Richard P. Aupperle Jr.

Richard P. Aupperle Jr., 78, of Marcellus, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, surrounded by family.

Born and raised in Albany, Richard graduated from Albany High School in 1963 and proudly served in the Vietnam War for the U.S. Navy for two years. After completing his service, he married the love of his life, Bonnie, in 1970. The two then moved to the Syracuse area, where they built a life together rooted in family and hard work. Richard earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Syracuse University and spent his entire career as a Structural Engineer, most recently with St. Germain & Aupperle Consulting Engineers. He also worked alongside his wife and children in real estate development for many years.

Richard was a proud and active member of Immanuel United Methodist Church, where he faithfully served as treasurer and found great happiness singing in the choir among his church family.

Richard embraced life with energy and joy. He especially loved boating adventures with Bonnie and their close friends, creating lasting memories on the water. His home in Florida was a treasured retreat, where he enjoyed relaxing and entertaining. A passionate card player, he looked forward to playing his favorite, Mexican Trains, with family and friends.

Richard cherished motorcycle rides with his sons and friends, where the open road brought both freedom and connection. Time spent at their camp on Skaneateles Lake was among his greatest joys, a place filled with laughter and love. A devoted dog lover, Richard’s life was always brightened by his four-legged companions.

Richard was predeceased by his wife, Bonnie; parents, Richard P. and Norma; and brother, Robert.

Surviving are his sons, Richard (Maria) III, Andrew (Beth), Matthew (Katharine), and Scott (Kimberly); grandchildren, Ava, Richard IV, Adelle, Anna, Sophia, Emma, Ella, Madelyn, Matthew II, Charlotte, Lauren, and Leah; brother, Kenneth (Sandy); sister-in-law, Sharon Aupperle; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To celebrate Richard’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home.

Richard will be laid to rest in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Syracuse.

Contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to CNY SPCA, 5878 E. Molloy Rd., Syracuse, NY 13211.