Richard Earl Sullenberger

Richard Earl Sullenberger

September 10, 1946 - September 21, 2026

Formerly of Beaver Dams, NY

Richard Sullenberger passed away on September 21, 2026 surrounded by love and care at his daughter Amy Sue Clark's home in Gloversville, NY. Christine Goodrich Sullenberger, Rich's beloved wife of 58 years who died in 2024 was no doubt also there in spirit, patiently waiting for him to catch up.

Rich was born to Herbert and June Sullenberger and grew up in Cabot, VT in the northeast corner of the state. He described it as a good place to learn a work ethic, love the land, and to hunt and fish. at age 12 he moved to Corning, NY where he finished high school.

From 1966 - 1969, Rich served in the US Army which included the troop surge and major Viet Nam offensive operations of 1966 - 1967. He rarely spoke of it but he never forgot a good buddy named Stevie who he'd lost over there.

Rich and Chris got married on his return from the war and raised daughter Amy Sue on the small farm they had for 45 years in Beaver Dams, NY. They grew gardens and raised horses and dogs; everything was lucky to be under their care. During this time Rich also worked at Ingersoll-Dresser Rand as a machinist-assembler and found ways to enrich his community. He served as President of Ingersoll Rand's Service association, as a Hornby Fire Co. volunteer, as a Corning Lions Club member and two-term president, and through the Lions Club to secure grants to build Bampa's House and then became a volunteer caregiver for over 4 years.

Rich is survived by his daughter Amy Sue Clark, granddaughters Amanda and Erin Clark and great granddaughter Sophie Clark. Additional survivors include Claire Lines (Raymond) of Corning, Sandy Alekseiunas (Peter) of New Hampshire, Nancy and Mike McLaughlin of Corning and all their children and grandchildren.

Besides his wife Chris, Rich was predeceased by his parents Herbert and June Sullenberger, in-laws Kenneth and Betty Goodrich, sister Rose and brother-in-law Kenneth Talbot and their son Brian, and son-in-law Joe Clark.

In accordance with Rich's wishes, there will be no visitation or services. For those who would like to make a memorial donation, consider a Veteran's organization of your choice or Bampa's House in Corning, NY.