Richard W. Brosnihan, of Holden, died peacefully on Tuesday August 7, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family. Richard is survived by his loving wife of many years Elizabeth (DeMaio) Brosnihan, his two devoted daughters, Susan E. Pedone and her husband James of Holden, and Victoria A. McCarthy and her husband Brian of Worcester. Richard was the proud grandfather to Richard J. and Matthew J. Pedone, and William Francis McCarthy. Richard also leaves a sister Patricia Faron and her husband Edward of Rochdale and was predeceased by a brother William Brosnihan. He also leaves several nephews, nieces and cousins.
Richard was born in Worcester son of the late William and Aurora (Gonyea) Brosnihan where he resided until thirty years ago when he moved to Holden, MA. He attended St. Peter's Central Catholic High School and Commerce High School and received his Bachelor's Degree from Clark University. Richard served his country proudly in the National Guard for two years and then joined the United States Air Force. Richard was a Representative for the United Mine Workers for several years. He was also a Consultant for over 30 years for the Massachusetts Teachers Association before retiring.
Richard was a long-time parishioner of St Georges Church, and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus of Rutland and Holden Chapters and the Labor Guild. Richard and Elizabeth enjoyed traveling and loved summering at Cape Cod for many years. He also liked to read and watch classic movies. He was also a season ticket holder for the New England Patriots and the football and basketball teams of the College of the Holy Cross. Richard was a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Brother and will be sadly missed by both his family and friends.
Richard's funeral will be held on Saturday from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. with a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 AM in the Church of St. George, 38 Brattle St. Calling hours in the funeral home will be from 4PM to 7PM on Friday August 10. Entombment will be in the Mausoleum of St. John's Cemetery. The family would like to thank Dr. Dennis Murphy and Dr. David Lyons for their care and compassion shown to Richard for many years and also the Notre Dame Hospice Care Team. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre St., Newton, MA. 02458 or the Notre Dame Hospice Healthcare Community. To leave a message of condolence or share a special memory of Richard please visit his memorial site at
mercadantefuneral.com