Obituary for Richard L. Townsend

GARDNER — Richard L. Townsend, 88, of Gardner, died peacefully Sunday, April 14, 2019 in Gardner Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, following a long illness.

Born in New York, New York on May 16, 1930, he was the son of the late, Landon M. and Anna (Blanton) Townsend.

Richard received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University of N.Y.; and received his Master of Engineering Degree in Electrical Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of Cambridge, Mass. Prior to retiring, he worked as an Electrical Engineer for GTE of Needham, Mass. for several years.

Richard was a United States Korean War Army Veteran and received the National Defense Service Medal.

He loved skiing and was a member of the Wachusett Mountain Ski Patrol. He was also an avid runner who had participated in several marathons. Richard was a member of the ‘Chair City Club’ of Heywood Hospital of Gardner.

He leaves two sons, Erik S. Townsend and Craig B. Townsend; two grandchildren, Freja and Nyad; and his dear friend, Lorrie Glovins.

Richard was predeceased by two sisters, Anne Addis and Mary Kimpton.

Private burial services will be held in the MA Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon.

There are no calling hours.

From the Gardner News