Ronald E. Richards, 75, died peacefully on April 15, 2023 at his home with his partner, Jeanne, by his side. He was born on November 7, 1947 in Rutland, VT, the son of Edward
and Susanna (Kapitan) Richards.
Ron had a great (mischievous) sense of humor, quick wit, and could recall stories long forgotten
by others. He was a straight shooter, told it like it was, and gave good advice. He was a fiercely
loyal friend to many, especially Willy and Ward, who accompanied him to the hospital for his
recent knee surgery. Ron was a creative builder and stone mason who, along with his sons,
designed and constructed beautiful homes and living spaces for family and friends in his life. His
love of birds was exemplified by his detailed carvings of duck decoys and imaginative naming of
numerous wild birds at his feeder. With his green thumb, he grew many vegetables in his garden
and tended a household full of plants. Ron was a wonderful cook and looked forward to finishing
a meal with one of his mom’s or sisters’ pies, especially pumpkin.
Ron is survived by his partner, Jeanne Meyer of Goshen; mother Susanna “Sue” (Kapitan) Richards of Brandon; aunt Leah Kapitan of Proctor; son Matt Richards of Brandon; daughter Rebecca Costello of Boston, MA; siblings Donna Durgin (husband Ed) of Woodstock, Suzanne Tinker (husband Bob) of Pittsford, and Bernie Richards of South Ryegate; former wife, Patti LaDuke of Brandon; grandchildren, Thomas & Cathrine; nieces & nephews Kris Durgin and his daughter Paloma, Jason Durgin and his son Rhys; Shawn Keith & his wife Lynn; and Kelly Keith and daughter Olivia, as well as many cousins. He leaves behind close friends Willy Maynard, Ward Mann, Fran Viko, Tammy Walsh, Jack Sherry, and Jackie LaRocque; longtime employer and personal friends Harold & Judy Zimmerman and their families. He was predeceased by his son, Christopher, and his father, Edward
A celebration of life will be held June 3, 2023, at 12 noon at his home in Goshen. Please bring photos and stories to share.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home in Brandon.
