Richard Primo Ghelfi, 89, of East Bridgewater passed away on Monday, September 19, 2022 at his home under the care of hospice and his family. He was the husband of the late Gloria (Deeg) Ghelfi.

Born on March 18, 1933 in Bridgewater, he was the son of the late Primo A. Ghelfi and Catherine (Dimeo) Ghelfi. After graduating from Bridgewater High School, Richard joined the United States Navy, serving during the Korean War, followed by joining the United States Air Force.

Richard is survived by his daughters Faith Machado and her partner David Tammaro and Susan Kent and her husband Thomas; his grandchildren Tara Machado and her partner Shaun Gilbride, Gil Machado and his partner Stephanie Lopes, Thomas Kent, James Kent, Erica Ghelfi and Sarah Ghelfi; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his long time companion, Dorothy Baron. He is predeceased by his son, the late Richard Ghelfi and his brother, the late Ronald Ghelfi.

Richard Ghelfi was an intrepid spirit who grabbed life with both hands and lived it to the fullest. In his 89 years, he was an athlete, a self taught musician, a businessman, and he traveled the globe in the Navy and the Air Force. He was a man of many interests who always looked forward to the next adventure, and no matter what the adventure was, he always had a story. And boy, could he tell a story.

Richard, or "Red" as he was known to many, was always athletic and loved outdoor activities and to play sports. He played on his high school football team, was known for his water skiing prowess, and never turned down a game of horseshoes at a family gathering. During his service with the Air Force, he earned his black belt in Judo and competed professionally, including trying out for the Olympics. He became an avid golfer who often wouldn't stop at just 18 holes… 27 was more his speed, and he'd still offer a regretful glance over his shoulder when leaving the links. Having taught himself the piano, guitar and trumpet, he entertained family and friends at parties and inspired sing-alongs just by strumming his guitar and crooning a tune. During his retirement years, he became an ardent reader and completed crossword puzzles in record time.

After fulfilling his love of travel and new experiences with the Navy and Air Force, living in other countries and immersing himself in new cultures, he returned home and continued to seek those new experiences. His people skills served him well when he was a bartender at the Vet's Club and as the owner of Trader Red's Antiques. His professional endeavors also included becoming a licensed barber, insurance agent and real estate agent. Richard eventually became the Superintendent of State Buildings in Boston until his retirement. He served in his role with the same undaunted vigor he applied to every endeavor.

But most of all, he enjoyed his friends and family. He maintained friendships not in years but in decades. He never missed a birthday or a family event; he told jokes and stories, holding court in Faith's back yard like it was a palace and he was a king. You could try to tell one of Red's stories the next day, but it was never as funny as when he told it. A gregarious, self–made man, Red was a friend to many and a family man who was the life of the party. His charm, his humor and his ability to make a person feel singled out and special touched many lives. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be private.