Richard Besson

Shawmut – Richard E. Besson, 69, of Shawmut, died unexpectedly on Monday February 29, 2016 in Portland. He was born in Monmouth on December 23, 1946, a son of Irene (White) and Charles Besson. He was educated in local schools and after graduation from Monmouth Academy he enlisted in the US Army. After active duty he continued his Army career with the US Army National Guard and retired after 26 years of service in 2006 with the rank of First Sergeant. In 1994 he received the Meritorious Service Medal.

Dick served the State of Maine as a business manager and administrator, first for Augusta Mental Health and then Bangor Mental Health. He was a graduate of the University of Maine in Augusta. In 1995 he was appointed Dedimus Justice by then governor Angus King.

Dick enjoyed bow hunting, target shooting and being a member of the Elks Club of Waterville. As much as he enjoyed the beach and being poolside, he preferred the water being 85 degrees. He began a traditional annual lobster feast that was enjoyed by family and friends. Dick’s family was central to his life and he will be remembered as a good listener and a caring and compassionate man who loved his grandchildren – a wonderful Pepere and a truly amazing Dad.

Dick is survived by his wife and soulmate of 29 years, Gail Besson of Shawmut; his son Nicholas Besson and his wife Sonya of Florida; his daughter Ann Holzworth and her husband Jay of Solon and their children, Autumn and Evan; his daughter Michelle Jackson of Farmingdale and her daughter Hallie; his brother Paul Besson of Litchfield; his aunt and godmother Frances Besson of Florida; his brother-in-law Ernest Hubert and his wife Alice of Shawmut; his close friends: Dana Charity, Gerry Gagnon, Bev and Rob Eaton (aka “Our Foursome”); Terry and Sharon Smith; as well as a large extended family and circle of friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday March 6, 2016 from 2 – 5 PM at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday March 7 at 11:00 AM at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 112 Silver Street, Waterville, with a reception immediately following in the church hall. Burial will be at 2 PM at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 289 Civic Center Drive, Augusta. Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Dick’s life and to share condolences, memories and tributes with his family.

of Veilleux Funeral Home, Waterville, ME.