STANDISH – Richard Alan Rivard, self-proclaimed LMITW (luckiest man in the world), 65, of Standish, passed into the next dimension on Feb. 13, 2023, surrounded by his children and loyal doggy companion, Paisley, after a long battle with cancer. The son of Roland and Phyllis Rivard, Rich graduated from Rumford High School in 1975. He was “born on skis” and spent many years honing the craft at Black Mountain of Maine. He was an active member of the Chisolm Ski Club. One of his proudest achievements was being a timer for the nordic races at the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City. He built his business Sunrise Printing and Graphics and was a member of the Windham Area Chamber of Commerce. He enjoyed sailing his Pearson 303, making many trips exploring the beautiful coves and harbors of the Maine Coast. He was an avid hiker and biker, participating in several triathlons and spending a lot of time in the Grafton Notch area. He leaves behind many lessons including an affection for nature and an appreciation for the delicate details in life – finding joy in how it smells after it rains, the sound of the first peepers in spring, the crunch of snow under boots, and of course, the taste of an ice cold glass of milk. He had the ability to see the bright side, adjust an attitude, and to deliver kindness even to those who seemed unworthy. He had a great dedication to community, to family, and a responsibility for leaving things a bit better than he found them. He passed on a love for the sea by sailboat, a longing to climb higher, and a drive to meet goals. These things and many more will be his legacy. As purposeful in death as he was in life, Rich chose to utilize his right under the Maine Death with Dignity Act that was passed in 2019 to end his own life. He was a fierce advocate for this option and wanted to use his experience to spread awareness. His longtime friend, Anni Clark, composed a song about his journey entitled “Spirit Wings.” The music brought him much comfort. His last days were filled with love and the opportunity to say the words that often go unspoken. The family would like to thank Hospice of Southern Maine, particularly Beth and Lizzy, and Dr. Mark Wrona for his compassionate care. He is survived by his children – daughter, Rachel Rivard Wilcox, her husband Burton and their children Bristol and Wesley of Union; son, Bradley Rivard and his companion, Izzy, of Windham; and daughter Megan Marks, her husband Jeff, and their menagerie of small animals of Bath; and his sisters Peggy Rivard Walsh and Patty Rivard Walchli.

Per his request, there will be no services, but if you’d like to celebrate his life, do something kind for someone today.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in his memory be sent to the

Chisolm Ski Club Youth Development

P.O. Box 616

Rumford, ME 04276

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