CLAUDE RICHARD
December 7, 2014, age 85, of Grand Island, New York. Beloved husband of 57 years to Florence Myers; dearest father of Karen (Jeff) Schauger, Laura (Geoff) Glaser, and Sarah (Patrick) Tierney; cherished grandfather of Rachel Schauger, Aaron Schauger, Ryan Tierney, Matthew Tierney, Lauren Glaser, and Garrett Glaser; treasured uncle of Dianne Meyer; preceded in death by his father Claude Ellis Myers, mother Ethel Myers, and sister Joe Hardin.

Papa died unexpectedly yet peacefully, surrounded by family members. A lifelong musician, he graduated from the University of Buffalo after attending the Eastman School of Music, and served in the United States Air Force Band. He was the principal trombonist with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for 39 years, a devoted teacher to many, and the founder and conductor of the University of Buffalo Trombone Choir. His passion for music was matched only by his love for animals, and in particular, his many precious cats. Papa was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, December 20 at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo, One Symphony Circle. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Erie County SPCA, https://www.yourspca.org/tributegift. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, Niagara Falls, NY.