BANGOR (AP) – Richard K. Warren, publisher of the Bangor Daily News from 1955 until his retirement in 1984, died Friday. Warren was 87.

Warren guided his newspaper through a series of physical and technological changes. In 1955, the newspaper moved to new offices across the city, the mail room was later modernized and new presses were added.

Warren also led the News in the transition from “hot type” production utilizing Linotype machines with computers for electronic editing and page composition. Satellite dishes were installed on the roof to take delivery of news from major wire services.

A past president of the Maine Daily Newspaper Association and the New England Newspaper Association, Warren also had been a director of the Chamber of Commerce and the YMCA board, served on the advisory board of St. Joseph Hospital and the Bangor Symphony, and was a director of the Merrill Trust Co.

After his retirement in 1984, Warren handed the newspaper’s reins to his son, current publisher Richard J. Warren.

Robert Stairs, vice president and treasurer of the News, described the elder Warren as “a true gentleman, with a quick sense of humor. He set a good example of the importance of being respectful of fellow employees and customers.”

Warren also drew praise from some of Maine’s top elected officials.

Gov. John Baldacci said Warren “was an important part of the community both in Bangor and around the state.” He said Warren helped guide the Bangor Daily News into the modern era.

“Maine is fortunate to have a newspaper of the BDN’s caliber, and that is due in no small measure to Dick Warren’s dedication and commitment,” said U.S. Rep. Tom Allen, D-Maine.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said Warren’s death “is a tremendous loss to the entire Bangor community.” Through his involvement in charitable and civic causes, “Dick has left a lasting legacy that will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of so many people,” Collins said.

Funeral arrangements were pending Friday.

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