Richard D. Van Buskirk, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on July 16, 1945, in Marlborough, Richard was a lifelong resident of Hudson and was deeply rooted in his hometown. He attended local schools, graduating from Hudson High School in 1963. His passion for education led him to Framingham State College, where he obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Education.

Richard dedicated much of his life to teaching, educating the 6th graders at the Center Elementary School in Stow, MA. After Richard left teaching, he went to work as the Manager of the Fitness Center at the Babson Recreational Center in Wellesley, MA. and then went on to work for the Department of Transportation (D.O.T. for the State of Massachusetts) until his retirement in 2010.

Richard also served in the Army National Guard, embodying the values of dedication and service to his country.

Richard was known for his love of exercise, especially weight training and running. He was an avid sports fan, with a particular passion for all the Boston sports teams. In his youth, he played football, hockey and baseball at Hudson High School and in 2011 he was inducted into the Hudson High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Continuing his love for the game of football, he was a member of the Marlborough Shamrocks Football Team in the late 1960's and early 1970's and enjoyed playing in the local adult softball league. Despite all of his accomplishments, he was remembered as a simple and quiet man who found joy in the company of family and close friends.

Richard is survived by his brothers Joseph C. Van Buskirk and his wife, Patricia, and Peter L. Van Buskirk and his wife, Susan. He is also survived by his nephews Scott Van Buskirk, Peter Van Buskirk, and Joe Van Buskirk and his nieces Lisa Sullivan and Kirsten Woodruff. He was predeceased by his parents, the late Joseph C. and Barbara (Lovett) Van Buskirk and his niece Nikki Van Buskirk.

Visitation will be held at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home located at 50 Central St., Hudson, MA on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A funeral service will follow at the same location at 6:00 PM. Burial services will be private.

Richard will be remembered for his commitment to education, passion for fitness, and love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness that will forever resonate within the hearts of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard may be made to the American Cancer Society.