BIDDEFORD — Richard S. Lee Jr., 70, of Biddeford, died Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, at his home following a long illness.

He was born March 17, 1945, in San Mateo, California, a son of Richard and Eva P. (Kronenberg) Lee Sr. He came to Maine as a child, was educated in Auburn schools, and graduated from Edward Little High School. He then attended and graduated from the Faith School of Theology in Old Orchard Beach.

On July 22, 1966, he married Bertha Finnemore in Massachusetts.

Richard served as a minister in Farmington; he later worked as a baker at Dunkin’ Donuts in Portland. He had also been employed with Snows Cannery and Hannaford Stores, retiring in the early 1980s due to illness.

He and his wife had been foster parents for many years. He enjoyed playing Santa in nursing homes and schools, especially schools attended by his grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by: two grandchildren, Nicholas Paquette in 2010 and Stephanie Tainter in 2014.

Surviving are: His wife of 49 years, Bertha Lee of Biddeford; three daughters, Lisa Lee and partner Frank Sholes of Saco, Dawn Paquette and husband Robert of Biddeford, and Jeannie Kibbe of Saco; one sister, Patricia Oh and husband William of Bowdoinham; six grandchildren, Kristyn, Kevin, Jamie, Nik, Kimberly and Lela; three great-grandchildren; and six nieces and nephews.

There will be no visiting hours. A funeral service will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 30, at Faith Lighthouse, 47 Smithwheel Road, Old Orchard Beach, with Rev. Pastor Merle Mitchell officiating.

Arrangements are by Hope Memorial Chapel. To share condolences online, please visit www.HopeMemorial.com.