Richard Rodney Stocker Sr.

As the sun rose over the pond on July 28, 2026, Richard Rodney Stocker Sr. passed away peacefully after many illnesses and a broken heart.

Richard was born in Dexter, Maine, on May 21, 1945, the youngest son of Elmer and Frances (Crowell) Stocker. He graduated from East Corinth Academy with the Class of 1964. In 1965, he joined the Maine Army National Guard, where he proudly served for nine years.

On November 1, 1969, Richard married the love of his life, Rose McLaughlin. Together, they welcomed their son, Richard 'Rick' Jr. in 1970, and shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. Rose passed away on February 13, 2025, and the loss of his beloved wife was one he carried deeply.

Richard worked for Dexter Shoe before beginning a career at General Electric in Bangor, where he dedicated more than 30 years of service. Following his retirement from GE, he worked as a custodian at Central High School for several years.

Richard found joy in creating with his hands. An avid woodworker, he transformed spare pieces of wood into treasured keepsakes. Among his most desired creations were his handcrafted Christmas Bears. Alongside Rose, he made hundreds of these bears over more than 15 years, sharing them with family and friends as gifts that will continue to bring smiles for generations. He was particularly proud of the firetrucks that he made for his son, Rick, exclaiming that one particular ladder truck was a "one and only" creation.

He also took great pride in tending a large garden for many years and enjoyed being part of his church community. He was a longtime member of the congregation at New Hope Baptist Church in Dexter and, most recently, a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Exeter. Richard was a familiar face in the front row at the annual Dexter Fire Department Auction, and in recent years, he could be found first in line for a fresh-squeezed lemonade from the Fire Department Auxiliary.

Richard was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Marilyn Weymouth and her husband, Robert; his brother, Eugene Stocker; his cherished wife, Rose; brother-in-law, Robert McLaughlin and his wife, Fran; sister-in-law, Anne Crowley and her husband, Edward; and brother-in-law, Robert Campbell.

He is lovingly remembered by his son, Rick, and his favorite daughter-in-law, LeAnn; his sisters-in-law, Mildred Stocker and Sally Campbell; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and neighbors. He shared a special friendship with Ed Libby, whose companionship meant a great deal to him. All who knew him were touched by his kindness, quiet humor, and generous heart.

The family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice and the members of Cornerstone Baptist Church for all their care, and companionship over the last year.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for the fall. The family will announce additional details as arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dexter Firefighters association, Care of Everett Hibbard, 148 ElIms Rd, Ripley, ME 04930.

Richard's greatest legacy was not found in the things he built but in the love he shared and the countless lives he touched through simple acts of kindness. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.