Richard C Aldrich

Richard C. Aldrich, 82, of Merrimack, NH, passed peacefully on January 1, 2014 with family by his side at Casey House in Rockville, MD.

Born on August 11, 1931, in Nashua, he was the son of the late Ralph A. and Margaret (DesRochers) Aldrich.

Richard grew up in Nashua, NH where as an early teen he had his own printing business. He was very involved in the Nashua High School band and later took up photography which mainly involved covering the NH Stock car races. At the age of 17, Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country from the Korean War through Vietnam, receiving his officer's commission in 1957 and flying for the Strategic Air Command as an Electronic Warfare Officer on nuclear-armed B52 aircraft during the Cold War. After serving in the Air Force for 22 years, including two tours in Vietnam, he retired in California as a Major, having received several medals including the Bronze Star.

While on the West coast, Richard spent a period of time as an active Amway distributor and was involved with an agricultural equipment business. He enjoyed scuba diving, fishing and woodworking and obtained his pilot's license. His love for New Hampshire never diminished though and later he returned to live there. Over the following years he was involved in a number of self-owned businesses and spent time target shooting and keeping up with all the current news events.

Richard was a proud American and promoted the constitution and rights of the American people. He spent many years volunteering and supporting organizations including Pro-Gun New Hampshire (as a Board member), Second Amendment Sisters (as a Sasterbro), and the VFW and its elite honor-degree affiliate organization, Military Order of the Cootie. His patriotism unwavering, he displayed his love for his country throughout his entire life. He will be remembered for his friendship and sense of humor; often quick with a joke and a story.

Richard is survived by his daughters Vanessa Heck and husband Doug of Maryland and Mei Li Kronenfeld and husband Alan of Arkansas, brother Earl Aldrich and wife Marie of New Hampshire, granddaughter Jaden and grandsons Joshua and Jack, and extended family. He not only leaves his family but a multitude of friends from all phases of his life.

He is predeceased by his former spouse Barbara J. (McIlroy) Aldrich.

Family would like to thank the staff at Collingswood Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Casey House of Montgomery Hospice.

Interment with Military Honors will take place on Monday, April 14, 2013 11:30am at the NH State Veterans Cemetery, in Boscawen, NH.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Richard's memory to Casey House - Montgomery Hospice 6001 Muncaster Mill Road Rockville, MD 20855 at www.montgomeryhospice.org