Richard B. Fleury, Jr., was born on this day in Providence to Barbara (Riley) Fleury (1927-2015) and Richard Bernard Fleury (1928-1992).

Rick, as he is better known, grew up in the Darlington section of Pawtucket, right off Daggett Avenue. It was a great location. It had access to a couple of vacant lots perfect for sandlot baseball, an elementary school playground down the street with a basketball court, and just enough access to some wooded areas for an adventurous boy on a bike. The second born of Barbara and Dick’s four children, Rick was preceded by Cindy, then followed by siblings Tim and Nancy. He grew up in a family with wonderful parents and great siblings.

Rick’s life was spiced with dashes of St Leo’s Elementary School, CYO basketball and baseball, St Raphael’s Academy, both softball and golf, and then topped off with a degree from Northeastern University. While still at NU, Rick began his working career at Raytheon, where his efforts resulted in having his name attached to several patents – there’s a whole secrecy thing surrounding them, so don’t ask.

After college, Rick continued his participation in high level amateur sports, always trying to improve his footwork and moves with some success. It wasn’t until the Spring of ’78 that Rick completed his best move, when he married Darleen Fisher. Two children (Staci and Tim), four grandchildren and a beautiful restored mustang later, life has been pretty good for another kid from Pawtucket.

Happy Birthday, Rick.

How ’bout taken that Mustang out for nice ride?