Obituary of Richard John Brainerd
Richard John Brainerd, 77, of Prattsville, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 1st, 2025. Richard’s greatest legacy was the deep love he held for his family.
Born on September 5, 1947, in Margaretville to the late Ralph and Edna (nee Warner) Brainerd, Richard graduated from Gilboa-Conesville Central School and spent his adult years in Hunter and Prattsville.
Richard served in Active Duty in the US Army from 1965-1967, attaining the rank of Specialist 4th Class, and serving in the Reserves until 1971. He was a member of the American Legion post and the Hunter Fire Department. An avid turtle & frog hunter, fisherman, hunter & motorcycle enthusiast, he also enjoyed the comfort of a good nap.
A man of many talents, Richard worked in construction, making snow at Hunter Mountain for 33 years, where he became known as Bernard and Whitey among his fellow snowmakers, and ensuring parts were delivered efficiently at I & O A Slutzky.
Richard was pre-deceased by his parents, Ralph and Edna Brainerd; his sister, Marge (Fred) Husted; his brothers, Don and Chuck Brainerd; his parents-in-law, Ruth and Stub Rikard; sisters in law Donna Brainerd & Lila Rikard; and his brothers-in-law, Ed Schaefer and Jim Brenn.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Valerie; his son, Rick (Celina); his daughters, Stephanie and Michelle (Keith); his cherished grandchildren, Cailyn, Nick (Joelle), and Hunter Brynn; his adored great-grandchildren, JJ and CiCi; his sisters, Marie Schaefer and twin Patty (Hugh) Gunther; his sisters-in-law, Reba Brainerd, Ellen Brenn, and Jean Monnen; his “little” brothers Dave and Dan Rikard; his Uncle Kip Rikard; countless nieces and nephews; and his loyal dog Shadow, who was always by his side.
Richard passed away peacefully at Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center, surrounded by other men who gave of themselves in the defense of the Nation. His family appreciates the care provided to him by the nurses, doctors, and staff of the VA.
Memorial Calling Hours will be held on Sunday, May 18th from 12:00 to 3:00 PM at Decker Funeral Home 5312 Route 23 Windham, NY, with military honors rendered at the start of the service by the US Army Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made payable to the Albany VA Medical Center 113 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 c/o CLC-1325 in memory of Richard Brainerd, as a testament to his commitment and appreciation for those who serve.
Services have been entrusted to Decker Funeral Home, and condolences may be left at www.deckerfh.com.