John P. Richard

John P. Richard – 70, of North Reading and formerly of Arlington, died unexpectedly on Monday, November 18, 2019.

Born in Boston, MA on January 7, 1949. He was the son of the late Clarence and Dorothy (Parulis) Richard. He was a graduate of Arlington High Vocational and Trade School, Class of 1966. John was a proud U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a Corporal and served from 1969 to 1971. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnamese Service Medal.

John was a craftsman who specialized in detailed copper and slate finishing work. He performed work on thousands of homes and buildings, including historical landmarks and institutions throughout the state of Massachusetts. He was the owner and operator of J.R. Contracting.

He was deeply committed to his family, he took great pride in his accomplishments and loved everything he did. He was known for his great sense of humor, being extremely kind, loving, integrous and he was the entertainer of children.

John has been a resident of North Reading for the past 37 years. He was the Captain of the North Reading Minutemen and Militia and a member of the VFW. He appeared on the TV series, This Old House and HGTV Restore America, Restorations in Massachusetts. He was an avid Patriot Fan, he loved American and World History, old Hollywood films, war stories, classic comedies and he loved the outdoors.

Family members include his loving wife of 41 years, Wendy (Brown) Richard; his daughter, Jessica Richard; his brothers, William Richard and the late Gary Richard; his sister, Joyce McKillop and her husband Robert; and many nieces and nephews.

His Memorial service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, November 23 at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 22 from 5 to 8 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

23 thoughts on “John P. Richard

  1. Wendy so sorry for your loss. A life well lived, but too short. My thoughts are with you.

  2. Wendy & Jessica, So sorry to hear this sad
    news. Thoughts to you & your family.
    The Roberts family, Ruth

  3. Wendy and Jessica I am so very sorry for your loss. John was a wonderful man and very proud of his service. It is my hope that your wonderful memories will carry you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Susan Magner
    Veterans Director

  4. Wendy and Family,
    We were so sad to hear of John’s sudden passing. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to you and the rest of the family.
    Love, Liz & Fred Robbins

  5. Wendy and Jessica,

    We are saddened to hear about John. He always had a smile for everyone! Our prays are with you, May your sweet, fun, precious memories help heal your hearts. He will always be an angel watching over you both.

    Love, Maryann and Jimmy Little and Family xoxox

  6. Wendy, so sorry for your loss. John was a good person, gentle and kind. Our family sends their sympathy and support to you and your family. What a spectacular write up – so interesting, and a surprise from the quiet that was all I ever saw. You are in my prayers.

  7. Dearest Wendy
    You and John have always had a deep and wide place in my heart. We certainly loved the “classic comedies”, and created quite a few ourselves! John has always been and ever will be a man of integrity, and a true friend. My heartfelt condolences to you and Jessica.

  8. Dear Wendy and Jess, I am so sorry for your loss. John was a wonderful caring man. Prayers and Hugs

  9. Wendy, I am so sorry for the loss of your life partner. Sending love and light to you and your family. Peace.

  10. Wendy and Jess I can not imagine the heartache, hoping you and John’s family and friends find comfort as they celebrate his life in the days to come (donated 100, in honor of John to the American heart assoc. on line)

  11. Remembering John P. Richard
    1949 – 2019

    Lord of Life. You know what it is to lose a loved one. You know what it is to die. Bring us comfort in our pain. Remind us that You have conquered the grave. Calm our hearts with the joy that we will someday be reunited with You and all believers forever! But as we still grieve, console us with Your love. Through those around us and through Your Word, remind us of Your peace, which passes all understanding. Amen.

  12. Dear Wendy, We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband John. Please accept our condolences. We hope the love and support of all your family and friends can help you cope with your loss. Love, Brenda and John Chapman

  13. So very sorry for your loss. Sounds like he was a pretty amazing guy. Sorry that we lost touch.
    Jim and Christine Ross

    1. Dear Wendy and Family
      So sorry. for your loss are thoughts and prayers are with you and your family God Bless you all.
      Rich and Sharon Ross

  14. Wendy and Jessica, Linda and I are so sorry for your loss. John was a good friend and brother Marine. I miss him.

  15. Dear Billy and Family of John, I was very sorry to learn that John suddenly passed away. He was a wonderful warm person with a great sense of humor. He was a remarkable craftsman. I am sorry for your loss. With sympathy, Claire Stampfer

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