Richard E. Gergats, affectionately known as Richie, 60, of Clifton, passed away peacefully, with his close family by his side, on August 26, 2025. Born in Passaic, Richie resided in Clifton since 2010.

Richie served the City of Passaic Fire Department, Local 13, for almost 30 years. Richie was one of the most highly decorated firemen in Passaic Fire Department history, earning multiple awards for service and bravery. During his time of service he saved lives and brought unwavering courage, calm and confidence to every emergency. To his firehouse family, his legacy is twofold: that of a brave and dedicated fireman on whom his crew could always depend, and that of a fiercely loyal friend whose good humor was an ever-present source of joy.

To know him was to know a man of immense generosity, both of spirit and of skill. With a song always ready, he was the life of every gathering, bringing good times wherever he went. Equally legendary was his willingness to help others. He was selfless with his time and talent, the first call for anyone in need. With seemingly endless ingenuity, he could fix anything that was broken.

Richie was the loving husband of Krystyna (Masny) Gergats, and the devoted father of Natalia Gergats. He was the cherished brother of Judy Gergats and Michael Gergats, Jr., and his wife Judy, and a beloved uncle and godfather to Rachel Gergats, godfather to Marysia Pilsbury and beloved cousin to many. Richie was a dear son-in-law to Stasia Masny. He was predeceased by his parents Michael Gergats Sr. and Pearl Gergats and father-in-law John Masny.

He built a beautiful life with the love of his life Krystyna. They married on August 28, 2010, surrounded by loved ones in a grand celebration that wove in the traditions of their Polish heritage. As he stepped away from his career, he poured all of his energy into his new full-time job: being a husband and father. When their daughter Natalia was born, he was completely devoted to her. Nothing made him happier than being her Daddy, especially during Christmas, when he would joyfully decorate their home and host gatherings for loved ones. Time spent with Daddy was a laughter filled adventure where there was never a dull moment.

​Richie proudly sang with the Chopin Singing Society and had a passion for baseball that put him on a mission to visit every major league ballpark in the country. Alongside these hobbies, his greatest joy was traveling with his family. They created countless happy memories, particularly meaningful were journeys that led them to Chicago and Poland, where he met Krystyna's extended family. He was welcomed with open arms, and his kindness left a lasting impression.

His strength of character was profoundly demonstrated in the way he confronted his illness. After receiving a dire prognosis, he embarked on a seven-year journey of resilience and grace, defying every statistic  and surviving against all odds to the amazement of his medical team. He chose to face his battle privately, protecting his family and friends from the daily weight of his fight. Richie chose to approach his diagnosis with unwavering positivity and fortitude, giving him the years the doctors never thought possible. Throughout it all, he remained the man everyone knew and loved, his profound humility and ready sense of humor intact to the end.

Special thanks to Fr. Bernard Schinn, OSB of Holy Face Monastery of Clifton who provided spiritual guidance during this time, and to Jeanne and her Prayer Warriors for all of their devotion and support. A heartfelt thank you to Rev. Fr. Steve D'Andrea for his comforting presence and for administering the sacraments during Richie's final days.

Richie's warmth, kindness, and humor were more than just qualities; they were a light he shared generously with the world. He was a rare and beautiful soul who gave the best of himself without a second thought-to his cherished family, his dear friends, and his beloved community. How lucky we were to have known someone like Richie. Our hearts are broken by this immense loss, but they are also full of gratitude for every single moment we shared with him. Though his physical presence is gone, his spirit remains a guiding force in our lives. His light has not been extinguished; it has simply been passed into our hearts to carry forever.

Visiting Tuesday, September 2, 2025, 4 - 8 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 9:45 AM at the funeral home and 11 AM at Saint Cassian's RC Church, Montclair. Interment, East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton.