Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home

ROCKPORT – Roland L. Richards, 94, died peacefully, Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport.

Born in Searsmont, March 27, 1917, he was the son of George and Abbie Richards. As a young man Roland worked in the woods, cutting wood from the time he was 16 until he was 21.

He later worked on Herman Howard Dairy Farm in Warren for three years. At that time he also assisted with the building of the North Pond Bridge in Warren, working with one two bag mixer. From July 1941 until November 1942 Roland worked in the local quarries before entering the service. Roland recounted the story of one day in 1942 he worked 120 pieces; when at that time, anything over 59 pieces was considered a day’s work. He said he earned $12.00, the most he ever made in one day.

On December 22, 1948 Roland married Leatrice C. Nutt. Together they made their home in Rockport most of their married life.

After enlisting in the U.S. Army, Roland served in the European, African, and Middle Eastern Theaters.

Upon being discharged from the military Roland worked for a year applying asbestos shingles before beginning his first appliance business, Compton’s Appliance. He operated the appliance store for over 26 years. He also operated a heating and L.P. gas service business for 25 years before he settled on Oil Burner Repair, which he operated for over 20 years.

In later years, Roland has been a life member of the V.F.W. He has also enjoyed a special friendship with Scott Bickford and Donna and Jay Barrows.

Predeceased by his wife in 2006, a brother Gerald Richards, and a sister Christina Bryant; Mr. Richards is survived by a brother Lloyd Richards and his wife Eliza of Glen Cove; and a sister Edith Poulin of Florida.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with a celebration of his life at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 17, 2012 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.