Richard E. Holleran

Richard E. Holleran, affectionately known to many as “Dickie,” was a charismatic and dedicated man, whose laughter and kindness brought light into every room. Born on May 30, 1941 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Richard made a lasting impact throughout his 83 years of life, leaving us on September 24, 2024, while residing in Athol, Massachusetts. His legacy, however, continues to inspire and motivate those who were fortunate to have known him. As Helen Keller once said, "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us."

Richard was a funny and thoughtful man whose unyielding dedication was evident in everything he did. He was a deeply devoted husband to his wife of 51 years Joanna. They created a lifetime of memories together and are now happily reunited. As a pipefitter for Local 537, he worked diligently until his retirement in 1996. His passion for his work was only second to his commitment to his country. A true Marine through and through, his service manifested not only in his military career but also in his involvement with the American Legion, Marine Corps League, and Toys for Tots. 

Richard’s magnetic charm was matched by his love for the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who relished the tranquility of nature, often accompanied by his faithful beagle, Reggie. His love for camping, hiking, and shooting was a testament to his adventurous spirit. Yet it was his family that mattered most to him. Whether it was playing games with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren or simply spending quality time together, Richard was a devoted family man at heart.

He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Mark, Rory, and Derek Holleran, his daughters-in-law, Nancy, Linh, and Anna, his grandchildren, Paul, Paris, Austin, Daniel, Ryan, Mark, Cooper, Sydney, Victoria, Ethan, Derek, and Higor, as well as his great-grandchildren, Klover, Lyvian, Blake, Drew, Aria, Ella, and Vida. His beloved sisters, Bernadette Smith, Paula Trombi, and Jean Camuti also survive him. Richard was predeceased by his parents, William Sr. and Catherine, his devoted wife, Joanna, his brother, William Jr, and his sister, Jacqueline Annibali.

Though he is no longer with us, Richard's spirit lives on in all of us. His dedication to family, service to his country, and love for life will forever be remembered. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the life of a man who was a beacon of hope and inspiration. 

We kindly invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Richard to the memorial page at www.mackfamilyfh.com. Let us come together to honor and remember a life well lived, a man dearly loved, and a legacy that will continue to permeate through our hearts and lives.

Richard's calling hours will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 5:00-7:00PM at Fiske-Murphy & Mack Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Rd., Orange, MA.

A Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 10 AM at the Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen St., Winchendon, MA.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.