He grew up in Waterford, MI, and joined the United States Navy at the age of 17 where he spent 5 years as a radio operator. Dick graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelors and Masters degree in Parks and Recreation. He began his career in Ipswich, MA, Rockland, ME and settled in Brunswick where he worked 17 years as the Parks and Recreation director.
He developed multiple programs to benefit the community including, father daughter dances, Halloween parades, swimming at Coffin Pond, Skating on the mall and the first senior citizen group. The senior citizen group was originally located in an empty store on Maine St., but due to its rapid increase in members moved to the Old Saint Charles Church. Another strong passion of Dick’s was exploring the outdoors. Dick led Troop #538 and an older boy scout group that was established with the intent of encouraging more youth to participate in outdoor activities.
Dick was also the President of Rotary in 1977. Impressively, Dick won the Paul Harris Scholarship Award. In June 1981, Dick was named New England Parks and Recreation Director of the year due to his work with youth and his pioneering of user fees.
Dick was Commissioner of softball for the State of Maine, where he spent many years promoting softball for men and women. The teams increased from 200 to 800 in a short time span. Dick also enjoyed cycling. At age 70, Dick biked across the United States from Seattle to Brunswick, ending at Maquoit Bay, achieving a goal he had set for himself years before.
Dick leaves behind his wife Priscilla, his children, Mark and Rebecca and son in law Arntfeldt, two granddaughters Hayley and Samantha, several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Chans Home Health and Hospice, 60 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick, ME 04011. There will be a Celebration of Life from 5 to 7pm, Tuesday May 8, 2018 at the Brunswick Hotel and Tavern.
Those who wish may leave a note of condolence at www.brackettfuneralhome.c om.
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