WEBSTER – Richard S. “Zack” Zachara, 79, died unexpectedly on October 23, 2023.
He leaves his loving sister, Patricia E. Carbee and her husband Walter A. Stewart of Auburn; his long-time companion of over 30 years, Carol Parella of Worcester; nephews, cousins, and many friends.
He was born on November 30, 1943 in Webster, the son of Stanley F. Zachara and Theresa C. (Sterczala) Zachara Tadla and lived in Webster all his life. He graduated from Bartlett High School in 1961 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with honors, from Worcester State College in 1992.
Rich also served in the Army National Guard during the Vietnam War from 1964 until 1970.
Mr. Zachara had several jobs in his life time but notably, he worked at Johnson Steel and Wire in Worcester and then at Cranston Print Works Company in Webster. While attending Worcester State College he also worked as a House Manager for Life Skills Inc. for several years, providing special care to adults with intellectual/developmental, physical, and emotional disabilities.
He was a member of Saint Louis Church and served as an altar boy for St. Joseph’s Church in Webster while attending St. Joseph Grammar School. While regular attendance at church was difficult over the years, his faith in God remained constant and he would participate in Catholic Masses almost daily via television. His rosary beads and prayer devotionals could be found near his favorite chair and brought him many hours of peace and comfort. He was especially proud of his Polish heritage, listening to Polish music, attending polka celebrations and especially all the delicious Polish food.
If you knew Rich, you knew he was a huge sports fan! In particular, the New York Yankees, the New England Patriots, the Boston Bruins, and the Boston Celtics and attended many games over his lifetime.
Upon his retirement, he enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas and Arizona with his companion Carol where they enjoyed many wonderful times. He also liked to frequent Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun where he always walked away “beating the odds.” But the most very special times over recent years, were the weekly dates with his sister Patricia where they would just be together, most often with no specific plan for the day.
Rich also had a love for music of all types. He could be found listening to 50’s and 60’s tunes, country, jazz, and classical music. Elvis was by far his favorite. He was blessed to see several live performances of many artists that he loved; Rod Stewart, Kris Kristofferson, and Tony Bennet, to name a few.
Above all else in his life, he will most be remembered for his commitment to 41 years of continuous sobriety. As a friend of Bill W., he attended thousands of meetings, and numerous recovery/spiritual retreats. Members will remember him from the Tri-Ton and Serenity Hall Groups where he will be remembered sharing his message of recovery, healing and giving selfless love to so many. The way of life through the program allowed him to be a man of honor, dignity, and integrity. While his voice will be sorely missed, his message of wisdom and honesty will be cherished and carried on in the hearts of those blessed to have heard him.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, November 11 at Scanlon Funeral Service, 38 East Main Street to be followed by a burial will at the Saint Joseph Garden of Peace. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM in the funeral home. Donations in his name may be made to Crozier House, 10 Hammond Street, Worcester, MA 01610.