Richard G. Brainerd, 94, of Fairport passed away peacefully on June 12, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in East Rochester May 29, 1928, to Kenneth and Izella (Bagley) Brainerd. He graduated from East Rochester High School in 1946, served in the Air Force during the Korean War, and earned his undergraduate degree and a Master of Science in Education with Honors from Brockport Teachers College in 1958. Richard went on to teach Social Studies to seventh and eighth grade students in the Penfield Central School District for 36 years. In addition, he was a volunteer firefighter, officer, and trustee with the Egypt Fire Association for over two decades.
Richard, also known as Dick, enjoyed many hobbies, but sailing topped the list. As a bachelor, he hand-built his own sailboat, White Cloud, a 28-foot Herreshoff. His passion for sailing led him to a boating class, where he met the love of his life, Leona Leiderbach, RN. They married in July 1966, sharing almost 56 beautiful years together. Richard created a life marked by love, commitment, duty, service, curiosity, kindness, integrity, humility, and attention to detail.
In addition to his loving wife Leona, Richard is survived by his children Lori (Peter) DeLoe and Rich (Heather) Brainerd, five beloved grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his brother Bruce.
A memorial service will be held at 3 PM on July 1st at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Road, Fairport
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Egypt Fire Association at egyptfd.org or the Antique Boat Museum, Clayton, NY at abm.org.
Ninety-four years. How ‘bout that!?
Comments
4 responses to “Brainerd, Richard G.”
l kaw Dick when he was in the egypt firedpart he done a lot for the dept great man
We were near classmates at ERHS, I a 1944 graduate and Richard, 1946. I saw him next in college at Brockport
when I returned from WWII and we became closer friends. Richard was indeed a “class guy”, the ultimate gentleman,
and a credit to the teaching profession.
Dick’s was chairman of a Sanford pumper 335 , his attention to detail resulted in an excellent engine. He had the honor of being the first to operate 335 at a working barn fire , Dick was very helpful in Egypt buying our first aerial truck.
When I began a long teaching career in the Penfield school district, Dick was one of the “old timers” in 1962 that welcomed me to my lengthy tenure. I will never forget his advice, kindnesses, and