PORTLAND & PEAKS ISLAND – Richard Berry Hasson, 75, passed away leaving behind a legacy shaped by family, lifelong friendships, music, adventure, and a deep connection to the island he always called home. Born on June 2, 1951, in Portland, Maine, he was the son of the late Richard L. Berry and Mary E. Adams. ?Rick spent some of his happiest childhood years on Peaks Island, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life. Although he lived in other places in his younger years, Peaks Island was where he ultimately would spend the rest of his life. More than just a place, the Island represented home, belonging, and a lifetime of memories. Those who knew him on the island will fondly remember him on the 7:15 boat, book in hand, always tapping a knee or drumming his fingers to a rhythm only he could hear, true to the drummer in him, making his familiar morning commute. ??A proud veteran and patriot, Rick served his country in the United States Air Force stationed in Turkey. Rick spent many years building businesses of his own that fit his love for connection and freedom. He jointly owned and operated a summer kayak business on Peaks Island with his buddy Larry Mulrooney, where he thrived on seeing old friends and meeting new people to share summer adventures. For his year-round work, he ran Rick’s Tub and Shower Repairs, earning him the affectionate nickname “the tub guy.” Rick loved running his own business not out of a desire for endless work, but because it gave him the freedom to set his own hours and bring a sense of play, fun, and independence to his everyday job. Rick had a warm personality and a big smile, an unmistakable chuckle, and a wonderful sense of humor. He embraced life’s adventures with a zest that made him unforgettable. As a teenager, he enjoyed playing baseball with his friends, and in his thirties, he proudly captained a paintball team. Music was another lifelong passion. A drummer himself, Rick especially loved The Beatles and Crosby, Stills & Nash & Young, often hosting music gatherings in his home to bring people together. Among his most enduring relationships was his longtime friendship with Larry Mulrooney. Over the years, Larry became an honorary part of the family, joining them on cherished traditions and adventures to Bar Harbor every fall. ?Above all, family was the foundation of Rick’s story. He shared 44 years of devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Cathy June Hasson. Together, they raised two beautiful daughters, Amber and Haylee, who brought immense pride to his life. Rick was a proud and loving grandfather to five grandchildren, who brought endless joy to his later years. ?In his later years, Rick's health declined following COVID-19, and he was thereafter diagnosed with dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Although these illnesses brought challenges, they were only one chapter of his life and never overshadowed the decades of adventures, music, and laughter that came before. ?He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, David Adams Berry, the writer of The Whales Of August. ?He is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy June Hasson; his daughters, Amber June Gibson and her husband Ian, and Haylee Elizabeth McIlwain and her husband Joel; his five cherished grandchildren, Mazie, Gavin, and Vivian Gibson, and Hayzel and Theodore McIlwain; and his sister, Barbara Hasson Brown. He also leaves behind his dear friend, Larry Mulrooney and wife Kathy along with extended family and friends who will carry his memory forward. ?Rick will be remembered for his teddy bear spirit, his youthful sense of fun, his love of reading and music, and his enduring connection to Peaks Island. For Rick, Peaks Island was always home—where his happiest memories began and where his heart will forever remain.
Rick will be remembered and celebrated by those who knew and loved him. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.maineufneral.com