Dr. Richard Lee Bucciarelli's Obituary
Richard Lee Bucciarelli, “Rick”, age 69 of Gainesville, passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2015, in the E. T. York Haven Hospice Care Center after a two year fight against melanoma. Rick was born December 20, 1945 to Bartolomeo and Angie Bucciarelli. He grew up in Dearborn, Michigan.
Rick attended medical school at the University of Michigan (’72) and did his training in pediatric cardiology and neonatology at UF (’78). He worked as a neonatologist in Utah before returning to Gainesville (’82). His passion was advocating for children’s health care through his roles as Chief of neonatology, UF’s VP for health and governmental affairs, Chair of the Department of Pediatrics, committee member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Federal Government Affairs and Access to Care, and Regional Director for Children’s Medical Services.
Rick loved traveling, cooking, jazz music, skiing, and watching Gator sports. Those who knew him say that Rick was an eternal optimist. He was a kind and compassionate physician, friend, father, and husband.
Rick was preceded in death by his sister, Marianne Bucciarelli Zona.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lynda Bucciarelli of Gainesville, FL, his brother, Barth Bucciarelli of Dearborn, MI, and his children, Amy Bucciarelli and Chris Bucciarelli of Gainesville, FL.
Family and friends will celebrate Rick’s life with a vigil of remembrance on Monday, September 28, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. and a mass on Tuesday, September 29, 2015 at noon, both at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church 1738 W. University Avenue, Gainesville. Orange and blue attire is encouraged.
In lieu of flowers please visit: www.youcaring.com/rickbucciarelli
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