Obituary of Richard E. Sykora

Richard E. Sykora, 81, of Glassboro, New Jersey, passed away on Monday, August 16, 2021, with loved ones by his side.

Legacy

Rick was born in 1940 in New York City then settled in Williamstown, NJ with his family, where he remained through High School and could often be found working at his dad’s service station. At the age of 18, Rick proudly joined the United States Marine Corp and continued to support military veterans throughout his life.

In 1963, Rick married the love of his life, Esther. Together they started their family business, ERCO Ceilings; the name of the company beginning with each of their initials. Their first location opened in Glassboro and eventually expanded to additional locations in the tri-state area. Rick attributed Erco’s success to his belief in impeccable customer service and was known throughout the mid-Atlantic region as an innovator in the industry. His mantra was an easy one…the Customer is always right. Rick’s pride grew even further when his grown children, Greg, Lisa and Stan became actively involved.

For Rick, life was about creating opportunities and life experiences. He never missed an opportunity to share what he learned with his children and grandchildren. He engaged and encouraged his loved ones in every aspect of life. Rick put family first.

A charismatic yet humble man, Rick was full of energy and lived life to the fullest. All who knew Rick experienced his humorous side. He loved to make people laugh, he loved engaging with and getting to know them. Rick was also extremely charitable, supporting many meaningful organizations. He enjoyed the wonders of nature, especially fishing, hunting and traveling. In addition, he was quite adventurous and enjoyed trying new things, even late in life. Some of his most cherished memories were made during family trips and Rick, being a history buff, believed no trip was complete without one stop at a museum, no matter how obscure. He was enamored by the Revolutionary War era and George Washington and has quite a collection of portraits and memorabilia.

Rick will be missed by all that knew him and the life lessons that have been shared, not only with family, but friends and customers, will surely be passed down to their loved ones…and that is how Rick’s legacy will live on.

Family

Beloved husband of 58 years to Esther L. Sykora (nee Fillis); loving father of Greg (Sandra) Sykora, Lisa (Scott) Weick and Stan (Gina) Sykora; devoted grandfather to Stephen, Ryan (Erin), Ricky, Daulton, Madison, Julia, Josephine, Charles and great grandfather to Avery; dear brother of Nancy McLaughlin and George Sykora. Rick is also survived by many loving, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Farewell Tribute

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Rick’s visitation on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, 5:00 – 8:00 PM and Thursday, September 2, 2021, 9:00 – 11:00 AM in the McGuinness Funeral Home, 573 Egg Harbor Road, Sewell, NJ 08080. Funeral Ceremony will be celebrated on Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 11:00 AM. Interment and Military Honors at Gloucester County Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown, NJ.

In Rick’s memory and to follow his generous nature, in lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity that is close to your heart.

share the memories … share love … ShareLife® at www.mcgfuneral.com