LACONIA— Richard Peter Christopher, 78, of Kensington Drive, died peacefully at home on February 23, 2020, surrounded by his family.
Richard was born on February 28, 1941, in New Bedford, MA to Jules and Lydia (Goulart) Christopher. Around 8 years old, his family moved to Belmont and a few years later to Laconia and attended Laconia High School and then UNH, graduating with a degree in Physics.
Richard was a High School Physics & Math teacher in Winnacunnet in Hampton, NH. He then enlisted in the US Navy from 1966-1970, and served on the USS Wasp IX. He then became an Engineer for over 30 years working for Verizon (previously NYNEX, NE Telephone).
Richard enjoyed the outdoors. One of his passions was sailing and he was a long standing member of the Winnipesaukee Yacht Club, along with Hiking, Skiing and many other outdoor activities. He was also involved with the Central New Hampshire Amateur Radio Club (CNHARC). Coached for Laconia youth baseball and soccer. A retired member of CERT, served on the Laconia Conservation Commission, participated in the LPD Citizens Academy, was a UNH Master Gardener and an avid reader.
Richard is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Ellen (Dodds) Christopher; his son, Ian Christopher and his wife, Melody of Vernon, CT; and two grandchildren, Jacob Christopher and Natalie Christopher.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 6, 2020, from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH, using the Carriage House entrance.
Graveside Services will be held in Bayside Cemetery, Laconia, NH, in the spring of 2020.
For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donation may be made in Richard’s name to the New Hampshire Humane Society, PO Box 572, Laconia, NH 03247.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164Pleasent Street, Laconia NH, is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.