Rich, 69, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2014, from surgical complications due to a recent illness. He wasn't in any pain when his heart gave out.
Born August 4, 1945, in Rockville Center, NY, he was the son of William P. Kampe and Catherine Oliverio. After graduating from Lynbrook High School, Rich was awarded a scholarship to play lacrosse at Rutgers University. He was especially proud of his time on the lacrosse field as a fleet-footed, All-American forward. Upon graduating, Rich served in the Air National Guard Reserves for four years in Roslyn, NY.
William Howlett
The demise of Richard Kampe comes as a complete shock to me. My condolences to Susan and wish her family peace during this period of morning. I shared many wonderful times during our high school years with Richard from football practice at Marion Street School to the lacrosse field at Atlanic Avenue. Richard was always smiling with an outgoing charming personality. I travelled to Rutgers to watch my old team mate take on the country in lacrosse. Richard and I travelled to Puerto Rico together and had a fabulous time in Old San Juan. Good bye Richard, it was an honor knowing you...
He majored in Latin American Studies, which surprisingly earned him a position as a loan officer with Chase Manhattan Bank. Chase sent him far south to São Paolo, Brazil where he worked for a year. Next, he landed two marketing positions with Colgate Palmolive-the first in Sydney, Australia and the second in Bangkok, Thailand. Upon returning to the States, he excelled in a few marketing jobs, eventually becoming the President of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Development Company in Winston-Salem, NC. It was here that he and his beloved wife of almost 46 years, Susan, raised their two sons, Jed and Adam.
A loving grandfather, father, husband, brother and friend, Rich will be remembered for his deep love of history, his effervescent personality, his uncanny ability to watch the same movies over and over again, and his insatiable appetite. When not eating or talking about food, you'd probably find him watching golf, studying the market, or buying a new car.
Rich is survived by his wife, Susan (of Charlotte); his two sons, Jed (Charlotte) and Adam (Washington, DC); his adoring grandson, Henry; and his brother, Paul (Sarasota, FL).
The family will receive friends to celebrate Rich's life from 5 to 7 pm on Sunday, October 19 at Harry & Bryant's Chapel in the Oaks, 500 Providence Road. The funeral service will be Monday, October 20 at 11am at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3016 Providence Road.
For those wishing to send a memorial gift, please consider a donation in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Center.
Mary Ann Cardazzone (Sorrentino)
So sorry to hear about the passing of Richard. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. His legacy will live on. Mary Ann Cardazzone-Sorrentino
Toby Price
Susan, May you find peace in the memories of Richard and the many years you two shared. Toby price
Susan Giordano (Hennings-Lowe)
Ugh, Susan I'm so very sorry. I am thinking about you, Richie's brother and your children.
Carolyn Roth
Like others I was shocked and saddened at the news of Richard's death. My heartfelt condolences go to Susan and the rest of Richard's family.
Ilene Klasson
Susan, I'm so sorry to hear about Richard. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ilene Klasson
William Howlett
Please refer to yesterday,s statement I posted before this sight was available on
"Message Forums" about Richard Kampe. Thank you kindly. Bill Howlett
Marilyn Marcus (Smith)
Susan,
Bruce and I were so sorry to hear of your loss. We are thinking of you at this sad time and extend our condolences.
Marilyn Marcus Smith
Carol Weissman (Schulman)
So sorry to hear of Richards passing. Our thoughts are with you at this time. To all your wonderful memories....
Jane Schaps (Rascoff)
Susan
I'm so sad for you. Richie was a very special guy; kind, sweet, cool and always smiling. You were a perfect couple. I hope your great memories will help you be strong in this difficult time. Love, Jane (Schaps) Rascoff
Gail Greenstein (Mondshein)
Susan,I am so very sorry to hear of your terrible loss. I was shocked and saddened to learn of Richard's death. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Gail Greenstein Mondshein