Richard J. Learned

WALES-Richard J Learned, 67, passed away on Saturday, October 20. Born and raised in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield, Richard was educated in local schools, graduating from The High School of Commerce. He was one of 16 children to the late Benjamin and Helen (Slicer) Learned. Besides his parents, Richard is predeceased by five sisters; Sandra White, Ann Boroughs, Karen Boroughs, Janice Benware and Rosemary Learned and four brothers; Benjamin, Robert, David, and James Learned. Richard is survived by his spouse; David Bull. His sons; Jeremy Learned (Kim) of North Carolina, Justin Learned of Wales and Jarrod Learned (Kristie) of Ludlow. His sisters-in-law; Mary Leete (Ray), Leslie Savageau (Rick), Denise Neal (Mickey), and Debbie Low (Chris). His former wife and mother of his sons, Donna Learned and his granddaughters; Juliana and Abigail Learned. He also leaves his siblings; Charles Learned (Lorraine) of North Carolina, John Learned of Vermont and Donald Learned (Sherry) of Agawam, Sheila Stanley of Chicopee, Shirley Flebotte (Rick) of Ludlow, and Melody Taylor of Vermont. Richard loved to spend time serving tirelessly as a volunteer for many organizations throughout the area, particularly the Wales Senior Center, the Wales Food Bank, Tri-town Domestic Violence Task Force, Grandparents' Support Group (which he co-founded) and was a very active member of the VFW. Calling Hours for Richard will be held on Wednesday, October 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the Ratell Funeral Home, 200 Main St., Indian Orchard. Committal services with military honors will be offered for Richard at 2:00 P.M.  Thursday, October 25, at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Main Street, Agawam. Memorial contributions in Richard's name can be made to your local food bank or the American Cancer Society.