Richard H. Ward

LEWISTON – The family of Richard H. Ward, sadly announces his passing on Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, of natural causes. He was born Feb. 6, 1942, the eldest child of Harry and Cecile (Landry) Ward.

He grew up in Lewiston, attending Holy Cross School and graduated Lewiston High School, class of 1960. At an early age he went to work at Value House where he managed stores all over Maine, New Hampshire and New Jersey. He also worked as manager at Andy’s Fast Food. His remaining working years were spent at the Lewiston Solid Waste facility in the 1980s, until his retirement in the early 2000s.

In 1963, he married the love of his life, Claire Dufault. They welcomed four children, James, Richard, Renée and Kimberly to the family. In 1976 they moved back to Lewiston, buying the family home on Pleasant Street where they remained. They had 48 beautiful years of marriage until her passing in 2011.

Favorite times were those spend at the many family gatherings over the years: BBQ’s, Lobster Fest, holiday get togethers. He had a love of music especially that of the ’50s and ’60s; the radio was always on. A true favorite of his was Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.”

He was a true animal lover, having many dogs, cats bunnies over the years. They were a source of companionship and comfort to him.

He is survived by his children, James and wife, Lynn, Rick, Renée and husband, Jay, and Kim and fiancé Wayne; grandchildren Marissa and Cameron Deschaine, Isaac Dionne, Spencer and Leanna Ward, Sadie and Mia Guimond, and Tess Libby; two great-grandchildren, Jaxson and Addeline Deschaine. He is survived by siblings Claire and Joe Weinlick, Connie Mathurin, Celine and Mark Rolerson, Peggy and David Laude, Tom and Vicki Ward, Chris and Michael Ouellette; his brother in law, Richard and wife Susan Dufault plus many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Claire, a brother in law, Roland and a baby daughter Marie.

To read a full obituary, please visit http://www.thefortingroupauburn.com

A Liturgy of the Word will take place on Saturday, October 21, at 11a.m., with Committal Prayers to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Auburn.

Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group, 217 Turner Street Auburn, ME 04210, (207) 783-8545.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society or the Audubon Society, both causes near and dear

to his heart.