Richard A. Gunzelmann

WESTERLY - Richard A. Gunzelmann, of Westerly, passed away peacefully at Westerly Hospital on Friday, August 8, 2025. He was 81.

Born in Concord, Massachusetts July 19th , 1944, Richard was the only child of the late Richard and Clara Gunzelmann.

Richard was the beloved husband of Virginia (Lawson) Gunzelmann. They met in the summer of 1968 and got engaged only 2 months later. They were married for 56 years. Richard enjoyed a long career as an Industrial Arts Teacher for the Acton-Boxborough School System in Massachusetts. He also served as a police officer and EMT in Ashby, MA. In their later years, Dick and Ginny enjoyed their retirement living in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, and Florida, eventually settling in Rhode Island to be near their grandchildren.

Richard had many hobbies over the years, such as boating, fishing, archery, and motorcycles. He had a passion for designing and building things by hand, and over his lifetime he created countless treasures including furniture, guitars, knives, fishing rods and kites.

In addition to his wife, Richard leaves his daughter, Elise Poquette, her husband Todd, granddaughters Keira and Violet, and his faithful cat, Scoochie. Richard will be remembered by his friends and family for his quiet, gentle spirit and his subtle humor. He will be greatly missed by all.

The family will host a 'Celebration of Life' memorial service for Richard at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St, Westerly at a future date and time, to be announced. Please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com for more information and online condolences.