Richard “Dicky†Penn, who died April 24 after a lengthy illness, was a hard-working and highly respected Ward 2 city councillor who served five terms, with the voters re-electing him four times to be their voice on the Revere City Council.
Richard Penn earned the honor of being elected president of the Council in 1992. It was a fitting tribute to the long-time and popular resident who truly loved taking his seat each week in the Revere Council chambers and speaking out for the people of his ward, that included Shirley Avenue. As president of the Council during the mayorality of Bob Haas, he led the Council with professionalism and decorum.
Richard Penn had entered politics after a distinguished career in the Swampscott School Department. As a councillor, he enjoyed serving his community and helping people.
It is noteworthy that his wife, Cathy, later served on the City Council, carrying on the family’s proud tradition of public service in Ward 2.
Richard Penn was also a widely admired and well-known employee at Wonderland Greyhound Park when large crowds would attend live greyhound racing at the Revere oval. Visitors to the track would stop by Mr. Penn’s window at Wonderland and he would always greet them with a warm greeting and a smile. He did his job professionally and courteously and racing fans appreciated his helpfulness and his kindness.
Richard Penn served this city well and with all his heart. He made Revere a better place for all residents.
We join the community in offering our condolences to his wife, Cathy and the Penn family on their loss.
