Dick was a graduate of Morse High School, Class of 1943. His high school education was interrupted by his call to service in the United States Army in World War II. He was a witness to history as he served on Tinian Island in the South Pacific at the time the Enola Gay departed and returned from its mission over Hiroshima, which contributed significantly to ending the war. He was honorably discharged in 1946.
From 1946 until retiring in 1982 Richard worked for New England Telephone and Telegraph Company.
Richard was a Life Member of the Bath Elks for 63 years, a Life Member of the American Legion and a long time parishioner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He was also a long time member of the DownEast Yacht Club.
He was an avid boater with extraordinary experience on and knowledge of Maine’s coastal waters. He had eight different boats over more than 50 years on the water, with numerous adventures and explorations with his family and friends.
His other favorite activities included reading numerous mysteries and thrillers; yearly attendance at many Maine County Fairs, especially enjoying the horse pulls; watching both men’s and women’s basketball games at all levels; regular Sunday post-church breakfasts with family and friends; and Friday afternoon beers with whoever happened to stop by.
Dick was predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Betty Anderson. He is survived by their three daughters, Michele Footer of Bath, Deborah Burch of Bath and Barbara Footer of Fairfax, Virginia;7 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild; And his beloved cat, Peter.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 21, from 4:00-6:00pm, at the David E. Desmond & Son Funeral Home, 638 High Street, Bath. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, April 22, at 10:00am at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Coastal Humane Society, 30 Range Road, Brunswick, Maine 04001.
To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
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