Richard “Dick” D. Botticelli of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of Sparta, New Jersey and born in Newark, New Jersey passed away May 8, 2013. He is survived by his loving wife Phyllis J. Botticelli, nee Bashford, his brother Albert and wife Mary Botticelli, his son Steven Botticelli, his daughter Carole Botticelli-Harvey and David Botticelli. His four step children are Francis “Jay” Scanlon, James F. Scanlon, Arthur J. Fowler Lisa S. Lill; he was pre-deceased by nine hours a fifth step child, Stephanie S. Scanlon. He also had nine grand children.

Dick was a graduate of NCE (now known as NJIT) with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He started his ROTC career in the Air Force stationed at Hanscom Air Force Base in Boston, Mass. While stationed there he spent a year at NYU obtaining his Masters in Meteorology. The remainder of his stay there was spent as a Weather Forecaster for the Airbase. After returning to civilian life, he began his career working for Curtis Wright as an Aerospace Engineer. On August 19, 1975, Dick received an official commendation from the Department of the Army for “high quality performance above normal range of requirements” as an Aerospace Engineer and Project Leader in the Rocket Assisted Projectile and Pyrotechnics Branch. While working in the Fire Support and Armaments Center, US Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center at Picatinny Arsenal, Dick achieved a GM15 grade as Chief of Sub-Munitions Branch. He was Picatinny’s Representative of the Quadrilateral Ballistics Management Board with England, Germany, Italy and France. In 1995, Dick was a part of the AMCCOM and ARDEC team that received AMC’s Team Award for saving the Army over $22 million dollars. Dick retired after 33 years of service and commitment to the Federal Government. He holds two design patents for future munitions.

Dick was past president of the Bayview Condominiums in Beach Haven, Long Beach Island, New Jersey. After retiring to Florida he became a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Punta Gorda. After the devastation of Hurricane Charlie he was appointed Building Chairman to oversee the renovation and remodeling of the new building (formerly the Italian American Club) that was purchased for the church relocation. Part of this responsibility included purchasing the property and applying for a FEMA Loan. This project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget with Dick’s strong guidance.

After retiring Dick bought a 30’ Carver Cruiser that he used on a daily basis for sailing, fishing and crabbing. He was an avid golfer and belonged to the Twin Isles Country Club. He was a trained classical guitarist and did beautiful wood working. He also donated his services to Meals on Wheels.

A Memorial Service and Reception will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church, (A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians) located on Airport Road in Punta Gorda. Memorials can be made in honor of Dick to the First Presbyterian Church.

Dick may be kindly remembered at icscremationandfunerals.org