Surrounded by the love of his family, Richard “Dick” Harold Surber was called home to the Lord on February 25, 2026, at the age of 84.
Richard was born on March 26, 1941, in Auburn, New York, to the late Harold and Marie (Waldron) Surber.
He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his discipline, resilience, and lifelong sense of service. Following his military service, he built a respected career with the New York State Department of Corrections, where he worked faithfully for 28 years, retiring in 1995. He was instrumental in the early development of the Crisis Intervention and the K-9 Unit for New York State, a reflection of both his leadership and steady presence in difficult moments.
He was a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and a member of the Ellenville Elks Lodge, reflecting both his enduring Catholic faith and his civic dedication. His faith was not only professed but practiced. He volunteered for many years at the Shiloh Baptist Church soup kitchen and served as a Eucharistic minister, delivering Holy Communion to those unable to attend Mass.
Richard was a man of deep and abiding faith, anchored in his love for God and devotion to his family. He possessed a big and generous heart. Strong and opinionated, he stood firmly in his convictions, yet beneath that strength was a deeply empathetic soul who cared profoundly for those around him. He showed up for the people he loved. He listened. He advised. He remained loyal. He was, in every sense, the best kind of friend.
He deeply loved his entire extended family, including those joined through marriage and through earlier chapters of life, forming lasting bonds rooted in respect and affection.
He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Kathy Mansfield-Surber, and daughter, Misty Gonzalez (Michael Gonzalez); his former spouse, Anne (Sawyer) Surber and their children, Kathleen Surber, Karen Maller, John Surber, Rick Surber (Abigail Davis); and his sister, Mary Buttarazzi.
He was a proud grandfather to Jenn Surber, Eloise Surber, Cory Gamlen, Devin Gamlen, and Makai Gonzalez.
He is also survived by many cherished brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Ronald Buttarazzi, and his daughter-in-law, Deborah (Debbie) Vincent-Surber.
Visitation will be held at Loucks Funeral Home in Ellenville, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Church in Ellenville, NY. Service dates and times will be announced at a later date. He will be laid to rest at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Auburn, New York.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
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