Richard Leonard “Big Rich” Foust, 50 years young, left us for his next big adventure on Friday, April 17.
Rich was born on Leap Day, February 29, 1976, in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, to the late Marian A. Palyszeski Bolton. He grew up in Natrona, PA, before moving to Florida in 1988. Proud of his Polish heritage and the family roots that shaped him, Rich carried with him a strong sense of loyalty, warmth, and love for the people in his life.
Rich lived on and off Anna Maria Island for much of his life, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for cooking. After graduating from Manatee High School in Bradenton, Florida, he went on to pursue a career in the culinary world, dedicating himself to cooking until the end.
Known for his love of food and his gift in the kitchen, Rich worked at several restaurants on Anna Maria Island, including The Beach Bistro, Smoqehouse, and The Doctor’s Office. He also traveled to Switzerland to help start a restaurant in the Alps, combining his adventurous spirit with his passion for cooking, friends and nature.
To many on the Island, he was “Big Rich” — a beloved friend, protector, chef, and unforgettable presence. He had many passions, including DJing, cars, really good food, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and quality time spent with the people he loved. Even while living far from Pittsburgh, Rich remained an avid Steelers fan!
Rich was a force of nature: kind, determined, loyal, generous, and always ready to offer a helping hand, love, and a hearty laugh. Always letting you know he was nearby with a Chewbacca call. He was the kind of person who helped others get back on their feet, cared for the people around him, made sure people were fed, shared real conversations, and showed up when it mattered. He cherished family gatherings, and his presence at holidays and celebrations brought warmth and joy to those around him.
Rich leaves behind countless memories — kitchens filled with amazing food, concerts, late-night talks, laughter, strong hugs, music, sunsets, and friendships that became as strong as family. His Anna Maria Island family meant the world to him, and there will forever be a “Big Rich” sized space in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. #BigRichEnergy
Rich was preceded in death by his mother, Marian A. Palyszeski Bolton; his grandparents, Leonard and Irene Palyszeski of Natrona, Pennsylvania; and his aunt and uncle, Mary Jo and Mike Sinchak of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania.
He is survived by his aunts, Donna Schaeffer of Ohio and Margaret “Margie” Prager and her husband, Daniel, of Pennsylvania; his cousins, Robert Toy III and his wife, Shawn, of Ohio, Cole Prager and his wife, Cora, of Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Prager and Zach Brumbaugh of Pennsylvania, Jacob Toy and Shawn of Ohio, and Heath Toy and his wife, Marion, of Ohio; as well as many more cousins, friends, and loved ones who will miss him dearly.
He also leaves behind his Anna Maria Island family, whom he cherished so deeply.
As you watch the sunset on Holmes Beach, think of Big Rich. He is there with you, enjoying that majestic view.
A Celebration of Life is being arranged for sometime in June. Please watch for an announcement on Rich’s Facebook page.
Deep in our hearts, your life is kept, loving and cherishing, not forgetting. No more tomorrows we can share, but yesterdays are always there. A silent thought, a secret tear keeps your memory ever near, in our hearts forever.
Rest easy, Big Rich. Until we meet again — Na zdrowie!
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
