Robert Paul Ricard

Robert Paul Ricard, Jr. passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2021. This was quite the surprise to many, as Rob told those who knew him that he was made of steel and planned to live forever. He would have celebrated the 24th anniversary of his 29th birthday on July 11. However, some years, he jumped the gun and celebrated in June. In other words, he was 52 when he passed.

Rob was a born performer, thespian, and musician. At two years old, he was given his first nickname, "the entertainer," and he lived up to this name, playing roles in "Bye Bye Birdie," "The Music Man," "Godspell," and "Arsenic and Old Lace." His earliest goal in life was to become a singer, "the next Elvis," he said. And he did live out this dream—as the lead singer for a few garage bands in high school and, more impressively, the lead singer while playing Rock Band on the Wii with his two daughters in the living room of his apartment. While he loved to be the star of the show, he did idolize many of the actual stars—Led Zeppelin, in particular, and Green Day were two of his favorites, along with any hair band and classic rock.

Rob also had a passion for school and the healthcare field. He studied kinesiology and exercise science and had become a physical therapist's assistant. Rob had received a dual bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry.

Many described Rob as a free spirit—in love with the ocean, surfing, and the sunshine. Rob truly embodied the phrase, "live life on the edge," as he always pushed the limits, scoped out new risks to take, and found any way to get his hands on a motorcycle. He knew how to throw a party and made it a priority to make sure all felt included and were having a good time. Watching the Fourth of July fireworks from his "penthouse" apartment with family and friends was a favorite of his.

Rob was a go-with-the-flow kind of guy. He made his life and all that it was an adventure, even a quick trip to the grocery store with his girls or a fun night out with his buddies. Rob was smart and creative with a quick and witty sense of humor. He had a distinct and contagious laugh that will be immensely missed by all who knew him. There was absolutely nothing he loved more than his family.

Rob is survived by his mother, Diane, his father, Robert, his two daughters, Jessica and Monique, his brother, Daniel, and his sister, Rebecca. He is also survived by his niece, nephews, and many extended family members and friends.

Services: Memorial Gathering to be held on Friday July 16, 2021 at the Puritan backroom in Manchester from 6pm to 10pm.