White Plains mourns beloved detective and Stepinac wrestling coach Richard 'Rick' Lee
Lee spent 24 years on the White Plains police force, where he became known as a dedicated mentor and well-respected investigator.
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The White Plains community is mourning the loss of Richard "Rich" Lee, a retired first-grade detective and longtime wrestling coach at Archbishop Stepinac High School.
Lee spent 24 years on the White Plains police force, where he became known as a dedicated mentor and well-respected investigator.
White Plains Police Chief Joseph Castelli reflected on their long-time friendship that started in the academy.
"One of the best detectives I ever knew," he said.
Chief Castelli, who has been in law enforcement for decades added, "and that’s saying a lot.”
He also remembers Lee not just for his police work, but for his willingness to guide the next generation.
“He offered to train anyone who was willing to listen,” Castelli said.
That same commitment carried over to the wrestling mat.
Lee served as Archbishop Stepinac High School wrestling coach for 17 years, restarting a program that began with just four athletes.
“He got it off the ground and he got people to donate mats, and he did everything he could to make it happen,” said Michael O’Donnell, the school’s athletic director. “Seventeen years he spent here. Sent a lot of kids to go wrestle in college, had state champions.”
By last year, his program had grown to 40 wrestlers.
Among them was now-junior Samuel Richardson, who said Lee left a lasting impression.
“He put his heart and soul into the Stepinac community, and we really appreciate the way he treated us, the way he coached us, the way he inspired us to be better wrestlers," he said.
Tributes to “Coach Lee” have poured in online, with many remembering him for his loyalty and kindness.
“You never had to worry about your back when Ricky was around," said O’Donnell.
“His legacy and certainly his memory will never be forgotten," said Chief Castelli.
For those wishing to pay their respects, Lee’s wake and services will be held starting at 11a.m. Friday, Aug. 29, at Calvary Baptist Church in White Plains.
