Obituary of Richard J. Scanu

Richard J. Scanu 80 of West Sand Lake died peacefully on Saturday, January 26, 2019. Richard was born in Brooklyn, NY to the late Providence and Vincent Scanu. Richard graduated from Averill Park High School, as Class President, in 1957 and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1962. Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years: Susan A. (Hulsopple) Scanu, and his six beloved children; Anthony (Lisa) Scanu of Averill Park; Richard Scanu Jr. (Jennifer Ruotolo) of Ponte Vedra, FL; Vincent Scanu (Michelle Isabelle) of West Sand Lake; Teresa Scanu-Hansen of Averill Park, Angela Scanu of Averill Park; and Martha Scanu of West Sand Lake. He is also survived by two brothers; James (Susan) Scano of Dallas, TX, Anthony (Judith) Scanu of West Sand Lake, and a sister; Vivian Scanu Wright of Myrtle Beach, SC. Richard is also survived by many nieces, nephews, 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Richard was always a protector of family and looked out for all of them unconditionally. Richard enjoyed a 34 year career as a Soil Scientist for the Soil Conservation Service of the United States Department of Agriculture until he retired in 1997. One of Richard's professional legacies was the field work that led to the publishing of the Soil Survey of Berkshire County Massachusetts in 1988. Richard was also considered by many to be an accomplished carpenter and had many projects around the community to show for it. In his retirement he became an avid sport shooter, along with his wife Susan, and spent most of his retirement sharpening his aim. They also enjoyed country-western line dancing as a frequent hobby. The family would like to extend their gratitude to The Loving Home-Fredericks Road, Glenville and Peregrine-Colonie for their professional care and commitment to Richard during the most challenging times of his disease. Most especially, the family is grateful to Cassey and her dedication, unwavering support, and steadfast patience in supporting Richard and the Scanu family. The family is forever grateful to have encountered these professionals during the most challenging times and providing dignity to Richards care. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Friday February 1, 2019 at 11:30 am at St. Henry's Church 39 old Rt. 66 Averill Park, NY. Calling will be Thursday January 31, 2019 from 4-7pm at the Wm. J. Rockefeller Funeral Home, Inc. 165 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (theaftd.org) or the National Rifle Association (NRA.org). .