ALTAMONT — Richard Louis Tastor, a devoted family man who helped UAlbany students realize their dreams, died Thursday, Aug. 5, 2021 at St. Peter’s Hospice. He was 73.

Born on Dec. 7, 1947, in Utica, New York, he was the son of Robert Tastor and June Kimball Tastor.

“Rick attended Notre Dame High School, and then earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Utica College,” his family wrote in a tribute. “Then he went on to graduate from the University at Albany with a master’s degree in public policy. Rick’s first job after college was as an aid to New York State Senator James H. Donovan. He later went to work at the University at Albany as Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid.

“Rick loved helping students achieve an education and realize their dreams. He was passionate about his career, and also loved UAlbany athletics, in particular the football and basketball teams. Rick also loved watching the New York Yankees and New York Giants. More than anything else, he loved spending time with his family, and in later years, Rick absolutely doted on his beloved grandchildren.”

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He is survived by his wife, Janis Healy Tastor; by his sons, Ryan Tastor and his wife, Jennifer, of Watertown, New York and Jamie Tastor and his wife, Lisa, of Guilderland; by his five grandchildren, Kendal, Ethan, Connor, Ella, and Cora; by his siblings Judy Tastor and Tony Tomaselli of Utica and Chuck and Mora Massoud-Tastor of New Hartford.

His parents, Robert Tastor and June Kimball Tastor, died before him, as did his brother, Stephen.

Friends may call Wednesday, Aug. 11, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Newcomer Cremation & Funerals at 343 New Karner Road in Colonie. A memorial service will follow at 5 p.m. at the same location. 

Memorial contributions may be made to The Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.