Richard J. Pitifer

Richard “Dick” Pitifer

GENEVA - Richard J. Pitifer, age 76 of Geneva, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Dick was born on June 24, 1949, in Geneva and was the son of the late Josephine (Galusha) and Daniel Pitifer, Sr. He was a graduate of Geneva High School and a retiree of UA Local 81 out of Oswego, NY. He married his devoted wife, Julie, in 1975. They were blessed with three children: Danelle (Chad) Telarico, Richard (Paula Thompson) Pitifer II, and Nicole (Matthew) Giardino.

His forty-year career as a pipefitter was one of his proudest achievements, as it gave him the opportunity to travel throughout the country and around the world. Julie would often travel to visit Dick around the country, offering them the opportunity to see parts of the country they might not have thought to travel.

Dick spent his retirement years enjoying sports (go Yankees!), tinkering around the house (his or his children’s), and working on classic cars (Mustangs or his Chevy truck that is affectionately called Mater).

Dick is survived by his wife, Julia (Barilla) Pitifer; children, Danelle (Chad) Telarico of Farmington, Richard (Paula Thompson) Pitifer II of Florida, and Nicole (Matthew) Giardino of Geneva; grandchildren, Emily, Carson, Peyton, Ryan, and Mya; close nephew Joseph Barilla; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Josephine Pitifer, and brother, Daniel Pitifer II.

Family and friends may call on Saturday, April 11, 2026, between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM at the McGuigan & Bero Funeral Home, 45 High St., Geneva. Funeral services will follow calling hours at 12:00 PM in the funeral home. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, followed by a reception at Club 86.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

For tributes and condolences, please visit www.mcguiganberofuneralhome.com