Richard G. Lima, 76, a lifelong Lowell resident, passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at his home in Lowell after a period of declining health.
A son of the late George Lima and the late Mary “Hilda” Lima, he was born in Lowell. He was raised and educated in Lowell and was a graduate from Greater Lowell Technical High School. After high school, he served in the United States Army National Guard Reserves.
He worked as an industrial electrician for various local companies, including Textron, Courier Citizen and Ballard, among others. Throughout his life, he was an outdoorsman who found pleasure in camping, hiking, and being close to nature. After he retired at age 62, he continued to remain devoted to his children and his grandchildren. and, in his later years cherished spending time with his family, including attending many of his grandchildren's sporting events. He embodied humility, patience, kindness, and generosity, with a keen eye for observation. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Franco and her husband, Darren, of Needham, MA and his son, Michael Lima and his wife, Malissa, of Smithfield, RI, his four grandhildren, Tyler and Ryden Lima both of Smithfield, RI, Ryden Lima, Allegra and Gemma Franco both of Needham, MA., his brother, Dennis Lima and his wife, Pauline, of Lowell, his sister-in-law Claire Lima of Lowell and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Kenneth Lima.
On Saturday, May 6, all are welcome to attend his calling hours from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Saint Anthony Church, 893 Central Street, Lowell, MA. His funeral mass will be offered at 11 a.m. at the church.
Richard greatly enjoyed visiting and exploring Plum Island with his children throughout his life. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in his name to the Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA 01950.