SOUTHWICK – Richard William Henry, age 64, passed away peacefully in his home on March 14, 2023.
Rick, called “Hawk” by his childhood friends, was born in Springfield, MA to the late William F. and Constance I. (LaBarre) Henry. He grew up in Agawam, MA before moving to Southwick, MA over 40 years ago. Rick proudly owned and operated R.H. Industries Welding Equipment Repair and Calibration Service and was previously the Manager of Merriam-Graves in West Springfield.
He is survived by his wife Vanessa (Wight) Henry, along with his son, William G. Henry and daughter Jessica Henry-Cross, and her husband Jeffrey Cross. He also leaves behind Aunt Phyllis Henry in Arizona and cousins Lorraine, Marilyn, David, Robert, Celeste, Glenn, and Dorothy.
Rick found joy outdoors – he loved camping (especially with his dogs by his side), he could build the best bonfires (the secret ingredient may have been an old couch), and many Sundays were spent riding ATVs with his family on the mountain across the street. His summers were filled with fishing and tubing on the boat while winters were spent on the ski slopes. Only the coldest and snowiest days kept him off of his motorcycle. He regularly grew an impressive vegetable garden with Vanessa, enjoyed recreational shooting, and was an active coach and volunteer with his children’s sports and clubs. Rick never left an animal behind and provided temporary home and care for many injured raccoons, turtles, and birds.
Family will greet friends from 4 – 6pm on Thursday, March 30, 2023 and celebrate his life at the Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 624 College Highway, Southwick. A funeral home service will follow at 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation Inc., 146 Bowdoin St., Springfield, MA 01109 or to Southwick Animal Shelter, 11 Depot St., Southwick, MA 01077. Forastierefuneralhome.com
