Cdr. Richard (Dick) R. Poch, Sr. passed away on January 2, 2022, after a sixteen-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. A man of integrity, quiet strength, and dry wit, Dick loved his family, served his country, and honored his faith. 

Born in Easton, PA on July 9, 1939, he grew up in idyllic Phillipsburg, NJ, surrounded by his beloved Italian/Hungarian relatives. After high school graduation (Go, Stateliners!), he embarked on a thirty-five year naval career, which included the Submarine Service, Carrier duty, and two overseas stations. He retired from CINCUSNAVEUR, London in 1993. Though sad our Navy adventures had ended, we looked forward to reconnecting with family and friends in Virginia Beach.

Husband, father of three, grandfather of six, great-grandfather of four, Dick was happiest in the company of our raucous, cavorting clan. He filled our home with laughter, with welcome, with kindness.

Through sixteen years of progressive debilitating disease, Dick fought with humor and hope. His neurologists, Karen Thomas and Leslie Matsen, and our family doctor, Florisa Singson assured continuity of excellent medical care. A special loving thanks to Trish L’Heureux, his longtime physical therapist, who helped him attain the highest quality of life possible.   

Our family is eternally grateful to the Westminster Canterbury At Home Hospice Team and SeniorCorp for enabling Dick to live and die at home with dignity.  He was especially fond of his personal care aides, Natasha Gorrell and Megan Bennett.  

To all who loved him, know he loved you in return.

Over fifty-eight years together – a long, beautiful journey. Fair Winds and Following Seas, my Love.