Richard D. "Dick" Arabia

1937 - 2022

Richard D. "Dick" Arabia

Buckland, MA — Richard Dean Arabia, passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on January 23, 2022 at the age of 84. Richard (Dick) was born on December 18, 1937 to the late Peter and Marie (Call) Arabia. A lifelong resident of Buckland, he grew up on Bray Rd and attended Arms Academy. In 1955 Dick enlisted in the US Navy. That same year he met his soon to be wife Maralyn Graves. Dick and Maralyn shared their lives together and were married for 63 years.

Dick worked as an oil burner technician, owning his own business for several years. He was also a bartender, school bus driver for 40 years, and custodian for Sanderson Academy. In addition, he drove bus for Crabapple White Water Rafting. Dick was also a member of the Buckland Fire Department as well as an EMT, receiving an honor for saving a life. He was a longtime member of the Shelburne Falls Eagles, Rod & Gun and Vets Club as well as the founder of the Buckland Riders Snowmobile Club. Dick loved to plant his garden in the spring and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Dick had a great sense of humor, always joking and making people laugh.

Besides his loving wife he leaves four children, Darlene Billiel (partner Wayne Veber) of Hawley MA, Sherrie Cutler (husband David) of Mesa AZ, Suzanne Sumner (husband Rick) of Bernardston MA, and Rick Arabia (partner Missy Swope) of Buckland MA. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Dick enjoyed time with all his children and grandchildren. He also leaves behind sister, Shirley Barton of Londonderry VT. Dick was predeceased by sisters Betty Warger, Margaret Coates and Helen Royer. Dick tragically was also predeceased by his newborn son Richard Jr in December 1959 and grandson Keith Billiel in March 1994.

Dick leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews as well, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

There will be no services per his request. A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.