Richard M. Mara, of Indian Trail, NC, formerly of Melrose, died at the Thomasville Hospital in Thomasville, NC on Dec. 29, 2013 at the age of 79. Richard was born in Boston and a graduate of Christopher Columbus High School in Boston. He served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War and resided in Melrose for 30 years, Tewksbury for 30 years, Maine for 17 years and the past several years in NC. Richard worked as an Electrical Engineer for Anro Engineering before his retirement at the age of 62. He was coach for little league & also Squirts hockey in Tewksbury and played hockey until the age of 45. Richard was very proud of several patents that he had from his professional career. Richard was the beloved husband of Lois A. (Herland) Mara. Loving father of R. Michael Mara Jr. & his wife Cheryl, Karen E. Cross and the late Al J. Mara & his wife Janice. Devoted son of the late Mary B. Carpenter. Caring brother of Bette Delaney, Marion Sheridan and Lucille Malenchini. Cherished grandfather of 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and many nieces & nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Friday, Jan. 10th at 9AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary's Church at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited at attend. Visiting hours on Thursday from 4-8PM. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.