Richard P. Weisse

Richard P. “Dick” Weisse, 87, a life-long resident of Springfield, passed away on June 4, 2020 in the comfort of his home with his family and his many books, pencils and calculators at his side.  He was born and educated in Springfield, son of the late Frank and Cecile Weisse and was a 1951 graduate of Springfield Technical High School. He went on to enlist in the United States Navy as a Surveyor and then he married the love of his life, Jeanne Gonyea, on October 19, 1957. Dick was a Professional Engineer and Registered Land Surveyor employed for 41 years with the City of Springfield. His dedication and loyalty to the city had then Mayor Robert T. Markel declare January 29, 1993 as “Dick Weisse Retirement Day”.  Never one to be idle, besides playing, coaching, keeping score and umpiring thousands of softball games – cigar always in hand, Dick continued to work part time for Heritage Surveys in Easthampton until he was well into his 80’s.  He was actively involved with the Knights of Columbus – 4th Degree, the Springfield Elks, the American Legion and the Hampden County Sheriffs Association. At an early age, he mastered the art of Mathematics and brought his love of the discipline to his children, grandchildren and several students that he tutored as a volunteer for the Springfield School System.  Always active in sports, he attended countless games and tournaments cheering on his 14 grandchildren and friends as an active participant in the Springfield Relics League and the Senior Games at Cape Cod and the Ludlow Fish and Game Club. A true patriot and military historian, Dick supported countless organizations and events and instilled his love of country in his family.  He was very proud of his grandchildren that went on to serve in the United States Army and the United States Air Force. Dick’s greatest joy was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at home and on the beaches of Cape Cod.  Devoted husband to Jeanne, he leaves five loving children; Michael and Cheri, Patty and husband Kevin, Elaine and husband Wayne, Kim and husband Tony, and Laurie and Phil; 14 cherished grandchildren; Ashley and husband Kyle, Sarah and husband Brad, Stephanie, Erica, Jackson, Hayden, Drew, Tommy, Rachel, Emma, Eliza, Maggie, Gabby, and Anthony;  3 adored great-grandchildren; Gianna, Ryan and Finn .  He is predeceased by his brothers Frank and Walter and his sister Carole. The family would like to thank Carolyn and Melissa as well as all of the staff at Baystate Hospice and Silver Linings Healthcare for the exceptional care and compassion extended to Dick during his final days. The family asks that donations in his name be made to Baystate Home Health and Hospice Services at www.baystatehealth.org/giving. Family and friends will gather and remember Richard on Saturday, June 13, 2020 from 11am - 1pm at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield.  Richard’s funeral and military honors were held privately with family. For additional information please visit www.byronkeenan.com