Richard C. Haelig

Rich Haelig, devoted father and grandfather, beloved brother, treasured uncle and great uncle, and friend to many and more he had yet to meet, passed away November 14 from a recent illness that saw him leave us much too soon. Son of the late Mary Margaret (née May) and his surviving father, Robert K. Haelig Jr., Rich was born in Plainfield, New Jersey and grew up in Middlesex NJ and Toms River, NJ. Rich moved to Pennsylvania in 1981 to attend West Chester University. He soon became a Philadelphia sports fan – for better or for worse – as he welcomed his sons to the world. In recent years, Rich loved bringing family and friends together at Citizens Bank Park for many Phillies’ games each season. Rich eventually settled in Delaware County and, for 30 years, worked as a paralegal and managed the office of Dranoff and Patrizio law firm. There, he was more than an employee – he was an essential part of the operation and a crucial help to thousands of clients over the years. Although he was an anxious flier, the prospect of time spent with his granddaughters motivated Rich to take up travel in recent years – going everywhere from Cartagena, Colombia to Sonoma, California to all around Ireland and beyond. He loved to raise money for causes close to his heart, organizing a team for the annual Team Foster 24-hour cycling Ruff Ride, participating in the Eagles Autism Challenge bike ride, and completing the Bike MS City to Shore ride. Rich leaves behind his sons, Richard J. (Catie) and Julian W., his brothers, Joseph Haelig (Laura), Robert Haelig, and Michael Haelig, and his sister, Mary Gethard (Dwayne). His many nieces and nephews and their families will miss his generous spirit and warm smile. His absence will be felt by many extended family members, great friends collected over a lifetime, and the staff and regulars at Haggerty’s bar. No one will miss “Paca” more than his two granddaughters, Nora and Tess Haelig (Rich and Catie), who were the high point and focus of his life from the minute they were born. Weekend breakfasts and walks to the park won’t be the same without Paca, but his girls will continue to light up this world and make him proud every day. The family would like to acknowledge with special gratitude for their love and support, Matthew Murphy, Rich’s “brother from another mother” (Tina) and family, the Valdes family and the Patrizio family. Please join us in celebrating Rich’s life at Kovacs Lombardo Funeral Home in Springfield on November 23, 2024, with visitation from 10am -12pm and service starting at 12. Reception to follow. All events are family-friendly. Mass of Christian Burial and Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, we suggest a few options – buy a gift for a child in your life or a cold beer for a good friend, put $50 into your local block pool, or donate to any of the charities mentioned above. Above all, enjoy your life and the people in it.

Richard C. Haelig

August 1, 1961 - November 14, 2024