Hudson – Richard Arnold DeMichele, a longtime resident of Hudson, MA, passed away on July 6, 2022, following a brief illness. Dickie, as he was known to his family and friends, lived life to the fullest and was, in every sense, truly one of the good ones. He brought a smile to everyone he came across and left lasting impressions of kindness, good humor, and love. He will be missed and forever honored by his devoted wife, loving family, countless friends, and those he selflessly supported through life’s struggles.
A native of Newton, Dickie grew up as one of a close-knit group of six siblings, having two sisters and three brothers he loved and remained close with throughout life. Dickie enlisted in the Navy at the age of 18 and proudly served his country, traveling the world before being honorably discharged and joining the Naval reserves. Following the Navy, Dickie worked tirelessly to support his family as a machine mechanic until his retirement.
Dickie was a fiercely dedicated family man. He shared life’s journey with his loving wife Annette, to whom he was married for 52 years. They shared a special love never to be forgotten. Dickie was the proud father of his two children, Tina and Shaun, each of whom forever hold a special bond with their dad. His love and support for his family knew no bounds, with many wonderful times spent together on the beach in Maine, fun-filled holidays, and simple moments. Dickie treasured his special relationships with his brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews who were always an important part of day to day life.
Perhaps Dickie’s favorite role in life became that of proud grandfather. Affectionately known by his six grandchildren as “Papa”, he doted on his grandkids. They returned their love for him in droves and without exception. Papa was always ready for a silly moment, ice cream sundae, board game, wrestling match, movie night, spontaneous trips to a new playground or even the trampoline park or just hearing about his grandkids’ latest adventures. They loved raiding Papa’s secret stash of Licorice, Good and Plenty and Twizzler’s. “Papa’s ham” was a fan favorite of all his grandchildren which he proudly made for them and served on holidays. His grandchildren’s memories of times with Papa are plentiful and will be cherished forever.
Dickie’s love and support also extended beyond his family. He was a proud member, advocate, and dedicated supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous programs for those struggling with substance abuse. For the past 40 years, Dickie led by example. He was a passionate member, mentor, sponsor, and friend to so many over the years that they are too numerous to count. His consistent service to those in need was unwavering, often providing a helping hand, listening ear, and sage advice no matter when or where needed.
Dickie is survived and fondly remembered by his wife, Annette; their daughter Tina and her husband, Eric Hines and their four children, Luke, Anna, Zoey and Shea; his son Shaun and his wife Amy and their two children, Mackenzie and Jake; his siblings Rosemary, Jackie, Eddie and Donna; and many wonderful nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Bobby, and his parents John and Edna DeMichele. Dickie will be sorely missed, but never forgotten – we love you always.
Relatives and friends are invited to a period of visitation from 4-7pm on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central St., Hudson, MA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9am on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at Saint MIchael Parish, 21 Manning St., Hudson, MA. Committal services will be held privately in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon, MA at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Dickie may be made to: www.childrenshospital.org or American Heart Association | To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives
