Richard A. McKnight

Richard A. McKnight, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his sisters, after a long courageous battle with cancer, on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln. He was 67.

Richard was born on September 23, 1955, in Boston to the late David "Tom" and Eleanor Jean (Fee) McKnight. Growing up in Lincoln, Richard completed his education and went on to serve his country with pride in the United States Navy aboard the Supercarrier, USS Saratoga.

Upon his return from the Navy, Richard dedicated many years of his life working alongside his brother David in running the family business, McKnight's Nursery. Upon the sale of the business, he went to work for Lincoln Tree Service until his retirement.

The White Mountains in New Hampshire held a special place in Richard's heart, and in his early years, Richard cherished the happy memories the family made on vacations up to New Brunswick, Canada. One of Richard's favorite pastimes was taking his Harley-Davidson out for a leisurely ride on a beautiful day. He also enjoyed watching old westerns and cheering on the Bruins.

Richard possessed a sensitive soul paired with a sharp intellect and an impeccable memory. His unique sense of humor, captivating blue eyes, and “that grin” will be especially missed by his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his sisters: Deborah Stacey (James Hawkins) of New Ipswich, NH; Donna McKnight-Iwany (Robert) of Bedford; and Diane Olsen (Edward) of Waltham. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews: Mark Stacey (April) of Townsend; Jessica Stacey of Berlin, New Hampshire; Sarah Iwany of Brighton; Christopher Iwany of Stoneham; as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Richard was predeceased by his brother David B. McKnight Jr.

Family and friends will honor and remember Richards’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Sunday, September 24th from 4 to 6 p.m. followed by his funeral service at 6 p.m. Graveside Service will be held on Monday September 25th at 10 a.m. in Lincoln Cemetery, Lexington Road, Lincoln.

Donations in Richard’s name may be made to Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114 at www.giving.massgeneral. org/donate/cancer-center.