Riccardo J. Melfi (Rick) of Longs, SC passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, after a courageous battle against a lengthy illness. Born in Dumont, NJ, on July 16, 1956 and graduating from Dumont High School.
Rick spent decades mastering two career passions: that of serving his community of Andover, NJ’s fire department, reaching the rank of Fire Chief, and as a nationally renowned Master Chef.
Additionally, Rick served his country in the US Air Force for 3 years, reaching the rank of Sergeant. He lastly contributed his culinary skills to members of North Myrtle Beach’s VFW Post 10804.
As a long-term Fire Chief in Andover Township, NJ, Rick led the department with unwavering dedication to his community and love for his team of brothers and sisters, always ensuring that their meals reflected the skills of a Master Chef.
Rick earned a degree from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, and served that profession well, winning numerous awards such as the Valor Award from the 200 Club in Sussex County, Co-winner of the Minds to Menu Visionary Award for Marriott’s Crossroads Cuisine Program, and on and on. Rick was the Executive Chef at Cranes Mill Inc. and served as Executive Chef overseeing Special Catering Service for the US House of Representatives in Washington, DC. Finally, he communicated his culinary skills as a graduation speaker for The New England Culinary Institute and authored the book “The Food Pusher’s Cookbook: Recollection & Recipes of an Italian American Tradition”.
Beyond his love for country and his career professions, Rick had a special “secret” dream, which was being a sea-loving pirate, which he achieved at Myrtle Beach’s Pirates Voyage.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Maria, a brother, Pasquale.
He is survived by his brothers, Marco Melfi and Robert Melfi, and his loving sister, Lisa Meyer, who, without waver, stood by his side during those challenging times, caring for his needs.
There will be a Celebration of Life at a date to be determined at The Andover Fire Department in New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Andover Fire Department in Andover, New Jersey.
Lee Funeral Home
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