Richard F. Aponte

Richard “Rick” Francis Aponte, 51, of Westfield, passed away peacefully at home on December 4, 2025. Born in Springfield, MA on December 11, 1973, he was the son of the late Teofilo and Gloria (Chalue) Aponte. Rick worked as an environmental field technician, most recently with Western Mass Environmental.

A true outdoorsman with an adventurous soul, Rick loved camping, hunting, and fishing. You could often find him exploring New England’s trails, rivers, and back roads, rod in hand and a grin on his face. His love of freedom recently took flight as he began studying for his pilot’s license. Rick had a rare gift for making everyone around him feel seen and cared for—his kindness, generosity, and infectious laugh touched countless lives.

He leaves behind his devoted family who loved him deeply: brother Luis Aponte and his wife Heather of Springfield; sister Marylne West and her husband Gerard of Mastic, NY; cherished nieces and nephews Nicole Aponte, Emery Aponte, Amelia Aponte, Denise Gary, Willie Gary, and Tito West; his former wife and forever friend Tracy (Guynup) Aponte; along with many extended family members and treasured friends.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield, with calling hours from 12–2 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Rick’s memory by performing a random act of kindness for someone in need or donating to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.nowakfuneral.com.

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