Richard A. “Doc” Eldridge, 65, of Sandwich, MA. formerly of Woonsocket, died Sunday at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
Born in Woonsocket, he was a son of the late Henry and Irene (Girard) Eldridge. He was a graduate of Woonsocket High School.
Mr. Eldridge was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Following his naval service he lived in Pittsburgh for several years until returning to Woonsocket.
Mr. Eldridge served as a Woonsocket firefighter for over 20 years. He retired with the rank of Captain in 1996. Following his retirement he resided in Sandwich, MA.
Mr. Eldridge was a life member of the Circle Laurier and the Woonsocket B.P.O. E. Lodge 850. He was also a member of the American Legion.
Doc had many talents and interests including wood working, building and repair work, and fishing. He was a voracious reader and enjoyed the challenge of his crossword puzzles.
A man with a strong work ethic in addition his career on the fire department he operated several businesses including building contracting, tool sharpening and chimney cleaning.
Doc will be remembered for his own unique sense of humor and his bits of wisdom known to family and friends as “Elderisms”.
Doc is survived by his companion Joan Syby of Sandwich, his former wife Louise (Gagnon) Eldridge of NH, a son Paul H. Eldridge (Smithfield Fire Dept.), and his wife Jessica, of Smithfield, a daughter Melissa J. Snyder of New Hudson, Michigan, a sister Linda Eldridge of Woonsocket. He was the proud grandfather of Aspen and Vivienne Snyder.
His Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday at 11:00 am in Precious Blood Church, Carrington Ave., Woonsocket. Burial in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne will be private at a later date. Visiting hours are omitted. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Woonsocket Firefighters Relief Association P.O. Box 395 Woonsocket, RI. 02895.
Arrangements are by the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave., Woonsocket.
www.menardfuneralhome.com