Tribute to Richard Ottinger: Mamaroneck's Dedicated Public Servant and Environmental Leader

Richard Ottinger, a longtime resident of Mamaroneck and a champion of environmental stewardship, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 97.  A prominent figure in Westchester’s political landscape, Ottinger served 16 years in Congress, where he defended the health of the Hudson River and opposed the Vietnam War.  His legacy as a devoted public servant and environmental advocate will be felt for generations to come.

In a heartfelt statement, Kate Dehais, chairperson of the Village of Mamaroneck Committee for the Environment (CFTE),  honored Ottinger’s contributions: “Those of us working in environmental conservation celebrate the leadership Richard Ottinger provided and the good work he did both in his 16 years in the House of Representatives and later as Dean and professor at Pace University School of Law and founder of their program in environmental law.”

Dehais continues, “As a young person growing up in Westchester, I recall being inspired by his commitment to cleaner air and water, the protection of the Hudson River, and the promotion of renewable energy.  As this generation of leaders passes away, I hope others will emerge to fight for those values of clean air and water with a sustainable approach to living and green open space for all to enjoy.”

Congressman George Latimer remarked on his passing, stating, “The passing of Richard 'Dick' Ottinger is yet another loss of a giant in Westchester’s political history.  He was a substantial member of Congress—a leader in environmental causes, a brilliant educator in the law, and a role model for all who followed him.”

Our thoughts are with his wife, June, his children and grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him and sharing in his remarkable life.