Richard F. Cosenza

Richard F. Cosenza, 76 of Worcester, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 23, 2024.

Richard was born in Worcester, the second son of the late William R. and Jeanette (Kuszewski) Cosenza. Richard is survived by two sons, Richard Cosenza, Jr. and his significant other Kerry of Charlton and Brian Cosenza and his wife Jessica of Holden; two daughters, Julie Cosenza of Worcester with whom he lived and Christina Garcia and her husband Yanis of Woodstock, CT; three brothers, William Cosenza of Sutton, Gregory Cosenza of Jacksonville, FL and Gary Cosenza of Northbridge; four grandchildren, Emily and Madelyn Cosenza and Christyan and Giovanni Garcia; his former wife and lifelong friend, Sharon Boucher of Woodstock, CT; many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his daughter Lisa Marie Cosenza.

Richard lived in Worcester all his life and attended North High before dropping out, much more interested in what he could learn at local auto garages and earn street racing.   Richard was able to parlay his mechanical skills into a career, working as a service manager at Patrick Motors before opening ABC Professional Rust Proofing and then as a pump station operator for the City of Worcester until he retired. Richard had a passion for classic cars and drag racing, which led to a lifetime of cherished memories and friendships. He spent many happy weekends at New England Dragway and is a founding member of the Central Mass Drag Racers. Richard was also a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus, Pope John Lodge, and the Brown Square Civic Club.  If he wasn’t racing, he was “at the club” playing cards.

Richard cherished holidays spent with his family and adored his grandchildren. He lived life by his own rules until the end and will surely be missed.

A period of calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 4-7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester.  Burial will be held privately.  Richard was the lucky recipient of a kidney transplant 19 years ago and his family would like that you kindly consider in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to: National Kidney Foundation, Attn: Gift Processing, 30 East 33^rd Street, New York, NY. 10016