Richard T. Kinsman

Sergeant First Class Richard T. Kinsman, USA (Ret.), of Rindge, NH, formerly a longtime Pepperell resident, died Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at Monadnock Community Hospital. He was 85. Richard was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 24, 1941, the only son of the late Florence Petrie.

Richard spent his early life between Lexington and Truro, MA, where he loved being near the water and on the beach. He graduated from Lexington High School and he was a member of the football, track, and baseball teams.

Following high school, he enlisted in the US Army, serving as a Huey helicopter pilot, mechanic, and door gunner during the Vietnam War. He flew 58 missions during the span of his service in country. Upon his return to the US, he continued to serve at Fort Devens and with the US Army Reserves at Hanscom Air Force Base. He retired from the Army after 25 years of service. Recently, Richard, and a group of other veterans, consulted for Owls Head Transportation Museum in Maine, based on their vast aviation and technical knowledge.

After retiring from the military, Richard went on to work in maintenance for the Groton Dunstable Regional School District for over 20 years. He enjoyed being around the students, teachers, and taking care of various projects for the school system.

Richard had a lifelong love of sports and athletics. In adulthood, he played in men’s hockey leagues and served as one of the first coaches for both PAT Hockey and Pepperell soccer. He enjoyed supporting his children and grandchildren in dance recitals and various sports events like soccer, hockey and baseball. He also enjoyed hunting, scuba diving, woodworking, and helping with projects around the house.

Richard’s biggest achievement was earning the title of Grampy. He was immensely proud of his three grandchildren and supporting them throughout their lives. It gave him newfound purpose and meaning in life to be there for them.

In addition to his mother, Richard is predeceased by his son, Shawn Kinsman. He is survived by two daughters, Tamara Robichaud and husband AJ of Rindge, NH, and Jill Kinsman of Pepperell, MA; three grandchildren, Daigan Robichaud and fiancée Olivia, Myranda Robichaud, and Andrew Robichaud; longtime companion, Linore Meyer of Pepperell; and former spouse, Claire Hald. He is also survived by his two granddogs, Willow & Bella.

Funeral services and burial with United States Army Military honors will be held privately. Richard will be laid to rest beside his late son, Shawn, at Association Cemetery, Pepperell. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: NMRS Scholarship Foundation - Attention Shawn Kinsman Scholarship Donation, PO Box 715, Townsend, MA 01469.