With deep sadness, the family of Richard Shimko announces his passing on September 15, 2025, at the age of 76 at Penfield Place Nursing Home.
Richard (Rick) was the youngest of four children born to Celia and Ignatius Shimko of Lakewood, Ohio. Rick attended SS. Cyril and Methodius School as well as Saint Edward High School, from which he graduated in 1967 as Vice President of his class.
Following high school, Rick attended Fordham University. It was during this time that he met his wife, Joanne, who was also attending college in the New York area. This was also when he held what was undoubtedly the coolest job of his life, driving a New York City taxicab.
After graduating from Fordham in 1971, Rick began his career with the Internal Revenue Service in Washington, D.C. He continued that career when he and Joanne returned to New York State, where Rick simultaneously furthered his education at Syracuse University, earning an MBA and establishing his devotion as a Syracuse basketball fan.
Over several years, Rick and Joanne gradually moved westward to the Rochester area, where Rick would eventually lead the local office of the IRS and specialize in international tax treaties. In 1982, Joanne and Rick built their longtime home in Fairport, where they raised two children and established many cherished friendships in their neighborhood and community.
Rick remained active throughout his life, participating for years in Perinton Rec drop-in basketball, skiing, cycling with his “bike night” group, and boxing. He also enjoyed the outdoors, taking yearly canoe trips, attending scout outings with his son and Troop 207, camping on Alger Island, and spending time with family and friends on Fourth Lake in the Adirondacks.
Rick’s kind heart and quick wit will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joanne; children David (Robin) Shimko and Leah (Michael) Masny; granddaughters Claire, Rachel, and Brooke; brother Thomas Shimko; sisters-in-law Michele Simmen, Linda Shimko, and Mary Shimko; nephews and nieces; and many close friends.
Rick was predeceased by his sister Jean Katz; brother Andrew Shimko; and brothers-in-law Larry Katz and Albert Wargo.
Calling hours will be held from 4-6 PM on Friday, September 26th at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Road, Fairport. A Funeral Mass for Richard will take place at 10AM on September 27th at Church of the Resurrection, 63 Mason Road, Fairport. Interment will follow at White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or Lifespan of Greater Rochester.
17 responses to “Shimko, Richard P.”
Remembering Richard–a kind man. I enjoyed JoAnne and him at Church of the Resurrection when I was ministering there. They were dependable and genuine. Thanks, JoAnne and you family for sharing him with us. God bless you as you remember and celebrate him.
Rick was our neighbor and dearest friend for over 40 years. My wife and I shared so many fun times with Rick and Joanne over the years dining at Marias’s, enjoying our monthly Game Night Group events and spending a weekend with us in Pennsylvania to name but a few. Rick had a wonderful sense of humor and a gentle spirit. It is comforting knowing Rick is resting peacefully while smiling down on us. God bless you Rick.
Rick and I met at the IRS. He became my manager and was instrumental in advancing my career. He was also a dear friend which lasted throughout our retirement. We shared our lives socially with our wives. He was indeed a dear friend that will be missed. His courage his last few years battling Parkinson’s is a testament to his inner strength. Always a smile when I paid a visit. aRest in peace my dear friend.
I had the great pleasure of meeting Rick while he was working downtown at IRS, such a wonderful, friendly person and glad I had the honor of knowing him. My heart goes out to his family.
I met Rick through my job at the IRS. I worked in Buffalo and Rick was a manager in Rochester. I would see him when he came into Buffalo for training sessions and the like. Rick was a very friendly guy and very genuine which I liked. We developed a friendship and I always wished he’d worked in Buffalo so I could see more of him. Truly a nice, down to earth guy. I’m sorry he passed away.
Thinking of Rick brings a big smile. Rick and I worked together at the IRS for many years. Rick always had a funny quip ready to lighten the mood of any humdrum meeting in Buffalo. Rick, I and Ed R. formed a tongue in cheek singing group, “The Skinny Boys” to sing karaoke for laughs after those meetings. Rick could carry a tune quite well! So farewell, my friend. Haven’t seen you since retirement and I am sorry to hear you had been ill and of your passing.
I will always think of Rick fondly. His love of life, family and friends was inspiring. He once told me that life is to short to surround yourself with negativity. So surround yourself with as much positivity as you can. He was definitely a positive. RIP Rick. You will truly be missed.
Joanne and family,
We are very sorry to hear of your husband’s/father’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of
you.
The Lesniewski Family
We first met Rick and Joanne when our son Mike and their daughter Leah got engaged. Rick’s kind disposition and warm and gentle demeanor were evident from the beginning.
I will always remember his quick wit, engaging smile and his courage when facing his battle with Parkinson’s disease.
May he rest in peace in the love of Christ and in the arms of angels.
Our deepest condolences,
Ann and George
Rick was one of many wonderful friends I had the pleasure of working with at IRS here in Rochester. Always a smile, a quick wit and genuine person doing a tough job. Enjoyed many lunches in our retirement years and amazed at his courage in dealing with such a terrible diagnosis. My heart goes out to Joanne and family but knowing that a dear friend is now at peace.
I met Rick at penfield place nursing home and rehabilitation center. I was one of the CNA’s that took care of him. I instantly liked him. He was my buddy. I would always bring him snacks. When I went to Florida I bought him a t-shirt back. I said all of that just to say that Rick was adored and loved at Penfield Place. He is truly missed. I can’t help but to look into his room when I pass by. Fly high ‘ Rickster’ ( my nickname for him)
Thank you for all the loving care you provided for my dad during his time at Penfield Place
Thank you Penfield Place for caring for my father throughout his struggle with parkinson’s. Dad was a wonderful father and was always placing others before himself. Many fond memories of growing up with dad. Sad he had to leave us so soon. He fought hard with dignity against his illness until the very end. God rest your soul. We know you will be looking down on us from above!
Joanne and family,
Frank and I remember happily spending time with you and Rick when the 4 of us went to Utica for our 50th De Sales high school reunion a few years ago. Although you and I had kept in touch over the years, we hadn’t met Rick. We both greatly enjoyed his company (as well as yours) and appreciated all the
great qualities described above by his long time friends. He certainly was a model of a good husband, father and grandfather and you are all in our prayers for comfort and in thanksgiving for Rick’s life. Love, Connie
Joanne my heart breaks for you but truly Rick fought the good fight! He was a wonderful person. So funny! we enjoyed many fun times together which i still hold in my heart. May God bless you and the family with peace…one day at a time!
Janet
Joanne and family, Katie and I are saddened to hear of Rick’s passing. We have great memories of our time spent together doing marriage prep at Resurrection with you, Rick, and Mike and Janet. We laughed until we cried! We are sure that Rick will continue to watch over you and the family.
Rick changed my life, choosing me to become one of his new employees in the new International RO group in Rochester and Buffalo. He was a the best manager I have had in my 32 years with the service. Prayers for his family.