Richard Andrew Metro, of Florham Park, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at the age of 88.
Born at his family home at 239 West Linden Avenue in Linden, New Jersey, on September 21, 1937, Richard was a long-awaited blessing to his parents, Andrew and Mary (Kuzma) Mitro, and his two adoring older sisters, Margaret and Marion. From the very beginning, he was cherished. His sisters would proudly sit on the front stoop, announcing to all who passed that they had a real, live baby brother — not a doll, but one who moved and everything!
Although his father’s surname was Mitro, Richard’s birth certificate recorded the family name as Metro. This change likely reflected the family’s deep pride in their American identity. His father was a Czech immigrant, and his mother, though born in America, was raised in Czechoslovakia. They considered themselves proud first-generation Americans, and the name Metro, whatever its origin, suited Richard well and would identify generations to come.
Richard graduated from Linden High School in 1955 and became the first in his family to attend college. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from St. John’s University and later a Master of Business Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University — achievements that brought his family immense pride.
Inspired by his mother, who worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” during World War II, Richard felt a strong calling to serve his country. He served in the United States Army on active duty and in the reserves from 1961 to 1965.
Professionally, Richard dedicated 35 years to the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company (3M), where he rose to the position of Senior Vice President of Sales in the Cap and Seals Division. His natural leadership, strong work ethic, and genuine ability to connect with people earned him both professional success and lasting friendships.
Richard was a devoted husband to the love of his life, his wife of 61 years, Joan Marie (Greenwood) Metro, who preceded him in death. He was also a deeply involved father and grandfather. He coached his three sons' youth sports teams, faithfully attended their games, and was always present when it mattered most.
He is survived by his loving sons and their families: Richard and Erica Metro, and their children, Maya and Tate; Steven and Bethann Metro, and their children, Shane, Colin, and Keenan; and Jeffrey and Margaret Metro, and their children, Devon and Kieran. He was a proud and loving grandfather whose grandchildren brought him endless joy.
A lifelong fan of St. John’s athletics, the “Johnnies” held a special place in his heart. He held season tickets to home basketball games for many years and passed the tradition down to his sons. While he also enjoyed fishing and golf, his greatest love was for people. Gregarious, kind, and endlessly generous with his time, Richard’s bright, sunny disposition earned him the childhood nickname “Sunny Boy”—a name that perfectly captured the infectious smile he carried throughout his life.
At 88, Richard still had a full head of natural brown hair that never turned gray, a fitting testament to a man whose youthful spirit never faded.
Richard was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, colleague, and friend. He lived a life marked by loyalty, warmth, and a deep love for his family. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
A Memorial Mass for Richard will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026 at 10:30am at Holy Family Church, Florham Park. Inurnment of Ashes will follow at Rosedale & Rosehill Cemetery, Linden.
Arrangements were under the care of Burroughs, Kohr & Dangler Funeral Home, Madison, NJ.