NORWICH – Fredrick (Rick) Henry Donnelly Jr., of Norwich, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010 at Chenango Memorial Hospital.
Rick was born Aug. 7, 1948 to Fredrick H. Donnelly Sr. and Mildred (Murray) Donnelly. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, step-father, grandfather and great grandfather. Rick grew up in the Preston and Norwich area attending school at the Donnelly Ville Country School House then later in the Norwich School System.
Throughout his teenage years he started working with his father at Bush & Donnelly Used Cars where he became a trusted and much requested mechanic and auto body expert; people would come from miles around to have Rick paint their cars. A great teacher, Rick was always calling on his past experiences to show a better way to do most anything. Also an avid reader, Rick could often be found with a fishing pole, lantern, and a good book. Rick was a natural all-round outdoors men fishing, hunting and camping with his family. Rick enjoyed building and driving demolition cars, winning many times and inspiring others to join in the fun. Later in life he started to collect and restore firearms, both antique and modern; his collection at times would rival any gun store or museum. He also collected knives, coins and currency; he was always interested in acquiring more knowledge. Those who knew Rick will remember him for many things, but what has been said the most is that he always had a good joke!
Rick is survived by his loving wife June (married June 1994); his siblings, children, step-children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
There will be no formal funeral services. Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.