Richard M. Higgins

Richard Martin Higgins of Piseco, New York, died Monday, June 21, 2010 at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts after a long illness. Born October 27, 1945 in Higgins Bay, New York to Richard C. and Elizabeth W. Higgins, he received his elementary education in Piseco, New York and graduated high school from Wells Central School. He attended St. Lawrence University before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1966 where he fulfilled his childhood dream and became a helicopter pilot. He served his country completing three tours in Vietnam and during that time he was decorated with numerous ribbons, citations and medals including the Bronze Star Medal for bravery. He ended his military career after 27 years and was honorably discharged in 1993. Since his retirement Rick had worked tirelessly and with great pride for countless civic institutions. He was a dedicated member and Commander of VFW Post #7228, past Captain and EMT for the Piseco Volunteer Ambulance Corps and long-standing volunteer for the Piseco Fire Department. Rick shared his love of music and was instrumental in the formation of the local marching troupe, "A Pretty Good Band". He served as it's Executive Director and worked closely with it's sister organization, The Mountain Arts Consortium. Rick served on the Speculator Fourth of July Parade Committee, the Piseco Library Committee, volunteered yearly for the Piseco Triathalon and was an active member and past President of the Piseco Fish and Game Club. During the summer months Rick was employed as the Supervisor of Operations for the Piseco Airport and in the winter he was the Director of the Ski Patrol for Oak Mountain Ski Center. In recognition of all his tireless efforts in the community he loved so much, Rick was the recipient of the 2009 Sarah B. Osborne Community Service Award. Rick is survived and will be missed by his brother Thomas and niece Sarah, his Aunt Bobbie, a myriad of cousins, extended family and lifelong friends. A memorial service will be held in his honor July 5th at 10:00 a.m. in the Higgins Bay Cemetery, Piseco, New York. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Piseco Ambulance Corps or the Piseco Fire Department. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, Massachusetts is assisting the family. For expressions of sympathy please visit www.nefcc.net

Richard M. Higgins

October 27, 1945 - June 21, 2010