Richard D. Dobkowski

Richard D. Dobkowski, 86, of Auburn, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025.
He leaves his beloved wife of 61 years, Judith M. (Fuller) Dobkowski; his devoted daughter, Jodie A. Toll and her husband Charles, of Staunton, VA; his cherished grandson, Spencer J. Toll, of Boston; his loving sister, Irene (Dobkowski) Hughes (wife of the late Robert), of Millbury; his sister-in-law, Joyce Carter, of Chestnut Hill, with whom he was very close; as well as a niece, Annmarie; and nephews, Stephen, Michael, and John. Richard was predeceased by his cherished son, James W. Dobkowski; and his siblings, Henry Dobkowski and Dorothy (Dobkowski) Markey.
Richard was born in Worcester, son of the late Walter J. and Bella (Witowski) Dobkowski. He was a graduate of the former Commerce High School, Worcester Junior College, and Northeastern University, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Engineering. In 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and served his country proudly while stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, Richard married his beloved Judith and they began their life together in Auburn.
He had a lengthy career as an Industrial Engineer in various local companies. Following his retirement from engineering, Richard enjoyed working as a tutor in the Sutton Public Schools Special Education Department and the Worcester County Jail, where he assisted former inmates in completing their GED. He took pride in aiding his students improve their lives. In his free time, Richard also taught courses at College of the Holy Cross in the former labor institute.
Richard was also a medical marvel, being UMass Medical's first patient over 70 years old to receive a successful stem cell transplant – his doctors still use him as an example to this day.
Richard was a member of the Chester P. Tuttle American Legion Post #279 in Auburn, was a member of the Auburn Water District on Jerome Ave, and was a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers.
He was so handy with cars, computers, and construction – Richard could build anything, fix anything, and would help anyone. In his younger years, he refereed Worcester Co. swimming competitions when his son was involved, and he loved seeing his whole family enjoy the sport in their own elements as well. Above all, his family always came first, as they truly meant the most to him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either Kateri's Kitchen (checks payable to North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn, MA 01501) and/or to the North American Martyrs Building Fund (please specify Building Fund in memo).
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Dobkowski family from 9:30 – 10:30 AM on Monday, January 13, 2025 at the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn. His funeral Mass will be celebrated at North American Martyrs Church at 11 AM that day, and burial with military honors will follow at St. John's Cemetery, Worcester.