Obituary of Richard M. Pfluger

Richard M. Pfluger, 53, of Staten Island, NY, beloved husband, father, brother, son and friend, passed away on February 14, 2021. Richard was born on March 9, 1967 and grew up on Staten Island. A proud Lieutenant of the NYPD, he retired in 2008. Although he enjoyed his retirement, he continued working security in the private sector. Richard was an avid sports fan, who spent many seasons rooting for his favorite teams, but was a lover of ALL sports in general. The consummate entertainer, he looked for any excuse to throw a party, BBQ or get-together that always seemed to end with karaoke. He knew the lyrics to every song in every musical genre, and was prepared to perform on the spot. If you had the privilege of being in earshot, you couldn’t help but laugh, which was always his motive—of course. But he enjoyed attending parties just as much, planning his costumes months in advance. The big question always being, “What outrageous outfit will Rich show up in this time?” The most notable one being the graduation robe he wore when he became an ordained minister to officiate the wedding of his niece, Melissa and her husband, Pete. Rich also enjoyed spending hours in the kitchen with his sidekick, Lilly at his feet, creating new recipes—his wife, Michele, daughter, Gretchen and stepson, Michael happily serving as his guinea pigs. Richard was a devoted father to his daughter, Gretchen, and is survived by his wife, Michele, stepson, Michael, father, Richard J. Pfluger and stepmother, Grace Pfluger, his six siblings, Susan, Denise, Kathy, Eileen, Kim, Steven, and a life-long, tight-knit group of friends. He was the light of every room he walked in, adored and loved by all he knew. He will be greatly missed and affectionately remembered by those who knew him. We love you, Rich, and will keep the party going! Funeral from Matthew Funeral Home, 2508 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY on Monday, February 22, 2021 from 2-5 and 7-10 PM. Funeral Mass will be held at the Church of the Holy Family at 366 Watchogue Road, Staten Island, NY 10314 on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 10:30 AM. Due to the COVID pandemic, visitors to the funeral home must wear a mask and maintain social distancing.