GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Richard (Dick) Koffman, 85, passed away in his home in Great Barrington, Mass., on June 6, 2018.

Dick, the son of the late Harry and Billie Koffman, was born and raised in Binghamton, N.Y. He was predeceased by his sister, Charlotte, and his brother and partner of many years, Burton (Bud) Koffman. It seems when Bud joined Dick’s Uncle Milton in heaven late last year, God decided that they both needed someone up there to say “no” to whatever deals they’d been cooking up, so He asked Dick to join them.

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Sara; a daughter, Deb; his elder son, Joby, and his wife, Lorraine; his younger son, Marty; and his six grandchildren: Sam, Harry, Abe, Isaac, Genevieve and Billie.     

His body faded out before we expected, but that was typical. He always wanted to leave before the party was over. 

We will remember his spirit, his generosity, his sense of responsibility, his strength and loyalty. He was one of a generation who wore a leather helmet onto the football field and rode his horses like his favorite movie cowboys, with his beloved dogs running behind.  He was a man of few words; yet, just being in his presence was sufficient to let us know we were loved, safe and he’d always take care of us.   

We sit in the shade today because Dick labored to plant a tree a long time ago.  We are so grateful for the luxury of sitting at the roots of all Dick sowed.  

Funeral notice: Dick’s memorial service will be held Monday, June 11, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Hevreh, located at 270 State Street, Great Barrington, Mass. Shiva visiting hours will be at Sara and Dick’s home, 13 Kalliste Hill Road, Great Barrington, Mass., from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, June 11 and 12.

If you wish to honor him, please give to any of the following charities: Berkshire Horseworks, 101 Patton Road, Richmond, MA 01254: Guiding Eyes for the Blind Canine Development Center, 361 Route 164, Patterson, NY 10509 or an educational or Scholarship Fund of your choosing.