Richard Norcross

Richard W Norcross of Arlington Dec. 7, 2023. Son of the late Warren F. and Mildred L. Norcross. Beloved husband of the late Ruth Ann (Sanborn) Norcross. Brother of the late Elizabeth J. Bell. He is survived by his niece Joanne Bell of Waltham and nephew James Bell of Bellingham. 

Richard was a graduate of Waltham High School, UMass Amherst and Boston University. He was a retired Social Worker for over 30 years with the Mass Rehabilitation Commission.  He was also a tutor for 12 years at the public schools in Charlestown, MA. Richard loved to ice skate and did so for many years at the Boston Skating Club.  This is where he met his wife Ruth and many of their longtime friends.  

Richard was very involved with the American Youth Hostel program.  For 7 years he was the President of the Greater Boston Council of AYH.  He co-founded the Boston City Hostel.  As a volunteer he led over 300 days of extended bike trips over a 25-year period for AYH. For 10 years he co-led the Youth Opportunities program with the AYH.

Richard was an avid bike rider and involved in many local area bike clubs.  He founded the “Big Event” which was a biannual used bike and accessories sale among local bike clubs, and he served as a member of the New England Area Rally event with several bike clubs in MA and NH from 1982 - 2000.

With their love for traveling, Richard and his wife Ruth went on many escorted tours in the U.S. and other countries throughout the world.   

In lieu of funeral services, and to honor Richard’s character, we ask that all who wish to participate make a donation to a charity of their choice in Richard’s memory.

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