Richard Roberge was born March 19, 1925 in Biddeford, Maine, a son of Wilfred and Marie Louise (Cormier) Roberge. In his “Youth” stage, he left St. Louis High School in his Junior year to fight for our country in World War II. He served in a U.S. Army ambulance platoon in the Pacific Ocean Theater. He was awarded a Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement in ground operations for his heroics.
When he came home from the war, he finished high school and married Jeannette Racine, now deceased.
He was a devoted and hardworking husband for 67 years. Jeannette and Richard raised four children: two daughters, Joanne Sterling and her partner Kim Peaslee of Peaks Island, and Michelle Hirshberg and her husband Eric of Scarborough; and two sons, Guy Roberge and his wife Lynn of Scarborough and Daniel Roberge and his wife Barbara of Old Orchard Beach.
During his “Middle Age”, he worked at Saco-Lowell, Raytheon, and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In his spare time, he enrolled in a correspondence course and became a professional sign painter to earn extra money. His work could be seen in many businesses in Old Orchard Beach. As a member of St. Margaret’s Church, he would often paint signs for the parish at no charge.
Richard was also devoted to his family of origin. He had a close relationship with his twin brother Jean-Paul Roberge of Methuen, Massachusetts. He was primary caretaker of his predeceased sister Juliette Roberge after his mother died and valued his relationship with his predeceased sister Pauline Cadorette.
Richard lived a full life during his “You’re Looking Good” years. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and reading, and continued to paint signs. He loved to be with his family and friends. He was also devoted to his wife Jeannette during her battle with Alzheimer’s.
Richard passed away Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017 at St. Andre Health Care Facility at the age of 91. Along with his four children, he had seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He will be best remembered for his strength and independence, his ready smile, his sense of humor and being a devoted husband and caring father.
Friends are invited to visit with Richard’s family Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017 at Cote Funeral Home, 87 James St., Saco from 5 to 7 p.m.. A celebration of Richards’s life will be held Friday, Feb. 10, 2017 at 10 a.m. in the funeral home.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations to the Hospice of Southern Maine.
To sign the online guestbook or to send a condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.