John Joseph Richard

John Joseph Richard, 62

John J.Richard, a lifelong resident of Fitchburg, passed away on May 4, 2021 after a brief illness at Tufts Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on October 9, 1958 to Robert and Gertrude (Ducharme) Richard.

John grew up in lower Cleghorn and then raised his family on Tar Hill.  He attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School and St. Bernard’s High School (Class of 1976), where he excelled on the football field, basketball court, and baseball diamond.  He put himself through college and graduate school while raising a young family, earning a Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance from Fitchburg State in 1982 and a Master’s in Public Administration from Suffolk University in 1991.  The value of education and a lifelong pursuit of  learning were very important to him.

John’s high school sweetheart,“Suzy-Q,” and his daughters, Shelly, Beth, and Allie were his greatest source of pride and joy.  Everything he accomplished and sacrificed in life was for them. He loved his time coaching his daughters and helping the community develop young athletes through coaching at St. Bernard’s Elementary School, Fitchburg Biddy League Basketball, and Fitchburg Lassie League Softball. When not coaching, he was cheering on his girls from the sidelines through their high school and collegiate careers. He instilled in his daughters the importance of dedication, hard work, and always following your moral compass.

John was also the proud “Pops” to three grandsons, John (5), Connor (4), and Thomas (3).  He always had an extra twinkle in his “Richard blue” eyes when he was with them or talking to others about them.

Professionally, John worked his entire career for the City of Leominster, serving the residents first as an Assistant City Comptroller and then, for 31 years as the Director of Finance/City Comptroller.  John guided the City of Leominster through multiple economic cycles.  He was known throughout the State for his strong financial acumen and fiscal management.  He was often called upon by municipal leaders across the Commonwealth for counsel and advice.  He also served as Ward 6 Councilor for the City of Fitchburg for two terms.

John enjoyed spending time with familyand also loved spending a weekend night out to dinner with his sweetheart, Sue.  In recent years, he enjoyed participating in Maxx Traxx classes with friends at Global Fitness and exercising outside, especially running the stairs at the Clinton Dam.  He achieved the Spartan Race Trifecta in 2016. 

John is survived by hisloving wife of 42 years, Susan (Neithercut) Richard; daughter, Shelly and her husband Edward McNulty of Southborough; daughter, Beth and her husband Jared Fiore of Shrewsbury; daughter, Allison and her fiancée Alberto Fiore of Leominster; grandsons, John and Thomas Fiore and Connor McNulty; sister, Denise (Richard) and her husband Rick Shearns of Millis; brother, Russell Richard of Florida; and many other loving extended family members.

John is predeceased by his father, Robert Richard, mother, Gertrude (Ducharme) Richard, and brother, Paul Richard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, St. Joseph’s Church,49 Woodland St., Fitchburg, MA 01420.

A funeral Mass for John will be held on Saturday, May 8,2021 @ 10a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church 49 Woodland St. Fitchburg, MA with Interment to follow in St. Bernard Cemetery.

Calling hours at the funeral home are Friday evening from 5 until 7:30 p.m. All Covid-19 protocols will be followed. A mask is required to attend the calling hours and the Mass.

The Lavery Chartrand    Alario Funeral Home 99 Summer St. Fitchburg, MA  is directing.

Michael S. Alario – Director- Owner.

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