Richard M. Puzo, 78, of Worcester a devoted husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully Wednesday September 11th 2013 with the family he loves so by gathered by his side.
     Richard was born in Worcester, a son of Charles and Antoinette (Cassano) Puzo. He grew up in Worcester graduated from Commerce High, joined the United States Navy during the Korean War to serve his country. Upon his return, Richard married the women who would become the love of his life for the next 56 years Kathleen D. (Rourke) Puzo. Together they settled in Worcester to raise their family and have lived here all his life.
     Mr Puzo owned and operated R & L Catering Service in the Worcester area many years. In his later years he could be seen driving a Red Cab around the City.
     He is survived by the family he cherished; his loving wife Kathleen; five children, Wilfred Lamothe, Richard Puzo and his wife Carol all of Worcester, Beverly Battista and her husband Barry of Springfield, June Battista of Worcester, Lori Zinkevich and her husband Mark of Cherry Valley; a brother, Charles Puzo of Hardwick, and sister Barbara Aspholt of Hubbardston; eight grandchildren, Gavin and Seana Lamothe, Robert and Dakota Zinkevich, Matthew and Nicholas Battista, Stephanie Fabrycki and Mandy Puzo; three great grandchildren; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
     Richard was a devoted family man who found his life’s inspiration in his family. He cherished his Italian roots and simply loved having family and friends around him and in his home. No one ever visited and left hungry. He will forever be missed. Nothing made him happier in life than the holidays and family gatherings. He also loved to watch the Patriots, and Red Sox Games. He will be forever missed.
     Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Friday, September 13th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Saturday from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 am in St Stephen’s Church, 357 Grafton St. Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name can be made to the Rose Monahan Hospice residence, care of the VNA Care hospice, 120 Thomas Street Worcester 01608.
     The Puzo family would like to thank the VNA Care Hospice Staff for the care, compassion and understanding during a very difficult time.