Lewiston – Richard Lee Applegarth, “Apple,” 73, of 63 Old Carriage Road, Auburn, died Saturday, June 28, at Central Maine Medical Center shortly after arrival with his family by his side.

Born in Maynard, Ohio, Sept. 21, 1934, a son of the late David P. and Beatrice L. Smith Applegarth. He attended St Clairsville,Ohio, schools and graduated from St. Clairsville High School in 1954, where he lettered in football and track all four years, then on to Bowling Green University where he was a starting quarterback.

He served in the U.S. Navy between 1955 and 1959. He served aboard aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt from 1957 to 1959, and worked as a salesman/receiver for Wonder Bread/Hostess in Auburn for 40 years.

He was a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church and served on the vestry, was a Sunday school teacher and superintendent for Sunday school.

He enjoyed watching football. He also enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s events which included soccer, softball, baseball, football, field hockey, dance recitals and band competitions.

He always made his presence known by cheering from the sidelines.

He also was a player/coach for Lewiston-Auburn slow-pitch softball teams.

He loved his wife Donna, the love of his life, spending time with his family and going “upta” Robyn’s camp.

Richard will be remembered for his big heart, his great sense of humor and the pride he had for his family.

He is survived by his wife and the love of his life, the former Donna E. Buck, of Auburn, whom he married on Oct. 3, 1959; five daughters, Susan Levesque and husband, Donald, of Lewiston, Kathy Brown and husband, Wallace, of Auburn, Andrea Gauthier and Richard Wing of Minot, Sally Gelinas and husband, Scott, of Lewiston, Nancy Norcross and husband, Kevin, of Oxford; his son, David J. Applegarth and his wife, Loriann of Mechanic Falls; his grandchildren, Scott and Sarah Levesque, Rick and Lauren Brown, Robyn and Ashley Gauthier, Benjamin Applegarth, Katelyn and Alexander Major, Skylar Gelinas, Cassady Applegarth and Seth Laganiere.

He was predeceased by a sister, Margaret Roth; and his brothers, Harold, Donald and Wayne; and his in-laws, Ralph and Wynona Buck.

The family would like to thank Dr. Daniel Soroff, Dr. Eugene Ferguson, Joe Sala, P.A. and the staff of Androscoggin Home Health.