In Memory of Richard J. Penna

Obituary

Richard J. Penna, 78, of New Hartford, passed away on December 13, 2024, at Wynn Hospital.

Born on January 24, 1946, in Youngstown, OH, he was the son of the late Dominick and Lucille Penna. While Richard was born in Ohio, he was raised and lived in Canastota, NY. He earned his master’s degree in accounting from Syracuse University and his bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University in Ohio. Richard served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a proud veteran.

Richard married Virginia Martin on June 30, 1991, in New Hartford, and together they shared a life filled with love, travel, and family.
Throughout his career, Richard was a respected Vice President at Chase Bank in Rochester and Fleet Bank in Utica. After leaving banking, he worked for 10 years as an Auditor with New York State’s OPWDD before officially retiring.
An active member of his community, Richard was a former president and member of the Utica Zoo Board of Directors. He also volunteered his time to transport fellow veterans to their medical appointments, showing his dedication to those who served.

Richard maintained lifelong relationships from childhood and took great pride in staying connected with friends and family throughout his life. He had a deep passion for traveling, whether with his wife, family, friends, or even on solo adventures. He loved camping in his RV, often visiting places throughout New York, with a memorable road trip to Louisiana standing out as a personal highlight. A dedicated and loving grandfather, Richard enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events and staying involved in his family’s lives, always interested in what made them happy and proud. His patience, kindness, and unwavering love for his four children marked him as a true and devoted father.
A self-proclaimed foodie, anyone who knew Richard quickly learned of his love for traditional Sunday dinners. It was a must in his family to have spaghetti and meatballs every Sunday, a tradition passed down from his Italian heritage. His love for hot peppers was legendary, and those around him were often in awe of his ability to eat the hottest varieties without hesitation. His passion for food was matched only by his never-ending sense of humor. His laughter, warmth, and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his wife, Virginia; children Alicia Marie Elwood (Eugene) of New Hartford, Jonathan Penna (Patrick Bedard) of Olympia, WA, Brandon Foster Sr. (Jeanine) of Garner, NC, and Alicia Lauren Cochi (Matthew) of New Hartford; grandchildren Jordan Foster, Brandon Foster Jr., Noah Elwood, Ava Elwood, and Ethan Penna-Bedard; his brother Gary Penna (Joyce) of South Carolina; and his beloved dogs, Cocoa and Litabit.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Wynn Hospital, especially the ICU and Palliative Care Units, for their compassionate care of Richard.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 2-4 PM at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. The U.S. Army will confer military honors at the conclusion of the visitation at 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors or the Utica Zoo.

Online messages of sympathy may be left at: www.fwefh.com