Worcester

Richard F. Dunlop, known to all as Rick, passed away early Wednesday morning, April 10, 2024, at Harrington Hospital after experiencing a cardiac episode at home. He was 66 years old. Rick was born in Worcester and raised in Rutland, one of two sons to the late William, Sr. and Rita (Papale) Dunlop. He attended Wachusett Regional High School and worked as a precision machinist for most of his working career.

As an aspiring musician, Rick excelled in the playing of guitar and was most proud to play lead guitar. His band "Ezmarelda" was well known in the area and in 1988, was fortunate enough to open for the Rolling Stones as they played Sir Morgan's Cove in Worcester. Rick fondly recalled the many road stories while touring between gigs. He enjoyed collecting guitars and in earlier years, enjoyed the freedom found while riding his motorcycle.

Spending time with family and friends was important to Rick. He enjoyed cooking and was quite good in the kitchen. He looked forward to deep sea fishing with friends and getting everyone together to watch the Pats; it was always a good excuse to throw a party. Big in stature, and even a bigger in personality – Rick always knew how to make his presence known when he walked into a room. He had a kind heart; he acted as a caregiver for his friends when they were down and even though he may not of had a lot, Rick would gladly share what he did have. Rick also enjoyed sharing his sense of humor and the skill of practical joking. He was always ready to give sound advice and believed you should "live every day like there was no tomorrow".

Surviving Rick is his wife Brenda J. Dunlop of Brookfield, MA; their son, Sage R. Dunlop and his fiancée Jessica Denise Nicole Tellier of London, KY. Rick cherished the times spent with Sage, watching football, attending monster truck races and just hanging out. Rick also is survived by his son, Andrew Dunlop; his daughter Alicia Dunlop Jackson; one grandson Andrew Dunlop and two longtime friends, Craig Miller and Lisa Leal. Rick was preceded in death by his parents and his brother William, Jr.

All services for Rick will be private, for his family. There are no public services planned.

Rick's family respectfully request any memorial donations be directed to the Second Chance Animal Services Adoption Center, 111 Young Rd, East Brookfield, MA 01515. https://www.secondchanceanimals.org

Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532. To leave a condolence online, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com