Richard D. Primak, 57, Taught at Temple Emanu-El

Richard D. Primak, 57, passed away unexpectedly on March 1 while vacationing in Miami, Fla.

Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Samuel and Adele (Norse) Primak. Raised and educated in Milton, Primak attended Milton High School, Class of 1978. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Curry College in Milton and his Master’s Degree from Boston College. He was employed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for many years.

Primak was devoted to his work and was passionate about helping the people he served. Over the years, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others any way he could. Known as a generous, charitable, patient and kind man, he befriended any and all. Having a strong faith, he taught many children at Temple Emanu-El in Haverhill. Primak enjoyed hosting Passover Seders at his home, St. James Church and with Sister Rosa Sofia Toledo and the Mission Helpers of the Sacred Heart at their convent in Baltimore, Md. Family was important to him. He loved traveling, especially enjoyed traveling to Ireland and Israel with his son Ben. He loved to go shopping and out to dinner with his daughter Rachel. He will be remembered for his gentle and loving spirit and will be missed by all who knew him.

Primak is survived by his children, Benjamin Primak of Los Angeles, Calif., Rachel Primak of Haverhill, one grandchild, his life partner Mary Ruth of Haverhill, brother Jeffrey Primak of Baltimore, Md., sister-in-law Lori Primak of Israel and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Frederick Primak and mother-in-law Minnie Illingworth.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Friday, March 16 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill. Funeral services will follow in the funeral home at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to Mission Helpers of the Sacred Heart, 1001 West Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21204.