Obituary of Richard Behr

Richard Paul Behr, 62, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2017 after a long illness. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Lisa Behr; his son, Richard Behr, Jr. (Ashley Culpepper); his daughter, Kt Behr (Bryan Sostowski); his nephew Michael Behr; father-in-law, John Ferranti; aunt, Margaret Ferranti and beloved fur child, Mood. Rick was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Barbara (Burgin) Behr and two brothers, Thomas Behr and Robert Behr. Rick was born in Delhi NY in 1954. He graduated from Vestal High School in 1973 and earned his MBA from Binghamton University, graduating first in his class. He went on to become the youngest full professor in New York state and eventually became chairman of the business department at SUNY Broome where he worked for many years. Rick had a delightful sense of humor and was one of the smartest, funniest, and goofiest people the world has ever produced. He maintained his intelligence and charming personality even later in life when he became increasingly ill. He was a devoted father and loving husband and took tremendous pride in his son, daughter, and nephew. He was always glad to brag of their accomplishments to anyone who would listen, and even anyone who would not listen. To say that he loved the outdoors is an understatement---he needed the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and could identify any fish, name any tree, and track nearby wildlife simply by picking up on their scent. Rick had been ill for many years. Those who knew and loved him saw the decline, but he never gave up the fight. He always tried to maintain a positive attitude and continued working up to the end, despite his worsening health issues. His family hopes that he is whole again now, tracking a deer somewhere and looking forward to some Little Venice spaghetti when he comes down from the forest. Memorial services will be held at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main Street, Binghamton Saturday at 2 p.m. Rev. Msgr. John P. Putano will officiate. The family will receive friends at the McCormack Funeral Home Saturday from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Expressions of sympathy in Rick's name may be made to The United Ostomy Association of America, Inc. P.O. Box 525 Kennebunk, ME 04043.