May 19, 2009 2 min read

Dr. Richard E. Cerullo, 72, of Adah, Pa., died Sunday, May 17, 2009 in the Uniontown Hospital. He was born May 1, 1937 in Masontown, Pa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lucy Cassano Cerullo.

Surviving are his wife, Donna (Jesso) Cerullo of Adah, Pa.; two sons: Mark Cerullo and wife, Janet of Adah, Pa. and Scott Cerullo and wife, Mandi of Adah, Pa; a daughter, Heidi Cerullo Williams and husband, Mark of Adah, Pa.; two sisters: Dolores Santella of Masontown, Pa. and Carol DelGrosso and husband, John of Masontown, Pa.; one brother, Robert Cerullo of Washington D.C.; eight grandchildren: Jeremy, Heather, Brian, Justin, Holly, Kayla, Rachel and Derek; one grandson, Evan and several nieces and nephews.

He was a member of the Masontown United Methodist Church.

In his early life, Rich was an avid gardener. He and his father-in-law spent many summers tending to their prize winning tomato and pepper plants. Although the garden got smaller through the years, he always had to have a few tomatoes.

He was proud of his Italian heritage and learned to enjoy small game hunting from his grandfather. The hunt was not as important as getting out in the woods.

Rich loved playing cards with his friends and co-workers.

Later in life, Rich took up golf and played any time he got the chance.

Education and knowledge were major factors in Rich’s life. Rich started working in the computer industry when it was new. He taught mathematics at several different colleges. He served as the Director of Computing Services at California University of Pa. until his retirement in 2000 with over 30 years of service. Rich received his doctoral degree from WVU in Educational Administration. He took pride in his own accomplishments as well as those of his children and grandchildren.

Friends will be received in the BERNARD M. TOWNSEND FUNERAL HOME, 220 South Main Street, Masontown, Pa., today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. and on Wednesday from Noon to 2 p.m. the hour of service with the Rev. Robert H. Lewis officiating.

Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Donations can be made in his memory to the Masontown United Methodist Church Building Fund.