With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard T. Green, 75, who departed peacefully on August 2, 2023, at the Gino Merli Veterans Center. He was the beloved husband of the former, Donna Genovese, with whom he recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Rich was the son of the late Milbert and Pauline Belski Green.
Born and raised in Scranton, Rich's life journey was marked by dedication and service. He proudly served his country in the United States Army in Vietnam as part of the Americal Division 1123rd Aviation Battalion stationed in Chu Lei. Upon returning home, he embarked on a fulfilling career in the pest control industry, which continued until the loss of his vision.
Rich and Donna met on a blind date the day of the Agnes Flood. He had an amazing sense of humor and joked that he saw her floating down the river and fished her out. He was always ready with a joke and loved to make people laugh. Anyone who knew him will remember his favorite saying “Stop down later, we’ll be partying!”
Rich loved to travel and he and Donna traveled most of the country and parts of Europe. He was the original GPS. He could give you directions anywhere even with his loss of sight. You just needed to describe where you were and he could direct you from memory.
Rich had a genuine appreciation for people and could see the good in everyone. Music was his solace, and he knew the words to nearly every song of his era. He also enjoyed listening to his police scanner.
Rich was actively involved in several community organizations. For 43 years he served as Vice President of the Dunmore Lions Club, tirelessly recruiting new members wherever he went. As a last wish, he would want anyone who reads this to please consider joining this very important organization. Additionally, he held the position of Vice President for the Blinded Veterans Association PA Regional Group and Treasurer for the Lackawanna Blind Association Shopland Club. His dedication extended to volunteering at Gino Merli for many years, where he also served on the Advisory Board.
Rich is survived by his loving son, Richard, and adored granddaughter, Madison. Rich leaves behind his sisters, Shirley Polcha and Mary Lou Kukulya; Sisters in Law, Arlene Genovese, Margaret Vaccaro, Pamela Sabetta; Brothers in law Andrew Genovese and Patrick Sabetta; as well as several nieces and nephews. He held a special place in his heart for his cousins of the Nazeranko family, especially Micki and Joe Sabie, who faithfully visited him every week.
Rich was predeceased by his sister Paulette Flynn and brothers-in-law Joseph Genovese, Angelo Vaccaro, Paul Polcha, and Bud Kukulya.
The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the nurses at Gino Merli Veterans Center, particularly Vicki, Gina, Sandy, and Janice, for their unwavering care and respect.
A blessing service will be held on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home Inc., 318 E. Drinker Street, Dunmore. Interment to follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Dunmore.
Friends and family may pay their respects Sunday evening from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rich’s name to the Dunmore Lions Club or any of the organizations Rich was involved in. Let us honor his memory by continuing the legacy of service and kindness he so passionately upheld throughout his life. May he rest in eternal peace.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.