Community Mourns Loss Of Rich Siero, Recent Paramus High School Gradute

PARAMUS, NJ — The Paramus High School community is mourning the loss of Richard T. Siero, a member of the class of 2017.

Principal Raymond Kiem said in a letter to parents that Siero, 17, "passed away unexpectedly" Wednesday, a few days shy of his 18th birthday.

Kiem spoke highly of Siero.

“Richie was the kind of young man who had the ability to forge authentic connections with his teachers. He had a big personality and an even bigger heart," Kiem said. "He was charming, articulate and, to quote one of his teachers who I spoke with yesterday, 'He was one of my favorites.' Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family, he will be deeply missed by the entire Paramus High School community."

Kiem said students may speak with a counselor at the school through Aug. 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those who wish to call ahead should call 201-261-7800, ext. 3111 or 3086.

Visitation with the family is today from 4 to 8 p.m. at Volk Leber Funeral Home

Friends expressed their sympathies to the Siero family on Facebook.

Email daniel.hubbard@patch.com. Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.

Photo: Richard T. Siero, 17/Volk Leber Funeral Home/Background image via Shutterstock