Richard, Michael F. of Arlington. On the great standby list that is life, “Squirrel”, age 68, of Arlington, MA was cleared for final takeoff on February 25, 2021 after a courageous cancer battle. Beloved husband of Judith (Kennedy) Richard for 36 years. Devoted father of William Richard of Ypsilanti, MI. He is also survived by his brother James (Patricia) of Corinna, ME, brother Peter (Michelle) of Corinna, ME, sister Janet Richard of Hyannis, and sister-in-law Nancy Kennedy of Arlington. Predeceased by his parents Barbara and Francis Richard, sister Ruth Lamarche, brother-in-law Robert Lamarche, and parents-in-law Alfred and Elsie Kennedy. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, especially lifelong Cambridge childhood friends.
His 44 year lifelong career began with Allegheny Airlines, through it’s mergers , culminating at American Airlines. He was a proud member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. His airline career afforded him the opportunity to live in Pittsburgh, PA for many years where Mike, Judy, and Billy had many happy memories and formed enduring friendships (but did he become a Steelers fan?). Always valuing human interactions over digital ones, he believed that laughter and a positive attitude were the best medicine.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit in the DeVito Funeral Home, 1145 Mass Ave, Arlington on Wednesday from 2:00 -5:00 pm. All attendees are required to wear face coverings, practice social distancing, and pay their respects and exit the funeral home promptly to allow other guests to enter. A limited number of guests will be allowed in the building at one time. In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to the Good Shepherd Community Care, 90 Wells Ave., Newton, MA 02459 or Kidney Cancer Association, 9450 SW Gemini Drive, #38269, Beaverton, OR 97008-7105 or by visiting kidneycancer.org.
All attendees are required to wear face coverings, practice social distancing, and pay their respects and exit the funeral home promptly to allow other guests to enter. A limited number of guests will be allowed in the building at one time. Visit devitofuneralhome.com to view an online guestbook; please do not feel obligated to attend if you are not comfortable doing so.