Richard Jon Rossman

Richard Jon Rossman, 83, died suddenly and peacefully on January 31, 2023.

Richard was born in College Point, NY to Elsie (Deisinger) and James Rossman. Dick married his childhood sweetheart, Barbara Jane (Beach) and enjoyed 63 years of laughter and adventure together. He graduated from LaSalle Academy and later obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree from C. W. Post College and a Master of Science from Adelphi University. After working in metallurgy for Grumman along with extra hours on the Apollo Lunar Module, Dick joined the Patchogue-Medford School District teaching Earth Science. During the 1970’s energy crisis, Barbara and Dick started “The Woodbox” a local store selling wood- and coal-burning stoves. After moving to West Brookfield, MA they started “The Post and Boot”, an eclectic shop out of their historic barn. Richard served as chairman of the West Brookfield Historical Commission for 24 years and was a founding member of Browse the Brookfields and White Christmas committees.

Richard is survived by his wife, Barbara Jane (Beach); son, Drew Rossman and Rosemary Davidson of Charlotte, NC; and son, Jon Rossman and Kathryn Rossman of Chelmsford, MA.  Dick was deeply loved by his grandchildren, Jennifer Rossman, Bryan Rossman and Jacquelyn (Meyers) Rossman, Kimberly (Rossman) Kelly and Chad Kelly, and Matthew Rossman.  His great-grandchildren, Meghan, Stephanie, and Camden made him laugh. Dick was admired by nephews, Glenn and Brian Rossman.

A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the East Quabbin Land Trust (www.eqlt.org) or Gbarnga Mission (www.gbarngamission.org).

Varnum Funeral Home, Inc., 43 East Main St., in West Brookfield is assisting his family with arrangements. 

An online guest book is available at varnumfuneralhome.com

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