Caton's 30 years of service to police department remembered

In observance of 30 years of service by the late Richard Caton III, Farmington Police Department's beloved chief who passed away in July, Chief Jack Peck presents Wednesday a shadow box containing Caton's badges from his days as sergeant, lieutenant and chief to his widow, Melinda Caton. Family, friends and co-workers gathered at the Farmington Municipal Building.

- Sheila McMillan/Franklin Journal

Farmington Police Detective Marc Bowering, right, and Sgt. Shane Cote, left, look over memorabilia Wednesday during a reception honoring the 30 years of service to the department by the late Richard Caton III, the department's former chief who passed away in July.

- Submitted Photo

FARMINGTON — Police held a ceremony and reception Wednesday to honor Richard Caton III, the department's beloved chief who passed away in July from complications of leukemia.

Family, friends, coworkers mingled and sharing stories and thoughts of Caton, said Bonnie Pomeroy, department secretary.

This year would have marked 30-years of employment with the Farmington Police Department for Caton.

The department created a framed shadow box including Caton's cop card and the badges he wore as he worked his way up through the department, first as a patrol officer then sergeant, lieutenant and finally serving as chief, a position he held from 1998 until his death.

The box was presented to Caton's widow, Melinda, by present Chief Jack Peck, who served under Caton as lieutenant.

State Rep. Tom Saviello read a legislative sentiment, and Andrea Quaid, representing U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud, D-Maine, read a letter from him remembering Caton's years of service to the department and the town, she said.

abryant@sunjournal.com