Obituary of Richard Charles Washousky

Richard C. Washousky, age 71, passed away at ECMC Hospital in Buffalo, NY on Saturday, October 8th, 2022 with his family at his side. 

Richard was born on July 2, 1951, in Liberty, NY to parents Michael Washousky and Elsie Washousky (Slaby). He was a 1969 graduate of Liberty High School and went on to earn his associates degree from Sullivan County Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University, an advanced masters from Boston University, and an ABD from Boston University. He began his career as the Director of Outpatient Clinics at ECMC, and went on to work for Erie Community College (ECC) in a career that started in 1985 and included impactful roles from adjunct faculty member to College Provost and Executive Vice President. He strongly believed in the power of education to transform lives and he dedicated himself to his work at ECC and in the community. He was a man of strength and humility and he continued to teach until his very last breath. 

Richard is survived by his wife Marcia Washousky, his daughters Robyn Washousky (Eric Burns) and Kara Washousky-Smith (David Smith), and his son David Washousky (Tracey Taylor). He was the proud grandfather of Emalani and Easton Burns, Leo and Nora Washousky, Micah, Nolan, and Bryson Smith.  

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2022, at 11:30 am at Liberty Cemetery, Cold Spring Road, Liberty, NY.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date at ECC. Memorials in Richard's name can be sent to the Michael Washousky Memorial Scholarship Fund at Erie County Community College, which offers scholarships to students studying to become mental health and addictions counselors. Donations may be made by following this link to donate ONLINE, or by mail, payable to the ECC Foundation, with “Washousky Memorial Scholarship” in the memo line, and mailed to: Erie Community College Foundation, 121 Ellicott St, Rm 160, Buffalo, NY 14203.

Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Ramsay Funeral Home, 275 South Main Street, Liberty, NY 12754.  For additional information, please contact the funeral home at 845-292-7160 or visit the website at www.colonialfamilyfuneralhome.com. 

Make a Contribution to the Michael Washousky Memorial Scholarship Fund HERE.