Richard was a man with determination, fierce drive and loved to keep busy. He started Soule disposal and recycling when he was younger and was the owner and operator for many years until he sold. After Richard sold his business, he started working for North Anson Rail, eventually working seven days a week while he decided he wanted to start another disposal business, which he successfully did in 1987. Richard was a busy body through and through, once he decided to retire, he still would think about what his next adventure was going to be, even up until this past year when he wanted to start a dog walking business.
At the age of 72 years old, Richard went back to high school to get his diploma, which was something that he was very proud to achieve. Not settling for the traditional GED when finishing high school, he chose the path less traveled and went to classes every day to get his diploma, an achievement that was featured in the Morning Sentinel for this feat.
Richard loved to spend time with family and having BBQ’s, was passionate about his donuts, ice cream and spicy food. When he wasn’t with family, you could see him exercising or going for walks five-to-six days a week, going fishing, spending time with his favorite four-legged companion Sasha, watching westerns (notably Gunsmoke), history, Ford vehicles, being up to date on technology and most importantly, his faith in The Lord and was a member of the Life Church in Norridgewock. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge in Fairfield, Maine.
Richard is survived and will be deeply missed by his wife, Betty Soule; Son, James Soule; Daughter Vickie Soule; his step-children, Terry Handley, Joseph Handley Jr., Lorna Penn, Vicki Bessey and James Handley; his grandchildren, Tiffany Cifuni, Rilee Bessey, Trisha Dennis and Jen Handley; his great-grandsons, Liam, Mason and Vincent; his cousins, Linda, Debbie, Rodney and Sue.
A Celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 1PM at Life Church, 344 Skowhegan Road, Norridgewock.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, Maine. Anyone who wishes to leave the family messages can do so on our website at – www.smartandedwardsfh.com
