Richard A. MacGovern

“Show me your garden…and I will tell you what you are like.” Alfred Austin. Richard’s garden was full of surprises, creativity, hard work, beauty, loving care, attentiveness, and always brought a smile, which was what Richard was like. With great sadness we bid him farewell on November 28, 2019. A lifelong resident of Springfield, he was born June 22, 1952 to John A. and Dorothy (Main) MacGovern. He graduated from Classical High School in 1970 and UMASS in 1974 where he also did his graduate studies. After years at the Center for Human Development he left social work to become a Master Gardener and begin his own business, Family Landscaping and Lawncare. Every day he loved going to work outdoors, getting his hands into the earth, and transforming spaces. In March 1987 Richard married Cathy at Trinity United Methodist Church where they met and remain active. They and his two daughters were the 3rd and 4th generations to live in the family home: one filled with music, friends, dance, laughter, and love. His love of magic began in grade school and was renewed as he presented magic shows at his daughters’ birthday parties. His greatest joy was creating the Magician for the annual Boar’s Head Festival at Trinity, always keeping his magic appropriate for a 15th century festival. Richard liked traveling: NYC was a favorite location along with National Parks affirming the great natural beauty of this country, and trips to other countries broadening horizons. At home he loved spending time with his family and enjoyed his award-winning garden: an oasis of flowers, paths, wind chimes, trees, a pond and a waterfall.
Richard is survived by his spouse Cathy, daughters Darcie (Scott) Augeri and Gabrielle Agron, his sister Mary Lou (John) Merola and grandchildren Victoria, Scotty, Abby, Kaya, Keller, Aiden, and Athena. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brother John. Visiting hours will be at Trinity UMC, 361 Sumner Ave, Springfield MA on December 11 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM with his Memorial Service at the church on December 12, 2019, at 11:00AM. Memorial donations may be made to Trinity UMC at the address above or at www.trinityspringfield.org or to the National Park Foundation: www.nationalparks.org New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Visit www.nefcc.net