Richard Gordon Paradis

FARMINGDALE – Richard Gordon Paradis, born on July 19, 1943 in Lewiston, passed away Dec. 19, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love.

Richard graduated from Paris High School in 1961, where he excelled as a student-athlete, standing out in both basketball and football. He continued his education at the University of Maine, graduating in 1966 with a degree in History and Government.

Early in his career, he taught at the Maine Job Corps before volunteering to serve his country in Vietnam as a combat engineer where he was an Expert Marksman. Despite being in his mid-20s, he was affectionately known as the “old man” among his fellow soldiers.

Upon returning from Vietnam, Richard was recruited to teach junior and senior high school, where he instilled values of integrity, discipline, focus, and respect in his students. He made a significant impact on many young lives during his five years in the classroom and as a coach.

Richard transitioned to a career with the State of Maine Department of Personnel, where he made many substantial contributions. As the Director of the Department, his vision led to the digitization and modernization of the state’s personnel records management system. His efforts earned him numerous awards and recognitions, including the honor of Employee of the Year for the State of Maine. Richard retired in 2002 after a distinguished 30-year career.

Richard’s personal interests centered on outdoor recreation, wildlife management, and conservation. He was a Registered Maine Guide and served as the Treasurer for the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine for 10 years, where he was also recognized for his forward-thinking and impactful contributions to the organization.

An avid outdoorsman, Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and boating on Maine’s lakes, rivers, and coastal bays. He successfully participated in four Maine moose hunts and numerous other excursions into the wild. Known for his photographic memory, he could recite a wide range of subjects, including poetry, history, politics, and wildlife statistics, particularly those focused on Maine deer and moose.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Elizabeth “Nani” Paradis; his son, Phil Harmon, and wife Barbara of Falmouth; and his grandchildren, Drew Harmon and wife Hayley of San Diego, Calif., and Gabby Harmon of Boston, Mass. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews; and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Elmeda Paradis; and his siblings, Cora Payne, Marie McAllister, Jeanette Snow, Henry Paradis, and Lester Paradis.

Richard’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. A service will be planned in the spring to celebrate his life and accomplishments.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page Staples Funeral Home website http://www.StaplesFuneralHome.com