Richard Proia, 1960–2025, was ‘an entrepreneur at heart’

Richard “Richie” Proia, of Waltham, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family early Tuesday morning, Dec. 16 2025 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was 65.

Born on Feb. 26 1960 in Newton, Richie was the son of the late Pasquale “Pat” Proia and Rose (DeFazio) Proia. He was raised in Newton, where he resided for many years before moving to Waltham 18 years ago.

A graduate of Newton North High School class of 1978, Richie furthered his education at Dean College. Innovative and progressive by nature and always full of ideas, he was truly an entrepreneur at heart. Intense, fast-moving and creative, Richie loved developing new ideas and working with others to bring them to life. He began his career owning and operating several laundromats before joining the family business as a ticket broker at Pat’s Ticket Center in Waltham. Using his many talents, he helped propel the business forward and later established Rose Limousine Service as an added feature to the family enterprise.

Athletic and competitive, Richie was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in football and basketball. He also enjoyed fishing, swimming and playing basketball with neighborhood kids. Above all, he had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved dogs.

Richie is survived by the love of his life and wife of 22 years, Rosemary (Martino) Proia; his devoted siblings David Proia and his wife Sharon of Waltham, Linda Calleva and her husband Christopher of Waltham, and Patricia Murray and her husband James of Waltham. He was the cherished uncle of David A. Proia, Daniel D. Proia (Jamie), Nicole M. Proia, Alicia M. DiDino, Domenique R. DiDino, Christopher S. Calleva, Jr., Louis DiDino II, Catherine Murray (Edward), Laura Murray (Nick), and the late Stephen Proia; and the proud great-uncle of James, Eddie, and Morgan.

Those who wish to pay their respects to Richie and his family can do so in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody Street, Waltham on Sunday afternoon Dec. 21 from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. followed by a funeral service in celebration of Richie’s Life at 2 p.m. Family and Friends are welcome to gather at the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, on Monday afternoon at 12 p.m. for a procession to Mount Feake Cemetery for the committal services in celebration of Richie’s Life.