Watervliet – Richard B. “Dick” Chiera, 69, of Watervliet, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 20, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Troy on November 10, 1948, he was the son of the late Bruno and Josephine Chiera.

Dick grew up in Watervliet where he attended Watervliet High School. Immediately after high school he was drafted into the US Army. His service to his country brought him to Vietnam during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded a purple heart for his heroism. Upon returning home Dick had brief stints working at the Watervliet Arsenal, the post office, and Barclay’s. He then began his career as a machine tool builder at Simmons Machine Tools in Menands, where he worked for 31 years until his retirement in January of 2017. Although Dick enjoyed his work, nothing made him happier than spending time with his family. He always went above and beyond for those who meant the most to him. Whether it was building decks and cabinets, fixing odds and ends around the house, or simply preparing a good meal, Dick was continually there to lend a helping hand.

Dick is survived by his adoring wife of 45 years, Linda M. Chiera of Watervliet, their two children; Christina Chiera of Watervliet, and Ursula (Angelo Ojeda) Chiera of Watervliet, his grandchildren; Krystiana (Theodore Randall), David, Janeé, Sabrina, Alexis, and Anthony, his five great-grandchildren, his sister, Linda (Ron) Gardner of Brunswick, his beloved cat BB, and by several loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jim (surviving Sally) Chiera.

A visitation will be held Monday, August 27 from 4 until 7 PM at Parker Bros. Memorial Funeral Home, Watervliet. A funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, August 28, at 12 noon at St. Joseph’s Church, Troy. Interment with military honors will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Those who wish to remember Dick in a special way may consider a donation to the Regional ALS Center, 19 Warehouse Row, Albany, NY 12205.