Richard H. Osborne, Sr.

RICHARD H. OSBORNE, Sr., age 74, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2017 at home after a lengthy illness. "Dick" was born Nov. 1, 1942 in Cortland, NY, a son of the late Wayland "Pete" and Pearl Parks Osborne. He was graduated from McGraw High School in 1960. After playing basketball in McGraw, he became avid fan of Syracuse Basketball. Dick also loved bowling, golf and shooting pool. As a youth he had worked for his uncle, Sam Park's dairy farm from age eleven and eventually purchased and operated it. He later owned Dick's Tavern and many apartments throughout the Cortland area. Dick was in the carpet business for more than 50 years and established the R.H. Osborne's World of Floor Covering. He was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, two years ago. Never being willing to retire, he was involved in fund raising events to combat ALS. When his brother, Jerry, was in need of a kidney transplant it was Dick that stepped forward and donated one of his own so that Jerry could survive for 20 more years. That donation describes the man that Dick was, always willing to give of himself or to help with a school or community fund raising effort. Of all things, he held his family and employees closest to his heart.
Survivors include his companion, Linda Frady; his son, Richard H. ‘Rick" Osborne, Jr.; his brother, Wayland "Ray" (Lorraine) Osborne; his sister, Joan (Gordon) Stewart; grandchildren, Morgan, Drew and Hunter Osborne; a sister-in-law, Marcia Osborne; nieces and nephews and his best friend and "special grandson" Josh McLaughlin. Also close to his heart were Rhonda and Dan McLaughlin. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Gerald.
A celebration of his life will be held at 12 PM, Saturday, September 30th at the Homer Elks Lodge. All are invited to attend and bring a story or memory of Dick to share. There are no calling hours. Perkins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Those wishing to remember Dick are asked to consider a memorial donation to the ALS Association, New York Chapter, 135 Old Cove Road, Liverpool, NY 13090. www.alsupstateny.org