Obituary of Richard Arnold Katz

Richard Arnold Katz, age 90, of Oldsmar, FL, beloved husband of Claire Roseman Katz, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2017. In addition to Claire, his devoted wife of 63 years, Richard's memory will be embraced by his children, Steven Donn and wife Paula of Ann Arbor, MI, Michael Donn of Boston, MA, David Katz of Manchester, VT, Norci Katz Kochman and husband Larry of Fairfield, CT, Mindy Katz Strauley and husband Paul of Casselberry, FL, Lisa Katz Grieco and husband Ray of Putnam Valley, NY; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his brother, Lewis Katz. Richard was predeceased by his parents Norcia and Harry Katz; parents-in-law, Esther and Murray Roseman and Elaine and Richard Donn ; his daughter-in-law, Christine Merritt Katz. Born and raised in New York City, Richard raised his family in Westbury, NY (mid-50s to mid-70s) and Manchester, VT (mid-70s to mid-80s) . Richard and Claire became Snowbirds for several years, eventually becoming full-time residents of Oldsmar, FL. He was a graduate of Stuyvesant High School in NYC and Lafayette College in Easton, PA. After proudly serving in United States Army during the Korean War, Richard became a Restaurateur and owned a large-scale laundry and linen supply company. Later, he purchased and ran the Chalet Motel and Pam-Pam Restaurant in Manchester, VT until his retirement. Skiing, golfing, sailing, horseback riding, playing his piano, reading, and cooking were some of the his many simple pleasures of life. His delicious cheesecake and onion soup were epic. He was also a member of the Masons and was a Shriner. Richard loved his wife and family. When family needs called, he volunteered without hesitation to raise his sister-in-law's children as his own. He will be lovingly remembered by those whom he touched so positively during his long fruitful life. There will be a graveside committal service on Monday at 11 AM in the Cedar Park/ Beth El Cemetery in Westwood, NJ. , with both a Masonic Service and Military Honors officiated. A reception will follow in Pleasantville, NY. Shiva will be observed on Monday and Tuesday at 7 PM in the Kochman Family's home, 88 Arrow Head Lane, Fairfield, CT. For travel directions or to sign his online guest register, please visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com