Richard J. Wakeley, 84

LACONIA — Richard Joseph Wakeley, 84, of Tranquility Turn, passed away on Jan. 15, 2025, in his home with his wife by his side.

Richard was born on Nov. 5, 1940, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, the son of the late John Wakeley and Stella (Nutton) Wakeley Sicotte.

After serving in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965, Richard met Angela Bellia on a blind date in 1969. The two married in 1970, and spent 54 years together, raising two amazing sons, Michael and Glenn.

Richard was a very active member of the church and a very faithful and devoted Roman Catholic. Before moving to Laconia, Richard attended St. Patrick’s Church in Lawrence, Massachusetts. For over 20 years, he volunteered as a eucharistic minister, helped out with funeral masses, and taught in the RCIA program to bring folks back into the church for Easter, whether it be for their baptism, first holy communion or confirmation. He was also a 3rd degree knight in the Knights of Columbus.

More than anything, Richard enjoyed family time, especially taking rides with his beloved wife, Angela. He also enjoyed reading and ceramics as an occasional hobby. He spent his free time with his family and loved spending his weekends with his children.

Richard and Angela and their family would take frequent vacations to Lake Winnipesaukee. He enjoyed being in the Lakes Region so much that in 2013, he and Angela retired to the Lakes Region.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Angela (Bellia) Wakeley; sons Michael Wakeley of North Reading, Massachusetts, and Glenn Wakeley of Tewksbury, Massachusetts; brother Dennis Sicotte; sisters Rena Dacey and Michelle Akroyd; several nieces and nephews; and his amazing grandson Alexander Wakeley, whom Richard tremendously loved and admired.

In addition to his parents, Richard is predeceased by his stepfather Rene Sicotte, and brothers Jack Wakeley and David Wakeley.

A calling hour will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, at St. Andre Bessette Parish - Sacred Heart Church, 291 Union Ave. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., on Saturday, April 5, also at the church.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.