Richard Arthur Kaplan, age 70, of Newburyport, died, sadly, in his home on Friday, August 12, 2016.

Known to family and friends as Dick or Papa, Richard Kaplan was very special to all who were lucky enough to meet and know him. Born in Winthrop, Mass., on February 10, 1946, Richard was the younger son of the late Dr. Louis and Ruth Kaplan and brother to the late Arnold Kaplan. He grew up on Beach Road in Salisbury, attended Salisbury Elementary and graduated from Newburyport High School in 1964. Richard worked as a social worker for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over 27 years and retired at the age of 52.

He loved high school, and was class president and a member of the Aces and Eights. This is where Richards's passion for music began. He played many instruments, the piano, guitar, but the trumpet he enjoyed most. He was a member of the Union as a musician, playing music for many years throughout the North Shore, and as far as Maine, at many weddings, fairs, parades, private parties, and functions. His Dick Kaplan Excellent Jazz band or The Dick Kaplan Band played classic rock music creating fun, wonderful memories for many over the years. He spent many years as a volunteer for Yankee Homecoming playing his music. He enjoyed organizing the waterfront concert series and his family credits the series' success to Richard's help. He started the nursing home concert tours and many looked forward to listening to his Dixieland band during the parade, and of course, his “beachin sounds” at the annual “Beach Blast”.

He was a large history buff, and proclaimed himself as the biggest Red Sox fan. He never missed watching or listening to the game. He loved art, photography, and reading. Richard was a book of knowledge. His family is convinced he knew everything. Although he grew up in Salisbury, Richard considered himself a “Townie” of Newburyport. He lived at 6 Purchase Street in the South End for over 47 years. He was also devoted to his animals and family.

He is survived by three daughters, Laura and husband, Ralph Valme of Amesbury, Melinda and husband, Michael Kouloheras of Amesbury, and Abigail and husband, James Broughton of Salisbury; five loving grandchildren who will miss their Papa, Stephanie, Jonah, Ashley, Christopher and Emily; his ex-wife, Ellen (Ahlin) Riek of Amesbury; and many friends.

Richard enjoyed life, being with his family, and of course telling his “stories." If you asked any of the friends of his children growing up, they would share their stories of “Mr. Kaplan." Saturday morning cartoons, watching the three Stooges, chocolate cereal, and trips to Salisbury Beach to name a few. He was an amazing, loving, wonderful man who will be missed forever. A hero to children, there are not enough words to explain the life he gave to many.

"We love you Dad and will miss you loving all of us."

A Celebration of Life in honor of Dick will be held at the Grog Restaurant, 13 Middle Street, Newburyport, on Thursday, August 25, 2016, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Per his request, please wear your favorite beach attire. To share Dick’s love for music, a memorial scholarship fund has been created to benefit the Newburyport High School Music Program for the purchasing of trumpets for students with a passion for music. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Richard Kaplan Instrument Scholarship Fund, c/o Newburyport High School, 241 High Street, Newburyport, MA 01950 or to https://www.gofundme.com/kaplantrumpets. Arrangements are by Elliott, Woodworth & Rogers Family Funeral Home, 35 Green Street, Newburyport.