.
JOHN A. BOSK, INC
Telephone (978) 342-3635
Fax (978) 342-3815
FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND ADVISORS
85 BLOSSOM STREET
FITCHBURG, MA 01420
Fitchburg
Richard F. Doherty, 77, of Fitchburg, died at home after an illness surrounded by
his loving family.
Richard was born in Fitchburg, May 31, 1931, the son of Francis P. and Delia M.
(Brooks) Doherty, He attended St. Bernard's grammar school and St. Bernard's
Central Catholic High school and graduated in 1949.He served in the U.S. Army
from August 31, 1951 to August 5, 1953, serving 1-1/2 years in Germany with
Hdq/Hdq Co. 51st Ord. Maint. Group in Esslinging, Germany.
Richard was a life member of AMVETS Post 29 since 1960, served as Finance
Officer for 6 years, Adjutant 1 year, served on the board of Trustees and building
committee, also a member of The Sad Sacks (Fun And Honor Group of AMVETS),
two years as commander.
Richard worked at Fitchburg Yarn for 30 years, serving as set up man, fixer and
supervisor. Samson Ocean Systems for 3-1/2 years as a supervisor. Harrington-
Richardson of Gardner for 4-1/2 years and New England Fire Arms of Gardner for
10 years both in the tool crib.
Then H&R 1871 Inc. 13 years in the tool crib, then Finish Stores and then to Safety
Data Processor of regulations and M.S.D.S.'S. H&R LLC, 3 years as Safety Data
Processor of safety regulations and M.D.S.'S
From 1997 to 2005 he attended Elm St. Congregational Church serving 8 years as
financial secretary, 6 years on the Board of Trustees, 2 years as auditor, member of
the Men's Club, 6 years as Membership Chairman and 5 years as Secretary and
assistant Treasurer, and was a member of the choir.
In 2006 , Richard became a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Finance Officer
Jan. 2007 and a member of the Men's Group, elected to Church Council for three
years at annual meeting June 2008.
He was a member of the Fitchburg Seniors-Booster Club and served on the board of
directors. He was a volunteer for Montachusett Home Care Corp. as a bill payer
from 1996 to 2006. Volunteer COP (Citizens On Patrol) Fitchburg Police Dept. from
March 2006 to present.
Richard leaves his wife Joanne M. (Anttila-Maki) Doherty, his son Michael F and his wife
Charlene Doherty of Fitchburg. His step-sons Kenneth Maki and his wife Bernadette of Mason, N.H. Kevin
Maki of Jacksonville, Fl. and Keith Maki of Gardner. His step-daughters, Gayle
Cote of Fitchburg and Jewel Bonille of Las Vegas, NV. His sister-in-law Barbara
Maki of New Ipswich, N.H. 10 grandchildren 5 great grandchildren and nieces and
nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife Evelyn M. (Collette).
After cremation, burial will be private.
Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of his life in Fellowship Hall of
Emanuel Lutheran Church 1200 John Fitch Highway on Saturday April 25, at
11:30 A.M. Bosk Funeral Home 85 Blossom St. is assisting the family.