Richard P. Caterisano, 84, of Ransomville, NY passed away on Thursday December 31, 2009 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Anthony and Carmel (Rufran) Caterisano.
Richard attended local schools in Niagara Falls and worked at the former Vanadium Corp. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp during World War II on August 23, 1943, and participated in action in the Pacific Theatre aboard the U.S.S. Franklin until his honorable discharge on October 22, 1945. In 1954 Richard joined the Niagara Falls Police Department where he served as a patrolman for sixteen years working his way up through the ranks to Lieutenant retiring in 1983 after thirty years of service. Rich enjoyed listening to music particularly, Frank Sinatra, big band and opera. He also took great pleasure in gardening and working around his home.

Mr. Caterisano is survived by his loving wife of sixty years Margaret A. (Amorelli) Caterisano, his four sons, Richard (Andree) Caterisano of Glen Burnie, MD, Anthony (Margaret) Caterisano of Greenville, SC, Daniel (Carmelanne) Caterisano of Lancaster, NY, William (Karen) Caterisano of Rochester, NY and was predeceased by one son Thomas P. Caterisano. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Robert, Alexandra, Ryan, Elisha, Michael, Rachel, Micaela, Nicholas, Nicole (John) Tromanhauser and Laura (Brian) Tromanhauser, one great- grandson Jack and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Donald (late Marjorie) Caterisano and Gerald Caterisano and his special grandmother Francesca.

Friends may call on Sunday from 4 – 8 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will begin on Monday January 4th at 11:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 Noon in Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Parish at St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Stewart Lindsay O.S.F.S. officiating. Interment will be held in St. Joseph's Cemetery Niagara Falls, NY at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to the Mental Health Association of Niagara County, 36 Pine St., Lockport, NY 14094.