Richard A. Elwell, 87

10/21/2022

ADAMS, Mass. —

Richard (a/k/a Dick, Deek, Beepie) Arnold Elwell passed away peacefully last week, after a courageous 15-year battle with cancer.

Richard was born in Pittsfield, MA on August 29, 1935, to Richard and Albina (Arnold) Elwell. He graduated Pittsfield High School in 1953, where he was a standout football and baseball player. He worked as a telephone repair man until his retirement in 1991.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sandra Ann (Garnish) Elwell of Adams, daughter Jackie Kelley of Milford, MA, and sons Tom Elwell of Hamden, CT and Chris Elwell of Edgartown, MA. He’s also survived by grandchildren Mike Kelly of Bourne, MA, Patrick Kelley of Wrentham, MA, Sarah Elwell of Washington, DC, Amy Elwell of Frederica, DE, Elizabeth (Elwell) Gebo of West Tisbury, MA and Alexander Elwell of Waltham, MA. His great grandchildren Ty and Drew, Aquinnah and Deacon Kelley, Isabella Gebo, and Richard, Edward and Martha Joy Elwell also survive him.

Dick was an avid skier and softball player, and average golfer.

He is known by a generation of Adams men as “Coach Elwell.” In 12 seasons, Dick compiled a 92-7 record and won 10 Berkshire County Football league championships.

Dick was an accomplished model railroader. His Hoosac Valley Railroad is considered one of the top model layouts in the country for its fall scenery and detail.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 28, 2022, at 11:00 A.M. at Notre Dame des Sept Douleurs Church, Adams. The family will greet guest at the church beginning at 10:00 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Richard’s name be made to Berkshire County Youth Football, 136 East Road, Adams, MA 01220 or The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, PO Box 160, Hatfield, MA 01038.

The PACIOREK FUNERAL HOME, 13 Hoosac St., Adams, is in charge of arrangements.

To leave a message of condolence, please go online to www.paciorekfuneral.com.

Obituary Posted By:

OBITUARIES

Richard A. Elwell, 87

Memorials

My condolences to Sandy and the family Rest In Peace Dick
from: Rusty Speed	on: 10-28-2022

Sandy, Joe and I are extending our sympathies and thoughts to be with you at this time. We think of you often.
from: Wendy Robert	on: 10-28-2022

So very sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. He was such a kind man that always had a lot of patience for the little girl tagging along at the football field. He made a difference in so many lives. Our heartfelt condolences from The Bishop Family.
from: Beth Bishop Burdick	on: 10-27-2022

My condolences to the Elwell family. Coach Elwell was one of the best. Enjoyed playing for him.
from: Dan Pause	on: 10-27-2022

My condolences to Mrs Elwell, and the entire family. What a tremendous man with a great smile at the ready. I will never forget his friendship with my father, and all the support he gave him when he needed. What a wonderful soul! God bless Mr. Elwell and the entire family.
from: Tom Brule	on: 10-26-2022

My condolences to Elwell family, Dick was a 1st class model railroader I learned a lot and enjoyed his layout. Such a pleasure to have known him.
from: John Larese	on: 10-26-2022

My condolences to Tom and the entire Elwell family.
from: David Willette	on: 10-26-2022

To the Elwell family, my sincere condolances.
from: Leo Kalinowski	on: 10-25-2022

A life well lived...my condolences to you and yours.
from: Dr. Mary Ellen Morrissey	on: 10-25-2022

Elwell family, my condolences on Dicks passing. I was so fortunate to play for him on the Jets. A great coach who taught the game tie right way. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May you cherish the memories.
from: Dave Blanchette	on: 10-25-2022