3 min read

Ricky Henry Dionne

MECHANIC FALLS – Ricky Henry Dionne, 61, of Mechanic Falls, passed away on Jan. 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on April 22, 1964, in Lewiston, Ricky was the son of Henry Gerald Dionne and Madeleine Irene (Gagne) Dionne. He was a 1982 graduate of Edward Little High School and later earned an associate’s degree in Electro-Mechanical Technology from CMVTI, setting the foundation for a career he took great pride in.

Rick worked at GCA and L.L.Bean before beginning a long and dedicated career at Abel Womack, where he worked for over 25 years, most recently serving as Automation Sales Manager. He was known for his integrity and for building relationships rooted in trust, earning the respect of colleagues and the loyalty of many returning customers.

Rick met the love of his life, Catherine “Cathy” LaRochelle, at the Rollodrome in Auburn, and the two were married on Feb. 14, 1987. After their marriage, they began their life together in Auburn before moving to Mechanic Falls to raise their family, welcoming their first daughter, Emily, in 1988, followed by their second daughter, Stephanie, in 1991. Together, Rick and Cathy built a life centered on family and time spent together.

In 2017, Rick and Cathy purchased a camp on Kettle Cove off Sebago Lake in Casco, Maine, a place that became deeply special to the family. It was where they gathered to enjoy peaceful moments, share laughter, and create lasting memories. Rick especially loved taking family and friends out on his boat, sharing his love of the water with those around him.

Rick was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather, affectionately known as “Pep.” He cherished spending time with his four grandchildren, whether making memories at the camp or simply enjoying being together. A true family man and caretaker by nature, Rick always put others first—especially his wife and daughters.

Through the years, Rick enjoyed playing foosball, boating, riding ATVs, snowmobiling, attending car shows, and just about anything that had a motor. His enthusiasm, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy Dionne; his daughters, Emily Foster and her spouse McKyle of Minot, Stephanie Bates and her spouse Kyle of Mechanic Falls; and his four cherished grandchildren, Leanna and Allie Bates, and Lincoln and Olivia Foster. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Daniel Dionne.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Rick’s life at The Fortin & Pinette Group, 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway, Lewiston, on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., with visitation from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., followed by readings and tributes. A private graveside service at Mount Auburn Cemetery will take place in the spring.

To share memories and condolences with the Dionne family, please visit http://www.FortinPinetteGroupLewiston.com

In lieu of flowers,

donations may be made in Rick’s memory to:

Tommy’s Feral Felines online at http://www.tommysferalfelinefriends.com or

by check to:

Tommy’s Feral

Feline Friends

P.O. Box 274

Greene, ME 04236-0274

Join the Conversation

Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.