Richard J. Cavallaro

Richard J. Cavallaro of West Bridgewater passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with vascular dementia. He was 80 years old.
Richard was born on January 14th, 1943 in Cambridge and grew up in Watertown until age 12. His family moved to Norwood in 1955 where he attended the local schools. He graduated from Norwood High School in 1961 and attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute where he received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. His ever-present drive for knowledge later led him to Boston University, where he received his master's degree in business.
He met Lynda Basler when their local church held a bible class dinner. They soon began dating and were engaged three years later. They got married at the First Congregational Church in Norwood on October 3rd, 1971. The two lived in Norwood for several years before moving to the Bridgewater area where they would settle down and raise their children.
Richard was a passionate horticulturalist. He was a wholesale florist, and owned Earth Works greenhouse in West Bridgewater. His passion to grow was unmatched. Oftentimes, Richard would put his hands in the soil, simply because he loved the way it felt. Richard would later work for other greenhouses in the area and was a true jack of all trades. Whether it was tinkering with a malfunctioning tool or assisting in the growing process, he was happy to do any and all of it. As an engineer, there were few things he build or fix.
Being the truly kind person that he was, Richard would volunteer at the St. Thomas Aquinas Food Bank every Tuesday and Thursday. On those days, he'd wake up extra early to make the rounds to local markets for donations, then bring them to church to package and distribute them. It was hard work that he was happy to do until his body no longer allowed it.
As a kid, he loved stock car racing. He would ask his parents for $50 so he and his twin brother, Robert, could buy a car to fix up and race at the Norwood Arena. He took it all in- he loved the noise, the smell of gasoline, and the adrenaline. He played for the WPI lacrosse team and enjoyed snowmobiling. But his one true love was getting his hands dirty, whether that was in the garage fixing something up, or working in his garden.
Richard was a kind, laid back man. He was of strong faith, often turning to God when he needed guidance. He will be remembered for his humble and easy-going nature. He will be deeply missed by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him.
Richard is predeceased by his parents, Americo and Esther (Tomasi) Cavallaro. He was the loving husband of Lynda Hazel (Besler) Cavallaro of West Bridgewater. Adored father of Thomas Richard and Michael David Cavallaro of West Bridgewater. Cherished brother of Robert Cavallaro and his wife Linda of Norwood, and Paul Cavallaro. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours from 9 AM - 11 AM at Chapman Funerals & Cremations, 98 Bedford Street, Bridgewater, MA 02324 on Wednesday, January 10th, 2024. A funeral service will begin at 11 AM. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Dementia Society of America.