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Richard W. Bubier

AUBURN – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard W. Bubier, who passed away on Feb. 25, 2025, at Clover Manor. He was the beloved husband of the late Patricia (Hamilton) Bubier and the late Barbara (Jones) LaChance Bubier.

Richard was born in Auburn on Sept. 19, 1926, the son of the late Fernley S. and Eva M. (Reed) Bubier. He graduated from Edward Little High School in 1944 and enlisted in the Army Air Forces shortly thereafter, proudly serving his country. After his service, Richard earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maine, Orono.

Richard’s career as a mechanical engineer was distinguished by significant accomplishments. He worked for Bethlehem Steel Corporation’s Shipbuilding Division, where, as assistant project engineer, he played an essential role in the development of the first nuclear-powered destroyer, the USS Bainbridge. He also worked at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, contributing to the design of the Titan rocket and the development of a star-guided navigation system for the Apollo Mission. His work in aerospace engineering left a lasting mark on the industry.

In addition to his professional success, Richard enjoyed a variety of personal hobbies and activities. He loved skiing, bowling, golfing, sailing, and reading. He was also an avid crossword puzzle solver. Richard, along with both of his wives, Patricia and Barbara, cherished their time spent yard saling, enjoying the thrill of finding treasures and making memories.

Richard’s true joy came from his family. He is survived by his children, Kendall M. Bubier and his wife Kathleen of Marlborough, Mass., and Jane E. Hatch and her husband Richard of Hebron. He was a proud grandfather to Meredith and Jason Ross, Jeremy Bubier, Todd and Liz Bubier, Courtney and Devin Auclair, Erin Hebert, Jennifer Dowling, Michael and Halley Hatch, Christopher and Amanda Dowling, Samantha Hatch, and Andrew Hatch. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren. Richard is further survived by his sister, Shirley Hatch; and several nieces and nephews.

He was the father of the late Laurie J. Bubier; and the brother of the late Joyce Poole.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, March 22, at 1 p.m. at the High Street Congregational Church, 106 Pleasant St., Auburn.

Please visit http://www.FortinPinetteGroup.Auburn.com to sign Richards’ guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.

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