Richard M. Boutilier

Richard Boutilier passed away on February 15 at the age of 94, after spending more than six decades as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. Dick’s love for his family, and unwavering support in all of our endeavors, made him a grounding force in all of our lives. He could always be counted on for advice, encouragement, and a good ribbing. He could laugh at himself as easily as anything else.

Dick’s top priority in life was providing for his family. And he was aces at it. He spent his entire career working for E.I. DuPont Company, and upon retiring, consulted for X-ray of Rhode Island. His leadership roles at both companies gave him the opportunity to mentor and guide numerous team members who remained in touch with him even in the last year of his life. Many saw him as a father figure, and he treasured those special relationships he built with his teams.

Before Dick started his career, he enlisted in the Army, and served in Europe. He returned home when his tour was complete to attend college, but continued serving his country as a member of the Army Reserves for 20+ years, retiring with the rank of Colonel.

Dick started dating his wife, Judy, while he was in college, and they married shortly after he graduated. Their 63-year marriage was marked by their mutual commitment and devotion to each other and their family.

As a younger man, Dick’s interests were primarily focused on sports. In addition to playing tennis, he coached his church basketball team. He loved mountain climbing and waterskiing. He had a killer swan dive. He was great at poker. He never lost in the game of Monopoly. He’d often “shoot the moon” in hearts. And win.

But he also had the soul of an artist, capturing our lives together in thousands of beautifully composed photographs over the years. He had a wonderful singing voice, most recently letting it soar this past Christmas Eve at church. And the man could cut a rug. We all loved taking turns with him on the dance floor.

After Judy passed away, Dick moved in with his eldest daughter, Deborah, who created a safe and loving space for him and coordinated much of his care. He spent the last five years of his life surrounded by the love and comfort of all of his children and grandchildren.

Dick will be missed every day by his daughters, Deborah, Suzanne, and Nicole; his grandchildren, Sarah, Daniel, Matilda, and Pilar; as well as his treasured nieces and nephews, and sisters- and brother-in-law. We’re comforted knowing his spirit will be reunited with his wife Judy; his brothers, Frank, John, and Robert; his parents, Hilda and Napeen, and his daughter, Jennifer.

The Boutilier family will be holding a small, private service to celebrate Dick’s life.