Obituary of Richard P. Graffeo

GRAFFEO, Richard P., 90, of West Seneca, NY, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025. Born and raised in South Buffalo, Richard built a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family, friends and community. A proud and hardworking man, Richard spent 36 years as a Technician with NY Telephone and a member of the Communications Workers of America #1122. His strong work ethic was matched only by his generosity and his quick wit. He was known for his sense of humor and his gift for storytelling—he could make anyone laugh and loved to share tales from his life and work. Richard’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, late Alice (née Benz), with whom he shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised six children: Lynn (Tod) Wernert, Richard (Mary Ann) Graffeo, John (Jill) Graffeo, Tom (Lewis) Graffeo, Robert (Julie) Graffeo and Patricia (Benjamin) Barber. He was a proud grandfather of 13 and great-grandfather of 11, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness. Son of the late Gaspare and Frances (Bonelli) Graffeo, brother of the late Ignatius “Iggy” (late Audrey) Graffeo, late Rose (late William) Geisdorfer, late Jean Hohl and the late Sebastian “Sibby” (late Mary Lou) Graffeo. A lifelong car enthusiast, especially his 1948 Classic Chevy Coupe , Richard had a deep passion for classic cars. Richard’s warmth, humor and love for his family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Friends and family may visit Wednesday October 22nd from 4-7PM at the JAMES W. CANNAN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3155 Orchard Park Road in Orchard Park, NY (716) 675-9027. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday October 23rd at 11:00AM at St. Bernadette's RC Church. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of W.N.Y., https://www.alz.org/wny.