Richard Michael Gagnon

Richard Michael Gagnon, 84, of Miami and Watertown died peacefully at home on December 29, 2019. Richard was born to the late William and Doris Gagnon February 5, 1935, and grew up in the “Blocks” of Brighton Massachusetts. Richard graduated Whitman High and later earned an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. Richard was pre-deceased by his brother Bill and sisters Mitzi and Barbara.

When he was just 16, Richard met the love of his life, the former Roberta Walton who was just 14, when both just happened to be walking by the Charles River in Watertown. Richard and Roberta married in October 1956 as soon as he finished proudly serving in the Navy as a Boson’s Mate on the USS Newport News. Richard and Roberta recently celebrated 63 years of marriage. They raised six kids in Watertown and followed them all to Florida and relocated to Miami in 1992.

Richard had an extremely close relationship with his brother Bill and they worked together as house painters until Richard joined the Watertown Police Department where he spent the most satisfying years of his work life. Richard loved being a Police Officer and rose to the rank of Detective Sergeant and he made a significant difference in the many lives he touched as part of that job. Richard loved to travel with his lovely and dedicated wife Roberta and they were able to share many memorable moments exploring many parts of the world.

Richard is survived by Roberta and his six children and their spouses in Florida. Michele and Paul Ryder of Miami, Marie Gagnon and David Mooney of Tamarac, Richard Gagnon and Denise Heekin of Fort Lauderdale, Denise and James Carlson of Fort Lauderdale, Bill and Nancy Gagnon of Sorrento, Bob and Melissa Gagnon of Bradenton. He is also survived by his devoted sister-in–law Dolores Robak and her children of Watertown and his 18 incredible grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in Miami from 1-4pm at the Caballero Rivero Woodlawn South Funeral home at 11655 SW 117th Ave, Miami 33186. In lieu of flowers, Roberta asks that donations be made to St .Vincent de Paul Society (Gabriel Catholic Church, 731 North Ocean Drive, Pompano Beach, FL 33062.)