Richard Louis Rossi, Sr.

Richard Louis Rossi, Sr., 77, of Sugarloaf, passed away Thursday, November 13, 2025, at his residence in Sugarloaf.

Born in Hazleton, November 10, 1948, he was the son of the late Louis J. and Edith Helen (Welch) Rossi and spent the past 17 years in Sugarloaf after moving from Sugarloaf Twp.

Rich was a 1966 graduate of West Hazleton High School. He played football, baseball and was the Vice President of his class. He then attended Penn State Hazleton where he studied Business Administration.  Rich then served in the US Marine Corps where he served as a Rifle Marksman from 1968 – 1969 during the Vietnam War.

Rich was the owner and operator of Rossi's Restaurant and the Forest Hill Inn, both of Hazle Twp.  He was an avid golfer and member of the Sugarloaf Golf Club.  Rich loved all sports, but he rooted for the Giants and Yankees.  He was a frequent supporter of ASPCA, Boys Town and the DAV.

When he wasn't making people laugh or telling stories he was enjoying his slice of heaven on the farm with his best friend and furry companion Benny.

He was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by his brother, Charles Rodgers.

Surviving are five children, Richard L. Jr., Michael J., Amanda L., Dena M., and Marissa L. Rossi, all of Sugarloaf; five grandchildren, Richard L., III., Michael John II., and Louis Anthony Rossi, Owen Lewis Dewitt, and Hanu Minna Harmon.  Big Richie will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

His funeral will be held with a Memorial Service on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 8 PM from Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc. (West), 1265 Rock Glen Rd, Rock Glen.  Interment will take place privately at the convenience of his family. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 4 PM until the time of the service.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that attendees bring photos of Rich for the family to keep and display.  Online condolences can be entered, and more information is available at www.harmanfuneral.com.

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