PITTSFIELD, Mass. —

Richard Earl Astore, 85, of Pittsfield, MA, passed away August 27, 2021 surrounded by his family at Berkshire Medical Center.

Born in Pittsfield on March 12, 1936, he was the son of Carlo and Lydia Masengo Astore and a 1953 graduate of Pittsfield High School. Mr. Astore married the love of his life, the former Patricia Gillette, on July 1, 1961 at St. Mary the Morning Star Church.

He had been employed by General Electric for over 30 years as a stockkeeper. Strong in his faith, he was a communicant of St. Charles Church. He was also a member of the Italian American Club, the Monday Morning Quarterback Club and the GE Pensioners Club.

An avid NY Giants and Notre Dame fan, Mr. Astore enjoyed watching, playing and coaching sports. In his younger years, he pitched for the semi-pro baseball team, the Tyler Aces and was once scouted by the Kansas City Royals. He volunteered as a coach for 30 plus years for Pop Warner Football, where he was also a board member. He coached Babe Ruth baseball for 1 year, minor league baseball for 3 years, and was an equipment manager for the city of Pittsfield minor league baseball for 4 years. In addition, he was president of East Little League for 4 years. He was recognized for his years of volunteering as the recipient of the Tank Shop and Fred Garner Awards.

He enjoyed the simple things in life such as trips to Atlantic City, Saratoga race track, visiting family down south, and wine tastings. He especially loved going on family vacations to Misquamicut where he was the self-proclaimed “Best Body Surfer in Rhode Island”. Family was most important to him as he cherished Sunday family dinners and the time spent with his family and grandchildren. He never missed one of their sporting events or activities.

Mr. Astore is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Patricia Astore of Pittsfield, son Michael Astore and wife Dawn Paterson Astore of Pittsfield; Daughter Michelle Astore Sylvester and husband Joseph of Pittsfield; and son Jeff Astore of Pittsfield. Four grandchildren, Mikaela, Makenzi, Nicholas and Brayden. He was predeceased by his sister, Rita Pivero and brother Armand Astore.

FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours from 10 to 11 a.m will be held FRIDAY, September 3, 2021 at DERY FUNERAL HOME, 54 Bradford St, Pittsfield. Funeral services, with Rev. Peter A. Gregory, Pastor Emeritus of St. Charles Church, officiating, 11 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his name to St. Charles Church or to HospiceCare in the Berkshires in care of the funeral home.