Richard ‘Dick’ Crist

VENICE, Fla. — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Crist, who left this world Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the age of 79, after a long illness.

Dick was born Nov. 7, 1946, in Salamanca, N.Y., to Charles and Dorothy Solarek Crist. He was a devoted husband, proud veteran, cherished father and grandfather, and the steady foundation of his family.

As the oldest of five children, Dick learned early the meaning of responsibility. He carried that role with quiet strength throughout his life — as a protector, a guide and an example. Those who grew up alongside him knew they could always look to him for direction, fairness, and unwavering support.

Dick graduated from Salamanca Central High School in 1964 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Empire State College. In 1966, he answered his nation’s call with honor, serving as a proud veteran in the U.S. Army, whose sense of duty extended far beyond his years in uniform.

A man defined by his work ethic, he believed that anything worth doing was worth doing right. He approached every task — whether for his career, his home, or a neighbor in need — with determination and pride. Dick spent his entire 32-year career as the Chief Operator of the City of Salamanca Wastewater Treatment Plant.

At the center of his world was his beloved wife of 58 years, Julie Yehl Crist, whom he married in 1968. Together they built not just a home, but a life rich in family, laughter, perseverance and shared purpose. Their bond was one of mutual respect and quiet devotion — a model for generations to follow. Together, they achieved their dream of retirement at the age of 55, with a snowbird home in Venice.

Included in his family are daughters, Sheila (Wayne) Coates and Lori (Sean) McCartney; son, Scott (Kristy) Hulvat; and grandchildren, EJ (Abigail) Adams, Jacklyn Adams and fiancé Marcos, Jonah McCartney and Julia McCartney. He is also survived by a brother, John (Debbie) Crist; sisters, Diane (Jim) Kochaniec and Jane (Wayne) St. John; sister-in-law, Patti Crist; and many nieces and nephews.

Dick was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Charles “Chuck” Crist.

As a father, Dick led not only with instruction but with example. He taught the value of honesty, the importance of showing up and the strength found in kindness. His children grew up knowing they were protected, guided and deeply loved.

As a grandfather, also known as Backa, his wisdom softened into warmth and humor. He took pride in each achievement, large or small, and found joy in every moment spent together, whether it be fishing, boating, supporting sporting events or teaching basic skills like mowing the lawn.

Dick was the kind of man who helped without being asked and gave without expecting recognition. Whether fixing something broken, offering practical advice, or simply listening, he showed his love through action

He was a former member of the Jaycees, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the Holy Cross Athletic Club, VFW, American Legion and the Moose Club. He served on the board at Elkdale Country Club, many school and other committees and coached his daughter’s youth sports. He also worked for many years as a high school football referee. He was very involved with the renovation and opening of the Salamanca Library.

Dick had a complicated relationship with the Buffalo Bills and the game of golf — with a lifetime of fierce loyalty to both despite his frustrations. He could usually be found with a plate of chicken wings and a beer, at his home, or his favorite gathering places with friends and family, always traveling with a cooler in the trunk that his kids called the “Dick Pack.”

Though he will be deeply missed, his example remains a compass for those who carry his memory forward. His life was one of quiet greatness, sometimes an honest, sharp tongue — built on consistent love, steadfast character, and a lifetime of doing what was right. He leaves behind a huge supportive group of wonderful friends from Salamanca and Jamestown, N.Y., and his incredible crew in Venice Isles Estates in Florida, from all over the United States and Canada.

Dick will be laid to rest at the Sarasota National Military Cemetery with a private service at a later date. A celebration of life will be held this summer in New York State.

In lieu of flowers, Dick requested donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or stjude.org; or the War Vets Recreation, Inc., 3431 Fluvanna Ave Ext., Jamestown, NY 14701.