Richard F. Kalagher

BONITA SPRINGS, FL - WELLS, ME - Richard “Rich” F. Kalagher died suddenly on June 15, 2016 held by the love of his family. He was born in Fitchburg Massachusetts on April 14, 1947, the son of Francis and Jeannette “Jint” Fraser Kalagher. A prominent businessman, Rich was the Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Board Chairman of First Eastern Mortgage and First Federal Savings Bank of Boston. He began his long career in banking at Charlestown Savings, now New World Bank, and subsequently became a Vice President with Warren Five Cent Savings Bank. In 1983, he formed and incorporated First Eastern Mortgage and in 1989 completed the acquisition of First Federal Savings Bank of Boston. Dick’s unwavering perseverance and ethical practices formed strong institutions and garnered the respect and admiration of his employees, many in his employ for 25 years or longer. Respected by his peers, he was well known in the Massachusetts banking community. Over the years, he served in leadership roles on the Fannie Mae Regional Advisory Board, the New England League of Savings Institutions, and was a past President of the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association. He was a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell and he served in the United States Navy. An avid golfer, for many years he played golf daily. Rich enjoyed long-time friendships with many at: Vesper Country Club in Lowell, MA, Cape Arundel Golf in Kennebunkport and Old Marsh Country Club in Wells, Maine, and Pelican’s Nest Golf in Bonita Springs, Florida. Formerly of Andover, Rich and his wife of 47 years, Paulette St.Onge Kalagher, made their home together in recent years in Wells, Maine and Bonita Springs, Florida. He is also survivedhis daughter Kellie Jeanne Lally married to a man very special to Rich, John Lally, and their son Richard Patrick Lally of Andover, MA; and his son, R. Scott Kalagher of Haverhill, MA. He is survived also by two brothers-in-law: Blair St.Onge and Robert St.Onge both of Texas, three aunts and many cousins. At the family’s request, private services have been held. Those wishing to make a contribution in honor of Rich are asked to consider: Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL. 32256 or online at: woundedwarriorproject.org Arrangements are in the care of the J. A. HEALY SONS FUNERAL HOME, 57 N. Main St., Westford - www.healyfuneralhome.com - 978-692-6502