WATERVILLE – Richard L. Harding Sr., 88, of Waterville passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on Sept. 12, 2021.Richard was born on June 28, 1933, in Waterville to Leroy and Marguerite Harding. He grew up in Fairfield and after graduating high school, he joined the Navy. After serving in the Navy, he returned home where he met the love of his life, Alice. They married, raised four children and were set to celebrate their 65th year of marriage on September 24.Richard joined the police force where he served the community of Waterville before becoming the sergeant of Fairfield. He was a great protector of all which is why he was a phenomenal police officer, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his family more than anything. When you met Richard, he was always telling stories, joking, trying to make you laugh or just put a smile on your face. He enjoyed fishing, metal detecting, and hunting on the “the ridge” where he waited for the big one. He was an avid Patriots fan who was often found watching football or hunting shows with his wife.Richard enjoyed trips to John’s Market every day and sometimes even twice a day to have coffee with his longtime friends. He loved attending all his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s activities. It was very rare that he missed any of their sporting or school events. Even in his final weeks, he was found watching his great-grandson’s football game and when asked “are you okay, dad?” His response was “it’s always a great day when you are watching football”. He also found joy in his final weeks with constant visits that consisted of hugs and kisses from his great grandchildren Brianna, Nicholas, Colt, Aubrey, and his newest great grandchild, Elijah, who brought smiles to everyone’s faces with his giggles. Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Alice (Gagne) Harding of Waterville; Children Richard L. Harding Jr and wife Wendy; Lana Deroche and husband Dana; Lorna Rancourt and husband Steve; Renee Rancourt and husband Chris; Grandchildren Richard L. Harding III and wife Lisa; Amy St. Amand and husband William children Brianna, Nicholas and Aubrey; Ryan Robinson and wife Shawna son Colt; Megan Murray and husband Adam son Elijah. Richard is also survived by many other grandchildren and great grandchildren he gained through marriage as well as special neighbors Shawn and Danielle Brooks.Richard is predeceased by his parents Leroy and Marguerite Harding, brother Victor Harding, sister Ruth Harding, and nephew Donald Harding.A very special thank you to MaineGeneral Palliative Care and Hospice. Your love and kindness were very heartwarming, and our family appreciates all that you do.A graveside service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 10 a.m., at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta. A Celebration of life reception to follow at Kingdom Life Church, 191 High Street, Oakland. Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be made to Operation Reboot Outdoors887 Upper StreetTurner, ME 04282

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