Fred V. "Babe" Rica

Born in Kenilworth, NJ on January 3, 1934 to Nunzio and Clara (Ventre) he remained a life long resident of Kenilworth.
"Babe" as he affectionately known all his life by friends and family, worked as a Sheet Metal Mechanic for 50 years. He started his career in Local #22 before retiring in 2000 from local #25. He was co-founder of Nasco Heating and Air-Conditioning and PAR Sheet Metal in Roselle, NJ in 1976, a full service Mechanical Contracting Company. He was a long time member of both the Union and Mountainside Elks Lodges, a proud, Silver Life Card holder with Kenilworth PBA, Local #135, and a faithful Parishioner at St. Theresa's Church in Kenilworth. After retirement he enjoyed winter vacations to West Palm Beach, FL, trips to Atlantic City all with his loving wife Patricia, and spending time with his ever growing loving family.
Beloved husband to the late Patricia (2012) who was the love of his life for 57 years, and father to the late Fred Jr. (2010). Loving father to daughters Debra (Mazza), Donna (Garcia), and son Daniel. He was a cherished and loving grandfather and great-grandfather. A beloved brother of Theodore Rica and his wife Angie, Josephine and husband Lenny Rataski. Sister in Law's Sue and Dolores Rica. Beloved brother in law of Fred Plummer and Dorothy, and Morris Ferraro. He was predeceased by his brothers Joseph "Zorro", Frank "Chubby" and baby brother Frederick and loving sister Anna Ferraro (Rica).
Funeral Wednesday at 9am from the Corsentino Home for Funerals 620 Second Ave, Elizabeth. Funeral Mass 10am at St. Theresa's R.C. Church, Kenilworth. Interment to follow Graceland Memorial Park, Kennilworth. Friends and Relatives will be received Tuesday 4-7pm.
In lieu of flowers kindly make donations to: Center for Hope Hospice 1900 Raritan Rd, Scotch Plains. Their compassion, professionalism, and personal care was greatly appreciated by Fred and his family during this difficult time. The children of Fred will never forget our adopted and beloved "Lila" who cooked and cared for our father, we couldn't of done it without her during this difficult time.