Richard J. Messer, 89, of Sandwich, passed away on December 29, 2007, born on November 2, 1918 to Otto and Edith Messer. Richard was raised in Minnesota, Where he discovered his passion for carpentry and furniture making.
After graduating high school, Dick entered the US Coast Guard, where he served 4 years for our country during World War II.
When he returned home from the war, he continued to follow his love of building and started developing homes, mostly in Florida. At that time he took his trade to a new level and worked as a General Contractor and Real Estate Broker. A perfectionist at heart, his talents were shown through his work.
In 1968 he moved to West Barnstable with his new wife Albina and continued to follow his dreams.
After retirement in the late 1980’s, Dick discovered a new passion much greater than building; his grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with them and showing them all of the joys that life has to offer. He also enjoyed fishing, growing his vegetable garden, creating things and following the Red Sox and Patriots.
An animal lover at heart, he found pleasure in bird-watching and visits with his grand-dogs, Buster, Brodie and Murphy.
Just recently he was able to welcome two new additions to his life: his great granddaughters, for whom he was extremely proud of and loved very much.
Surviving are his wife Albina ( Tonello) Messer of Sandwich, his two step-sons, Dennis Donahue of Hyannis and John Donahue of Sandwich, his grandchildren, Coralyn (Donahue) Sylvester and her husband Allen of Marstons Mills, Kelly Donahue of Hyannis and Shaun, Matthew, Jennifer, John and Jessica Donahue and his two great granddaughters Jordan Ann Thibeau of Hyannis and Abigail Leigh Sylvester of Marstons Mills, many nieces and nephews and his extended families.
His memorial service will be held on January 16th at 10:30 A.M. in the St. Theresa Church, Route 6A in Sagamore, MA. Burial will be held at a later date; at sea .Donations may be made in his name to the Charity of one’s choice