SOUTHWICK: Richard T. Falcetti, Sr. passed away on Tuesday, December 14th in Springfield, MA. Born at home, on East Mountain Road in
Westfield, MA, on July 8, 1944, he was the 7th child of John and Maria (Sheldon).
Rick spent his childhood hanging out with his 9 siblings and friends and family from the East Mountain Road neighborhood. He was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School and served in the US Army National Guard. Rick was a semiprofessional bowler and was nicknamed Ace for his skills.
Richard grew up watching westerns and that carried throughout his life, he was a collector of all things which he inherited from his mother. He enjoyed playing cards and spent many nights in his younger years alternating houses to play cards with friends and family.
He was a devoted New England sports fan, if there wasn’t a live game to watch or attend, he’d settle for some of the re-runs and provide commentary on what should have been done. He was passionate about supporting veterans and helping those less fortunate. Recently he played online poker for fun. Rick was content just being with his family and friends. He always stood back and watched others at social events. Some of his happiest memories are when he watched his grandkids tear into their birthday and Christmas gifts.
Rick will be missed by all of us. He is survived by his oldest son, Richard Jr. and his wife Liz, two daughters, Deena and her husband Tim, Beth and her husband Tom, and daughter-in-law Amy; his youngest son, Daniel, passed away in 2013.
Richard also leaves behind 7 cherished grandchildren, Rachel, Spencer, Shea, Brenna, Jake, Mia, and Nicholas. He is survived by his loving siblings, brothers Charles (JoAnn) and James, and sisters Patricia (Tom), Marie (Randy), and Emilia, and several cousins, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his son, Daniel, Richard was predeceased by his parents, two brothers, John and Robert, and two sisters Evelyn and Rose Marie.
Services celebrating Richard’s life are private. Memorial donations may be made in his honor to Our Community Food Pantry, 220 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077.
Westfield Funeral Home and Cremation, 4 Princeton St., Westfield, MA 01085 is assisting the family with arrangements.
