Richard Pifko, 77, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the Suncoast Hospice in Palm Harbor, Florida, surrounded by family and his faithful canine companion, Nola. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and veteran, Rich lived a life marked by innovation, service, and deep love for his family and community.

Born on September 1, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Rich was the son of Joseph and Mary Anna Pifko. He grew up in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood until his family moved to the suburb of Lyons when he was 12. Rich is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years and best friend Barbara (Conway); their daughter Mary of Atlanta; their sons Michael (Archer) of Chicago and Jonathan (Tina) of Nashville and his cherished granddaughter, Amelia Pifko, who brought him immense joy. Brother Joseph (Karen); sisters and brothers-in-law, Kath and Rich Englesman, John and Teresa Conway; many cousins, nieces, nephews and cherished friends.

Rich raised his family in DeKalb, Illinois, where he was a proud father deeply involved in his children’s academic, musical, and athletic pursuits. He coached AYSO soccer and supported the DeKalb County Swim Team for two decades—from setting up and cheering at meets to guiding young athletes. He was a constant presence in every endeavor of his children’s lives, bringing support and encouragement.

Before embarking on his professional career, Rich served honorably in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1973. He completed five tours of duty in Vietnam. During his service, he was exposed to Agent Orange—an experience that would later impact his health. His dedication to Country remained a source of pride throughout his life. He served as a volunteer greeter at the New Port Richey Veterans Outpatient Clinic.

In 1976, he graduated from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy. His professional journey spanned over four decades in the Chicago and Tampa areas leaving an indelible mark on many industries. Rich’s career was defined by his pioneering spirit in the emerging fields of applications development, systems implementations and data conversions. As an IT project manager and systems developer with United Airlines, he led the development and implementation of the groundbreaking E-Ticket system—transforming air travel by moving ticketing from paper to electronic media. His role, as a key member of United’s technology team, took him around the globe, where he provided both technical and business process support- revolutionizing the airline industry.

In 2004, Rich and Barbara relocated to Holiday, Florida. There they embraced a new chapter filled with sunshine and serenity. Rich found joy captaining his boat, The Empty Nest, enjoying with family and friends, the sun, beach and warm Gulf waters off of Honeymoon Island. He found peace through yoga at Flow Yoga in New Port Richey – a practice that nourished both body and soul while fostering lasting friendships.

At home, Rich enjoyed quiet moments on the lanai with Barbara and his loyal rescue dogs by his side, Brewski, Mona and Nola taking in the beauty and wildlife in Goose Pond, that was his backyard. He served as president of his homeowners’ association for six years with dedication and care for the Gulf Trace Community.

A loving husband and devoted father, grandfather, and friend to many, Rich leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, leadership, service and love.

In honor of Rich’s memory and to support ongoing research into the early diagnosis and treatment of small bowel cancer, donations may be made in his name to Moffitt Cancer Center Gastrointestinal Center of Excellence at https://fundraise.moffitt.org/campaign/in-honor-of-a-loved-one/c524677