Richard E. Villnave

Winthrop – Richard E. Villnave, 66, passed away Thursday, Jan. 23, 2014, at Massena Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Richard was born on February 27, 1947 in Lawrenceville, son of the late Carlton and Frances (Gardner) Villnave. After receiving his education at St. Lawrence Central School, he entered the U. S. Army, serving during the Vietnam War. On January 18, 1975, he married Susan P. Ayers at St. Lawrence Church in North Lawrence with Fr. Manfred celebrating. He worked at AT Fowler Construction in Syracuse then came back to the north county where he was a cook at the B & L Diner in N. Lawrence, a baker at Georgie's Bakery in Potsdam and then operated his own place, Dick & Sue's Country Café in Norwood. Dickie loved being around his family; whether having picnics or playing with his granddaughters. He was an avid softball player, a NY Yankees fan, and was always ready for a game of Yahtzee or Bingo. He is survived by his wife, Susan; one son, Shawn Villnave of Canton; two daughters and sons in law, Vicki and Jason Debyah of North Lawrence and Lorraine and Maurice Patterson, Jr. of Massena; two granddaughters, Madison and Chloe Debyah of North Lawrence; two sisters, Ruth Irish and Linda Vari, both of Norfolk; three brothers, Harold and Sally Villnave of FL, Carlton "Duke" Villnave of Pennellville and Ronald and Emily Villnave of Mattydale. Three sisters, Helen Griffin, Esther Jock and Rita Kamide and five brothers, Billy, Charlie, Lawrence "Bimmie", Bruce and Robert, predeceased him. Visitation will be Sunday from 4 to 7 at the funeral home. Richard's Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday at 10am at St. Lawrence Church in North Lawrence with Rev. Garry Geroux celebrating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers; please consider donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, Tri Town Rescue Squad or the Disabled American Veterans Organization. Memories and condolences can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.