Richard J. Harbaugh
November 18, 1970 - September 25, 2026
Richard J. Harbaugh, age 55, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on November 18, 1970, he was the son of Robert L. Harbaugh and the late Janet (Stata) Harbaugh. A graduate of Newark High School, Richard made his career as an audiovisual specialist and a successful business owner.
Rich was an avid sports fan, with a special love for hockey. He played in many leagues throughout the years, finding joy in the game, the competition, and the friendships he made along the way. He particularly cheered for the Philadelphia Flyers and Eagles (Go Birds!). Rich was also a fan of fast and muscle cars and enjoyed attending car shows, especially with his dad, where they could admire the cars and share in their mutual enthusiasm. He also had a deep appreciation for good food and enjoyed cooking, especially when he could share a meal with family and friends. These passions brought him many happy moments and lasting memories throughout his life.
Rich never met a stranger. He had a heart of gold, a wonderful sense of humor, and a way of making everyone around him feel welcome. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Richard is survived by his wife, Rosie (Pichardo) Harbaugh; children, Germaine Harbaugh (Germaine Ortiz) and Brandon Harbaugh (Rosie); father, Robert Harbaugh; brother, Randy Harbaugh (Robin); sister, Robin Gray (David); as well as 5 nieces/nephew and 3 grandnieces/nephew.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Inurnment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s memory to the University of Delaware Men’s Club Ice Hockey Division 1 by clicking here.
Vicki Pelletier
Hi, I am truely sorry to hear of the loss of Richie. I knew Rich from High School and beyond. There was never a time that you were around Rich that you weren’t laughing. I hope your family finds comfort in all your memories of time you spent with Rich.
Jean Ahmad
Love you Rich , until we meet again. I’ll always keep your memory alive. RIP
Vincent Hall
Thank you Rich for being a positive person in my life. God bless your family!
Michel mroue
You will be missed my friend. Love you 🙏
Sandra, Núñez
Mi prima, lamento tu pérdida, Dios les de fortaleza a toda la familia, y el esté en buen lugar.
Beth Sonchen Bannister
Always a laugh to be shared when Richie was around. Sending my deepest condolences and prayers. He’ll remain in some of my fondest memories from our high school day.
Lynn Galloway
I enjoyed meeting Richie this year. Great smiles and conversations. Easy to talk to and he was so nice to help out Saint Nicholas with our electronic challenges.
Sincerely, he will be missed. Condolences to his family and friends.
Anthony A Cozzi
Hey Rich, you were my younger brother from Delaware.
You were extremely generous and thoughtful to me.
I learned so much working for you.
Your generosity has inspired me to teach and inspire those who work for me.
Will never forget your spirit.
Anthony A Cozzi
Rich always talked about how proud he was about his daughter, Germaine.
Told me she was a track star in High School and graduating from Fordham college with undergraduate and masters degrees.
And then Brooklyn Law school.
Will Driver
It was shocking to hear this news. Rich was such a wonderful guy and friend.
My family will be thinking about his family in this difficult time. He was truly a good one.
Mike Zenie
I am so sad to hear the news of Rich’s passing. Rich was a great friend who always made me smile. May Rich rest in peace, you are truly missed. My condolences to all the family, please know Rich will be looking down and with you forever.
Susan Colvin
Rich will surely be missed by the people of St. Nicholas Episcopal Church. I only met Rich a few times but I thought he must have a gold heart. The pics prove it. I am so sorry for your loss, Bob and family.
Thomas J. Roman
Bob, I am so sorry for your loss and that I was unable to attend the service for Rich.
On our road trips, he really made me laugh and had such a great personality. I
did make a donation to UD in his memory.
Mark & Katie Hughes
Our condolences go to Bob and his family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Wish we could be there to celebrate the life of Richard. Thank for sharing a snapshot thru the video of his amazing life. 💗
Bob, you all are in our thoughts and prayers during this really tough time.
Know that you are loved and God is with you each day along this path of mourning.
May you feel the peace as the days grow along.🕊️
With our sympathy,
Mark & Katie Hughes
Jose Silvestre
Rest in peace Brother. You were such a nice person, always with a smile and a good joke. Your departure leave an empty space to all of us that have the pleasure of knowing you. Fly high my friend
Aimee N McFarlan
He had the kindest heart and a warm smile. My condolences to all