RICHARD O’DEA
Hatfield, MA – Richard “Dick” T. O’Dea, 83, of Hatfield, MA, passed
away peacefully on September 10, 2025.
Born on April 19, 1942, he was the son of the late Thomas and
Christine (Yetter) O’Dea. He was also predeceased by his brother,
John, in 1987.
Dick graduated from Smith Academy in Hatfield in 1960. He went on to
earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from American
International College in 1964, followed by a Master of Business
Administration in 1974. He worked as Business Manager for WGGB-TV in
Springfield for 28 years, retiring in 1999. Earlier in his career, he
was employed by United Elastic Corporation in Easthampton.
A lifelong resident of Hatfield, Dick gave generously of his time and
talents to his community. He served for many years on the Hatfield
Finance Committee and the Smith Academy Board of Trustees, and also
enjoyed coaching his daughter’s youth softball and basketball teams.
In recent years, he could often be found working at the polls during
town elections.
In retirement, Dick loved traveling with his wife and friends
throughout the U.S., Europe, South America, and the Caribbean. His
greatest joy, however, came from spending time with his
granddaughters-attending their sporting events, concerts, and plays.
He was also a devoted fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, and UConn women’s
basketball.
Dick leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Janet; his daughter,
Kristen Strzegowski, and her husband, Lance, of East Granby, CT; two
cherished granddaughters, Caitlin and Allison; and many nieces and
nephews.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday September 18,
2025 from 4:007:00 p.m. at the Czelusniak Funeral Home in
Northampton. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on
Friday September 19, 2025 at 10 am. Burial will take place privately
at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hatfield
Council on Aging Hatfield Memorial Town Hall 59 Main Street Hatfield,
MA 01038 or the Hatfield Ambulance Fund. Please go to
Czelusniakfuneralhome.com for online condolences and tribute book.