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In memory of
Kathleen Mueller Mandell
March 16, 2025
I literally was just thinking about him yesterday, as I have yet another senior dog, and vets are very different now. Dr. Bird's amazing gift with animals and his no-nonsense, country-doctor approach are what set him apart from every other vet I've done business with since. He always knew what to do, and sometimes over the phone! I think about him every time I have an issue with a pet... "What would Dr. Bird have done?" and that happened just yesterday. Thank you Dr. Bird for everything you did for us. You will never be forgotten.
Deborah Beer
April 3, 2024
We think of you often. Very very often Dr Bird
Dee Gleason
March 16, 2024
You have never been forgotten and never will be. Prayers for your family and friends . Dee Gleason your first client best vet ever
Crystal Bridgeo and Mark
March 17, 2023
There is no doubt in our minds that Dr. Bird is on the otherside of the Rainbow Bridge, with the goldens and other dogs that we all trusted him to care for. We have other great vets for our golden retrievers, but he is still the most caring. Our love to his family.
The Roys
April 17, 2014
Dr. Bird was a wonderful person, and a great vet. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Dr. Carolyn Selavka
April 16, 2014
We just heard the sad news. We can't even begin characterize the "empty place" Doc Bird left behind in the Central Massachusetts Veterinary community. We typically meet 2-3 animal lovers a week that share stories of the good doctor's kind and gentle manner with animals and their humans. I often say that my hope is to leave the same legacy behind when it is my time to move on. Godspeed Dr. Bird.
With Heartfelt Sympathy. Dr. Carolyn Selavka and the Staff at Baystate Mobile Veterinary Services
Cathi Berg
April 11, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of "Good old Doc Bird" passing. He was the ultimate vet. I trusted him so much and was so confident in his ability. He diagnosed my dog as having an issue that required the skill of Angel. He drafted a letter for me to bring to them when I brought my dog in. The vet at Angel read the letter, took one look at my dog and said "your vet is 100% correct in his diagnosis. You're fortunate to have such a doc for your dog." I still miss him.
April 10, 2014
Life is just not fair sometimes. Mary Ellen I am so so sorry. May the white light of the Holy Spirit shine upon you Dr. Bird. You were the best Vet in the whole world , the best Boss , and a truly wonderful man.
Diane "Rae" and Bob Sarkala
Lauren Gaudette Simkewicz
April 8, 2014
My sympathies to all of you at this difficult time.
April 6, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Bird's passing. I just found out today. It is a sad day. I found him on day one of his opening and stayed with him until he retired. He was wonderful with my dogs and me. He was so compassionate. He sent me the most wonderful note after I had to have my beloved 14 yr old poodle Chica put down. He was so reasuring, so kind. There is not another Vet like him. My heartfelt prayers are with your family and friends. Dee Gleason
Christine Oliver
April 2, 2014
My husband, Lloyd, and I are deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Bird's death. He was, without a doubt, the best vet in the world. He cared for the animals and was realistic at the same time. Our pets, including Oakie, Fred, Wiggles, Snagglepuss, and more were his patients from the very early days of his practice in Spencer. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Diane and Bob Dillman
March 31, 2014
We were fortunate to know him as the trusted veterinarian he was. He treated the patient, and the owner's angst. We have missed him since his retirement and we are saddened by his passing. Our thoughts are with the family and friends that grieve now. May you find peace in the great value that his life brought to so many.
Lisa Deschamps-Norkaitis
March 29, 2014
My deepest sympathy to you Katie & Amy. I so enjoyed babysitting for both of you through my teens. It was a pleasure to spend time with you and your family. You are often in my thoughts-please know that you are in my prayers. RIP Dr. Bird.
sema LaBillois
March 29, 2014
I am very sorry to hear the passing of Dr.Bird. Wr have moved from Massachusetts a year ago and are just finding out this very sad news. He was our favorite Vet for many years right up until his retirement. Please know that we are very sorry for your loss.
Crystal and Mark Bridgeo
March 27, 2014
Dr. Bird was the most wonderful vet.
He took care of our dogs since his early days in Spencer. We always trusted him with their welfare.
When he retired it was a sad day for us. Upon moving to Kennebunk we were fortunate to find another caring vet for our golden retrievers.
Our deepest sympathy to his family in their loss of such a loving man.

Cloe
March 27, 2014
We are truly sorry to hear of Dr. Bird's passing. He was our Vet for many years until he retired. He set the bar for how he ran his practice. The best Vet in Central Mass by far. We wish all his family peace & comfort during this time and are truly sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences. Mike & Kelly Pratt
March 26, 2014
I want to express my deepest condolences to the family. I also want you to know that Dr. Bird was one of the most wonderful and compassionate people that I have ever met. He was the best Vet I have ever had for my pets, and I thank him for that. Remembering him forever.
Diane Baxter
Mark & Debi Morin
March 26, 2014
Dr. Bird was our vet for many yrs until he retired. He came through so many times when we needed him. I remember a time when he met me at his office on a Sunday, he showed up on his motorcycle.If we needed him late at night, he would meet us. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Mark & Debi Morin
Roberta Monette
March 24, 2014
Dr. bird was the most wonderful vet who took care of our pets since we first had them... He always found time to ask how my husband and family was doing. I also remember him as being a swim instructor at Luther Hill Park. Always one of my favorite people...my deepest condolences to his family.
March 24, 2014
My deepest sympathies to Mary Ellen and family. It was my pleasure not only have my pets cared for by Dr. Bird, but to also be able to
work for him. He will be missed by many. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. Diane Tuttle
Dawn
March 24, 2014
Dr Bird
Was a was a awsome vet.. Have brought many dogs there for his great care and would always take time and explain everything. You could tell he really loved animals... He would be missed
He will be missed
Hutch
March 24, 2014
Early on in Spencer life, I knew him as Dr Bird. He cared for our family pets and was always compassionate. Later on he become my step brother as our widowed parents, lifelong friends, married each other. He was a good man, to say the least, and is sorely missed. Rest in piece Dick.
March 24, 2014
Dickie was by far one of the nicest people I had the good fortune to meet. He will be missed by so many. To his family and friends, for now, I hope you can find comfort knowing that so many prayers come your way and so many thoughts are with you during this sad time. Sandy Auger Comastra
Dick Archambault
March 24, 2014
I grew up with Dick, beginning at Pleasant Street School much longer ago than I care to admit. I just learned of his passing today as we lost touch with each other after he moved away. Dick was always a great guy, and a very good friend. RIP
Betty Flory
March 24, 2014
Dick will always be remembered for his kindness and compassion when my beloved Missy had to be put to sleep. His caring words made a difficult situation easier to handle. Thank you for all those wonderful years. God bless!!
Brian Shea
March 24, 2014
Dr. Bird was a fantastic Vet who went above and beyond on many ocassions, and was one of the most caring and genuinely nice people I have had the pleasure of knowing. Thoughts and Prayers for his family, he will be missed by many.
Dan Meloche
March 24, 2014
Just a straight up guy and good friend. Always remember that lanky stride in his running style. My thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest In Peace.
March 24, 2014
A first and long time client where Dr Bird always recalled even the smallest of antidotes of our beloved Princess and closed the office to have our private time when it was her time to be put down...that was a caring and loving veterinary. His personality was always pleasant and compassionate and there will NEVER be another like him. Our feeling were deep with heartfelt loss for all of those whom he loved and loved him, friends, family, and four legged. Our sympathies especially to his family.
Nancy and Jay Corbeil
West Brookfield, MA
Kim Bergeron
March 24, 2014
Dr. Bird was not only a neighbor but my vet for many years. He truly loved my goldens as if they were his. He was greatly missed when he retired and I know God has a special place for him with all those that he helped find peace. I extend my sincere sympathy to his family.
Kathleen Mueller
March 24, 2014
Dr. Bird saved my dog's life after she was badly injured by a wild animal, back in the 1980s when I first came to Spencer. After that, I entrusted my pets to his care for many years. A true small-town hero, because he had a natural gift with animals ( and people!) and always knew what to do for the pets. Rest in peace, Dr. Bird. My deepest condolences to the Bird family.
Carol Ruggiere
March 24, 2014
I was so sorry to hear about Dicks passing. He will be missed.
March 24, 2014
Dr Bird looked over our dogs for 20 years. Missed him so much when he retired. He had such a kind and quiet, caring way. So hard to replace that. May you rest in peace.
Craig and Sally Lussier
Nita McPartland
March 24, 2014
There are no words to describe how sorry I am to hear of Dr. Bird's passing. He was always a comfort to us for so many of our dogs and cats for so many years. His smile and humor will always be remembered.
Rich Ferguson
March 23, 2014
My thoughts and prayers to Dr. Birds family he was a wonderful vet and treated my family great.
Roxanne Leland
March 23, 2014
My prayers are with all of Dick's family and friends. Dick touched many people with his wonderful smile, sense of humor and talent. He was such a gentleman and a great classmate at DPHS, Class of '65
CELESTE LOCKE-STICKLES
March 23, 2014
A great man. Loved and cared for all. He will be missed.
Carol Lewis
March 23, 2014
I was very sad to hear the news of the loss of Dr. Bird.
I have thought of him often over the years. Besides taking such good care of the medical needs of my Saint Bernard, Greta, he and Mary Ellen gave her so much tender, loving care. I loved bringing my dog to Dr. Bird's animal hospital. I loved Dr. Bird's great sense of humor and his dedication to the well being of his patients. He and Mary Ellen understood how much I loved my dog and helped me through some very difficult times when her health was failing. I will never forget the note that Dr. Bird sent me after my dog had died. He was the best! I extend my deepest sympathy to you Mary Ellen. You and Dr. Bird will always have a special place in my heart.
March 23, 2014
Dr. Bird was the best. He loved all our Goldens, and he taught us to be good Golden parents. So many times over the years since his retirement, we've spoken of him and missed his wisdom, patience, and humor. We send our heartfelt sympathy to all his family, and feel grateful that we had the chance to know him.
Skip Knight and Sue Rubenstein Princeton, MA
DIANE
March 23, 2014
WE ARE SO SAD TO HEAR OF DICKS PASSING.WE HAVE TALKED SO MUCH OF HIM LATELY BEFORE WE HEARD THAT HE HAD PASSED ON HOW HE WAS SUCH A WONDERFUL,CARING VET THAT WE HAD FOR 20 YRS AND SHOWED TRUE COMPASSION REGARDING ANIMALS.
DICK WAS A SPECIAL CLASSMATE,FRIEND &COMPASSIONATE WAYS FOR PEOPLE BESIDES HIS PROFESSIONAL WAYS..HE WILL BE MISSED AND WE CAN ALL HAVE GREAT MEMORIES OF DICK..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY KNOWING HE WAS LOVED BY SO MANY PEOPLE..DAVE & DIANE
Karen Pitts
March 23, 2014
Dr. Bird was a very kind and special person. He touched the lives of many people and animals. Rest in Peace Dickie
Sandy McGilvray
March 23, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to Mary Ellen, Katie, and Amy and family for the loss of your loved one. Dick was one of the very best in his field (he certainly got us through many crises) as well as one of the nicest, most caring people I have ever met. I remember him telling me that I was one of his very first clients (well, the two-legged kind) when he opened up his practice in Spencer. He was so professional and smart and kind as the day is long. We will never forget you. God bless you, Dick, and your loved ones.
Sandy (Pusateri/Rutherford) and Ron McGilvray
Pat Sourdif
March 23, 2014
Our vet for over 20 years, Who we sadly missed. Our deepest sympathy to the family, may he rest in peace.
Nichole Thestrup
March 23, 2014
My deepest sympathies to Kate and her family. He was a great guy and he will truly be missed.
Nichole (Premo) Thestrup
Doreen and Maureen Sullivan
March 23, 2014
Dr. Bird was our vet for many, many years. He encouraged our daughter from a very early age about veterinary medicine. She now has a pre vet degree and a Masters in Biology. He told us a personal story about his own dog when he had to put ours to sleep. He was brilliant at diagnosing. I have never met a more caring vet. We will never forget his smile and the incredible talent he had for relating to people and their pets. He is and always will be an inspiration to others!! To his family we hope you find peace in knowing how many lives he touched.
Paula Schnare
March 23, 2014
A wonderful man...funny, caring, intelligent, a real asset to the human race. He cared for my many pets since 1960. My sympathy to his family.
Jon Thompson
March 23, 2014
I used to go running on the Cape not far from Dick's home in South Harwich. A class individual. Comforting thoughts, now and in the days ahead, from Middle America.....
Ron and Mary Remillard
March 23, 2014
Dr.Bird took care of all of our animals for over 20 years. He was the best and so caring and compassionate. He was always available to help in an emergency and you always knew he gave his all to help. He was such a nice man and such a great vet. God Bless your family at this sorrowful time.
Bob and Lynn Bird
March 23, 2014
Always enjoyed your subtle sense of humor and your witty observations on the ways of the world. RIP cousin.
Becky and Gary Forsberg
March 23, 2014
We will miss your friendship and your compassion for all the years that you were our veterinarian.We had the same feelings for Golden Retreivers as he did and always had a laugh about his famous " 2 breeds of dogs line". Our deepest sympathy to Dr. Birds family.
Everett Blodgett
March 23, 2014
Dr. Bird took care of all our family pets and was a good friend, he will be missed dearly by all. goodbye my friend, may you RIP with the angels.
Anne & Ron Jette
March 23, 2014
Our deepest sympathy. He truly enjoyed life!
June Kennedy
March 23, 2014
He was the best veterinary doctor spencer ever had loved his sense of humor and always had time for a chat...I missed him when he left..and now will sorely be missed...my deepest sympathy to all his family...He was one of a kind
S. S.
March 23, 2014
Rest in Peace, Dr. Bird!!! My pets were one of your firsts,and we liked you so much,that we stayed with you,right up until you retired!!! All of my pets loved you,as much as you loved them,too. Now,please watch over all of us and our pets!!! Thoughts & prayers to all of his family.
Lisa Danforth
March 23, 2014
Mary Ellen, so sorry for your loss. Dr Bird took great care of all out family animals for many years. Our family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Tracy Jones
March 23, 2014
A friend for many,many years...I will miss you. You will stay in the hearts of many for years to come. Prayers to the family.
Guz Gaudette
March 23, 2014
Tom - Bill and families.. My deepest sympathies to you and your family members. Dick was the best Vet. He took care of all of my pets for many years. Besides touching so many people with his manner, just think of the herds of animals that he helped and saved. There will be a lot of wagging going on, when he visits doggie heaven.
Michelle Albrizio and family
March 23, 2014
What an amazing man. Dr. Bird cared for all of our family pets over many years. He was so caring and compassionate. He always had a smile on his face and seemed to love life. He will be missed dearly. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Linda Cullen
March 23, 2014
I agree with the Gustavson's...it was an honor to have Dr Bird as my veterinarian throughout my 20 years in Spencer and several beloved pets. It was our loss when he retired. Now you bear the sorrow of the final loss of your loved one. My sincere sympathy to all.
Nancy & Bill Brown
March 23, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Becky Siam
March 23, 2014
Dr Bird was a wonderful and compassionate man. Totally loved animals but especially dogs. He taught me so much with each visit. He was truly missed so much when he sold his business. Now he will be missed all over again! Prayers to his wife and family. I am sure he will have alot of 4 legged friends waiting for him!
Cheryl Benoit
March 22, 2014
Our deepest sympathies to Dick's family. He was a great fun loving guy and he will be missed.
Our heartfelt condolences,
the "DPHS, Class of 1965"
Brenda Frew
March 22, 2014
My thoughts and prayers to your Family.
Bruce Lundgren
March 22, 2014
We will miss you Dick. Lots of good memories for us all while growing up together, through school and all the years after. On behalf of the Class of '65 we send our thoughts and prayers to your family. God Bless
Martha Kellam Caddell
March 22, 2014
Dickie and I met when we were 11 years old. We graduated from David Prouty High School in Spencer in 1965. Dickie, you will be remembered and missed.
March 22, 2014
So sorry for your loss.
Lyn Stevens
March 22, 2014
Dean and I send our sincerest condolences in the loss of Dick. He was a great veterinarian to all of our pets. May you have many, happy memories to help you through this difficult time.
Lyn and Dean Stevens
Spencer
Leif and Amy Gustavson
March 22, 2014
We feel honored to have had Dr Bird as our veterinarian for many years. His understanding, compassion, support, lessons, respect and appreciation for "the biggest cat he's ever seen" helped us to be better pet parents, and ultimately better people.. His appreciation for the mingling of footprints and pawprints will never be forgotten ....we are truly sorry for your loss.

arlene lapierre/letourneau
March 22, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. -
The Staff of Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home
March 22, 2014
We wish to extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time.
Legacy Remembers
Posted an obituary
March 22, 2014
Richard Bird Obituary
Richard John BirdMARSTONS MILLS - Richard J. Bird D.V.M., 66, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2014 surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Mary-Ellen Bird.Dr. Bird was born in Worcester, MA, son of the late Edmund and Rita... Read Richard Bird's Obituary
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