Richard J. Wolnik

Richard "Dick" John Wolnik, 61, of Derry NH, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his devoted children on July 15 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Born in Lowell, MA, he grew up in Chelmsford, MA and was the beloved son of Vera (Archinski) Wolnik of North Andover, MA and the late Stanley Wolnik. He is also survived by his three loving children, Lauren, Erin and Luke Wolnik and the mother of his children, Leigh Wolnik. He leaves his siblings Valerie Gardner of Chelmsford, MA, Stephen Wolnik of Worcester, MA, Michael Wolnik and his wife Lisa Wolnik of North Andover, MA, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Andrea Wolnik. He also leaves several longtime friends who remained close with Dick throughout his battle with ALS.
Dick graduated from Chelmsford High School with the Class of 1980 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master's in Business Administration from UMass Lowell.
Dick was an avid Boston sports fan and a New England Patriots season ticket holder since the 1980's. He studied Martial arts and held a 4 degree Black Belt in Shorin-Ryu/Matsubayashi Karate under Sensi James True of True Martial Arts Dojo. He also enjoyed hiking, skiing and visiting the oceans and mountains, most especially with his children, who brought him immeasurable joy and happiness. Whether it was on their many road trips and vacations, sharing a meal together or watching a Patriots game, he loved being around them. He was incredibly proud of his children all throughout their lives and most especially how they cared for him during his battle with ALS.
He will be remembered as the most loving and caring Dad to his children. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Richard J. Wolnik Foundation for ALS Research, 9 Wharf Drive Groveland, MA 01834. Dick was a passionate advocate to raise awareness and to find a cure for ALS.
Visiting hours Tuesday, July 23, 2024 from 4-7 P.M. Funeral Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at 10 A.M. from the DOLAN FUNERAL HOME, 106 MIDDLESEX STREET, N. CHELMSFORD, MA with a Funeral Mass at 11 A.M. at St. John the Evangelist Church in N. Chelmsford. Burial in Pine Ridge Cemetery in Chelmsford. ARRANGEMENTS BY DOLAN FUNERAL HOME 978-251-4041. Guestbook at www.dolanfuneralhome.com.