Richard Kolceski
1971 - 2024
Obituary
Richard “Rick” James Kolceski, 53, of Jamesville, NY passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 7, 2024.
Born on April 5, 1971, Rick was a proud graduate of Jamesville-DeWitt High School, Class of 1989. He continued his journey at SUNY Brockport, earning a BS in Psychology in 1993.
During his college years, he found camaraderie and lifelong friendships as a member of the Delta Sigma Phi brotherhood. A gifted gardener and nature enthusiast, Rick was an entrepreneur that founded Hydroponic Shops of America, LLC with his friend and business partner, Tom Britschge. He gave back to his community by establishing urban community gardens. He also passed on his gardening knowledge to students and adults alike. Rick ventured in many other avenues in his life where he was admired and respected by his co-workers. Most recently, Rick was employed by NYS Department of Taxation & Finance, where he joined a supportive and wonderful team.
Rick was a talented musician who played guitar at several venues. His favorite pastime was spending time with his children, nieces, and nephews and was known as the “Fun, Uncle Rick”. You could often find Rick cheering on his family’s sporting events and musical endeavors. He loved hosting brunches, cookouts, and gatherings around the fire pit with his family and friends.
Rick is survived by the loves of his life, his three beautiful girls, Sophia, Isabella and Liliana; wife and mother of his children, Kathleen Kramer Kolceski; parents, Joseph and Patricia Kolceski; twin sister, Carol (Matthew Kohberger) Kolceski; brothers, Rodney (Jaime) Kolceski, and Joseph (Michelle) Kolceski; many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephew; and loving canine companion, Chewy.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 18 at 10 am at Holy Cross Church, DeWitt. Calling hours will be Monday, June 17 from 4-8 pm at Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee Street, DeWitt. Private interment will be in Jamesville-Walnut Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donation to the Rick’s Children’s Education Fund. Checks can be made payable to Isabella Kolceski, 6441 Siawassia Street, Jamesville, NY 13078
Arrangements are with Fairchild & Meech DeWitt Chapel.