Richard Richie Serino Obituary, Death; – A retired police officer from Revere, who tragically lost his life last week in a fire at his apartment, is being honored as “a humble family man — a proud husband, father, and grandfather — as well as a distinguished veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps.”
Richard “Richie” Serino, aged 77, passed away on June 17 after a fire engulfed the multi-family residence he occupied on Washington Avenue in Revere, as reported by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Numerous elected officials and community members from the city have expressed their sorrow over his passing. They characterized the former motorcycle officer as “an icon” within his community, who was “highly regarded” for upholding his family’s long-standing tradition of public service in Revere.
A bystander alerted 911 to the fire at approximately 4:40 p.m., according to the fire marshal’s office. Firefighters managed to control the “rapidly spreading” flames and rescued Serino from the building; however, he was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital.
Richard Thomas Serino Sr. was born in Revere to John and Louise Serino on April 5, 1948, as noted in his obituary. He was raised in his “cherished” city and spent his entire life there.
“Richie was a patriotic American and was well-known throughout the city and surrounding areas for bringing joy to people with his festive seasonal lawn decorations at his recognizable home,” his obituary states. “Whether it was adorning his home for every holiday — featuring large turkeys, Easter bunnies, and Santas — or sharing stories with neighbors on Washington Avenue, Richie’s presence illuminated the block and enhanced the lives of many.”
Serino enlisted in the Marines in the spring of 1967 and departed for training at Parris Island in South Carolina just before his 19th birthday, as detailed in his obituary. From March 1968 to April 1969, he was stationed at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, where one of his duties involved processing the belongings of Marines who had perished in Vietnam, ensuring they were returned to their families in the U.S.
“Richie held dear his values, love for his country, and good character.” Serino leaves behind his wife, children, grandchildren, many other beloved relatives and “a wide circle of friends,” according to his obituary.
Visiting hours for Serino are scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home in Revere, according to his obituary. A funeral Mass is set to follow the next day at 11 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Revere. “He was a man of tradition, loyalty, and heart — a true embodiment of what it means to serve and to love,” his obituary reads.
Serino served in the Marines for three years before being honorably discharged after reaching the rank of sergeant, according to his obituary. He then returned to Revere and continued his legacy of public service, joining the city’s police department in 1979 and dedicating 34 years of his life to law enforcement.
“Known for his quick wit, generous heart, and iconic presence as a motorcycle officer in the Department’s traffic division, Richie left a lasting impression on all who had the honor of knowing him,” his obituary reads.
“He was also the doting grandfather of seven grandchildren: Richard J. Serino, Desiree and Brianna Paradis, John and Nick Serino, and Lily and AJ Serino, who brought him endless joy and pride,” his obituary reads.
