Richard grew up in Pawtucket, RI and graduated from St. Raphael Academy. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Brown University. While at Brown he started ROTC and after graduation served 4 years with the US Navy and rose to the rank of Lieutenant J.G. After he was discharged he began working for the Department of Defense. During this time he was able to work at the Pentagon with Commander Dr. Grace Hopper and the two formed a lifelong friendship.
One night while dance hopping Richard ended up at a dance hosted by the Neuman Club. It was late and the dance was almost over. From across the room he spotted Terry dancing with another man and he decided at that moment he was going to dance with her. He politely cut in and their dance never stopped for the next 64 years. They were married on March 23, 1959. They lived for 30+ years in Reston, VA and settled in Colorado in 2019.
Richard was an avid sailor and loved sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. Huge Boston Red Socks fan and enjoyed dabbling in the stock market. His biggest passion was his family. Whether telling a dad joke or just spending time with the grandkids. He loved getting together for holiday and celebrating birthdays as a family and will be remembered for his famous Goodbye High-Five!
Richard is survived by his wife, Terry Fredette; his daughter Karin Nicotra (Vincent); and his daughter-in-law Cindy Fredette; his grandson Logan Nicotra (Kayla), his granddaughter Talia Fredette, his granddaughter Caroline Nicotra and his granddaughter Jaime Fredette.
Richard was preceded in death by his son Steven R. Fredette and his son Gregory R. Fredette.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.OlingerAndrews.com for the Fredette family.
