Obituary of Richard W McKenna

South Hadley- Richard W. McKenna, 87, passed away peacefully February 24, 2023 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on February 22, 1936 in Holyoke, MA to the late George and Grace (McGrath) McKenna. He grew up in Holyoke and then later attended South Hadley High School where he met the beautiful love of his life, and best friend, Dottie. Rich and Dottie were married in November of 1957 and recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. He worked as a Commercial Insulator for Johnson Insulation for most of his life. He was a very dedicated parishioner with his church, St. Theresa's in South Hadley, and an active member at the K of C in Fairview. Rich had a great talent for woodworking and was always doing projects at his home, as well as the big "to do" lists his kids constantly gave him. He was an avid reader and knowledgeable history buff. Rich enjoyed the beach, traveling, and watching his grandchildren play their sports. Most of all, we will miss his gentle way, bright spirit, and unconditional love he gave to all of us as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Besides his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his older brother, Robert. Rich is survived by his beloved wife, Dottie (Pininski) McKenna; three children, Mary Meon and her husband Bryan Meon, David McKenna and wife Lora, and Nancy Smith, all of South Hadley. He also leaves his grandchildren, Bradley Prentice, Brittany Blodgett, Katie and Joe Meon; great-grandson, Camden Blodgett; his loving sister, Miriam Tyburski of Ludlow, MA whom he adored; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. Visitation will be held on March 2, 2023 from 4:00-7:00pm at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home. A funeral mass will be held on March 3, 2023 at 10:00am at St. Theresa's Church in South Hadley. Please meet directly at the church. Burial will be held at the family's discretion. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Holyoke Hospice or St. Theresa's Daycare.