Paul "Duke" Richard

Paul "Duke" Richard, 76, died suddenly January 8 from a heart attack in his home in Boca Raton, FL, leaving his family and friends shocked and heartbroken. Young at heart and in body, he had many upcoming plans, including a spring training road trip with his best friend and brother Wayne, a visit to New Hampshire to see his grandson Eli play basketball, and a trip to watch his granddaughter Megan compete in an Irish Step dance competition. He often adventured near and far with his beloved partner, Susan F. Schulz. Duke was a gifted storyteller, regardless of format. He started his journalism career while in high school as a sports columnist for the New Bedford Standard-Times in Massachusetts. He was a writer and photographer for Army Digest Magazine during his enlistment. He was editor and/or publisher of several newspapers that included the Dade City Banner in Clearwater, FL, and the Southbridge Evening News in Massachusetts. In the 1980s, he and his former wife Candice owned the newsweekly Portsmouth Magazine in New Hampshire. He wrote a bylined column in each, often sharing personal stories, commentary on current events and stirring up controversy about local politics. He was an avid photographer, developing his eye while in high school. His photos often appeared in the publications he wrote for and many won awards. Arguably his best work was documenting his life and those in it. In 2012, he eulogized his mother and felt that his public speaking skills could use work. He joined Toastmasters, where he met many close friends and honed his live storytelling abilities. He held leadership and officer roles in multiple Florida groups and earned many honors for his speeches. After moving to Florida in 1991, Duke sold advertising for the Sun-Sentinel, owned A1 Consignment Furniture in Fort Lauderdale and then became an independent insurance broker. He penned a biweekly newsletter for his clients.An enthusiastic Boston sports fan, Duke loved the Red Sox, the Patriots and the Celtics (in that order). A talented athlete, he played football, basketball and baseball in high school, and played competitive softball well into his 60s. Born to Donalyne Davis and Paul D Richard, Sr, Duke grew up in Middleboro,MA, with his brother Wayne and his sister Sandy (Gajdascz). He married his high school sweetheart Susan Murphy in June of 1963. They were married fifteen years and had three daughters, who were the light of his life. They include Michelle Vangel of Portsmouth, NH, Marilyn Stella of Southbridge, MA, and Melanie Hmielowski of Carbondale, CO. He also leaves behind his sons-in-law Mark Vangel and Steve Stella, and grandchildren Colby Senior, Megan and Cameron Stella, and Eli Vangel.He recently became a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for children in the court system. He became very close with one particular five-year-old named Trenton. Those so inclined are asked to make donations to Speak Up For Kids in his memory. A celebration of Duke's life will be held Saturday, February 9, 1-5 p.m, Beachcomber Resort, 1200 Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach.