Richard "Grampy" Boch, Sr.
Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Friend
1929 – 2025
Richard Boch, beloved patriarch of the Boch family and a visionary in the automotive industry, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on April 18, 2025. Known affectionately as "Grampy," he was the kind of grandfather everyone wished they had—devoted, generous, and larger than life.
Richard was a cornerstone of Boch Automotive, helping build and lead one of the most recognized and successful automotive groups in New England. Through hard work, grit, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence, he played a major role in shaping the dealership into a household name. His passion for the business was matched by his leadership, integrity, and ability to connect with people—from customers to coworkers to competitors. He was respected not just for what he accomplished, but for how he did it.
After retiring, Richard turned his focus to what mattered most: family, and friends. He built a family home in Newbury, Vermont, where for over 40 years, generations of Bochs have gathered to celebrate life together. Whether it was riding the six-wheeler, helping with the garden, snowmobiling, boating, skiing, dirt biking, or riding tractors, Grampy made sure the grandkids always had something fun to do.
He was legendary for his 4th of July parties, where his inner pyromaniac lit up the skies with firework shows that matched his larger-than-life personality. He also had a deep love for gardening and classic cars—always finding joy in both the quiet beauty of the natural world and the craftsmanship of a timeless engine.
Grampy was madly in love with his wife, Adele—the love of his life and the heart of the family. Their marriage was a shining example of devotion, partnership, and joy.
Richard lived by the motto NEVER QUIT, a value passed down from his father, whose words still echo through the family: "Be clean, be courteous, be square." Those three words guided him in business, in life, and in love. And remember "a man is only as good as his word."
He is survived by Adele Boch his four children Richard JR, David, Margo and Robert 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren
A celebration of Richard's life will be held June 11th from 12-3pm at the Olde Colonial Cafe, 171 Nahaton Street, Norwood, MA. All who loved him are welcome to attend.