Richard E. Rand

Richard E Rand, (89), of Gray, peacefully passed away on April 30, 2024 as he wished in his home of 62 years.
Dick was born to Fred and Isabelle (Grant) Rand, on April 9, 1935, in Lebanon, Maine. After graduating from Sanford High School, he worked multiple jobs in construction, including stints building the Maine Turnpike.

While working on the Turnpike, Dick met Arleine Strong, a waitress at a local burger restaurant. They married in 1956 and were together 52 years before she passed away in 2007. He is survived by his four children, Michael Rand & Jean Jones, Debbie (Rand) & Chuck Hall, Tammy (Rand) & Peter Mullen, and Steven & Alison Rand, 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.  He is also survived by his sister, Gladys Randall of Lebanon, in addition to  nieces and nephews, Dick was preceded in death by brothers Charles, Donald, and Everett.

After many years at the A&P distribution warehouse in Portland, he found his work love at Dunn’s Auto Parts, the NAPA store in Gray. He helped open and then manage the store for 21 years, then returned to deliver parts for another 25 after retirement.

Aside from his family, his loves could be found in hunting, fishing, and dances at the Gray Legion Hall. He was also a diehard fan of the Red Sox, Celtics, and Patriots. Camping played a large role in his life, culminating in a year-long, cross-country trip with his wife Arleine. He served on the Gray Fire Rescue Department and volunteered for the annual chicken BBQ for 20 years.

A graveside service will be held at the Gray Cemetery, Saturday, May 18, at 11:00 a.m. followed by a celebration of life on Sunday, May 19, from 1-5 at Spring Meadows Golf Club in Gray. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gray Fire Rescue Department.

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