Read Richard "Rick" James Sullivan's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Richard "Rick" James Sullivan

Marblehead, MA

March 26, 1952 - March 26, 2021

Mar 26, 1952 - Mar 26, 2021

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March 26, 1952 - March 26, 2021

Yes, you read that correctly. Richard Sullivan was born on March 26th and left this world on March 26th - his 69th birthday. Rick has never been late for anything a day in his life. So true to form, he left this world in the morning, ensuring a timely arrival for his heavenly birthday.

He was born to the late William and Dorothy Claflin Sullivan, and was the youngest and tallest of four: Claire Sullivan McGrath of Watertown, MA, the late Billy Sullivan of Tewksbury, and late Carol Sullivan Hazel of Tewksbury. At an imposing 6'5", Rick was captain and MVP of Tewksbury High School's football, basketball, and baseball teams, and was widely known as one of Tewksbury greatest athletes.

After “choking” (as he tells it) at his baseball tryout for the New York Yankees, he decided it would be best to learn a trade. Rick was a self-taught computer operator before computers were a thing. Because of this, he encouraged his daughter to do her 4th grade science fair report on computers, saying that “they were the thing of the future.” She thought it was the most boring project, but did it anyway… turns out he was right.

His adult years were spent raising his only daughter, Kelly. Rick was the kind of father every kid wanted. Completely laid back and just plain old fun! During Kelly's early teenage years, he tortured her by embarrassing her and her friends in public. He started food fights at the kitchen table, and would drive her and her friends anywhere they wanted to go. Unfortunately, his dream of raising an athlete was thwarted when Kelly became a cheerleader in high school. For four long years he patiently sat through every single football game and competition that she was part of. During those years, Rick was a devoted youth group leader at his church. It was there that he formed what would be the most meaningful relationships of his adult life.

After his retirement he moved to Marblehead and began each day with a walk, Bible verse, and phone call with Kelly. He was a deacon at Grace Community Church, and quickly became a large part of that community. His days were spent helping out at the church, playing golf, delivering clothes for his favorite local store, Bobbles & Lace, and spending time at Preston Beach with his family. He was a devoted and proud father to his daughter, Kelly; an ever-present grandfather to his two grandchildren, Brooklyn and Soren, and a wonderful father-in-law to Kelly’s husband, Sean.

His strong faith guided him until he drew his last breath. He was not afraid to die because he knew where he was going. Rick looked forward to spending eternity with God.

In addition to Kelly, Sean, Brooklyn and Soren, Rick leaves his beloved sister Claire, many nieces, nephews, and dear friends acquired throughout his lifetime. He now joins his parents, brother, and sister in heaven.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Kaplan House - the home where Rick spent his final days. (https://www.caredimensions.or…)

A celebration of life memorial service will be held in Marblehead later this summer. Everybody has a Rick story and we look forward to hearing them all!

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In lieu of flowers, consider a gift to Kaplan House.

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