From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Richard Pallokat, 91, Vero Beach
December 14, 1930 – December 31, 2021
Richard Pallokat, aged 91, passed away on December 31, 2021, in Vero Beach, FL. He was born in Brooklyn, New York on December 14, 1930 and was raised in East Rockaway Long Island. After graduating high school he enlisted with the United States Navy where he served for five years as a Navy Diver, spending time on the USS Wisconsin during the Korean Conflict.
Upon his honorable discharge in 1954 he settled in Wyckoff, NJ and entered the police force a year later. He served for 26 years, retiring in 1981 as a lieutenant. In addition to his time with the Wyckoff Police Department, he was also a member of the Wyckoff Volunteer Fire Department, Company No. 1, eventually becoming Deputy Chief. He was even voted Fireman of the Year in 1981! He was very proud of his work in the restoration of the 1904 Steamer and spoke about it often. Forty years after he served his last day on the force, and fought his last fire, he still listened to the scanner daily. Once – when he himself was in need of EMS – he made us turn on the scanner before calling 911 so he could hear the call go out!
After his retirement he relocated to Vero Beach, FL where he ran a cabinet business and was constantly put to work by his wife Joyce. They were “house flippers” long before that term was coined! An avid NY Yankees and NY Giants fan, you never had to wonder where he would be come game time!!
He is survived by two sons; Eric Pallokat, and Steven Pallokat (Karen), four stepdaughters; Kathy Solarino, Carolyn Smith, Sharon English (Mike), and Susan Clifton (Karl), 13 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Joyce Pallokat, his sister Joan MacDonald, and his daughter in law Diane Pallokat.
Navy Diver, War Veteran, Policeman, Fireman, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Friend, and all around great guy – he led a full and wonderful life. He was cherished and loved by all, and his absence will be profound.
Following his wishes, the family will not be holding any services, but if you would like to make a memorial donation in his honor, please do so to the Humane Society of Vero Beach.
Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County
Attn: Development Department
6230 77th Street
Vero Beach, FL 32967
Or online:
https://www.hsvb.org/ways-to-donate.html
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.