Dick E. Lotufo

In Loving Memory of Dick E. Lotufo June 15, 1932 – July 21, 2025 It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Dick E. Lotufo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador on June 15, 1932, to Violeta and Eugenio Lotufo, Dick was the eldest of three children, alongside his deceased siblings Roberto and Gladys. He graduated from Cristobal Colon High School and embarked on a successful and varied professional journey that spanned continents and industries. Early in his career, Dick worked in the commissary for the United Fruit Company (now Chiquita Brands), before transitioning into the petroleum industry as a sales representative for Mobil Oil and Standard Oil. His work took him across Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, and during this time, he helped organize professional car races in Ecuador—creatively using motorsport to promote the oil products he represented. In 1963, with courage and hope, Dick immigrated to the United States, bringing his young family to New York City in search of greater opportunity. Settling in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, Dick embodied the values of hard work and perseverance. He worked at the Sohmer Piano Company building piano actions—his name still lives on inside instruments around the world. He later joined Greyhound as a mechanic and electrician, eventually becoming a supervisor, while also holding part-time jobs to support his family. In the mid-1970s, Dick established his own maintenance business, which he ran successfully until his retirement. Dick had many passions. He was an avid collector of stamps and coins, a generous supporter of charitable causes—most notably St. Jude Children’s Hospital—and a devoted sports fan. He loved football, especially the San Francisco 49ers, and never lost his love for soccer. A highlight of his life was attending the 1994 FIFA World Cup with his son Jimmy, where they saw Italy play Ireland at Giants Stadium. Above all, Dick's greatest legacy is his family. He is survived by his devoted wife Zoila; his children Diana and Jimmy; his cherished grandchildren Ezio, Michael, Jessica, and Amelia. Dick was a man of profound integrity, love, and resilience. He gave everything to ensure a better life for those he loved, and in doing so, left a legacy of strength, sacrifice, and compassion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in his honor by going to the website www.stjude.org