WAREHAM – Richard Frederick Lavalley, 77, of Wareham passed peacefully on March 7, 2024. 

He was born and raised in Middleboro and attended Middleboro Schools. He moved to Wareham in 1997.

Richard served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era in the 79^th Artillery.  He received the National Defense Service Medal and Marksman M-14 and M-60 Expert.

After retiring from Massasoit Community College in 2005, Richard spent time doing the things he loved, including fishing, tinkering in his shed, gardening, and tending to the graves of other veterans.

Richard is survived by his wife, Laura L. (Howes) Lavalley; his children and grandchildren. Richard is also survived by his brother, Gary R. Lavalley; brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces and cousins.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Henry J. and Mary Anne (Bissonnette) Lavalley, and his brother, Henry L. Lavalley.

A graveside service will be held at 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fishing for the Mission 22.