Richard John Daly, Jr.

Richard John Daly, Jr. (“Dick”) passed away peacefully in his home on November 12, 2025 at age 93. He was born in Lackawanna, NY, on January 9, 1932, to Marian (Zenns) and Richard Daly, and was a devoted son throughout their lives. 

Dick graduated from Lackawanna High School in 1950 and promptly enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After proudly serving his country, he met Karen (Mescall) at a beach party on Lake Erie and quickly knew she was his forever first mate - though at times, his captain. They married in 1957 and shared 67 years of marriage before Karen passed away last February.

Dick was an only child who always longed for a big family - and his wish came true. He and Karen built quite a crew: six children - Elaine (Don Crowley), Mark, Paul (Julie), Jim (Cathy), Mary (Tony Bongiorno), and Steve (Donna); ten grandchildren - Jennifer (Brad McCabe), Anthony Bongiorno, Sean Daly, Colin Daly (Nicole), Mia Bongiorno, Kathryn Crowley, Kara (Dhane Smith), Matt Daly, Lydia Bongiorno, and Nick Daly; and two great-grandchildren, Molly McCabe and Mack Daly.

Dick’s family was always his priority; he was a hardworking, dedicated father. He spent decades as an engineer at South Buffalo Railway and as a fireman with the Lackawanna Fire Department. He worked tirelessly - and without complaint - to provide for his family. Tough love was his brand, and he was known for crafting creative consequences for his kids’ misbehavior. Summertime mischief led to Mark and Paul hot-topping the driveway, Jim and Mary insulating the attic, and Steve still searching for that elusive “elbow grease.” As for Elaine, we’re pretty sure she’s yet to make a mistake.

When the nest finally emptied, Dick charted a course for warmer waters - finding his winter escape in Sarasota, FL. He was, as he liked to say, “done shoveling.” A loyal friend, he nurtured a few lifelong bonds, especially with his Poker Club crew. Dick was happiest at informal gatherings - whether at local restaurants, “gin mills,” American Legion posts, or simply at home, surrounded by those he loved.

Dick and Karen - Yin and Yang. Dick was a man of few words, which was perfect, because Karen had plenty to spare. Dick worshiped the sun; Karen hid from it. He loved animals; she preferred they keep their distance. What united them was an unwavering commitment to family and hard work. Both had classic one-liners, loved a good prank, and were always up for an adventure. They enjoyed playing cards, traveling, and cheering on the Bills, the Bandits, and their children’s and grandchildren’s teams. Together, Dick and Karen masterfully navigated both the calm waters and rough seas of life, and their children remain forever grateful for their example.

Dick was dearly loved and will be deeply missed - but his selfless work ethic, steady presence, and quiet strength will live on in all who knew him. A Funeral Mass will be held on December 4th at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, 3148 Abbott Road, Orchard Park, with family and friends gathering in his honor at Sandbaggers, 15 Buffalo St, Hamburg, immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dick’s memory may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. at www.hospicebuffalo.org