Richard A.

Rygiel

Richard A. Rygiel, 73, of Almond, New York, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, after a long battle with a neurodegenerative disorder. Now free from the limitations of his earthly body, he leaves behind a lifetime of love, care, and dedication to his family and the many people whose lives he touched.

Born on October 7, 1953, in South Plainfield, New Jersey, Richard was the middle of three sons born to Clara (Suleski) and Eugienius Rygiel. A gifted soccer player with All-State honors, he received scholarship offers from Brown, Rutgers, and other Division I programs. He ultimately chose Alfred University, where he met his future wife, Laurie Murray. For Richard, it was love at first sight.

Richard graduated in 1976 from Alfred University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and eventual certification in Athletic Training. His greatest pride was being a devoted husband to Laurie and a loving father to Christina and Aaron. He loved Jesus Christ and was never shy about proclaiming his faith and sharing it with others.

Richard's soccer career included a tryout with the New York Cosmos, assistant coaching at Alfred University, Head Soccer Coach and Athletic Trainer at both Alfred State College and Warren Wilson College in Asheville, North Carolina, and as Athletic Trainer at Salem Teikyo in West Virginia. At Alfred State, he earned three consecutive NSCAA Coach of the Year awards, led his teams to two championships, and coached multiple All-Americans. He also coached local youth soccer and led Alfred-Almond High School to two sectional championships, including its first Section V title in 20 years. Beyond the score, Richard loved helping the underdog and giving a voice to those who struggled to speak up for themselves.

Richard's nursing career spanned emergency care, rehabilitation, and long-term care, including roles at Jones Memorial Hospital and the Bath VA Medical Center. Richard found particular fulfillment as a Restorative Nurse Coordinator at the VA, where he helped establish a restorative nursing program and train fellow staff.

In his free time, he enjoyed working with stained glass, tile, and photography. Anyone stopping for coffee at the Terra Cotta Coffee Shop in Alfred can look down at the floor and see a sampling of his handiwork. Whether caring for patients, coaching players, or working on a project, he found purpose in helping others and making a difference.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie M. Rygiel; his daughter, Christina A. Rygiel; his son, Aaron R. Rygiel (Leslie); and his eagerly anticipated grandson, due in March. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clara and Eugienius Rygiel, and his brothers, Eugienius Rygiel II and Thomas Rygiel.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:30 P.M. at Bender, Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo Street, Hornell, New York 14843, immediately followed by a funeral service from 3:30 to 4:30 P.M.

Richard will be remembered with love by his family and by the many people he cared for, coached, and helped throughout his life.

To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook@ Brown Powers FH.