Richard L. Zona

Richard L. “Rick” Zona, age 69, longtime resident of County Road 138, died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Rick was born in Seneca Falls on April 16, 1956, a son of the late Armando “Mud” and Elizabeth “Betty” Zona. He spent some of his early years in Arizona, returned to his roots here in Seneca County and was married to Kelly Hicks on October 10, 1985. He had worked at Dalrymple/Anchor Acre Farms in Hector for over 20 years. Rick had an incredible work ethic and took great pride in his home, along with being an avid hunter and outdoorsman. Rick’s commitment to his family and neighbors was unmatched. He drove his Amish neighbors to fire calls, as many of them are members of the Ovid Fire Department, and volunteered his time to the department. He was the quiet pillar of the family, always the protector and proudest man in the room. Rick was opinionated but fair, chose his words to be direct and meaningful, and showed his love through his acts of kindness.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kelly; his daughter, Dionne (Travis) Bortz of Willard and his adoring grandchildren, Wyatt Freelove and Emerson Bortz; his siblings Mike Zona of Alabama and Cheryl (Joe Nogle) Mandigo of Seneca Falls and his wife’s extended family. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, and by his sisters, Barb Marone and Dora Sheldon, nephew,  Michael A Zona, and niece, Dannell Mandigo.

 Services will be held privately at Oak Hill Cemetery in McDuffietown. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Oak Hill Cemetery, PO Box 134, Romulus, NY 14541 in Rick’s memory.