Richard was born on March 1, 1932 in Cleveland, Ohio to Jack and Rose (nee Dietrich) Ulizza.  He was baptized and confirmed at St John Nottingham Lutheran Church  . He graduated from Collinwood High School and served 4 years in the US Navy on the destroyer, USS Damato. On return he graduated from Cooper School of Art. Richard was  gifted in art, working as an Art Director for various companies in the field of advertising. He loved dancing , was an Arthur Murray Dance Instructor, and in his later years collected books and dvds of his favorite dancers and choreographers. Richard was a movie aficionado as well and spent time reading biographies and watching his favorite movies. Richard loved animals . He raised pigeons as a youngster, raised, and showed boxers in adulthood and in later years transferred that affection to his beloved cats. He is survived by brothers Robert (Laurie) and Michael (Lois-Anne) and sister, Elaine (Ron Pierani), as well as 6 nieces, 3 nephews, and their families.  Private burial will take place at East Cleveland Township Cemetery, Cleveland, OH.