Harwich, MA
March 28, 2002
Richard A. "Dick" Lindgren, 73, a resident of South Yarmouth, died on Holy Thursday 2002 in Harwich MA after a prolonged illness with Parkinson's disease.
Dick was born in New York City. He attended Fordham University for two years where he excelled as a swimmer. After training as a Carmelite, he joined the order in 1951 He was ordained to the priesthood in the Carmelite Order in June 1957.
He taught in New York for a year before requesting an assignment to the Philippine missions. He served in the Philippines for three years before being recalled by his superior to become the director of recruitment for the Carmelites on the Eastern Seaboard.
In this capacity, he was also elected to serve on the board of directors for the Eastern Association of Vocation Directors.
He left the priesthood and married Phyllis in 1972.
He founded, organized and developed the Southwest Boston Senior Services Center. The center was headquartered in Roslindale during his tenure from 1971 to 1984. He resigned his post as executive director because of Parkinson's disease.
Dick was especially known for his sensitivity and concern for seniors and their physical, financial and spiritual needs.
He served for a brief period in the social services department of the city of Boston, prior to being chosen in 1972 by the Faulkner Hospital as director of community relations.
While serving in this capacity, he saw a pressing need for services to the elderly in southwest Boston.
With the encouragement of the Faulkner Hospital, he opened a small office in Roslindale for himself and a part-time secretary. From there, he organized and coordinated efforts to focus the community on elder affairs. His talents for drawing people together and his organizing efforts were rewarded with funding for programs, staffing and development.
Mayor Kevin White became aware of the growth of Southwest Boston Senior Services and requested him to serve on the Mayor's Council for Elder Affairs.
Southwest Boston Senior Services gradually became an entity apart from the Faulkner Hospital and although Dick served as its executive director, he retained his affiliation with the Faulkner Hospital as a liaison to the board of directors.
Because of his efforts, dedication and example of leadership for senior citizens and their needs he was chosen in 1984 by the New England Medical Center as Man of the Year.
Surviving besides his wife are three brothers, Thomas, Robert and Donald; and many nieces and nephews.
Dick was a special person and his calm, caring nature attracted all who came in contact with him. All feel enriched by his presence and example. Rest in peace Dick