Richard Arena

DATELINE: Shrewsbury Richard A. Arena, 61 of Shrewsbury passed away Sunday, November 28th 2010 with his devoted mother and father by his side. Richard is survived by his devoted parents Alfred and Margaret "Peggy" (Palumbo) Arena of Shrewsbury; a brother, Donald Arena in Lincoln Nebraska; a daughter Nicole Dipersio and her husband Richard of Hudson; two grandchildren, Nicholas and Cole; two nephews, Zachery and Nicholas; Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. He was born in Worcester, graduated from Shrewsbury High School in 1967 and earned his bachelor's degree in engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1971. Richard began his professional career as an engineer with Wyman Gordon Company in Worcester and Grafton. He took a position with Martin Marietta in Michigan and then as a Vice President for Intercontinental Manufacturing Company before retiring due to illness. He has lived in Shrewsbury since retirement. Richard loved sports of all kinds. He was a standout football player at both Shrewsbury and WPI. He also at onetime played semi pro football with the Marlboro Shamrocks. Richard loved making people laugh, and could light up a room as he entered it. Richard also prided himself on his cooking skills and particularly enjoyed creating gourmet Italian food. He found inspiration in his family and friends. He will be dearly missed. Richard was a Vietnam era veteran having served in the Massachusetts National Guard. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with Richards's family, Tuesday, November 30th from 5 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Funeral services and burial in St John Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Umass Memorial Hospice, 650 Lincoln St. 01605; The Arena family would like to thank the staff of Beaumont at University Commons and the Umass Memorial Hospice for the care and comfort they gave to Richard.