just loved sports! He had the gift of gab and truly never met a stranger. Rick was also blessed with a brain filled with trivial information that we will surely miss. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we are comforted by the knowledge that he is now reunited with his parents, Thomas and Marilyn, his parents-in-law, Charles and Genevieve DellaCalce and his brother-in-law, Charles DellaCalce.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his beloved family; his adored partner of 34 years, Jennifer DellaCalce; his treasured daughter, Stephanie Charette; his devoted sister, Jackie (Bob) Carey; his loving siblings-in-law, Garry, Steve (Elsie) and William (Donna); his caring nieces and nephews, Kristen, Ryan, Michael, Steve, Matthew, Alyssa, Brianna, William and Nick; his faithful cat, Rocket; and many more dear extended family and friends.

Memorial Visitation will take place on Saturday, June 22nd from 2 - 5 pm with Prayer Service beginning at 4:30 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. Memorial Donations are being accepted in Rick's memory to the Hub Soccer of Denville by way of www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt of your donation. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Rick here to continue to celebrate his life and let his light shine on.