"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." - Thomas Campbell.Richard Michael Sabat, age 67, of Gainesville, FL passed away Monday, January 20, 2025, at E.T. York Hospice Care Center where he had spent several visits previously & made friends with the special staff. He endured a long and courageous battle with stage 4 colon cancer. Richard was born on June 27, 1957, in Pittsburgh, PA to Richard L. & Kathryn J. Sabat and was raised with his 2 sisters in Pleasant Hills, PA. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1976 and eventually moved to Gainesville, FL.Ricky loved and adored his cat Alvin, and he had fish that he also loved and was quite knowledgeable about. He cared about all animals and nature. Ricky also was very knowledgeable and passionate about coin collecting, history and movies. He would keep people enthused, sharing fascinating facts and stories with all those around him. He truly cherished all moments talking and listening to family and friends.Ricky is survived by his mother Kathryn J. Coates Sabat Joyce; his sister Beverly (Ken) Kraus; his nephews Ryan (Sara) Kraus and Troy (Gemma) Stanton; and his beloved kitty Alvin. He was preceded in death by his father Richard L. Sabat and his sister Donna L. Stanton. Richard will be missed by many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He left a lasting impression on his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, family and friends may make a charitable donation in memory of Richard Michael Sabat to: Colorectal Cancer, Animals, Nature, or E.T. York Hospice Care Center of Gainesville, FL. Funeral Home Forest Meadows Funeral Home 725 NW 23rd Avenue Gainsville FL - 32609 US 352-378-2528