It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Giusti on April 3, 2026, at the age of 81. A devoted husband, loving father, cherished family member, and charismatic friend, Rick lived to uplift everyone around him.

Born and raised in the Winter Hill neighborhood of Somerville, Rick’s life was defined by deep roots and enduring loyalty. He married the love of his life, Karen, in Millis, and together they built a life that took them through Melrose and Franklin before settling for many years in Norfolk. However, the true constant in Rick’s life was Eastham, Cape Cod. Having met Karen there as teenagers, they returned to the Cape every summer until finally retiring to their home in Eastham.

Through the years, Rick was a fixture in his community—coaching his children’s sports teams, leading local volleyball leagues, and organizing Nauset Newcomer outings. He was the first to raise the ante at the nickel poker table, a reliable partner with pinochle meld points, and a golfer who was admittedly better at joking than putting. In all these activities, Rick approached life with a joy that was truly infectious. As a husband and father, he was a constant source of strength, providing unwavering support and his signature brand of pragmatism.

Rick is survived by his wife of 57 years, Karen Whitley Giusti; his children, David Giusti and his wife Allison, and Leanne Smith and her husband Brendan; and his beloved grandchildren, Theodore and Henry Giusti. He is further survived by his brother-in-law, Maurizio Panetta of Rome, Italy; his sister-in-law, Mary Giusti of Billerica, MA; and a wide circle of family and friends.

Rick was predeceased by his parents, Americo and Helen Giusti; his sister, Elaine Panetta; and his brother, Joseph Giusti.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to:

Alzheimer's Association
225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17
Chicago, IL 60601