Richard Closs

Richard Closs, obtained from Dignity Memorial.

Richard Anthony Closs passed away while he was surrounded by his wife Donata and two daughters, Natalie and Emilia, on May 19, 2020 after battling COVID-19. Richard, who lived in New York, was a family man: a doting husband, a caring father, and a tenderhearted grandfather to his two grandchildren, Hunter and Alexandra. 

Richard Closs and his family, obtained from Dignity Memorial.

Richard was an officer at Rikers Island, where he worked selflessly within the NYC reform system. He worked there until he contracted the virus and passed at age 63. He was very dedicated to his work and always there to lend help or to offer wisdom and advice to those that were seeking it.

To many, Richard was a great man who appreciated the beauty of life and art. He spent much of his free time in his garden, where he grew food to support his passion for cooking. When he wasn’t mastering his culinary skills, Richard enjoyed spending time with his family.

Richard Closs at the beach, obtained from Dignity Memorial.

Richard loved life and brought light to those around him. He would never pass on a chance to have fun, whether it was with the family or in the garden. Richard will be dearly missed by his loved ones and friends. 

This memorial was written by MOL team member Maya Page with information from reporting by Dignity Memorial.