Richard K. Slade, Jr., 50, of Pulaski, NY, passed away after a long illness on Saturday, August 11, 2012 at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, with his family by his side. Rick was born in Syracuse on July 18, 1962, the son of Richard and Melody (Noyes) Slade. He was raised in North Bay and graduated from Camden High School. Rick went on to proudly serve his country with the US Navy. On May 16, 1981, Rick married Marlene Kolonko in Camden, sharing a union of 31 years. After his military service, he was employed as a Principal Operations Training Instructor with Niagara Mohawk, which became Constellation Energy in Oswego for 24 years, working at both nuclear power plants at Nine Mile. He was a member of the American Legion Post # 1153, in Sylvan Beach. Rick was of the Catholic faith. Rick is survived by his wife, Marlene Slade, Pulaski; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Joshua and Linda Slade, Syracuse, Michael Slade and his companion, Ally Williams, CA; a granddaughter, Sophie Slade, Syracuse; his parents, Richard and Melody Slade, North Bay; his maternal grandmother, Annetta Noyes, Fulton; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Kimberly and Mark Zbikowski, Baldwinsville, Pamela and Shane Piersall, CA; a brother and sister-in-law, Michael E. and Kathleen Slade, Oneida. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as his two canine companions, Arctic and Magnolia. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass for Mr. Slade on Thursday, August 16, 2012 at 4:00 pm at St. Mary's Church, Verona Beach. Private visitation will take place at the Heintz Funeral Home, 10 East Park Row, Clinton, at the convenience of the family. Those wishing may donate to the American Cancer Society in Rick's memory.