Richard Herbert “Dick” Forsyth of Newton, Mass., died on November 26, 2014, in Cambridge from several medical problems including influenza, pneumonia, and amyloidosis. He was surrounded by his wife and three children (one by telephone) during his final hours, which were peaceful. He was 85.
Dick was born March 10, 1929, in Chicago to Lowell and Esther (Olson) Forsyth. He earned a BS in Chemistry from Grove City College (Grove City, PA) in 1951. He married Diana Bowden of Cardiff, Wales in 1959, and moved to the Boston area. They had two children, Kristina and Matthew, and divorced in 1974. He married Martha Schecter in 1976, and adopted her son, Peter.
As a young man, Dick enjoyed driving in rally races. Throughout his life, he entertained a wide variety of interests, most shared with his family. After an early career in chemistry, he pursued his interest in audio recording technology, and audio engineering and electronic repair were a central element of his various jobs until he retired. His interest in audio recording intertwined with Martha’s passion for Bulgarian folk music and culture. In recent years he began singing, and joined several groups, ranging from traditional Balkan to Sacred Harp singing. He also enjoyed exploring esoteric TV, movies, and literature, an interest he actively shared with Kristina.
Dick is survived by his wife, Martha; his daughter, Kristina; his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson (Matthew, Mary, Colleen); and his son, Peter. He is preceded in death by his sister, Nancy.
Dick’s remains were cremated without ceremony shortly after his death. A memorial will be held in early 2015. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dick’s rich and varied life.
Stay in touch with his family, and find out more about Dick.