Richard J. Lange, 80, of New Hartford, passed away on Friday, March 31, 2017 in Sun City West, AZ. Richard was born in Utica on June 1, 1936, a son of the late Reginald and Mary (Lukaszewicz) Lange. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. At St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church, Utica on February 27, 1965, Richard was united in marriage to Phyllis Longo. Richard started his career as a Utica Police Officer then transferred to the New York State Police, retiring in 1991. He was a member of St. Thomas Church, New Hartford. Family was always very important to Richard. He especially enjoyed visiting his son and daughter-in-law in Arizona. Richard will always be remembered for his sausage making with his own special recipe. Richard is survived by his wife, Phyllis, his son and daughter-in-law, Rick and Sue Lange, AZ, a sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and David Powell and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Lange's funeral will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at 10:00 at St. Thomas Church, New Hartford. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Family will greet people at the conclusion of the funeral mass. Those so wishing may make donations to Banner Hospice, Attn., Cindy Darby, 275 E. German Rd., Suite 110, Gilbert, AZ 85297.