William Edward Ricco
December 4, 1931 – January 7, 2026

William Edward "Bill" Ricco, 94, of Simsbury, CT passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026. He was born on December 4, 1931 in Brooklyn, New York to William S. and Victoria Ricco, and was the beloved husband of Grace Caridi Ricco. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and proud veteran. He was raised in his grandparent's home by his devoted mother, Victoria, and a large extended family.

Bill attended Brooklyn Technical High School. While still in high school, he joined a group of professional musicians where he sang and played piano. Bill played professionally until 1975 and his love of music sustained him for the next 50 years. He passed that love of music on to his children and grandchildren.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1952-1954. He served both as a company cook, running the camp mess hall, and as an infantryman, rising to the rank of sergeant. Bill loved telling stories of trading with local villagers to secure the best cuts of meat for his fellow soldiers - efforts that earned his mess hall such an excellent reputation that high-ranking officers often made special trips to dine there. He remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life and was often seen during retirement wearing his cherished Korean War Veteran cap.

Bangkok Friday, December 2.

I am heartbroken. Oscar was my teacher at CCNY in 1960. History 1. When he spoke of Greek governance he used the All State slogan, "You're in good hands." But he loved the Phrygians. Prof Muscarella was so kind.  He gave me an A.

Oscar and I have been in contact for several years. I visited his office at The Met and his home in Manhattan. We shared memories of Van, Turkey where he had a dig. This year I visited Iran and now I regret we'll never have the chance to discuss the ancient civilizations there.

Oscar Bey was a loyal friend. He followed all my travels and my website. I am so sad. I will miss my fellow New Yorker and my outspoken and fearless friend.

My condolences to the Muscarella Family.

Jan Polatschek

Bangkok, Thailand
Sunday Morning
March 15, 2009

Dear Friends,

I have some very sad news to report.

After several battles, my friend Jay Gilsen passed away in New York on Friday, March 13. Jay is one of my oldest and dearest friends.

Jay was my Anderson Avenue, Highbridge, Bronx, New York neighborhood buddy and my classmate from Kindergarten through Taft High School. As regular "cut -ups," we often met at "the Principal's bench" at PS 73.

Nang Rong

Buriram