Patrick Raymond "Rick" Facendini

It is difficult to imagine how a young man could actually be an Alter Boy, an Eagle Scout, a Firefighter, and an EMT. It is even harder to understand how and why we would lose a man like Rick to a tumor at only 32 years old.

Rick was born in Petaluma and lived here his whole life. His parents, Pat and Raeanne (Leonard) Facendini chose to raise him in Petaluma participating in Karate, earning his brown belt, and being active in scouting and St. Vincent de Paul church. There, he became an Alter Server and participated in youth groups. It was his Catholic faith that gave him the strength to face the most grueling battle of his life. Rick passed peacefully after fighting a debilitating brain tumor for almost a year.

Rick was born into a scouting family. At the age of 7, he joined the Cub Scouts. Later, he moved up to the Boy Scouts (BSA), joining Troop 3 in Petaluma. It took another 7 years of consistent work, but he became an Eagle Scout. In addition, the BSA has a Leadership and Honor Society called “The Order of the Arrow”.  That group recognized Rick with their most rare and meaningful award, the “Vigil Honor”.

A hometown boy, Rick chose to stay local. He graduated from Petaluma High School and then obtained an AS from SRJC. He had varied interests including a love of the 49ers and NASCAR as well as a growing group of friends, but his one true passion was undeniable. Since he was a little boy, Rick would race toward opportunities to see those who work in Emergency Services. When he was young, he was drawn to displays related to first responders. His longtime dream came true when he joined the Fire Explorer program.

There are themes in Rick’s life that can be seen in all he did. He selflessly served his community. The battle to save his own life was hard-fought, demonstrating courage, grace, and compassion for those who loved him most. The combination of the Church, the Boy Scouts, and becoming a Firefighter/EMT created a young man who was a true gift to our community. We are now given comfort knowing he is at peace.

Rick’s death is impacting friends and both his families (biological and Fire House). His absence is already felt by his best friend, his dog Hennessy. The two were inseparable and she used to love visiting his work. In addition to Rick’s parents, he is being mourned by his sister KateAshley. He leaves behind aunts and uncles including Ray and Debbie Leonard, Andy and Eleanor Facendini. His loss is being felt by his cousins, Austin and Daniel Leonard, and Antonio Facendini.  He will be greatly missed by his loving Godmother Christine Balch and her family: Tom, Andrea, and Robert.  He was preceded in death by his Grandparents Raymond and Joanne Leonard, Joe and Josephine Facednini, and Uncle Plenio Facendini.

Services –

Vigil – Monday Oct 10, 2022 at 6:00PM St Vincent De Paul's Church

Funeral Mass – Tuesday Oct 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM also at the church – reception to follow in the Plaza

Private Inurnment at a later date.

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Memorial Donation

Vigil Service

Monday, October 10, 2022

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church

35 Liberty Street Petaluma, CA 94952

Funeral Mass

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church

35 Liberty Street Petaluma, CA 94952