It is with deep gratitude and heartfelt remembrance that we honor the life of our friend and fellow Chapter member, Richard “Dickie” Spizzirri.
Dickie lived a life defined by service – to his country, to his family, and to his fellow veterans. His passing leaves a space in our Chapter that will be felt by many, but his legacy of strength and generosity will continue to inspire us.
In recent years, Dickie made his home at the Brockton VA Building 8 Long-Term Care Facility, where he was a valued and respected member of that community. He impacted and was impacted by the veterans around him, as well as the VA staff and volunteers who had the privilege of knowing him. The bonds formed there reflected what we see so often in our Chapter – veterans supporting veterans, sharing stories, laughter, and understanding that only comes from shared experience.
Dickie was an active and generous member of our Chapter. He attended many Chapter events over the years and previously served for many years as our Chapter Treasurer, offering his time, care, and leadership to strengthen our organization. His commitment to the Chapter reflected his belief in the importance of community and connection among paralyzed veterans. Many of us also remember Dickie’s competitive spirit at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. He competed strongly and proudly, embodying the resilience and determination that define so many of our members. The Games were not just about sport for Dickie – they were about fellowship, perseverance, and proving that disability does not define one’s limits.
VA and Chapter volunteer Holly Warshaw shared the following with us: “Dickie had this incredible way of making everyone around him feel seen and valued. Whether he was encouraging fellow veterans at an event, sharing a laugh with staff, or talking about his service and stories from his life, he brought warmth and genuine friendship to every room. He wasn’t just a participant – he was family. We will all miss his strength, his spirit, and his generous heart.”
Beyond his service and leadership, Dickie was known locally as a “friend of Elvis,” having served overseas at the same time as the legendary performer. It was a story he carried with pride and one that added to the colorful and fascinating life he lived. His experiences – both in uniform and beyond – made him a man of depth, character, and enduring patriotism.
We are grateful to have been part of Dickie’s journey, just as he was part of ours. His life reminds us why the New England Chapter exists: to support one another, to build community, and to honor the service and sacrifice of paralyzed veterans. We extend our deepest condolences to Dickie’s family and loved ones. His memory will remain part of our Chapter story, and we will carry forward the spirit of generosity and resilience that he exemplified.
Dick with Elvis during their time serving together in the US Army.
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