Richard D. Phaneuf

Richard D. Phaneuf, 75, of Coventry, passed away peacefully after a beautiful sunset Saturday evening surrounded by family and friends. Born in West Warwick, RI, he was the husband of Linda (Moreau) Phaneuf, whom he adored and was married to for 50 years, and the son of the late Roland and Jeanette (Danis) Phaneuf. 

After graduating from West Warwick High School, Richard attended Johnson & Wales in Providence. He worked as a dispatcher and office manager for Northeast Marine Pilots in Newport for over 30 years until happily retiring. He was active in his church serving as an usher and helping with other activities. Richard also volunteered for many years as a supervisor for the Coventry Board of Canvassers during elections. He was quick to make a joke, loud and funny, and much to his family’s chagrin, almost always right. He loved being a grandfather and treated his three grandchildren to ice cream, doughnuts, and endless pushes on the porch swing. 

Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter Deborah Phaneuf and her companion Lawrence Devine; his daughter Michelle Phaneuf and her husband David Rizzolo; grandchildren Lauren Cedrone, Tate Rizzolo and Simone Rizzolo; brother Pete Phaneuf and sister-in-law Penny Phaneuf; sister-in-law Lenore Mercurio; and many nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 11:00am at Gorton - Menard Funeral Home and Crematory, 721 Washington Street, Coventry. Calling hours will be held prior from 9:30 - 11:00am.  Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Amos House, 460 Pine St, Providence, RI 02907 or Sts. John & Paul Church, 341 South Main Street, Coventry, RI, would be appreciated.

For online condolences please visit www.gortonmenardfuneralhome.com