Obituary of Richard Peter Pahopin

Richard Pahopin, 64, of Staten Island, New York passed away on August 19, 2020 in his home, surrounded by his family. Richard was born in the Bronx to Joseph and Felicia Pahopin on January 10, 1956. He was a student at Power Memorial Academy where he played basketball. As a freshman, he became the starting point guard, team captain and a city champion. Before graduating, Richard enlisted in the US Navy and served his country for 2 years. Richard married Emanuella on October 12, 1980 and went on to have 2 sons, Joseph and Anthony. Richard and Ella met in 1978 while they were both working for US Customs. Richard had an illustrious 39-year career with US Customs and Border Protection. He started out as a laborer in the mailroom and eventually rose to the rank of Deputy Chief. Over the years, he was responsible for many significant drug seizures andhe amassed many awards. He also made lifelong friends while on the job and this seemed to be the most important of all his accomplishments. He retired in June of 2014. Richard was a world traveler and visited 5 of the 7 continents with his wife, Ella. Richard was also very involved in the community. He was a basketball coach at Our Lady of Pity for more than 10 years. He is a Past Grand Knight and an original charter member of the Knights of Columbus - Council 16134 – St. Anthony of Padua. He was also a member of the Holy Name Society, Fraternal Order of Police and Columbia Association. He was honored as "Man of the Year" by the Columbia Association in 2004. Richard is preceded in death by his brother Joseph Pahopin, Mother Felicia Pahopin and his father Joseph Pahopin. Richard is survived by his Spouse Emanuella, his sons Joseph and Anthony, his Daughters in Law Dilcia and Danielle, his Sister Barbara, his 2 grandchildren, Anthony and Violet, his Nephews Luis and Matthew and their children Luis, Jacob, Leyla, Ariella and Emmet. Visitation Services will be held on Monday and Tuesday at Matthew Funeral Home from 5-9 PM. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday at Our Lady of Pity at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Hospital.