Richard Dennis Wickerham

Richard Dennis Wickerham, 71, of Schenectady, New York, passed away unexpectedly from COVID with his wife, Margie, by his side on December 1, 2021.  Born in South Plainfield, New Jersey, Richard was the son of the late Richard F. and Margaret W. Wickerham.  Richard opened his Private Law Practice in 1975 and was still practicing law at the time of his decease.  His practice and clients were his purpose for living.  He gave 100% to every case and every client.  He loved being a lawyer and helping others.

Richard graduated from Georgetown University with a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service.  He then graduated from Fordham School of Law with a Juris Doctor in 1975.  Richard was a well-respected member of the Schenectady Bar and the New York State Bar Association.  In 1981 Richard became Legal Counsel for the Schenectady County Department of Senior and Long-Term Care Services.  He continued that position until his death.  He was also Legal Counsel to the Schenectady County Finance Commissioner since 2000.  

Richard had many professional honors during his career as an attorney.  He was a member and Chairman of The Committee on Professional Standards for two six (6) year terms.  He was also a member of the Committee on Character and Fitness for the 4th Judicial District, Appellate Division 3rd Department.  He was named to Who’s Who in American Law from 1996 – present.  He was the Recipient of the Certificate of Appreciation and Merit from the Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection.  Richard was awarded the Catholic Schools of America Local AND National Distinguished Alumni Award 1999 - 2000.

Richard loved spending time in Cape May, New Jersey and in Naples, Florida.  He was looking forward to retiring to his new home in Bonita Springs, Florida.  He loved Antiques, the Cincinnati Reds and his beloved English Springer Spaniels.  But most of all, he loved the Law.  Many people work jobs that they hate.  Richard lived for his office and for his clients.  He loved helping others.  He dedicated much of his life to helping the elderly.  

Richard is survived by his best friend and spouse, Margaret M. Wickerham.  They had a special bond that many people can only dream of having.  He will be greatly missed by all who were touched by his spirit, but mostly by Margie, who loved him with all of her heart.

There will be no calling hours.  A Mass in his honor will be held on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church on Union Street, Schenectady, NY.  In lieu of flowers, those who wish to remember Richard may make a contribution to The Richard D. Wickerham Memorial Fund at https://gofund.me/a9f3c70e  or the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Richard’s Name.

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