1944 – 2015

LEWISTON — Richard M. Labonte, 70, of Lewiston, died on Monday, March 23, at his residence, surrounded by his family following a long illness.

He was born in Sabattus on May 6, 1944, the son of the late Dominique and Jeanne (Hebert) Labonte and was educated in Auburn schools.

He married Joline Potvin on July 3, 1997.

Richard was a hard worker and a hand sewer by trade and took great pride in his work. He attended trade shows in Italy, Spain, France and Holland.

Richard enjoyed his home and always said he was building a “little Heaven” for his wife.

He had a unique love for life and nature, whether it was watching the birds on his feeders or the deer in his yard. His passions were fishing, hunting and tending to his vegetable and flower gardens. He shared his love of gardening with his daughter, Christine.

Richard had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed snowshoeing, canoeing and camping with his wife’s family. He also loved watching the Patriots and the Red Sox.

He was devoted to his wife and family and will be missed by all, including his many nieces and nephews, as well as his cats, Moses and Willow. His body and soul have left us, but his heart will remain with us always.

He is survived by his wife, Joline (Potvin) Labonte; his son, Dan Labonte and Donna of Lewiston; his daughter, Christine Freeman of Litchfield; his brothers, Roger and Lucy Labonte of Shirley Mills, Raynald Labonte and Penny of Rochester, N.H., Roland and Joline Labonte of Readfield, Marcel and Claudette Labonte of Bixby, Okla., and Norman and Sandy Labonte of Searsport; his sister, Lorraine Limoges of Holliston, Mass.; grandchildren, Tim Bouvier, Dustin Lynn, Kendra Labonte and Joshua Freeman; his mother-in-law, Florence Potvin; and special nephew, Mark Labonte.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Paul Labonte; and father-in-law, Normand Potvin.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at www.lynchbrothers.com.