Obituary of Rev. Richard J. Beligotti

Reverend Richard John Beligotti, age 81, of Venice, FL, passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024. He was born on September 8, 1942 to Sarafino and Linda Beligotti in Montour Falls, NY.

Father Richard was a graduate of St. Andrew's and also St. Bernard's Seminaries. He was ordained with his twin brother, Rev. Robert L. Beligotti on June 1, 1968 by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, in Sacred Heart Cathedral in Rochester, NY. He had numerous assignments in the Diocese of Rochester across 45 years before receiving Senior Status in 2013, and retiring from full-time ministry. He moved to Venice in 2015, and assisted at Epiphany Cathedral.

Father Richard and his brother, Father Robert, took two sabbaticals: in the spring of 1987 at the American College in Louvian, Belgium and in the fall of 2009 at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, Italy. One of his great loves was the rich liturgical tradition of the Church's Gregorian Chant and the Church's sponsorship of great sacred art by many gifted artists.

In addition to his brother, Father Robert, surviving family members include cousins Ronald and Richard Sabatini, Joyce, Joan, and Kathy Pierpoline, and Dino and Danny Beligotti.

Calling hours for Father Beligotti will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 5:00-6:00 pm at St. Mary's of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY followed by an Evening Prayer Vigil at 6:00 pm. Calling hours will resume on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 from 9:30-10:15 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial with the Most Reverend Salvatore. R. Matano, Bishop of Rochester, presiding. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Watkins Glen. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Mary's of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891.