Richard James Bartkus

Richard James Bartkus, 75, of North Grafton, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2018, at UMass Hospital in Worcester.   Richard is survived by his children, Dr. James R. Bartkus and his wife Alissa of New Orleans, and Karen Aubuchon and her husband Jeffrey of Spencer; five grandchildren, Shea Michael, Lucas James, Maevey Rose, Finnian Kenmore, and Malachy Fenway; a close friend Debbie Leighton; his former wife, Patricia (Parker) Bartkus; two brothers; nieces and nephews. Richard was born in Worcester, son of the late, Frank G. and Marjorie V. (Comerford) Bartkus. He graduated from WITI, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Worcester State College. He furthered his education at Worcester State, earning an additional Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education.   Richard served his nation proudly in the United States Navy, receiving two Honorable Discharges. He served aboard both the USS Juneau and USS Allagash. He continued to remain connected to his Naval Service through the USS Allagash Alumni Association, travelling and participating in many reunions throughout the country.   He was a retired associate court officer from Worcester District Court, where he had worked for nine years. Richard had previously worked in education for many years prior as a substitute teacher, and special education teacher, and prior to that as a graphic artist with Worcester City Hospital. He was an active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, where he also taught CCD. He was a member of the Worcester Lodge of Elks number 243, the Worcester Boys Club Association, the American Bell Association, International, serving as Chairman of the New England Chapter from 2009-2011. He volunteered regularly for the March of Dimes, Friendly House, and YOU Inc.   Calling Hours for Richard will be on Friday, February 16, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be on MONDAY, February 19, from the funeral home, departing in procession at 9:40 a.m. for a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1290 Grafton Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.   In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to The Worcester Boys and Girls Club, 65 Tainter Street, Worcester, MA 01610 or by visiting www.bgcworcester.org.