Richard John Kolb Sr.

It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of Richard J. Kolb, 77, of Fuquay-Varina, NC, and formerly of Peru, NY. He passed away on January 31, 2026, after a long pulmonary illness. Richard died at home with his family by his side, spending his last weeks in the constant care of his daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Jesús, to whom we owe an enormous debt of gratitude.

Richard was born on November 28th, 1948 in the Bronx, NY to Walter and Beatrice Kolb, the sixth of eleven children. He spent his childhood in Holbrook, NY spending time on Long Island Sound and Lake Ronkonkoma. Richard enjoyed the outdoors, laughter, and spending time with his family. An avid fisherman, he spent considerable time on the water, enjoying the peace of being outside. He had a great sense of humor, loved to tell jokes and watch comedies, often becoming part of the show himself as others watched him laugh.

He deeply loved his family and worked hard to provide for and nurture them. As a grandparent, he devoted significant time and energy to visiting and being an active part of his grandchildren's lives.

He is survived by his five children: Joyce (Jesús) Fernández, Suzanne Kolb, Richard (Elizabeth) Kolb II, Stephanie Otley, and Rebecca Broderick. In addition, he leaves behind five siblings: Frances (Robert) Marchese, Walter Kolb, Beatrice (Edward) Lanzetti, Robert (Deirdre) Kolb, and Thomas (Catherine) Kolb. He is also survived by sister-in-law Jean Kolb, brothers-in-law John Pierce and Thomas Dahms, twelve grandchildren, countless nieces and nephews, and many other friends and relatives who will miss him dearly.

In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by his siblings: Lois (Robert) Wiemann, Joan (Joseph) Wiemann, Priscilla Pierce, Barbara Dahms, and Joseph Kolb.

Donations in memory of Richard J. Kolb may be made to a charity of your choice.

Richard requested that his body be donated to science. His body is now in the care of The Experience Anatomy Foundation in Charlotte, NC. Funeral services will be held on a future date, following the return of his remains to the family. A gathering of friends and family will be held before the return of his remains, likely this spring.