U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War
Published November 21, 2019
Updated November 22, 2019
NORTH READING — John P. Richard, 70, of North Reading and formerly of Arlington, died unexpectedly on Monday, November 18, 2019.
Born in Boston on January 7, 1949, he was the son of the late Clarence and Dorothy (Parulis) Richard. He was a graduate of Arlington High Vocational and Trade School, Class of 1966. John was a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a Private First Class and served from 1969 to 1971. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnamese Service Medal.
John was a craftsman who specialized in detailed copper and slate finishing work. He performed work on thousands of homes and buildings, including historical landmarks and institutions throughout the state of Massachusetts. He was the owner and operator of J.R. Contracting.
He was deeply committed to his family. He took great pride in his accomplishments and loved everything he did. He was known for his great sense of humor, being extremely kind, loving, integrous, and he was the entertainer of children.
John had been a resident of North Reading for the past 37 years. He was the Captain of the North Reading Minit and Militia and a member of VFW Post 10874. He appeared on the TV series, “This Old House” and HGTV “Restore America, Restorations in Massachusetts.” He was an avid Patriots fan, he loved American and World history, old Hollywood films, war stories, classic comedies, and he loved the outdoors.
Family members include his loving wife of 41 years, Wendy (Brown) Richard; his daughter, Jessica Richard; his brothers, William Richard and the late Gary Richard; his sister, Joyce McKillop and her husband Robert; and many nieces and nephews.
His memorial service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, November 23 at 11 a.m. Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 22 from 5 to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005. To leave an online condolence, please visit: www.croswellfuneralhome.com.
