Richard Edwin Cella Jr.
Photos & Memories
Obituary
Richard Edwin Cella Jr.November 16, 1951–September 17, 2026
Richard Edwin Cella Jr., affectionately known as Richie, passed away unexpectedly on September 17, 2026, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the age of 74.
Richie was born on November 16, 1951 and was born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey. In 1980, he made his way across the country to Scotts Valley, California. In 1991, he settled in Felton, where he would spend the rest of his life surrounded by the redwoods and the community he called home.
Richie was a proud member of IBEW Local Union 332 and dedicated 50 years of his life to his career as an electrician. His many years in the trade reflected the hardworking and dependable man he was throughout his life.
Richie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jane Louise Wyckoff, who passed away on December 6, 2024; his parents, Richard Cella Sr. and Marie Cella; and his brother, Ronald Cella.
He is survived by his children, Kristine Cella and Kenneth Cella; his daughter-in-law, Kenedi Cella; as well as his siblings, Diane Cella and Chris Cella.
Outside of work, Richie enjoyed the simple things that made life good. He loved playing golf, taking walks along the wharf and spending time at home beneath the Felton redwoods with his two beloved fur babies, Violet and Ruthie.
A devoted San Francisco Giants fan, Richie rarely missed an opportunity to root for his team. Richie will be remembered for the life he built, the family he loved and the countless memories he leaves behind. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all those fortunate enough to have known him.
A Celebration of Life honoring Richie will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 4pm at The Moose—Santa Cruz Lodge 545. Family and friends are invited to gather together to remember and celebrate Richie’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Richie’s memory to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter (SCCAS) or The Seeing Eye, two organizations that reflect his love for animals.