AGAWAM - Richard I LaPalme, 65, died peacefully Tuesday in Mercy Hospital. Richard was born in Pittsfield, son of the late Cecilia P. (Richard) LaPalme and the late Ivan A LaPalme. He grew up in Dalton and West Springfield before moving to Agawam 34 years ago. Richard graduated from West Springfield High School in 1971, The University of New Hampshire in 1975 with a BA in Zoology, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa and a National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship Honorable Mention. Richard earned a Master's Degree in Education from Springfield College in 1976. He worked at Spaulding Sporting Goods and Farm Credit Banks as a Systems Programmer / Analyst and retired after 21 years from Mass Mutual Life Insurance Company as a DP Contract Consultant in  2004. Richard had life-long interests in science, particularly biology and zoology, as well as American history and current events. In addition, Richard was an avid model railroader and lover of trains. He was an accomplished tennis player and tennis coach. Richard also enjoyed nature and classical music. Richard was known for his sense of humor, lived a life of deep faith and was a wonderful son and brother to his sisters, Michele LaPalme of Agawam and Carolyn LaPalme of Lenox. He also leaves his niece, Melissa Jordan, of Pittsfield, his great niece, Emily Jordan and great nephews, Dylan Jordan and Cody Jordan, of Dalton, as well as many dear cousins and friends. Richard courageously fought a two-year battle against cancer. His family would like to thank Dr. Iyer and the nurses at Sister Mary Caritas Cancer Center for their wonderful care. The funeral will be held at the West Springfield Curran Jones Funeral Home Wednesday, June 19 at 9:00 A.M. with Liturgy in St. Thomas the Apostle Church at 10:00 A.M. followed by burial in Saint Thomas Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, June 18 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM. For more details please visit curranjones.com . Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph at 577 Carew Street, Springfield, Ma 01104 in his honor.