Frank Philip Rica, Sr.

Rica, Sr., Frank Philip "Chubby", 83, of Warren, New Jersey, formerly of Kenilworth, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 10, 2015.
Frank was born in Kenilworth where he lived most of his life before moving to Warren in 2003. Frank's lifelong passion was education, whether teaching in the classroom where he spent 38 years as Industrial Arts Coordinator in the Summit school system, or pursuing advanced degrees in the area of education. Frank served on the Drug Alliance in Summit, where he was committed to helping students at risk. When not teaching, he was President and Founder of Arno Enterprises, a successful home construction business. Frank was a Korean War Veteran, serving this great nation in the Air Force. He served as Zoning Officer for the Boro of Kenilworth for 13 years. He was an avid antique collector, enjoyed skiing and target shooting, and loved spending time with his family.
Frank is predeceased by his parents, Nunzio (Joseph) & Clara Rica, his brothers Joseph and Federigo, and his sister Anna. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Susan Rica (nee Pepe); his children, Frank Rica, Jr. & his wife Lisa of Warren, Donald Rica & his wife Roxanne of Basking Ridge, Linda Vizzoni & her husband Anthony of Bridgewater, and John Rica & his wife Kelly of Stuart, Florida; cherished grandchildren Frank, Joseph, Andrea, Dominic, Michael, Alanna, Anthony, Nicholas, Jack, Jenny, Will brothers Teddy and Fred "Babe", and sister Josephine Rataski. Uncle Chubby also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews. A debt of gratitude to his most loving caregiver and one of God's angels, Julieta.
Funeral Tuesday 9AM from Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd, Watchung. Funeral Mass 10AM St. Theresa R.C. Church, Kenilworth. Interment Graceland Memorial Park. Friends will be received Monday 4-8PM. Arrangements under the direction of Caiola-Stellato Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 400 Morris Avenue, Suite 251, Denville NJ 07834.