Richard J. Morse

RUTLAND — Richard J. Morse, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus in Worcester.

Born in Worcester, Dick was the son of the late Kenneth E. and Lillian A. (Morton) Morse. He attended Worcester public schools and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School. During his junior year, he met the love of his life, Sandy Thompson. He enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly served for seven years, two years aboard the USS Norris as a Second-Class Machinist’s Mate.

Dick and Sandy were married in 1964 at Saint Patrick’s Church in Rutland, beginning their life together. He continued his education at Worcester Junior College, earning an associate degree, and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in business from Clark University, a Master of Business Administration from Anna Maria College, and a certificate in management from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Dick and Sandy made their home in Rutland, where they raised their family and created a life centered on love, hard work, and togetherness. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Sandy Morse of Rutland; his children, Richard P. Morse of Rutland, Cynthia J. Michaud and her husband David of Winchendon, and Donna M. Krukonis and her husband Stephen of Charlton. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren, Jack, Payton, and Olivia Krukonis, and Hannah, Nathaniel, and Emily Michaud; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by his siblings, Kenneth, Arthur, and Robert Morse, and Lillian Counihan.

Richard was a kind hearted and generous man who would help anyone in need. He was always active, never one to sit still, and found his greatest joy in the outdoors and in the company of those he loved. He enjoyed golfing as a longtime member of Quail Hollow Country Club, as well as hunting, fishing, and gardening. Some of his most treasured moments were spent hunting and fishing with his son Rich, who was also his best friend.

He appreciated life’s simple pleasures, a cold beer, the warmth of the sun on his face at the ocean, and time spent with family and friends. Family vacations were especially meaningful, with cherished trips to Myrtle Beach, as well as travels to Aruba and St. Pete Beach with Sandy and close friends. Above all, Dick’s greatest happiness came from being with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Calling Hour on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Saint Patrick’s Church, 258 Main Street, Rutland. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dick’s name may be made to Children’s Hospital Trust, 138 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446, or to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.