Richard M. Taft
Richard M. Taft, 79, died Dec. 25, 2019, after an extended illness at his winter residence on Delray Beach, Fla. A resident of Buffalo, N.Y., he was born in Dunkirk, N.Y.. on June 3, 1940. to Richard M. and Lorietta (Hulman) Taft and raised in Fredonia, N.Y.
Richard graduated from Fredonia High School in 1958, Michigan State University in 1962 and then graduated from Syracuse University. He worked briefly for Dunlop Tires before completing post-graduate work in social sciences from Syracuse University. Thereafter his career was as a caseworker for the Buffalo Psychiatric Center. Once retired, he became a “snowbird” and remained active in volunteer work for various aquariums and environmental concerns in California and Florida. Upon returning to the Buffalo area in spring, Richard never tired of swimming, hiking, and cycling near Lake Erie and on into Canada. He never missed a class reunion. Richard considered his “Hilltopper Class of ’58” friends almost family and the feeling was mutual!
Richard is survived by: a nephew, Theodore N. (Melissa) Taft of Fredonia; and a niece, Lynda J. Taft of Fredonia.
He is predeceased by his parents; and his brother and sister in-law, Ted and Jean Taft. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Friends may call Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the LARSON TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Ave., Fredonia, N.Y. COVID regulations will be enforced.
Please wear a mask and maintain six feet social distancing. Capacity is limited.
Please expect delays. Due to COVID regulations, a private memorial service and committal service will follow the calling hours. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneral home.com.
Arrangements by David J. Dengler.