NORWICH – Richard E. ‘Purple Ace’ Mattice Sr., 75 of Norwich, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 16, 2007 at the New York State Veterans’ Home in Oxford.
Born Aug. 17, 1931 in Norwich, Richard was the son of Harold and Cecil (Dyle) Mattice.  He graduated from Norwich High School, where he acquired the nickname ‘Purple Ace’ on the tennis courts. He earned an Associates Degree from Oneonta State Teacher’s College, and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. On returning to Norwich, Richard worked for many years at Norwich Pharmaceuticals.  He also worked at the Family Bargain Center, and later Jamesway, where he was employed when he retired.
On May 19, 1952 Richard married Elsie Powers at St. Paul’s Church in Norwich.  She predeceased Richard in 2002.
Richard is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Pedersen and her husband Dan; a son Richard Mattice and his wife Dottie; granddaughter Crystal Slater and her husband Dan, all of Norwich; and two step-grandchildren, Michele Hoag and her husband Vern of Norwich and Heather Lewis and husband Jeff of Florida.  Also surviving are a brother, Lt. Col Harold Mattice (ret.) and his wife Jean of Virginia, and several nieces and nephews.
At Richard’s request, there will be no funeral services. A private graveside service will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Oxford at a later date.
Contributions in memory of Richard may be made to the charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Wilson Funeral Home.  Condolences to Richard’s family may be sent by visiting the funeral home website at: www.wilsonfh.com.