BIELEFELD, RICHARD E.

NEW BEDFORD — Richard E. Bielefeld, 90, of New Bedford, passed away Sunday, August 14, 2011, at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford after a period of declining health. He was the husband of the late Dorothy M. (Magoon) Bielefeld.

Born in New Bedford, son of the late Richard G. and the late Theresa (Smith) Bielefeld, he attended New Bedford Vocational High School and then entered the U.S. Marine Corps. Richard served six years in total from 1940-1946 and was honorably discharged as a platoon sergeant.

He served in Edson’s Raiders and participated in action against the enemy at Tulagi, Guadalcanal, New Georgia and Okinawa and was wounded in action twice for which he received a Purple Heart and one Gold Star.

Richard later worked at the New Bedford Airport for 27 years as a member of the crash crew and field maintenance until his retirement.

He was a life member and past commander of the VFW Whaling City Post 3196 and a former member of the St. Hedwig’s Seniors.

He is survived by a son, Richard E. Bielefeld, Jr., and his wife, Diane of Dartmouth; two grandchildren, Richard G. Bielefeld and his wife, Samantha of Hull and Kristy Lynn Ward and her fiance, John Camara of New Bedford; four great-grandchildren, twins, Victoria and Morgan Bielefeld, Mayce Bielefeld and Madison Gilberto; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are Wednesday, August 17, 2011, from 9-11 a.m. in the Donaghy Funeral Home, 465 County Street, New Bedford with a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Rural Cemetery, New Bedford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Veterans Transition House, 20 Willis St., New Bedford, MA 02740.