Richard Scudellari, 68, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and accomplished attorney, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, in Saratoga, California, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 9, 1956, in Mineola, New York, Rich was the son of Richard and Alice Scudellari. He grew up in Hicksville and later Greenlawn, NY, the second of four spirited brothers.
In a household filled with energy, good-natured rivalry, and camaraderie, Rich developed the drive and discipline that would define his life. He attended Holy Family High School, where he excelled in football, wrestling, and lacrosse, earning recognition as a standout athlete.
His abilities on the football field attracted interest from colleges across the country, but his commitment to faith, family, and academics guided him to Boston College, where his family could proudly cheer him on.
At Boston College, Rich quickly distinguished himself. On the football field, he became known for his relentless drive and leadership, serving as captain during his senior season. From 1975 to 1977, he led the team in tackles, and his record-setting 32-tackle game against Texas still stands today.
Off the field, his academic achievements were just as impressive: he was the first National Football Foundation Scholar in Boston College history, a Rhodes Scholar candidate, and an Academic All-American. His legacy of excellence was honored in 1995 when he was inducted into the Boston College Varsity Club Hall of Fame.
Rich went on to graduate from Boston College Law School in 1982. Soon after, a cross-country road trip changed his life forever. Through mutual friends, Rich was introduced to Carla Wall in Saratoga, California.
Their connection was immediate, and what began as a spark grew into a lifelong love story. Married for more than 40 years, Rich and Carla built a life rooted in love, humor, faith, and family. Together they raised four children and embraced the joy of being grandparents to eight grandchildren, with a ninth on the way.
Professionally, Rich became one of Silicon Valley’s most respected attorneys, practicing corporate and securities law for over four decades. Known for his sharp intellect, exceptional negotiating skills, and genuine warmth, he guided entrepreneurs and companies through the complexities of raising capital and navigating major transactions.
His career soared during the dot-com era, and he later served as Managing Partner of DLA Piper’s Silicon Valley office, where colleagues and clients admired his ability to blend rigorous legal expertise with practical wisdom.
While his professional accomplishments were remarkable, Rich’s proudest role was always as husband, father, and grandfather. He delighted in coaching his children’s sports teams, attending school events, and simply enjoying life at home. He was the kind of man whose laughter filled the room and whose steady presence brought comfort to those around him.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws, Richard and Alice Scudellari and Dr. John and Nancy Wall. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carla; children Loretta (Jon) Hicks, Richard Jr. (Mary), Samuel (Alyssa), and Nicholas (Kendra); eight grandchildren; his brothers Christopher (Gail), David (Ana), and Paul (Anna Marie); and his extended Wall family, who embraced him as one of their own.
