In Memory of Richard George “Socks” Sacher

Obituary

Richard George “Socks” Sacher, 81, of Clinton, passed away on August 9, 2026.

Dick was born in Utica on June 16, 1945, the son of George and Gertrude Sacher. He was educated locally and graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1963. Following graduation, he completed an apprenticeship at Vogel’s Bakery.

In October 1965, Dick was drafted into the United States Army. He served on active duty until 1967 and then fulfilled his military obligation with four years of inactive service. He was proud to have served his country and remained a proud veteran throughout his life.

Following his discharge from the Army, Dick went to work for Star Bakery in East Utica, where he spent several years before beginning a 25-year career with Holland Farms. He was also fortunate to land a seasonal job at Hidden Valley Golf Club, where he spent many memorable years and played the majority of his golf. Dick was especially grateful to Kevin and Judy McGnellis and Vin Passalacqua, Superintendent, for taking a chance on him and welcoming him into the Hidden Valley family. He retired in 2010.

Dick enjoyed golf, baseball, and softball, playing much of his softball for Spilka’s Hotel’s team, Bad Moon Risin’. He also spent 15 years coaching Minor League and Little League baseball alongside his good friend Jim Mitchell. For 15 years, Dick enjoyed life as a snowbird, escaping the New York winters for “FloriDUH.”

Dick leaves behind his two sisters, Jan Renovetz and her husband, Dan, of Ohio, and Elaine Burak of Florida; his nephew and nieces, Davey, Lori, Dana, and Sandy; as well as his second family at Hidden Valley Golf Club. He also leaves behind his good friend Dave Elsenbeck, whom he met through work.

Dick was a proud New Yorker, a proud veteran, and a man who valued the friendships and good times he shared throughout his life.

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford.

Those wishing to honor Dick’s memory are asked to consider a donation to Abraham House.

For online expressions of sympathy, please visit fwefh.com.