PORTLAND – Richard Joseph Patrick Bouchard, 79, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. He was a man of many talents and of deep faith. He loved the arts, enjoyed painting beautiful scenes, and had a flair for decorating. He produced, directed, and choreographed many musicals while living in Florida. His six months away from snow where well enjoyed as he reveled in recruiting his fellow senior citizens to perform in the productions of Broadway musicals. He was very strict in his demands and the shows were a huge success as the volunteers, actors and actresses practiced weekly. His two favorite shows were “Fiddler on the Roof”, and “Oklahoma”. After each show ended everyone was eager to know “what are we going to do next year”? Retiring after 30 years of working for Bell Telephone he knew what he would do in retirement. He was a tour guide for local travel companies, and many cruise ships arriving in Portland. He studied and knew all the trivia and facts for Maine, New York City and other ports of destination, already having much knowledge of Broadway musicals. During his travels he loved telling stories and tales always injecting some proper jokes to set the mood for some good laughs. His grandchildren loved that about him. He loved and was loved as well by his many nieces and nephews who also enjoyed their conversations with him, playing games, learning from him, and just being in his company. He was a well-respected tour guide and was always in demand. His spiritual life was fostered early in his life by his parents and the Ursuline nuns in Waterville, which led him to seminary in Hyde Park N.Y. to study for the priesthood. Realizing he was not a candidate for the priesthood he left and joined the United States Air Force instead. He was always involved with the church, serving in many capacities. He taught CCD for 20 years, and served as a Eucharistic minister for many years. He and his wife, Mary, counseled many pre-cana candidates though the program. When parishioners celebrated anniversaries he decorated the table and its surroundings. He also served on the parish council. While stationed in Germany, which he loved, he married and had his son, Michael. After returning home to Maine, his daughter, Sonja was born, both his children were the joy and love of his life. As the years progressed five grandchildren were born, Nicole (my little Nicoleta), Ryan, twins Matthew and Stephen, and Nathan. He loved them dearly as they did their Pepere. His love of his nieces and nephews was something he also cherished. He was in his glory getting to know them at family gatherings. He dearly loved them and they in turn loved their “Uncle Rick”, “Uncle Richard”, and “UR”, all endearing names for him. He was predeceased by his parents; and his beloved grandson, Stephen. He is survived by his dear wife, Mary Campbell; his children Michael and his wife Kelley Trefethen, Sonja Bouchard Boyle; his grandchildren; and great-grandchildren Brooklyn and Kylee; his sister, Nancy Michaud and her husband Donald; and many nieces and nephews. Visiting hours at Jones Rich and Barnes Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph’s Church in Portland will be announced on the funeral home website. Please visit http://www.jonesrichandbarnes.com to sign Richard’s online guest book.

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