WESTFIELD – Richard W. Zyra, 82, passed away peacefully at Baystate Medical Center surrounded by his beloved family. He was born in Westfield on October 4th, 1941, son 
of the late Michael J. Sr. and Jennie (Banel) Zyra. He attended Huntington High School and graduated in 1961. While in High School he enjoyed sports and played baseball, soccer, and was the captain of the basketball team.
After graduating high school, he was drafted into the United States Army. He served as a medic during the Vietnam era from 1964-1966 and was on the US Army Rifle Team. He was employed by Westfield Gas and Electric for 32 years and ended his career as a Lead Lineman. Richard was a member of the United Church of Christ Second Congregational in Westfield where he served as the Head Usher. Richard’s greatest passion was the game of chess. He enjoyed competing in tournaments and at the chess club. He also enjoyed target shooting, gardening and hiking. Richard loved coaching his children’s little league baseball and soccer teams.
Richard leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret (Schultz) of 56 years of Westfield, his sons Jeffrey (Katy) of East Windsor, CT, Gary of Westfield, Jonathan (Doris) of Sunderland. He also leaves his grandchildren, Curt, Daniel and Savina Zyra. He leaves his brother Michael Zyra (Mary) of Westfield. His brother-in-law Robert Schultz (Helen) of Kentucky and sister-in-law Augusta Taylor (John) of Westfield. He also leaves his cousins, Irene Liquori, Josephine Hillios, Victor Banel, his nephew Kevin Schultz and nieces, Erica Johnson and Lindsay Taylor.
He was predeceased by his sister-in-law Ann Schultz.
Calling hours for Richard will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. in Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. The funeral for Richard will be held on Wednesday, March 13th, 2024 at Second Congregational Church, Western Avenue, Westfield at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery, Westfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be to Second Congregational Church, 487 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA 01085. www.firtionadams.com
