WORCESTER-Richard E. Kendrick, 78, of 5 Oberlin Street, died Tuesday, March 4th in UMass Memorial Hospital. He leaves his sister, Amelia E. Blyden of Lawrenceville, NJ; three nephews, Bai Kendrick Blyden of Elk Grove, CA, Edward N. Blyden of San Francisco, CA and Eleum Richard Blyden of Seattle, WA; four nieces, Henrietta C. Blyden of New York City, NY, Nemata A. Blyden-Bickersteth of Dumfries, VA, Isa J. Blyden of Freetown, Sierra Leone and Fenda A. Akiwumi of Tampa, FL; twelve grandnephews and nieces; two great grandnephews; and two close friends, Joan LaForce and Jennifer LeClerc. He was predeceased by his close friend, Jessica LaForce.
He was born in Worcester, the son of Frank and Henrietta (Maund) Kendrick. Mr. Kendrick was a graduate of Worcester Boys’ Trade School. He was employed by Clark University for 37 years as a Master pipe fitter in the physical plant. Mr. Kendrick founded a power lifting club while at Clark for students, Clark employees and Worcester residents. He established and directed a yearly community bench press competition. Mr. Kendrick designed, built and donated the equipment for the weight room located in the basement of Clark’s Athletic Facility. Known as the Master Key, he spent much time sharing “Pearls of Wisdom” that shaped the character of young men and women. His other interests included: steam engines, traveling, basketball and working as a crew member on various ships. Mr. Kendrick was a post WWII and Korean War veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy. He left behind a great legacy and will be remembered for his ability to bring people together within the community.
The funeral is Saturday, March 8th with a service at 9:30 AM in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery. Calling hours are Friday, March 7th from 6:00 until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Clark University to establish a memorial for Richard Kendrick, Attn: University Advancements, 950 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610.