Richard H. Swasey

Richard "Dick" Swasey Sr., of Portland, ME., left this life on January 12, 2022, at the age of 85. He passed peacefully after a hard-fought battle with Parkinson's, that lasted over 10 years. Born October 10, 1936, to Kay and Harry Swasey, the first of three brothers, he enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating from South Portland High in 1954. A proud and determined soul, "Once a Marine, always a Marine" Dick would say. In June 1955 Dick married his high school sweetheart Christine Morris, the love of his life, they kept their vows to this day. "Not many people stay married this long" as Chris says. Upon being honorably discharged in 1957 Dick took a job in Portland, as a route salesman with Continental Baking Company, the makers of Wonderbread. When the company relocated to Rochester NH in the early 60's, Dick went with them, where he raised his family and lived until his retirement, after 30 years as a Teamster. An avid sports enthusiast and fan, he followed his favorite teams daily and could carry the conversation on Notre Dame football, the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics. Quick with a joke he brightened the day of those who knew him. A lifelong Elk and a generous man, Dick would help anyone in need, with what little he might have. Dick will be deeply missed by his soulmate and wife of 65 years, Chris. His sons; Rick Swasey and his wife Mona of Brownfield Me and Rob Swasey and his wife Sue of Sanford Me. His Grandchildren; Rob Swasey Jr and his wife Harriette of Peabody Ma, Jason Swasey and his wife Aurelie of Rochester NH, Melissa Collins and her partner Jason Goddard of Northfield NH, Kate Maller and her husband Scott of Denver Co, Andrew Swasey and his partner Ashley of Sanford Me, Sean Swasey of Enfield Ct, and 10 great grandchildren. He's predeceased by his mom, dad, and brother Wayne, and is survived by his brother Peter. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Sanford, ME on January 22, 2022 at 10:00 AM. Burial with military honors will be held on May 11 at 11:00 A.M. the Southern Maine Veterans Cemetery in Springvale, Maine Arrangements are under the direction of the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. Condolences may be expressed at www.blackfuneralhomes.com