Richard McLeod

Richard McLeod, 77, of Franconia, NH, passed away peacefully at home on February 29, 2024, surrounded by his family after a short but aggressive illness. Rich loved the outdoors and New Hampshire all his life. Richard was born in Concord, NH, in 1946 to Dr. J. Kenneth and Anne (Power) McLeod. 

He grew up in Penacook and graduated from Bishop Brady High School and New England College. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967-1970, following his two brothers into the armed services. He served as a Supply Sergeant in the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam. He returned to New Hampshire, where he began a career protecting and improving the State Parks of New Hampshire. He spent winters as a member of the ski patrol at Cannon Mountain, and spent summers atop Mount Washington as assistant manager, mountain guide, and on a search and rescue team.

Later, Rich spent many years on the Seacoast as the first Regional Supervisor for NH State Parks where he assisted in the development of the Seacoast Science Center, then served as the Director of NH State Parks in Concord until his retirement in 2005.  After retirement, Rich worked as the Governor’s North Country liaison, studied addiction counseling at NHTI, served as a CASA guardian ad litem, and as a selectman in Franconia from 2006-2012.

Rich enjoyed hiking in state and national parks, and took pleasure in navigating off trail when presented with the opportunity. Until recently, he chopped his own wood and took great pleasure from being able to do his own plumbing and carpentry. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, his dogs, and the birds and animals that visited his home in Franconia. 

Rich was predeceased by his parents and his brothers J. Kenneth McLeod and Thomas McLeod. He is survived by his loving wife Martha Stroup McLeod; his daughters Kristyn (husband Colin) Van Ostern of Concord, NH; and Carolyn McLeod of Naples, FL; grandchildren Peter & Patrick Van Ostern; and Teagan & Finn Davis; his sister Mary Cavicchi and husband Edmund (Buddy) of Whitefield, NH; nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A celebration of life for Rich will be held on Sunday, March 10 at 1:00 pm at Chef Joe’s in Franconia, NH. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to CASA-NH at https://casanh.org/.