Richard W. Alger

HORNELL – Richard W. Alger, 95, of Hornell, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, (Oct. 26, 2025), exactly 20 years to the day after the passing of his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Patricia.

Born on July 12, 1930, in Hornell, Richard was the son of the late Raymond J. Alger and Margaret Huff Alger. He was a proud graduate of Hornell High School and served as senior class president in 1948, and later proudly served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1951 until 1955, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

Following his military service, Richard worked as an Assistant Civil Engineer for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) in Hornell, retiring in 1985. 

Richard was a lifelong member of St. Ann’s and St. Ignatius Loyola Roman Catholic Churches in Hornell, where he faithfully attended Mass each week. His deep faith guided his life. Known for his charitable spirit, Richard supported many local and national causes, often surprising family members with calendars and letters from the organizations he quietly gave to.

He was also deeply devoted to his community. A proud member of the Hornell High School Alumni Association, Richard was an enthusiastic supporter of the Hornell Red Raiders, the Buffalo Bills, and the Buffalo Sabres. He especially loved spending time at his hunting cabin and at his cherished cottage on Lake Demmon in Howard, NY, where he hosted countless family gatherings and unforgettable Fourth of July celebrations complete with fireworks shows that delighted everyone around the lake.

An avid hunter, he looked forward to deer season every year. Richard, his father and brother Raymond made the annual hunting season a family activity enjoyed by all.

In his later years, one of Richard’s greatest joys was sitting on his front porch, watching the local baseball farm team play—a simple pleasure that brought him peace and happiness.

Richard is survived by his sons, Mark (Patricia Day) of Bath, NY, and Chris (Deborah Argentieri) of Hornell, NY; his daughters, Dianne (Robert Bitting) of Chestertown, MD, and Judy of Alfred, NY. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Jessica (Nathan) Hammond, Erica Alger (Linda Mauro), Sarah (Matt) Mier, Mitchell (Megan) Alger, Katherine (Chauncey) Watches, Mike (Hillary) Bitting, Samantha (Jeff) Bruder, and Zachary (Lindsey Putney), along with 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Patricia Rose Alger, and brothers Raymond E. Alger and Jack F. Alger, as well as his sister Ruth A. Hogan.

Family and friends are invited to call on SUNDAY (Nov. 2, 2025) from Noon-2 p.m. at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main Street, Hornell, NY., where a funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Burial, with military honors, will take place at a later date at Bath National Cemetery.

The United States flag and the Marine Corps flag will proudly fly at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home in recognition of Richard’s military service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arc of Allegany-Steuben, (1 Arc Way, Bath, NY 14810), an organization that reflects Richard’s lifelong generosity and compassion for others. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Richard’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Richard are welcome below or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.