Richard W. Damren Jr.

BELGRADE – Richard W. Damren Jr., known to most as “Rick”, passed away after a three-year battle with pulmonary hypertension on Oct. 28, 2022.

Rick spent most of his life dedicated to the citizens of Belgrade, whether it was being a lifelong member of the Belgrade Fire Department, a school bus driver, or serving as a frugal Selectman for the Town of Belgrade.

Rick was born on Dec. 29, 1955, a son to his predeceased parents, Richard W. Damren Sr. and Mayna Damren. Rick was known as the “favorite child” and his sisters, Susan Damren and Judy Hallowell with her partner Rick Jandreau of Belgrade can attest to that.

Later in Rick’s life, he and Tammy Damren raised three boys, Conrad Shaw, Jeremy Damren and his partner Thomas Stinson, and Scott Damren and his wife Kate Damren, all from Belgrade. All three boys grew up in the passenger seat of his pick-up truck, whether going to fire and rescue calls, plowing snowy roads and driveways with him after winter storms, or riding with him around the state fixing everything from tractors, lawn mowers, and chain saws. Rick also had much love and fondness for his niece, Desiree Damren. Rick also had several four-legged grandsons that he was very proud of.

Rick served on the Belgrade Fire Department since his teenage years, serving as chief from 1987-2000. Public service became a strong family tradition as his three sons are also dedicated members of the fire department. Amongst many other accomplishments, one of his most proud was working alongside his Deputy Chief Bill Pulsifer, as they brought the Belgrade Lakes Fire Department, the Belgrade Depot Fire Department and the North Belgrade Fire Department to what is it known today, a whole entity, the Belgrade Fire Department. During his time on the department, there were very few fire or rescue calls that he missed. Rick was also a member of the Oakland Fire Department for many years.

Among other things such as his snow plowing and firewood businesses, Rick spent many years as a school bus driver, becoming a father figure to many of the children. Rick also spent many years on the Town of Belgrade’s Selectboard. There was never a doubt that people didn’t know his position on town matters, always keeping a careful eye on his taxpayer’s dollars. Most currently, Rick helped manage his sister Judy and predeceased brother-in-law’s company, Dave Hallowell Construction. Throughout his life, Rick passionately served his community in many ways. Instilling those values in his sons was something he was extremely proud of. Rick leaves behind an incredible legacy of being a loving father, an extremely hard worker, and great man many could count on.

Rick’s family would like to extend a special thanks to his girlfriend, Margie Greene for being by his side. His family would also love to extend their gratitude to Dr. Amy Madden, Dr. Stevens, and to the doctors at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Dr. Socolovsky, Dr. Gay and Dr. Waxman, whom he referred to as “the best”.

Prior to Rick’s passing, the Belgrade Fire Department voted to dedicate the North Belgrade Fire Station in his honor. A dedication and memorial will be held later.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Rd., Farmington, ME 04938.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the

Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association,

P.O. Box 404,

Belgrade, ME 04917, which will make it possible to purchase lifesaving equipment for the citizens of Belgrade.