Donald F. Richards

Donald F. Richards Royalston – Donald F. Richards, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 16, 2013, at his home surrounded by his loving family.        Don was born in Athol, Massachusetts, January 18, 1926, the son of Farrell B. and H. Myrtle (Beers) Richards.  He lived in Athol for many years, graduating from Athol High School in 1943 and, since 1980, has resided in Royalston.        Don proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II; he worked for the L.S. Starrett Company in sales for 46 years, retiring in 1989.  During his career he and his family lived in many different parts of the United States.   They spent many memorable summers together on Prince Edward Island.  Don enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and was a great music lover, especially of big band music.  He played the saxophone in the Minute Tapioca Band, the former Frank Carey Band and the Tri-Tones.  Don also loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and relatives throughout Canada.  He had a warm smile for everyone he met and his positive attitude was an inspiration.      He leaves his wife Elvia (Robertson) Richards; a son, David Farrell Richards of Athol; two daughters, Diane Stauder and her husband Richard of Royalston and Robbie Currie and her husband John of Orange; six grandchildren, Sarah, Elizabeth, Peter, Luke, Christopher and Leanna along with her husband Joshua and their son Zachary.  He was predeceased by his beloved son, Kent Arthur Richards.      Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main Street, Athol, with the Rev. Dr. Beverly Prestwood-Taylor officiating.  A private family burial will be held at Silver Lake Cemetery.   There are no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Athol Congregational Church, Music Fund, 1225 Chestnut Street, Athol, MA 01331.  For further information or to share a memory with the family go to:  www.higginsoconnorfuneralhome.com. $(document).ready(function(){ });