Richard E. Dow of New Bern, N.C., died peacefully at home on Oct. 26 at the age of 67, after a courageous 15-year battle against prostate cancer. He is survived by his devoted wife Rosemary Vogel Dow, his sons Richard (Michelle) of Sanborton, N.H. and Michael (Kelley) of Akron, Ohio. He also leaves his adored grandchildren, Trevor and Kaitlyn of Akron. He was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Barbara Dow of Vineyard Haven, a sister, Lisa Dow Tobin of South Easton and Oak Bluffs, and his in laws, Leonard and Gertrude Vogel of Tiverton, R.I. He is also survived by his sisters Marceen Nichols and her husband Kevan of Vineyard Haven and Barbara O’Keefe of St. Petersburg, Fla., and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dick was a graduate of Fitchburg State College and went on to a long career as an industrial arts and industrial technology teacher in the Acton-Boxboro Schools. He was also an extremely successful track and field coach. His teams won multiple local, county and state championships.

Just this past week he was honored with the dedication of the Acton-Boxboro track and field in his name. He was also a well-known track and field coach at Northeastern University and The College of the Holy Cross. Dick and Rosemary were summer kids in Oak Bluffs, spending many carefree years with their large extended families. His riotous, razor-sharp wit and loyalty to family will be sorely missed.