Richard (Dick) Marchand, 89, of Skaneateles, peacefully entered into eternal life with family by his side on Oct. 23, 2024. Richard was born June 4, 1935, in Haverhill MA. The son of Roseanna Marchand, his mother died when Richard was a young boy. He came to Central New York to live with his older sister and brother-in-law, Bea and Pete Treat and it is here that he stayed. Richard married his one true love Marian (Badman) on Nov. 21, 1953, in Moravia, N.Y. They settled in Skaneateles in 1956 and resided in their same village home until his passing, which was his wish.
In his younger years Richard worked for Hammond and Irving in Auburn, but for over a quarter of a century he devoted his career to the Skaneateles Central School District, retiring in 1990 as SCS Building and Grounds Superintendent. At his retirement, then District Clerk Dale Bates wrote, “Mr. Marchand has been on call virtually 24 hours a day 365 days a year to service our educational facilities. Dick maintained and watched over these facilities as if they were his own.” During his tenure with the district and for several years after his retirement he also served as clerk of the works on numerous renovation projects. He was dedicated to his job and the school system. Following his retirement Richard worked for the SCS transportation department part-time for several years before fully retiring in 2014. A compilation of years of service to SCS that spanned over four decades. Additionally, Richard worked as a part-time Skaneateles Police Officer, retiring in 1990 after 25 years of service.
Richard was a hardworking and loyal man. While working full time, over the years he also owned several businesses including tree spraying, driveway sealing and snow plowing. Relaxation for him was working on a project, whether it be at home or in the community. He was often heard saying, “I don’t need to go anywhere, I have everything I want right here.”
Richard was a lifetime member of the Skaneateles Rod & Gun Club, a proud member of the NRA, a member of the Skaneateles Volunteer Fire Department for over six decades, a member of Mason’s Lodge 522 for over 50 years and a past member of the Skaneateles Jaycees.
In addition to his mother, Richard was predeceased by his two brothers, Emile and Ray, his three sisters Beatrice, Irene and Yvonne, nephew Bob Treat, niece Sue Lewis and several other close relatives.
Richard is survived by his loving wife of 71 years Marian, daughter Renée (Ray) Brown of Skaneateles, daughter Vickie Marchand of Ca., and his beloved granddaughter Katie who he absolutely adored. He also leaves behind dear family members including nephew Mahlon (Kay) Anderson, Bill (Pat) Lewis, many relatives still residing in Massachusetts, several nieces, nephews and cousins, along with many devoted and cherished friends.
Thank you to the overnight caregivers who so graciously helped care for Richard, to Fran Usher whose compassion and care during her day shifts was so appreciated, Patti Cottrell for all she helped with, the Center Well home health care nurses, Dr. Keenen, nurse Melody and all the medical professionals who helped guide us through his debility.
A celebration of his life will be held at the Skaneateles United Methodist Church on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow at the Skaneateles Fire Department, 77 West Genesee St.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of a life well lived can be made to the Skaneateles United Methodist Church or the Skaneateles Fire Department.
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
