Richard A. Chaffee

Richard Chaffee passed away Friday April 29, 2022, after a prolonged illness. He died at home being cared for by his loving family. He was born in Worcester MA, the son of Mary and Laurence Chaffee. He had one brother, John and two sisters, Joan and Nancy, all deceased. The family were members of the St Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Worcester.

Rick’s spiritual life remained strong throughout his life, aways questioning, searching and implementing in his life the truth in God. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He leaves his wife Gail and son Zachariah, daughters Anna and Bridgette and two grandchildren, Veloria and Josiah.

Rick wore many hats in his work life, doing contracting, excavation and many building related trades. He was always busy and had a new project in mind. A Benedictine monk from a nearby monastery he worked with commented that he always found a way to accomplish the task at hand. If one thing did not work, he found another way around it. In his life he was always there to help anyone that asked.

Rick was a story teller and knew by heart many ballads, folk songs and children’s songs. He was born with the heart of a child and the love of wonderment, a quality that endured with him throughout his life. He graced many a child’s heart both young and old with stories he spun, songs he sang and skits he performed. Rick was a friend to so many and loved by all. His stories will endure through the hearts he filled and so will always be in our memories.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary's Monastery, 271 North Main St, Petersham, MA.  A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. in Camp Caravan, 255 South Royalston Rd, Royalston, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Care Central VNA and Hospice, 34 Pearly Lane, Gardner, MA 01440. Please reference in memory of Richard A. Chaffee.