Obituary of Richard A Calilli

Richard was born in the Bronx, NY on March 11, 1935. First born son to Emily and Guido Calilli. He is a graduate of Mount Saint Michael Academy, who obtained an undergraduate degree from Fordham University and a Masters Degree from Pace University. He was ROTC at Fordham University and went on to to serve two years active duty as a Military Policeman in the US Army and continued for seven years Reserve Duty. In 1957 he married Loretta Turso and they had four children. During the 56 years they were married, Richard had a successful career in business. He first owned his own publishing business with two partners, and then he worked for Publisher's Clearing House and was an Editor at Hearst Publications until he retired in 1997. He spent his retirement years enjoying his children and grandchildren, traveling with his lovely wife and volunteering as a Docent at the New York Botanical Gardens where he instituted the Belmont Tours. His interest in collecting art inspired him to study acrylic painting. He continued to live an active and happy life until succumbing to Altzheimer's Disease on November 30, 2013. He is survived by his wife Loretta, his daughter Theresa Hoffman, her husband Robert Hoffman, his daughter Gloria Zonghetti, her husband Gerald Zonghetti, his son Steven Calilli and his wife Cheryl, his son Robert Calilli and his wife. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jillian Hoffman, Billy Hoffman and wife Kelly, Douglas Hoffman, Genette Zonghetti, Gail Zonghetti, Gianna Zonghetti, her fiance Juan Carona, Robert J. Calilli III. In addition he leaves behind one brother, Robert J. Calilli I and his wife Virgie, neices: Anne Calilli, Lisa Lombardi and her husband Richard and great niece Hanna Lombardi. He was loved and adored and his absence will leave a void that can never be filled. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you make a donation in Richard's name to the Hebrew Home for the Aged: 5901 Palisade Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471