Richard W. Ekelund

Richard W. Ekelund, 85 of Richmond Valley, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2025, reuniting with his loving wife, Patricia.

Born Friday June 14th, 1940 in Brooklyn, New York, he was the eldest son of the late Borge (Jack) Ekelund and the late Catherine (Calabrese) Ekelund.

Richie was a graduate of Fort Hamilton High School, in Brooklyn, where he made lifelong friends that he reconnected with to plan & celebrate their 50th High School Reunion (2007). Upon his high school graduation, he followed in his father’s footsteps and began working at Con Edison. Richie was drafted into the U.S Army in 1963, serving in the 1st Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Fort Hood, Texas. He served for 2 years, from 1963-1965, before returning to civilian life and continuing his 40 year career in the engineering department with Con Edison. While working and raising his family, Richie attended Wagner College in Staten Island at night to earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) in art and design, graduating in 1976 and pursuing his lifelong passion. With a love for creativity, he reveled in being a member of several art groups and exhibiting his work in various galleries across Staten Island, Brooklyn, and Manhattan.

Richie married Patricia on November 9th, 1968, and was honored to be welcomed into the McMahon family, gaining “brothers & sisters,” whom he loved very much. Richie and Patricia purchased their first and only home in the early 1970’s where they raised their family, and their dogs. Hosting many holidays, and countless family barbecues. Richie and Patricia walked hand-in-hand through nearly 57 years of marriage, a bond only broken by her passing in April of 2025. Richie was a dedicated member of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, his service spanned many roles: from an usher to the President of the Men’s Club. His commitment to the parish beginning when he was asked to restore the fire-damaged crucifix, that to this day is a lasting gift to his faith community.

He took great pride in his Italian and Swedish heritage, often referring to himself as a “Proud Swede.” Richie was a dedicated fan of the New York Mets, and the New York Giants, celebrating their victories with his son and grandson. He cherished his time skiing throughout the United States and Europe.

A loving husband to Patricia, Richie has now found his way back to her side. A loving father to his children Kenneth Ekelund and Monica Betros, daughter-in-law Erin and son-in-law Kenny. Loving grandfather to Timothy, Nora, Jeremy, Abby, and Christopher. Loving brother-in-law to the late Robert McMahon (Carol), Mary, Dolores, Ronnie (The late Thomas Lanigan), Jane and John. Loving brother to Billy and his sister-in-law Pat. Loving uncle to his nieces, nephews, and grand nieces & nephews. Richie will be deeply missed by all his family and friends.

A mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10am on Tuesday, March 3rd at Our Lady Help of Christians located at 7396 Amboy Rd., Staten Island, NY 10307. Followed by his burial in Resurrection Cemetery, Staten Island, NY.

The family will receive friends from 4-8pm on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, at Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, 7447 Amboy Rd., Staten Island, NY 10307.