It is with profound sadness that Friends & Family Against Prostate Cancer (FFAPC) announces the passing of our founder and chairman, Richard “Rick” A. Merluzzi, Jr., on October 27, 2025, at the age of 68.
Rick was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend whose leadership and compassion impacted countless lives. Raised in Lehighton, Pennsylvania, he earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Penn State University and an MBA in International Finance from Drexel University. Throughout his distinguished career, Rick served in leadership roles at Mobil Oil, Edlon, and FMC Corporation, and later as CEO of Metal Exchange Corporation and Chair of the Aluminum Extruders Council. He will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, and lifelong commitment to mentoring others.
After facing prostate cancer himself, Rick transformed his personal journey into a mission of service. In 2023, he co-founded Friends & Family Against Prostate Cancer to build a supportive community, raise awareness, and help move promising research forward. His vision was simple and powerful: bring people together to accelerate progress toward better treatments and a cure.
Honoring Rick’s Legacy
To honor Rick’s life and legacy, his family has requested that memorial donations be made to Friends & Family Against Prostate Cancer. Gifts made in his memory will continue the work Rick began—supporting patients and families and advancing efforts that help save lives.
We extend our deepest condolences to Rick’s wife, Kathryn, his sons Richard III, Alexander, and Andrew, and all who knew and loved him. We will carry Rick’s spirit forward—steadfast, compassionate, and committed to making a difference.
View his obituary here.
Memorial Donations: Please visit our donation page here to give in Rick’s honor.