FARMINGTON — Richard Almond Shurtleff, 76, of Strong, passed away early Sunday, June 26, in the arms of his loving wife, Unie, at Franklin Memorial Hospital.

He was born Jan. 29, 1935, in Lewiston, the son of Edmund and Lillian Gordon Shurtleff. He graduated in 1953 from Leavitt Institute in Turner. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1955, mustering out as sergeant and proudly served his country on active duty for four years and inactive duty until 1963.

He married the love of his life, Eunice Melinda Voter on Aug. 2, 1958. Richard was a dedicated member of the Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad, Strong Historical Society, Elks Lodge No. 2430, North Franklin and Narrow Gauge Snowmobile Clubs, Sandy River ATV Club and was a SAM and NRA member.

He served his community as a fireman for 25 years and served on the Strong Appeals Board. He was fully self-educated in the history of World War II and railroad memorabilia. Richard was a patient, kind and loving husband, father and grandfather who provided needs and guidance for his family, who love him dearly. He gave of his time willingly to family and friends. Everyone who knew him could see the happiness within him and hear the happiness through his whistling.

He is survived by his wife, Eunice; three sons, Rick, Phil and wife, Trisha and Dan and wife, Darcy; one daughter, Dianne Henderson and companion, Jason Grundy; eight grandchildren, Nicholas, Phil Jr., Ashley, Mike, Kassie and Danny Shurtleff and Taylor and Machaon Henderson; devoted nephew, Willie and companion, Diane; nephew, Eddie and wife, Gayle; nieces, Brenda Shurtleff, Melinda and husband, Cliff and Sueanne and husband, Jason; also, nieces and nephews, Nancy, Polly, Kim, Laurie, Linda, Allison, Wil, Aaron, Shawn, Todd, Gary, Jimmy, Lynn and their spouses; brothers-in-law, George Begin, Vernon Voter and wife, Maxine, Milton Voter and wife, Susie and Wendall Voter and wife, Sue; sister-in-law, Pearl Reed and husband, David; former son-in-law, Mark Henderson and companion, Sarah; the late Mahly’s companion, Barbara Hood; and his beloved dog, Tinnie Mae.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Edmund Jr.; sister, Dot Begin; sisters-in-law, Alma Shurtleff and Jean Baston; brother-in-law, Mahly Voter; nephew, Everett Bailey; and niece, Cheryl Hinkley.