Richard “Bruce” Graves, 83, of Charlton, MA and Alva, FL, passed away on November 22nd at Page Rehab in Fort Myers, FL after a period of declining health. He leaves his five daughters, Debra Burlingame and her husband, Scott of Charlton, MA, Pamela Lovejoy and her wife, Kim Vasseur of Paxton, MA, Lisa Gabree of Pepperell, MA, Lorraine “Sis” Virgilio and her husband, John of Sutton, MA, and Donna Cox and her husband, Evert of Newton, KS; two sisters in law, Elizabeth “Betty” Graves of Twisp, WA and Elaine Graves of West Boylston, MA; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 32 years, Lorraine (Rutherford) Graves; three brothers, Donald Graves, Russell Graves, and George Graves; and one sister, Margaret Wood.
He was born and raised in Shrewsbury, MA, the son of the late Harold and Olive (Russell) Graves. Bruce was a proud graduate of Shrewsbury High School, and after high school, he served honorably in the United States Coast Guard.
Bruce’s career was spent at Norton Company/Saint-Gobain in Worcester, where he worked for many years before retiring. Upon retirement, Bruce and his wife enjoyed traveling the country in their RV, exploring new places and creating lasting memories together. His love for adventure extended to woodworking, gardening, and caring for both domestic and farm animals.
A member of the Massachusetts Chapter of the Good Sam Club, Bruce also found joy in spending winters in Florida, where he was warmly embraced by the community at Oak Park Village in Alva, FL. His friends and neighbors there will fondly remember him for his outgoing personality, infectious sense of humor, and the kindness he shared with everyone.
His funeral services are private and at the convenience of the family. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is assisting the family with arrangements.