The Dodge Family Association

Mr. Dodge graduated from Gardiner High School Class of 1962 and the University of Maine Orono 1966. He started his teaching career in Belfast and after three years accepted a position at Wiscasset High School where he has been a devoted and respected teacher of Latin and French for the last 35 years. He was active in the American Field Service program on an international level and maintained contact with former students and families. He recently had the honor of playing the organ at a wedding in France for a former student. He was faculty advisor for both the Latin and French Clubs for many years.

An accomplished musician, he played for graduation exercises each year, and for many groups and individuals, also gave piano lessons. He prized his Grand Steinway piano.

Mr. Dodge was a long-time member of the Highland Ave. United Methodist Church and served as its organist since 1984. He was also a member of the Board of Trustees and worship committee. He supported his church fully and participated in activities they sponsored, especially the men's breakfasts and church suppers.

Survivors include his sisters, Sharon Dodge of Winthrop, Paula Moore and her husband William of Gardiner, Melody Crocker and her husband Anthony of Monmouth; his brother Robin Lemar and companion Martha Jackson of Winthrop; several cousins; aunt, M. Pauline Golden of Farmingdale; uncle Stanley B. Dodge of West Gardiner; several nieces, nephews and their families: LTC Michael R. McLaughlin and his fiance Mary, CWO2 Max R. McLaughlin and his wife Jane, Angie Turner and her husband Bruce, Thomas S. Moore and his wife Jan, SFC William A. Moore and his wife Marie, Jason Trask, Dee Dee Bailey and Robin Pelletier, special friends Bev Hayward and his nurse Cathi Seraph, 16 grand nieces and grand nephews. Richard was especially proud of his nephews CWO2 Max McLaughlin and SFC William A Moore who are currently serving their country in Iraq. He was also thankful for his caregivers: nieces Angie, Jane, and Marie.

Visiting hours were held Wednesday, April 28 at Staples Funeral Home in Gardiner. A funeral service was be held Thursday, April at the Highland Ave. United Methodist Church, Gardiner with Rev. Elizabeth J. Bachelder, pastor officiating.