Somersworth:  Richard L. Leaver, 77, of 110 Rocky Hill Road, Somersworth, passed away with his family by his side on Monday, May 6, 2024, at Wentworth Douglas Hospital in Dover.

Richard ("Rich") was born in Dover, NH on January 27, 1947, and was the son of Lawrence ("Larry") and Wilma ("Marie") Leaver. He was raised in Somersworth and was a three-sport athlete at Somersworth High School where he graduated in 1965. He went on to serve in the Unites States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1972 as a PFC E-2, earning his M-14 Marksman Badge.

Rich, along with his wife Maureen of 55 years built their first home in Somersworth in 1972 on Main Street where they lived until 1980. That same year, the family relocated across town to another newly built home on Rocky Hill Road.

He was employed as a Testing Lab Manager with Davidson Rubber (Later becoming Textron Inc.) where he gave 37 years of service before retiring in November of 2003.

Rich was a lifelong member of the American Legion, Post 69 of Somersworth. He was also a former member of the Dover Elks. He also served on the Board of Trustees of the Somersworth American Legion, Post 69 for 15 years. He enjoyed his retirement years working at the Somersworth American Legion, and as a Starter and Ranger at The Ledges and The Oaks golf courses.

An avid golfer, Rich enjoyed playing golf weekly with his family and friends and took multiple trips to Myrtle Beach, SC dating back to the late 90's. Rich also played 2nd base for the Davidson Rubber company softball team for many years and was dedicated fan of all New England sports teams.

A dedicated father and husband, Rich coached both of his boys in baseball and hockey. Through the years, Rich traveled frequently with Maureen to many destinations both near and far including Mexico, Bermuda, Aruba, and all the New England attractions including Cape Cod and the islands, and the coast of Maine.

Family members include his wife of 55 years, Maureen (O'Toole) Leaver of Somersworth. Two sons, Jamie Leaver of Rochester, Jason, and his wife Lauren both of Hampton and brother Robert Leaver of Pelham, NH. Other family members include 2 grandchildren, Collin and Austin Leaver, nephew Adam Leaver of West Townsend, MA. Several cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Calling hours will be at Bernier-Pelkey Funeral Home, 49 South Street, Somersworth, NH on Friday, May 17, from 1pm to 4pm. Family and friends are invited to gather for "Pop's Party" following the calling hours from 4:00pm till close at the Somersworth American Legion, Post 69, 45 Washington Street, Somersworth, NH. A Military Honors service will start promptly at 5:00pm at the American Legion.

Memorial contributions may be made in Rich Leaver's name to:

Somersworth American Legion, Post 69

45 Washington Street

Somersworth, NH 03878.

To sign an online guestbook or for additional information, please visit www.jspelkeyfuneralhome.com .