Richard A. Pregartner

If you knew Richard A. Pregartner, you knew a man who lived life wide open. A true outdoorsman and a 'man's man' to his core, Rich passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Samaritan Hospice in Mt. Holly, at the age of 79. Born in Camden, he spent most of his life as a proud Bellmawr neighbor. His home had contributed to the manpower of our great nation, upholding the ideals of our American freedoms in the US Army during Vietnam. For years, Rich made his living as an equipment operator, building his career at the South Jersey Port Corporation in Camden, where he was known for his meticulous work ethic and the ability to build just about anything you put in front of him.

Rich wasn't just a worker—he was a man who played just as hard as he worked. With a wild streak and a heart of gold, he was a jokester who never missed the chance to stir up some fun. Whether he was tearing down the drag strip with his sons and brother, kicking up dirt on an ATV trail, or skimming across the water on a boat, Rich knew how to chase an adrenaline rush. And when he finally slowed down, he had a sweet tooth that couldn’t be tamed—especially for Tastykakes.

At home, Rich was a devoted husband and a father who somehow managed to balance his no-nonsense toughness with endless love and laughter. He was a family man through and through—a good man who made an even better father and husband. His wife, Roxanne (nee Falconiero) Pregartner, was the love of his life, and together they built a home full of humor, heart, and adventure.

Rich's legacy lives on in his children: Kelly and her husband Anthony Bellucci, Stacy Pregartner, Jason Pregartner, Natalie and Matt Ceci, Richard Pregartner, Jr. (Kate), and Doug and his wife Mary Mealo. Though he was predeceased by his daughter Kim Pregartner many years ago, his memory will forever be cherished by his proud crew of eight grandchildren. Rich will also be dearly missed by his brothers, Douglas, Theodore Jr., and John Pregartner, as well as his many nieces, nephews, and his loyal four-legged sidekick, Donatello.

To know Rich was to know a man who believed in living life to the fullest. So, in that spirit, we invite his relatives, neighbors, and friends to come together, share stories, and celebrate a life well-lived. We'll honor Rich, revel in the thrill of the ride, and sweeten the day with memories of a man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Please join the Pregartner family on Thursday, March 13th, between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm at Creran Celebration Etherington & Creran Funeral Homes, 400 White Horse Pike, Oaklyn, where we will hold a remembrance ceremony and render the United States Army Military Honors in tribute to this one-of-a-kind man. Rich would want you to remember: Life is meant to be lived full-throttle—and maybe with a Tastykake in hand.

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