Richard S. Saperstein

Sad news to announce the passing of Richard Stuart Saperstein, age 73, friend and eclectic musician, died peacefully at home after a short illness on January 14, 2021, with close friends Joe Ottati and Jess Youngquest attending to his needs. Nora Starr and Terry Avakian helped out when time allowed.

Richard, son of Abe and Miriam Saperstein, was raised in Rockville Center, NY. He also spent time around the U of B, Bridgeport, CT, and moved to the Finger Lakes region in the early ’90’s. He was an excellent self-taught high speed die designer and fun ‘off center’ musician, playing 5 string banjo and guitar with his own personal style of singing. He will be well remembered by the bands he played with, Vinny and the Vineknots, Group Therapy, Heeba Squabee Troubadours, and numerous jams he attended in the area.

A few days before he left us, Richard had a wonderful visit by his close high school friend and musical protégé, Dr. Donald Bernstein, who played ‘tunes from the old days’, which really cheered Richard up.

There will be a Memorial for Richard up at ‘Squabeeland later in the year when the weather will allow. Gifts and donations may be made in Richard’s name to the local Loaves and Fishes of Ithaca and the Southern Tier Food Bank.