Richard George Picatti Obituary (2025)

Richard "Dick" Picatti, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated community servant, passed away peacefully, at his home, on July 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was 88 years old. Born on October 17, 1936, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Yakima, Dick was the second son of George and Mary Picatti. His early years were a journey across the country due to his father, Major George G. Picatti's military career. He lived in Pullman, then Salt Lake City, where he briefly lent his voice to the Boy Choir in second grade, a talent he'd playfully admit hadn't quite stuck since. The family later moved to Virginia, before finally settling back in Yakima. A true Coug through and through, Dick embodied the spirit of Washington State University. He worked his way through WSU in ROTC and was a lifelong, active member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. His loyalty to the crimson and gray was evident even in his car choices, often featuring the school colors. In 1961, he graduated from WSU with a B.A. in Business Administration and a B.A. in Military Science, proudly continuing the Picatti family tradition of Cougs. His dedication to his alma mater was perhaps best exemplified when he took his entire family to the Rose Bowl on January 1, 1998, to cheer on WSU. After college, Dick honorably served his country as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, stationed in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he undertook the sensitive role of a top-secret courier. Following his military service in 1963, he spent time at Allis-Chalmers in Milwaukee before returning to his roots in Yakima. In 1964, he joined Picatti Brothers, where he dedicated himself until his retirement in 1993. His impact was so significant there that it took three people to fill his shoes when he left. On January 11, 1969, Dick married his beloved bride, Janice Ferullo, after a whirlwind courtship. He proposed within two weeks, and after six weeks, Janice said yes, leading to their marriage within six months of meeting. They built their life together in Yakima, where they welcomed three daughters. Dick often joked that he was surrounded by women for the rest of his life, a testament to the loving household he helped create. Even the family dog was female. Dick was a man who truly embodied the spirit of an "Unsung Hero," an honor bestowed upon him by the Rotary Club of Yakima. He was a natural giver, always quick to volunteer his time and help others without expecting anything in return. His commitment to the community was extensive. He was an active member of the Yakima Lions Club and served on the Boards of the March of Dimes (President), Salvation Army, Yakima Credit Bureau (President), and Providence Hospital. He generously supported numerous non-profits through fundraising and personal donations, including Heritage College, Yakima Air Fair, Perry Technical Foundation, Special Olympics, and Wounded Warriors, among many others. Perhaps his most profound legacy lies in his unwavering contributions to people with developmental disabilities. He elevated his involvement by serving on numerous boards, including Community Living (past President), Yakima Specialties (past President), and the National Down Syndrome Congress (past Vice-President and Secretary). At the National Down Syndrome Congress, he was instrumental in establishing a separate annual convention specifically for individuals with Down Syndrome, rather than just their family members, a change that saw convention attendance double under his involvement. Dick was always there for those in need, ready to lend a helping hand or provide a ride, whether it was for his own children or friends' children, no questions asked. He simply showed up. He found joy in golf, skiing, and boating, but above all, he cherished having everyone over at his and Janice's home, watching them enjoy the pool and the warmth of their hospitality. He had a love of travel and made it to all 50 states just two years ago, accomplishing a lifelong goal. Dick is survived by his devoted wife, Janice, his loving daughters, Julie Picatti (Dennis "Red" Richardson), Janine Picatti, and Jodi Rose (Neal), and his adoring granddaughters, Fiori and Allegra Richardson, and Rowan Rose. He is also survived by his sister, Betti, and his brother, Donald. Dick is the original Godfather with too many godchildren to count. Along with them, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. A Rosary will be held on Monday July 28, 2025, at 4:30pm, at St. Paul's Cathedral in Yakima. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Paul's Cathedral on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Community Living in Dick Picatti's memory, for the resident entertainment fund. Donations may be sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home (500 W Prospect Rd, Moxee, WA 98936), who is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.