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Timeline for Cosmo James Recuparo, Jr.
Born: April 20, 1942
Died: December 27, 2025
Cosmo James Recuparo, Jr.
Cosmo “Rick” Recuparo was born on April 20, 1942 in Syracuse, New York to Cosmo and Mary Recuparo. He lived a life defined by service, devotion to family, and kindness to all who knew him.
Cosmo proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963. After returning home, he met the love of his life, Antonette “Toni” Albanese. They were married in June 1964 and together raised four children, building a strong and loving family that remained the center of his life.
He worked for General Motors for 30 years before retiring and relocating to Tucson, Arizona. Cosmo continued working as a bus driver for Arizona schools for 10 years, followed by three years as a security guard at Davis–Monthan Air Force Base.
Above all else, Cosmo enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. His hobbies included bingo, playing cards, fishing, woodworking, taking a snooze and apparel design. He was deeply involved in his community, serving for several years as Commander of the American Legion Post 73, and was a Third Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus-Council 191 for 33 years. He also volunteered regularly at the VA, continuing his lifelong commitment to fellow veterans.
Cosmo was a devoted and loving husband, father, Papa, brother, and friend — a genuinely kind person whose presence made others feel welcome and valued. He is now reunited in heaven and playing cards with his brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, son-in-law, and granddaughter. He will be deeply missed by the family and friends who remain and will forever live on in their hearts.
Cosmo is predeceased by his parents Mary and Cosmo Recuparo, granddaughter Stephanie Craig and son-in-law Ethan Yonkers.
He is survived by his loving wife Antonette “Toni” (Albanese) Recuparo, daughters Tina Craig, Debra (Mark) Balta, Karen (James) Yonkers-Santy, and son Cosmo (Erin) Recuparo. Grandchildren Andrew Balta, Brian (Delia) Craig, Cortney (Jonathan) VanOrden, David (Maria) Craig, Nicholas Balta, Jenna (Recuparo) Borrego, Maxwell Yonkers, Samuel Yonkers, Cosmo A. Recuparo, Aristarchus Recuparo, Izzabella Recuparo, nine great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026 at The Elks Lodge 4684 N. Highway Dr., Tucson, AZ from 12:00-4:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to either:
Pima Animal Care Center 4000 N. Silverbell Rd, Tucson AZ 85745
or
The American Legion Post 73, 7959 N. Thornydale Rd., PO Box 91594 Tucson, AZ 85741.
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this, Rick was not only my brother veteran, but he was a dear friend that I will miss very much. I don't know what Rick saw in me that he decided he could retire as Post 73 Commander and turn it over to me. He took the time to trained and mentored me, I hope I have not let him down. Trisha and I are very fortunate to be considered friends and family by Rick and Toni and we a very lucky to have met the great family the raised our sympathy and condolences the entire family may God Bless you all and touch your heart and let you know that Rick is home in his loving arms, no longer in pain.
In memory of Cosmo James Recuparo, Jr., Barbara Cannata Huey lit a candle
Our sincere condolences Toni and family Rest in peace my fellow marine John and marsha
So sorry for your loss. Cosmo sounds like he was a great man. His legacy will live on through his kids, grand kids and great grand kids. He will never be gone or lost to us because his love and teachings will remain in our hearts forever.
Cosmo, I always knew you as Uncle Jr., in Mattydale, NY. You were kind, and caring to everyone. I will remember your radiant smile forever. Give my mom, your half sister a big hug for me. Enjoy Paradise. I will see you again! I know you will truly be missed. Love you! -Marie Russo
Oh Debbie my heart goes out to you and your family. . Your Dad and Mom raised such an amazing, beautiful daughter. Love and prayers during this tender, difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Karen and family! Sending hugs and kisses! Much love, Laureen, Dylan and Abbigail Lane
My most sincere condolences to Cosmo (Rick’s) amazing and beautiful caring family. I could tell when he married my best friend that she hit the jackpot! He was the kindest man and his smile was infectious. His family is a wonderful legacy not always seen. May God Bless him and his entire family. Love to all.
Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
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Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this, Rick was not only my brother veteran, but he was a dear friend that I will miss very much. I don't know what Rick saw in me that he decided he could retire as Post 73 Commander and turn it over to me. He took the time to trained and mentored me, I hope I have not let him down. Trisha and I are very fortunate to be considered friends and family by Rick and Toni and we a very lucky to have met the great family the raised our sympathy and condolences the entire family may God Bless you all and touch your heart and let you know that Rick is home in his loving arms, no longer in pain.
In memory of Cosmo James Recuparo, Jr., Barbara Cannata Huey lit a candle
Our sincere condolences Toni and family Rest in peace my fellow marine John and marsha
So sorry for your loss. Cosmo sounds like he was a great man. His legacy will live on through his kids, grand kids and great grand kids. He will never be gone or lost to us because his love and teachings will remain in our hearts forever.
Cosmo, I always knew you as Uncle Jr., in Mattydale, NY. You were kind, and caring to everyone. I will remember your radiant smile forever. Give my mom, your half sister a big hug for me. Enjoy Paradise. I will see you again! I know you will truly be missed. Love you! -Marie Russo
Oh Debbie my heart goes out to you and your family. . Your Dad and Mom raised such an amazing, beautiful daughter. Love and prayers during this tender, difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Karen and family! Sending hugs and kisses! Much love, Laureen, Dylan and Abbigail Lane
My most sincere condolences to Cosmo (Rick’s) amazing and beautiful caring family. I could tell when he married my best friend that she hit the jackpot! He was the kindest man and his smile was infectious. His family is a wonderful legacy not always seen. May God Bless him and his entire family. Love to all.
Marana Mortuary & Cemetery
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.