DICK'S STORY
Dick Wolnik was so much to so many of us: a brother, a friend, a father, a son, an uncle—but most importantly, an inspiration. Throughout his battle with ALS, he remained hopeful, optimistic, and faithful. Diagnosed in late 2021, Dick refused to let this devastating disease define him. He fought hard every day and founded the Richard J. Wolnik Foundation for ALS Research, driven by his dream of finding a cure. In an errort to fulfull his dream, we honor his legacy by raising funds and awareness, striving for the day we can celebrate the discovery of a cure for ALS.
EARLY LIFE & YOUNG ADULTHOOD
Richard “Dick” Wolnik was born and raised in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. From a young age, Dick was gregarious, tough, and determined. He excelled at baseball, football, and hockey, and worked out intensely. He rode his bike everywhere for fun: to Rollie's market, to play games at the Westland School playground and ballfield, down Smith street to see friends, and to Drum Hill for food and hanging out. He adored Bowser, the family's Staffordshire terrier, the first of many devoted (and tough) dogs he bonded with over his life. Growing up in the 1970's, Dick became a devoted fan of Rock N Roll, often playing his entire albums extremely loud with his (not soundproofed) bedroom door closed. His natural charisma, kindness, grit, and hard work in all facets of his life inspired his friends and family, creating long lasting friendships with a close-knit group who became lifelong brothers.
Dick worked hard at many jobs from paperboy as a pre-teen, to working in the Lowell mills, and several other jobs. After graduating from Chelmsford High School Dick pursued higher education at North Adams State College and then the University of Lowell, graduating with his bachelors degree in Mathematics.
ADULTHOOD
After earning his bachelor’s degree, Dick went on to achieve a Master of Business Administration at UMASS Lowell. After gaining extensive experience at several technology companies, Dick began a long and fulfilling career at Oracle in 2008, excelling in his role and building lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike.
Dick was a consensus builder, team leader, and strategic thinker. Outside of work, Dick’s life was a testament to his adventurous and passionate nature. He practiced Shorin-Ryu/Matsubayashi Karate at True Martial Arts Dojo in Waltham, MA, earning a 4th-degree black belt and crediting the discipline and perseverance he developed to his years at the dojo.
Dick also cherished the beauty of New England, spending time skiing, hiking, camping, and whitewater rafting. He was a dedicated New England Patriots fan, holding season tickets for 20 years and attended the Super Bowl in New Orleans in 1986.
FAMILY LIFE
Dick was a devoted father to his three children, Lauren, Erin, and Luke. He prioritized their needs over his own and created cherished family memories. He took them on unforgettable trips to places like Captiva, Florida, Acadia National Park, and Burlington, Vermont. Whether adventuring or simply listening, Dick was the type of father who made his children feel unconditionally loved and supported.
Beyond his role as a devoted father, Dick loved and valued his relationships with his siblings, nieces, nephews, and especially his mother and father. His commitment to family values was at the heart of who he was.
ALS DIAGNOSIS
In late 2021, at the age of 58, Dick was diagnosed with ALS. Initially, he kept the diagnosis to himself, delaying the horrific news, so as to not burden his loved ones. His approach reflected the resilience and bravery that defined him.
As he explained the diagnosis to his loved ones, he was met with an outpouring of support. As symptoms progressed, Dick faced immense challenges. He transitioned from using a cane to a walker and eventually a wheelchair, which marked a profound change for someone who had always been so active. Though the disease robbed him of his ability to hike, ski, swim, and even toss a football after a Patriots win, it never took away his positivity.
Dick refused to focus on the hardships of his condition, instead choosing to cherish the blessings in his life. True to his character, he refused to give up. Inspired to make a difference, he founded the Richard J. Wolnik Foundation for ALS Research, driven by the hope that one day, no family would have to endure the pain of this disease.
LEGACY
Dick’s story is one of hope, courage, and determination. He reminded us all to put the fun back in fundraiser, always finding optimism even in the most challenging times. Through the foundation he started, we carry his spirit forward, striving every day to honor his legacy and raise funds to help find a cure.
We love you, Dickie. ❤