Obituary of Francisco A. Pinilla

Pittsford, NY. Died peacefully, at home, in the company of his loved ones on March 16, 2019. Francisco was the adored husband, soulmate, and best friend of Carol Riccardi; cherished step-father of Sarah (David) Nissenson and Kathryn (Eric) Smith; beloved grandfather of Ethan, Mariah, Cole, and Sadie; treasured friend to Judith Kennedy and second-father to Stefan and Sarah Kennedy-Schwartz. He also leaves behind devoted siblings, nieces, and nephews including sister Olga (Antonio) de Pradilla and brothers John and Alvaro Pinilla, as well as many dear friends, all of whom deeply mourn the loss of this kind and wise soul. 

Francisco was born in Neiva, Colombia on May 2, 1946; he moved to the United States in 1969 where he attended Aquinas College and graduate school at the University of Illinois. He had a long and successful career in chemical engineering and manufacturing at Kodak and Johnson & Johnson. 

Selfless, smart, and not-at-all handy around the house, Francisco loved good food, fine wine, great books, and dry jokes.  Above all, he valued time spent with his wife, family, and friends. He and the love-of-his life, Carol, were the perfect travel team, exploring the US, Canada, Europe, and New Zealand. They enjoyed visiting Washington, DC to see their daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, as much as their more exotic travels.  His step-daughters will be forever grateful for his exceedingly patient math tutoring,  his terrible joke telling, and his gentle, unconditional love. 

Francisco had a positive impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be missed beyond measure. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Wilmot Cancer Institute or to a charity of your choice. A small, private gathering to celebrate Francisco’s life will be held later this spring.