Warner, Richmond ‘Dick' Jr, of Wellesley, passed away in his sleep December 14, 2015 at the age of 90 years and two days. Mr. Warner was born in 1925, the only son of Richmond P. and Winifred (Holbert) Warner of St. Paul, MN. Upon graduating from St. Paul Academy in 1943 he enlisted in the Army Air Corps, and was in training when World War II came to a close. He received his B.A. from Trinity College, Hartford, CT, in 1950, and worked in sales for American Hoist and Derrick, St. Paul. He met his future wife, Patricia Peck of Douglaston, NY (Mount Holyoke, 1948) while they were both in college, became engaged at Alta, UT, and married June 4, 1955. They settled in Fort Wayne, IN, before relocating to Wellesley in 1961.
Mr. Warner’s lifelong passion for woodworking led him in 1964 to acquire Child Life Play Specialties, Inc., of Holliston, manufacturers of the ubiquitous green wooden swing sets. As owner and president he expanded the product line, designed the popular ‘Space Trolley’, and grew Child Life from a one-man operation in a garage to a factory with more than 40 employees at the time of his retirement in 1989.
Beginning from a small collection of works in wood, glass, ceramics, fiber, and metal, Dick and his cherished wife, Pat, became dedicated advocates for the American contemporary crafts movement and counted many artists as friends and frequent guests at their home in Wellesley.
Dick’s love of nature was irresistible and infectious. In addition to skiing at Alta and in New England and extensive travels with his wife, he hiked and climbed throughout the White Mountains and Baxter State Park. He was a member of the 4000 Footer Club, and a founding member of the 'Men of Caliber’. He remained an enthusiastic trekker and boatsman in the Grand Canyon well into his 80s.
Mr. Warner leaves his wife, daughter Anne Costello and her husband Patrick Costello of Auburndale, son Chuck Warner and his wife Sally Cragin, and four grandchildren: Jillian and Amelia Costello, and Christopher and Jet Warner. His family is grateful to the entire staff of Epoch of Weston for their attentiveness and care throughout 2015.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Newton Lower Falls, January 9 at 11 a.m. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Fuller Craft Museum, 455 Oak St, Brockton, MA 02301.