Richard Abate, a resident of Reading, MA, for 53 years, entered into rest surrounded by family on April 21, 2024, at 79 years of age. Richard was born on August 26, 1944, in Winthrop, Massachusetts, to the late Elvino and Rose (DiPerri) Abate. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Salvatore and Vivian Caristo, and brother-in-law, Hubert Dee.

Richard, a distinguished and proud Air Force Veteran, dedicated his life to serving his country. His commitment to public service continued as he pursued higher education at Northeastern University, earning a master's degree in criminal justice. This led him to a fulfilling career as a Sergeant in the Arlington Police Department. After retiring from the police department, Richard embarked on a second career enjoying driving vehicles for New England's television and movie industry.

Richard enjoyed the company and conversations of his family, friends, and neighbors. Richard loved listening to their stories and always had plenty of stories to share about his colorful life. He had a colorful life and plenty of stories to tell. Richard was known as the adopted grandfather and mayor of the neighborhood. Richard had a way about him to make everyone feel special. Richard enjoyed his long-standing memberships with The Elks Lodge, the Italian American Club, and The Crystal Community Club, where he enjoyed card night. Richard loved to travel, boating, playing cards and most of all, spending time with family and friends.

Richard was the beloved husband of Vivian (Caristo) Abate of 60 wonderful years. Loving father of Susan Abate and Richard P. Abate and his wife Allison, all of Reading. Beloved "Grampy" of his granddaughters Samantha, Avery, and Jillian Abate(the favorite). Richard is also survived by his brothers Dennis Abate of Tewksbury, MA, Alan Abate, his wife Donna of Methuen, MA, David Abate, and wife Tamra of Tewksbury. MA. Additionally, he is survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Carol and Bill Masino of Malden, MA and sister-in-law Betty Kelly of Revere, MA. Richard also had a special relationship with his nieces and nephews, Sandra, Richard, Susan, Billy, Charles, Karen, Jonelle, Matthew, Kayce, Stephen, Ryan, Mark, Michelle, Michael, Allison, and Anthony.

A visitation will be held at the Douglass, Edgerley, and Bessom Funeral Home, 25 Sanborn St. (Corner of Woburn St.) Reading, MA on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 10:00am to 12:00pm, followed by a prayer service with military honors at 12:00pm. Burial is private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Richard's memory to the following charities: Cops For Kids with Cancer https://copsforkidswithcancer.org/donation-memoriam/ or The Vietnam Veterans of America https://vva.org/donate/