AUBURN: Richard F. Begin, 69, of Bethel passed away on Thursday October 4, 2018 in Auburn following sudden health issues. The fourth child of six, Richard was born in Lewiston on April 5, 1949 a son of the late Napoleon and Frances (Campbell) Begin. He grew up in the Auburn area and attended local schools there. After school, Richard, a Vietnam era veteran, served proudly in the US Army in Europe and stateside. He loved his country dearly. He traveled extensively throughout America; always sending post cards back home. Anyone who knew Richard knew that he had an unquenchable thirst for the world of politics. He followed National, State, and Regional politics with complete focus. He always had an opinion on each issue which he could defend vigorously while at the same time, diminishing the position of his opponents. But, he would respect opposing viewpoints once the debate had finished. Richard cultivated a wide network of political sources of information. Many candidates or incumbents would seek his comments as he did represent "ears on the ground". Richard held great respect for our political system and the responsibility each citizen has to participate by voting. Another passion of Richards was that of music; with emphasis on rock and roll, folk, rock and contemporary groups. He had extensive collections of records, tapes, CDs, DVD’s as well as detailed background information on the artists and their groups. His recall of songs, verses, and performers ranged from the early 60s right up to the present. Residing in Bethel with his much loved companion, Patricia Early, he lived life with humor, kindness and an constant fascination for politics. He will be deeply missed by many.
Richard is survived by his beloved companion, Patricia Early of Bethel, his siblings; Dorothy Skinner and husband Brian of Auburn, Robert Begin and wife Mary of Needham, MA, Linda Rolfe and husband Dean of Lewiston, Deborah Bissonnette and husband Richard of Auburn and Elizabeth Kennedy of Auburn along with many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday October 15, 2018 at Fortin\Auburn from 11-1pm with committal prayers and Army military honors following immediately at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Auburn. Those wishing, in lieu of flowers, may make a charitable contribution in Richard's memory to the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society 55 Strawberry Ave. Lewiston, ME 04240.
Condolences may be shared with Richard’s family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com
Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group \ Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services 217 Turner St. Auburn, 783-8545
