Richard Ward Cleveland, 79, of Dartmouth, passed away unexpectedly at St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family on February 24 after a period of declining health.

Cleveland is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Paulette; his son, Michael Cleveland and his wife Pamela of Dartmouth; daughters, Theresa Cleveland of Dartmouth, and JoAnne Mosher and her husband Christopher of Scarborough, ME. He is also survived by loving grandchildren Jillian and Mitchell Cleveland, Mason Cleveland Pereira, and Julia and Abigail Mosher, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Nelson and Edith (Ward) Cleveland, his daughter, Cheryl Ann, and his brother, David.

Born in New Bedford, Cleveland grew up in Fairhaven, attended Fairhaven public schools, was a graduate of the New Hampton School in New Hampshire, and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology.

He loved his family and was happiest spending time with them and sharing his great sense of humor.

He was a sports enthusiast and lifelong fan of the New York Giants. He coached his children’s baseball and basketball teams, was a golfer and former member of the Country Club of New Bedford, and a parishioner of St. Julie Billiart Parish in Dartmouth.

He was the owner and president of his family's business, American Press, Inc. of New Bedford until his retirement. He also volunteered as an advisor to the printing program at the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational High School.

His funeral was held on February 28. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Cleveland’s name to the Boston Children’s Hospital or a charity of their choice.

For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.