Community Remembers Richard McRell

Richard J. McRell, 83, a lifelong resident of Clinton, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at Clinton Hospital on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2013. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Betty Ann (McMahon) McRell, who died in 2000.

He is survived by his children and their spouses, Richard J. McRell Jr. and Lisa; Kelly A. McRell-LaBrack and Kenneth; and Louis G. “Sam” McRell and Megan, all of Clinton; John J. McRell of Sterling; and David Stockwell and Kerry of Clinton. He leaves two siblings and their spouses, Louis R. McRell and Eileen of Clinton, and Nancy Davidian and Edward of Northborough; eight grandchildren, his companion, Sheila Sablock of Clinton; several nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Richard was born in Clinton to the late Louis and Anna (Sonia) McRell. He attended local schools and enlisted to proudly serve our nation in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He returned home and began his lifelong career of service to the Town of Clinton as a firefighter with the Clinton Fire Department. Upon retirement, he successfully owned and operated McRell Rubbish Removal & Trucking in Clinton for many years.

Dick volunteered time and efforts to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Jimmy Fund and St. Jude Children’s Hospital. He was a communicant at St. Benedict Abbey in Still River, and held membership with the Clinton Elks. Dick will be forever remembered for his hard work and dedication to his family, faith, and community.

Funeral services are to be held on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013, from the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m. in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton. Calling hours will be held in the funeral home from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2013. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Richard J. McRell to Clinton Hospital Foundation, 201 Highland St., Clinton, MA 01510. Online condolences may be placed at www.philbincomeaufh.com.