Richard Francis Brunette

Richard F. Brunette 1954-2010 SPRINGFIELD - Richard F. Brunette 56, of Springfield, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, November 24, 2010.  Born in Springfield and a life long resident, he was the son of the late Harold and Rita (Walsh) Brunette.  Richard was a graduate of Cathedral High School and Western New England College.  He was a letter carrier for the U. S. Postal Service and worked out of the Wilbraham Post Office, delivering mail in Ludlow. A Roman Catholic and member of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, his faith was of supreme importance and was central to his life.  Family to Richard was more than just his relatives.  His family extended to many friends, neighbors and co-workers. To many he was "Uncle Dickie" even though he was not their uncle in the true sense of the word.  His great joy was making people laugh. He was an enthusiastic Red Sox and the Patriots fan and had a special love for the Aloha state, which he visited many times.  Besides his parents, Richard was predeceased by his brothers; James and William and by his sister, Gail D'Ambrosio.  He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved sweetheart and best friend, Virginia Thomas of Springfield; his brother, Daniel Brunette and sisters, Lynne Brunette and Joan Lamoureux all of Springfield; his aunt Norma Garner of Springfield; his uncle Robert Brunette of Longmeadow and nephews, Robert, Michael, Steven, Jeffrey and Daniel, Jr. and nieces, Lori, Tammy and Lindsey. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 29, 2010 from the Ratell Funeral Home, 200 Main Street, Indian Orchard at 8:45 a.m., followed by the Liturgy of Christian Burial in Holy Name Church, 323 Dickinson Street, Springfield at 10 a.m. Burial will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, Springfield. Calling hours will be held at the Ratell Funeral Home on Sunday, November 28, 2010 from 4 to 7 p.m. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Bethlehem House, 152 Northampton Street, Easthampton, MA  01027 or to the American Diabetes Association, P. O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA  22312