Richard Allan Erckert

September 26, 1944 – December 10, 2025

Richard Allan Erckert, a devoted loving husband, brother, father, and cherished grandfather, passed away surrounded by family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Elizabeth Erckert. Richard leaves behind his beloved wife, Claudia Erckert; his sister, Denise Dawson, and her husband Brian; his daughter, Alyson Pond, and her husband Brad; his son, Christopher; and his treasured grandchildren, Maxwell and Benjamin Pond.

Born on September 26, 1944, Richard had a happy childhood growing up with his neighborhood friends in the Marine Park section of Brooklyn, New York. His bicycle wheels opened his world up to exploring the neighborhood and landed him his first job delivering newspapers.  He told stories of the other fun jobs he had in his teenage years as a milk man, soda jerk and serving ice cream at Carvel. He attended Good Shephard Elementary School, Xavarian High School and at Brooklyn College he met Claudia.  

In 1966 Richard served his country as a member of the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany . This is where he developed his love of travel and meeting new people around the world.  When off duty he had many adventures with his army buddies riding his motorcycle or traveling in a beat up old VW bug all around Europe. Some adventures were camping on the Costa del Sol, skiing the Alps, and partying in the Black Forest.

After his service he married Claudia in 1970 and had a successful career as an executive in the telecommunications industry. They moved to Huntington in 1974 where he raised his family.

Richard cherished family vacations, creating countless special memories. He was involved in coaching his children in sports and always cheering them on. He was always very supportive and proud of his children. A fan of the former Brooklyn Dodgers, Mets and Giants, Richard loved taking his kids to games and cheering on his teams.

Richard enjoyed boating and spending time on the water, playing golf and tackling DIY projects—whether building a bookcase, or constructing a garage, he was always up for the challenge. He also found joy in gardening and nurturing the beauty around him.

In retirement, Richard and Claudia were long time members of Friendship Force where they traveled and made many new friends here and around the world.

Richard embraced life fully. His greatest joy was being with family and friends. Being a grandfather brought out the kid in him and he delighted in being playful and goofy with his grandchildren. He had a bit of a mischievous nature and he and his friends engaged in some pranks we are better off not knowing about.  

His legacy is one of love, laughter, unforgettable moments and adventure. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the memories shared and the lives he touched. When you think of Richard, we hope it brings a smile to your face.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to be made to:

Donate to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center - MSK Giving

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