Shrewsbury – Richard A. “Richie” Nolli, 76, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, after a brief illness.
He leaves his beloved wife of 58 years, Theresa (Gonelli) Nolli; his four wonderful children, Diane R. Betti and her husband, Alfred, Reno R. Nolli and his wife, Christine, Richard S. Nolli and his wife, Diane, and Andrea L. Loiseau and her husband, Brian, all of Shrewsbury; nine grandchildren, Nicholas, Theresa, Andriana, Reno, Christopher, Allysha, Lauren, Samantha, and Jaclyn; two great-grandchildren, Dominic and Liam; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was born Oct. 24, 1935, the only child and apple of his parents” eye, to the late Reno Battista and Mary Agnes (Legere) Nolli. He graduated from Commerce High School. While in high school, he was a standout All City High School Baseball pitcher and was drafted to play in the Pittsburgh Pirates minor league baseball system.
Richard later attended Holy Cross College. He served honorably in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, where he was an expert marksman, sharpshooter, and gunner.
Richie married his high school sweetheart, Theresa Gonelli, on April 24, 1954, and together they lovingly raised their four children. They lived in Shrewsbury for over 53 years.
Richie's parent's noticed that he seemed to enjoy music as a child; so at the tender age of 5, he began studying the accordion under the direction of Guido Forchelli. His passion for music continued throughout his life. He later organized The Dick Nolli Trio, which played throughout Worcester County for many years.
He was employed for 38 years, with the Commonwealth Gas Company, retiring as an inspector, and was a member of Saint Mary's Parish in Shrewsbury. He also found time to serve as the President of the Shrewsbury Little League, and was recognized by the Governor for his Senior Babe Ruth State Championship team in 1976. His other interest included golfing, hunting and fishing.
Richie was blessed with many lifelong friendships. For the last several years, he and his wife cherished their time with their Tuesday morning organ group. Most importantly, what brought a smile and laughter to his life was being surrounded by his loving wife and his family.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Mr. Nolli's family Thursday, July 5, from 4 to 8 p.m., in the Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, 648 Main St., Shrewsbury. A gathering of friends and family will begin at Friday, July 6, at 9 a.m., in the funeral home, followed by a funeral Mass celebrating Richard's life at 10 a.m. in Saint Mary's Church, 640 Main St., Shrewsbury. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard's memory can be made to the Saint Mary's Church Capitol Campaign, 20 Summer St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
To leave a note of sympathy for Richard's family or to view his “Book of Memories,” visit www.brittonfuneralhomes.com.
