Van Essen, Richard

New Alexandria, PA.- Avon, NY: May 13, 2016 at age 66. Richard will be sadly missed by his wife Susan (Brown) Van Essen; his son Christopher Van Essen and wife Katie of Verona, PA; his daughter Katelyn Van Essen of Washington, DC; his sisters Aartje (Klaas) de Waard and Wilma (Peter) Burke of Avon; his father and mother-in-law Dwight and Joan Brown of Avon; his many nieces and nephews; and his numerous Dutch cousins in The Netherlands.

Richard was born October 10, 1949, son of the late Willem and Jennie Van Essen. He grew up in Avon, was a graduate of Avon Central High School and Alfred State College of Technology- Wellsville, NY. Richard was the owner and operator of S&R Supply, an auto body supply company which serviced a multitude of independent auto body repair shops throughout Western Pennsylvania. He was well known for the high level of personal service he provided to his many customers. Richard was an avid golfer and an active member of the New Alexandria Lions Club. He spent more than ten years involved with the club’s Demolition Derby program held each summer. Richard was outgoing, enthusiastic and generous.

Burial will be in the Avon Cemetery at a private service with his family. Memorial contributions may be made to the New Alexandria Lions Club, 1874 Lions Club Road, New Alexandria, PA 15670.
Arrangements Stephenson-Dougherty Funeral Home, Avon