Frederick "Ric" Aliberte

Frederick “Ric” J. Aliberte, 76, of Woodstock, NY, passed away on April 1st, 2026. Ric was born on January 9, 1950, in Everett, Massachusetts, to the late Carmen and Mary Jane Aliberte. Ric was married to the late Mary Ellen Aliberte, they wed on July 19, 1981.

A longtime resident of Woodstock for over four decades, he was a beloved part of the colony of the arts, generously sharing his deep knowledge and passion for music with all who knew him.

A true legend in the music industry, Ric’s career began in Boston in the early 1970s, operating his record store New England Music City. From there he held such roles as Promotion Executive for Elektra/Asylum Records, VP for Aucoin Management, A&R VP for RCA, and with his entrepreneurial spirit began running his own management company, RAM Inc. He worked alongside some of the most iconic artists of his time, including Queen, KISS, The Eagles, The Doors, Jackson Browne, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Journey, Linda Ronstadt, and many others. His impact on the industry and those within it was profound; he was, in every sense, a rare bird.

Outside his professional life, Ric found contentment and joy near the water. Having many scuba diving adventures, going swimming, or wading into the water to peacefully float; he loved anything that brought him closer to the sea. He held the record in Massachusetts for youngest divemaster at 17 years old. At home, his talents extended to the garden, where he was known as a green thumb extraordinaire, growing hydrangea flowers twice the size of his head and artfully curating his property through every season to bring beauty to his family. Much like his garden, his love was perennial.

He was generous, passionate, and fiercely independent. His love language was nourishing others, whether through a home-cooked meal or by discovering and sharing new restaurants with family and friends. Ric leaves behind a legacy of creativity, warmth, and individuality that will never be forgotten as long as there is music being played and his stories being shared.

He is now reunited with the love of his life, Mary Ellen Aliberte, with whom he built a life rooted in love and devotion for their 41 years of marriage. Ric is survived by his children, Daniel Aliberte and Gina Marie Aliberte, his grandchildren, Alfred and Allison Aliberte, his brothers, Fran Aliberte and Mike Aliberte, as well as many other dear family members. He held a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his biggest fan; his sweet cat friend, Polly.

Arrangements entrusted to Keyser Funeral & Cremation Service, 326 Albany Ave., Kingston, NY 12401, where family and friends may visit on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 from 4pm to 7pm. The funeral procession will form at the funeral home at 9:30am on Friday, April 10th, 2026 and will proceed to St. John’s RC Church, 12 Holly Hills Dr., Woodstock, NY 12498 where at 11am, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at American Cancer Society. A tribute for Ric can be found at www.KeyserFuneralService.com, where you may leave memories and expressions of sympathy for his family.