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Auburn, Massachusetts

Richard Connole Obituary

Richard Connole, 72

Millbury - Richard Connole, 72, of Millbury, MA, formerly of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 7, 2016, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Worcester on April 8, 1944, son of the late Dennis J. and Mary C. (Palumbo) Connole.

Rick's greatest legacy are his children and grandchildren: Bridget West and husband Kenneth of Westborough, Meghan Prunier of Millbury, with whom he lived, and John Connole and wife Catherine of Dudley; grandchildren: Emma West, Cara Prunier, Colin West, Paul Prunier, Abigail, Lily, and Jack Connole. He leaves his siblings: Dennis Connole and his wife Joyce, Debby Coakley, Joseph Connole and his wife Maureen, Kathleen Senior and her partner Don Tufts; many nieces, nephews, and cousins, including cousin and dear friend Matthew Palumbo. He also leaves his companion Anita Phelan and his former son-in-law, Eric Prunier.

Rick graduated from Saint Stephen's High School, Worcester Junior College, and Peru State College in Nebraska. He received his Master's Degree in Education from Fitchburg State College in 1973 with a certification in Guidance. Rick was a long time elementary educator and counselor, spending his first few years in the Leicester Public Schools before moving to the Worcester Public Schools. He retired in 2005 after 35 years of service. He touched the lives of many children and felt honored to make a difference in their lives. He was a proud NEA, MTA and EAW member, serving as an EAW officer for several years.

After his family, baseball was the second love in his life. Rick garnered many accolades and awards including "All City Second Base" in 1961 while playing for St. Stephen's. He played for Worcester Junior College, Peru State College and the Harwich Mariners in the Cape Cod League. After baseball, he played softball in many Central MA leagues, up until just a few years ago. He coached varsity baseball at Doherty High School from 1985-89, resigning his position so that he could follow his children's high school and college sports. In recent years he enjoyed watching his grandchildren in their activities as well.

Rick was passionate and knowledgeable about music, and enjoyed talking about his favorites - Elvis, Buddy Holly, and Bob Seger. He enjoyed listening to their music in the last few hours of his life. He also loved sports, especially the Boston Red Sox and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He made friends everywhere he went and truly cared about getting to know others, from complete strangers to friends of friends.

There was so much more to Rick's life than can be condensed into this page. We hope all who knew him will share a memory, kindness or "Rick story" today.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Rick's family on Friday, November 11, 2016 from 3:00-6:00 PM in the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn. A prayer service will follow at 6:00 PM in the funeral home. Burial in St. John's Cemetery will be private at the convenience of the family. To leave a note of condolence for Rick's family or to view his Book of Memories, please visit www.brittonfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rick's memory may be made to the McAuley Nazereth Home for Boys, 77 Mullberry Street, Leicester, MA 01524.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Worcester Telegram & Gazette from Nov. 7 to Nov. 8, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Connole

Sponsored by Rick's children and grandchildren.

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Patricia Mitchell

December 18, 2016

I would like to extend my condolences to Rick's family. I had the pleasure of meeting Rick at Nelson Place School and working with him during his years there. Rick was truly a caring individual who always thought about others and a gentleman who showed respect for all. Not only did Rick enjoy talking about his own family with great love and admiration but he also expressed a concern and an interest for the families of his co-workers and acquaintances. Rick had met my mother through past association with her business and he always took time to inquire about her well being. I appreciated this expression of kindness. I am sorry for your family's loss of father, grandfather, brother and for those who lost a true friend.

November 14, 2016

Bridget, Meghan, John,
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. We will remember your Dad as a warm, loving, positive, fun loving person. Keep all your great memories close in your heart. With our deepest sympathies,
Francine and Larry Carbonneau

Scott O'Donnell

November 13, 2016

Coach, I will miss you and that awesome smile. God bless you and your family. I'm going to miss you bud.
You were a great coach but an even better friend. Thank you for everything.

Dan Sullivan

November 11, 2016

May GOD take you in his home Rick and always remember 10 a Rest in peace

Dan & Marybeth Young

November 11, 2016

Bridget, Meghan and John
Sorry for the loss of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I know Rockland Rd is a long time ago but you had great times growing up there. Hold on to all those wonderful memories. Your Dad will forever be in your hearts.

Phil Peters

November 10, 2016

Lots of love to you Rick ...Theresa and Tianna and I will always keep you in our hearts....ill miss our talks of baseball ...but never forget them...rest in great peace my friend/brother...and keep a seat warm...Phil

Eileen McCarthy

November 10, 2016

I was so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I had the privilege of working with him at Woodland St. School and saw first hand how dedicated he was to kids. He was truly a blessing and made such a lasting impression on children and staff alike.
God bless you Rick. You made the world a better place. We need more people like you.

Donna Quitadamo

November 9, 2016

I am so sorry to hear about Rick's passing-my condolences. Meghan, I am very glad life brought you to Nelson Place so that I could tell you about a conversation I had with your father when I filled his position at NP over 30 years ago. His words were so insightful and supportive I have never forgotten them, and I am so glad you had the chance to tell him that! I hope you will find comfort in knowing that I, like many other people, will always remember your dad!

Regina Barnicle

November 9, 2016

To the Connole Family! My deepest sympathy to all of you. He was such a great person, a great teacher and friend. Fond memories of my sons years at Nelson Place School. My thoughts and prayers are with your during this most difficult time. Regina Barnicle

November 9, 2016

BRIDGET, MEGHAN, JOHN & FAMILY
OUR SINCEREST HEART FELT CONDOLENCES ON THE LOSS OF YOUR FATHER. MAY ALL HIS MEMORIES BE ETERNAL.
OUR PRAYERS & THOUGHTS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU AT THIS SAD TIME.
JEANNE & BILL SALVATORE

Jim Cotter

November 9, 2016

We've been companions and friends of Rick's for more than 50 years beginning with our college years in Nebraska. To the very end, Ricky remained a dear friend to us always maintaining his positive, loving & caring self, and never tiring of sharing stories from his Y St. days in Nebraska. Oh, how we will miss Ricky Connole.

mj regis

November 9, 2016

An honest and kind gentleman, who I had the pleasure of working with in the WPS. May he rest in PEACE.

Tim Wondolowski

November 9, 2016

Sorry to hear of your loss. I have fond memories of spring/summer days on the baseball diamond with John and the entire Connole family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

JOY SCHOEENFELDT

November 8, 2016

Dennis,
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family at this most difficult time.
I have great memories of Rick when we attended the NEA and MTA Union meetings. We had great times. He will be missed by many.

Bill & Karen Daigle

November 8, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ricks family. I have lots of fond memories from our college days in Nebraska. A kind and caring soul gone to soon.

November 8, 2016

So sorry for your loss. It's so hard to lose someone you deeply love. Wishing you find peace soon.

Brian Bombard

November 8, 2016

I was lucky enough to meet Ricky and his brother Dennis, when I was pretty young through my older brother. I was taken by his personality and kindness then and in the many years since. No matter how long the time between meetings he would make you feel special. I know Rick is in a better place. May he rest in peace.
Brian Bombard

Donna Felice

November 8, 2016

Meghan I was so very sorry to read of your Dad's passing. I remember meeting him when he came to visit you at S.G.E.S. He was so proud of you . Wishing you and your family peace during this very difficult time.

Joanie Naughton

November 8, 2016

Dennis, so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family at this most difficult time.

Wendy Mccullough

November 8, 2016

Truly the most gracious man I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. It has been an honor to care for your dad and I will never forget you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you Megan and Bridget. I pray you find comfort in the days ahead and strength in knowing he is at rest.

November 8, 2016

A truly lovely man. May your memories and Love help soften the pain of your loss. His legacy will live on through you all. Prayers and thoughts are with you. Pat Dagostino

Hugh O'Malley

November 8, 2016

Rick's family and Matt, please accept my condolences upon Rick's passing. He was an outstanding athlete and a great guy. While I have not seen him for many years, I will remember him fondly and with great respect.

November 8, 2016

Dear Dennis, Joyce and Debby,
So saddened to read of the passing of your brother Ricky. Fond memories of times past. Thinking of him in our prayers.
Sincerely, Mark and Jan Chumsae

Arthur Verdini

November 8, 2016

My condolences to Ricks family, from a very old friend, Artie Verdini

Kevin McCarthy

November 8, 2016

To the Connole family. Although I have long since moved away from Auburn, I am compelled to share the following. I played in the Auburn softball league in the late seventies/ early eighties before my career took me out of the area. In those few years, I played against Rick several times and he was a person one never forgot. Although on opposite sides, Rick was always gracious and genuine. He would always take time before, during and after games to have a personal conversation with me and others. He took time to know your name and your interests. He always made you feel like the most important person in the world. I am so sorry for your loss but please know that Rick had an incredibly positive impact on this 20 year old (at that time)and many, many others....truly a great man. My heartfelt condolences.

frank prizio

November 8, 2016

I know Dickie is with the Lord. To be absent from the bodyis to be present with the Lord.

Jim Coonan

November 8, 2016

What fond memories. My mother would take us to Paine St for visits with her best friend, Mickey. Watched Rick's games at St Stephens, and traveled to Harwich for the games in the Cape League. Rick and Bernie were my coaches in Babe Ruth, and I enjoyed officiating his Doherty High baseball squads as well. Thoughts and prayers with all those in the Connole family.

Sam Alex

November 8, 2016

To The Connole Family,

I met Rick back in the early 70's where we played softball against each other. Rick was one of the nicest guys I ever met. When my father passed away in the early 70's he came to his wake.
Rick never met my father. What a outstanding guy Rick was.

May Rick rest in peace.

Sam Alex

Annette Biscari (Rynkowski/Rines) Tsuji

November 8, 2016

May God bless the many of us who mourn this loss of one of the "good guys," a truly dear, sweet, gentle-man.
Knowing that l live near JHC, Chuck emailed me, and l did have a lovely visit with Rick on October 20th. He was in good spirits, smiling that Rick smile, spoke of faith...went on to many subjects, including foliage, family, grandchildren, Anita, & the Golden Days @ NP. 'Tho a large staff, those of us "from those days" remained as family, all having seen each other through happy & sad times.
On the 30th, l was startled when l saw Rick's name on my cell caller ID, but glad l'd noticed, as he sounded less strong, and later, l saw that he'd called a few minutes before. I answered with "Rick, are you trying to call Anita without your glasses?" I had been similarly startled once before, when Rick and Anita were first together, but he had had a little time that day to catch me up, tell me about Anita & living with family in Millbury.
I feel so blessed to have had that lovely last visit with that dear friend and former colleague, and will cherish the memory. I'm sure you all know, but pls hear from me, how much he truly loved and was so proud of all of you.
Sincerely,

Dianne Pedone

November 8, 2016

Meg, Cara, Paul and the Connole family, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dad & grandfather.

November 8, 2016

Bridget,Meghan and John,
Sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Your father was a GREAT person.
Jim Groves

kathy DelNegro

November 8, 2016

To Debbie and all of the Connole Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this very difficult time. Ricky was such a wonderful person. May God bless all of you Love Kathy & George Del Negro and family.

Cindy (Lindberg) Bartelson

November 8, 2016

Bridget, Meghan & John - My heart is broken for you all. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.

November 8, 2016

Rest in peace, Rick. I will never forget you for giving me my first job at Harrington and Richardson.

ELaine LeBeau

Moe Bisceglia

November 8, 2016

My prayers go out to the connole
Family Rick was a class guy

Keith Garvey

November 8, 2016

To John, Megan, and Bridget...

Sending my deepest sympathies to you and your families for enduring this loss.
John...I have nothing but respect and great memories of your Dad and will always be appreciative and thankful for how he treated me.(not to mention the fact that he was an Awesome BP Pitcher!!!) He will be missed dearly but always remembered fondly. Again...I'm so sorry for your loss

Crystal Carpenter

November 8, 2016

Cathy, John and extended family, I am so sorry for your loss. May his presence in your hearts warm you in the difficult days ahead.

Elaine Palumbo

November 8, 2016

Sending our deepest sympathy to the Connole family. Remembering the days in Auburn on Rockland Rd... seeing him with always a smile and happy conversations as we spoke as former neighbors in town. May your memories bless and comfort you . Our heartful prayers to all of you. Elaine and Mike Palumbo and daughters Tina and Amy

November 8, 2016

To the Connole family,
I worked with Rick many years ago at Woodland Street Community School. We both taught sixth grade. Rick was not only a great teacher but also a real gentleman. I enjoyed talking sports and educational issues with Rick. My sincerest condolences to Rick's family.
Frank Capurso

Ivy Finnegan

November 8, 2016

Megan and family
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

November 7, 2016

Meg and family,

We are so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you. Please know of my love and prayers.

Love, Chris and Steve Bolivar

Kate Bussard

November 7, 2016

Bridget, Megan and John,
I am so deeply saddened by the passing of your dad. I'm so sorry for your loss. I have such great memories of the times we spent together growing up and all the shenanigans. He was one of a kind. He will be missed but not forgotten. I will keep him in my prayers along with all of you. Sending you love and strength in your time of sorrow. God speed Uncle Rick.

November 7, 2016

Dear Bridget, Meghan, and John,
My heart is broken for you. I have so many wonderful memories of your family. Sending you prayers and love during this very difficult time. He will be missed by many.

November 7, 2016

Bridget,Meghan and John
Sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this sad time
Judy Whitcher

Dennis Donohoe

November 7, 2016

My condolences on the loss of your father

Jimmy Riley and Extended Riley Families

November 7, 2016

From all the Riley's our sincerest condolences to Rick's family and all the Connole's. Back in the day we lived a few houses up from them on Paine St. off of Lincoln St. and have many fond memories of that time. Rick's mother Mickey was a dear friend to our mom Marie and would frequent Riley's On Lincoln restaurant quite often. May Rick find Eternal Happiness and Rest in Peace.

Kurt Lindberg

November 7, 2016

To Bridget,Meghan,and John
I am sorry for your loss. I know how close you were with your dad.My prayers and sympathy are with you
Kurt Lindberg

Joyce Looney

November 7, 2016

To Bridget,Meghan and John
So sorry for the loss of your Dad. Have so many great memories of fun times especially the days of your Dad and Speed playing softball together! Great family fun. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

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