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'COACH' RICHARD JOHN MCGEE
1930-2015
FAIRFIELD - "Coach" Richard John McGee, 84, passed away in the evening on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015, surrounded by his loving family and close friends. He was born to Joseph and Claire McGee, one of four children, in Providence, R.I., on Aug. 27, 1930. His young parents probably had no idea of the impact their son would have on thousands of young people in Central Maine.
Richard "Dick" McGee's father, Joe, was the coach of the Providence Steamrollers, a professional football team in the 1930s and 40s. Dick would travel all around New England with his father's teams thus beginning a lifelong love of football. Dick played for LaSalle Academy, graduating in 1948, and then moved on to play collegiate football at the University of Maine. His time spent playing for the University of Maine forged a devotion to the state of Maine, and created friendships and connections with teammates that lasted his entire life.
Upon graduation from the University of Maine in 1953, Richard moved to Winslow and began his career of teaching and coaching. It was there that Richard met the love of his life, Shirley Harriet Marcia, in 1956. They married in 1957, and together they raised four children in their house on Main Street in Fairfield: Michael, Marcia, Susan and Kelly. His love of football and athletics took second place only to his love of family.
Coach McGee then moved to teach and coach football at Lawrence High School in Fairfield. At that time, he recognized the need for a comprehensive community recreational program for the children of the area. Together with his friend Chief Fred Gould, Dick, and his wife Shirley working behind the scenes, created the Fairfield P.A.L. program, which still operates to this day, for hundreds of children each year. Dick served as the director of the Fairfield P.A.L. for 54 years, from 1959 to 2013. Although Dick was an incredibly accomplished and renowned college football coach, it is safe to say his proudest accomplishment was the inception of the P.A.L. program. Because of his dedication to this program, the P.A.L. fields have named the Richard McGee Athletic Fields.
For two years, Richard commuted from Fairfield each day to coach at Bowdoin College. In 1967, Coach John Winkin offered him the head football coaching job at Colby College in Waterville. This job offer changed Dick's life and he became a lifelong Mule. He was the head football coach from 1967 to 1978 (his proudest accomplishment was his team of 1972 that set a Colby wins-loss record of 7-2 that still holds to this day), the athletic director from 1974 to 1984, and he was an assistant football coach from 1985 to 1996. His passion for Colby sports remained undiminished throughout his entire life. Even on the day of his death, he spoke to Coach Whitmore about a Colby/Bowdoin battle.
Coach McGee received many awards for his coaching and community contributions including Maine High School Coach of the Year and New England College Coach of the Year. He was recognized several times for "Contributions to New England College Football" and "Outstanding Contributions to New England Athletics." His awards were appreciated, but to those who knew him, he was a very humble man who always had time for a conversation and a kind word. He loved his community and the simple life of living in a small town. A man of great devotion and spirituality, he went to Mass daily at the Immaculate Heart of Mary where he served as a Eucharistic minister. He loved being able to walk to Belanger's Drive In for a burger and a shake, and he loved walking to the bank to chat with the tellers, and then head to Rite Aid to pick up his daily paper. With a big screen television, a big heart, and a big living room, everyone in town was welcome at 105 Main Street to enjoy the big game of the day (and to Dick, all games were big)!
His happiest times were those summer days spent with his wife, family, and friends by his house and pool on Main Street. P Buddy (his nickname from his grandchildren) would fire up the barbecue grill to grill his chicken "bone side down" and open his house up to any and all that may be passing by. Any given weekend, he would be surrounded at the pool by his children, grandchildren, current and former players, neighbors and friends at "the Black Hole"…his house on Main Street where everyone arrived, but no one wanted to leave.
Coach McGee was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Claire; his sister, Michaella; his brothers, Joe and Phillip; and by his wife of 49 years, Shirley. He is survived by his son, Michael and his wife Jennifer and their children Jaime, her son Bryceson, Michaella, Haley, Maxwell Haney, Diana Haney, Quinson Lancaster and wife Theresa and family; his daughter, Marcia and her husband Randy and their children Ross, Whitney and her fiancée Travis Dorsey and their children Truan and Aulden, Taylor; his daughter Susan and her husband Gregg and their children Matthew and Jenna; his daughter Kelly and her partner Rob Irish and her children Jacob and Justin. He is also survived by many dear and close friends and players who were like his sons.
A special thank you to all of the staff at Bedside Manor, especially his dear friend and companion, Scott McManaman. Also, the family extends its gratitude to Dr. Harmon and Renee McCafferty for ensuring a peaceful passing for our beloved P Buddy.
If you wish to remember Coach Dick McGee, visiting hours will be held from 4-7 p.m. at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, on Friday, March 6. There will be a Celebration of Life at Colby College on Saturday, March 7, beginning at 1 p.m. in the Colby College Cotter Union. Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers, 107 Main Street, Fairfield. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.
You only had to meet him once to remember him forever.
In lieu of flowers, donations
can be made to the
Coach Dick McGee Scholarship Fund
at Lawrence High School.
Please make checks to
Lawrence High School
and on the memo or envelope,
please write Coach Dick McGee Scholarship Fund.
Mail to: Lawrence High School
9 School Street
Fairfield, Maine
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ashley
March 10, 2015
Mike and family, so sorry to read about your wonderful Dad's passing. He will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Gary & Paula Potter
March 8, 2015
Mike, Marcia, Sue, Kelly and families:
So sad to learn Coach McGee passed away. He was a man of massive character. I feel blessed to have been one of the tens of thousands of Maine youth, HS and college students who Dick McGee coached, mentored, taught and promoted. As you know, Max was all about character. I am eternally greatful for his bringing me to Colby and shepherding me onto a pathway where I learned that life is truly about family, friends and our community. My sincere condolences to you all.
Phil McCarthy
March 7, 2015
a great loss, we were lucky to have him
arthur
March 6, 2015
Very sorry for your loss He was a wonderful man
keith & ann stewart
March 5, 2015
Mike and family...our deepest condolences to your family with the passing of your dad. Dick was a man of class, integrity, strength, and character. He has left a legacy for your family as well as the people of Central Maine that will live on forever. He was a good man. Be proud, very proud.
Tony Hamlin
March 3, 2015
Mike and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your Dad and grandfather. Coach McGee was not only a pleasure to play for, but he was a pleasure to be around off the field as well. I will always appreciate him giving me the opportunity to play college football and to giving me a nickname to carry me through my college years and beyond. Coach, you will be missed.
Jay "Poli" Polimeno, Class of '81 LCA
Jay Polimeno
March 2, 2015
Mike, my deepest sympathies are with you and your family. Such positive influences for young men and women as a teacher and coach.
Bob LaRochelle
March 2, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
ted fales
March 2, 2015
So sorry to heart of Coach McGee's passing. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Kathy Butler and JD Littlefield
Kathy Butler
March 2, 2015
My sincere sympathy to the McGee family on the passing of Dick McGee, and to his grandson, Maxwell Haney, on the sad loss of his grandfather.
Teresa Dexter
March 2, 2015
Coach,
What a great man you were that touched so many other great men. I recall my best laughs in the "Mule Dome" were as you strolled though the stretching rows assigning out nicknames to us players. Some classics - too many to list. Many of us still carry the monikers you assigned just off the top of your quick wit.
Daniel "Slash" Connolly '92.5 LCA
March 2, 2015
Mike, Marcia, Sue, and Kelly;
Your parents were both wonderful friends to us. Our memories are full of visits around the pool, and the table, always time for chats! Fairfield will always benefit from your parents' work for the youth of the town. Our prayers, and our thoughts are with all. What loving memories you are blessed with!
Marge and Ed Withee
March 1, 2015
My condolences to all of the Dick Mcgee family, always remember Richard jogging in and around the Fairfield area. RIP
Paul Giroux
March 1, 2015
Peter S. & Karen L. Redman
respectfully acknowledge the greatness of Richard McGee & his entire family to the betterment of thousands of people throughout the world.
peter redman
March 1, 2015
Fond memories of one great man! A true Maine Sports Legend!
Paul McClay
March 1, 2015
Michael, Marcia, Susan and Kelly and all the grandchildren...Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow...but our fondest memories are with all of us and your families..with much Love Connie and Don Bowman
March 1, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Leland Knights,II
February 28, 2015
The entire McGee family has always been deeply connected to my family for many, many years. Coach McGee had done many things for me and for all of my family. Personally, I would have never been able to get into Colby College without his support. Next to my own Dad, he has influenced my life path more than anyone. We lost a great human being this week, but we should never lose the examples of his efforts of helping each other that he did in his actions. My heart and thoughts go out to Mike, Marcia, Susan and Kelly, I pray for you and your comfort during this time. You have a lot of folks who care for you and wish you all comfort. God Bless you all ...Mary and Donnie Bowman
February 28, 2015
My Prayers are with you and your family he was a wonderful man.
Judy Lane
February 28, 2015
Susan...thinking of you in this time of sorrow...prayers to your family
February 28, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
February 28, 2015
Mike, Jen & family-
So very sorry for your loss. Our sincere condolences to you & your family.
Don & Cathie Clark
February 28, 2015
A wonderful man, and a wonderful family. May he rest in peace.
Lisa and Larry Grard
February 28, 2015
To the McGee kids. I know you hurt so bad at this time as many of us do. Remember before you close your eyes at night one goog moment that will make you smile about a time with your parents. Sweet dreams to all.
Nancy Sheive/Stevens
February 28, 2015
In the words of Albert Einstein "Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children, family and the younger generation. For they are with us" He is alive in you. Your Father was a wonderful human being, touching so many people and will always have a special place in our lives.
With deepest sympathy
Antoine ad Helen Atallah
February 28, 2015
Dick filled his life with service. Service to the kids, young and old, of this community and to anyone who loved and respected those same kids. He always only wanted us to succeed. He used sports as an avenue to help others, but with him it was never about the sport, it was always about the person. While his body gave out, his heart never did and now he is released from the pains of mortality and free to go to work again for all those he loves. Our hearts and prayers go out to all his family, he will be missed!
Elon Firmage
February 28, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the McGee
Family at this time of loss.
Charlene & Jim Lawrence
February 28, 2015
To the McGee Family...My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you all. Your Dad was the most kind and compassionate man who got the greatest joy in life by giving to others! He ALWAYS had a big smile and kind words for me! And every time I went to his house with Kelly I always felt so welcome and loved! I'm honored to have known him and your whole family...you are all amazing! God bless you all and may your Dad and your Mom shine their love down on you till you meet again!! <3 <3. And Kelly...I wish I could give you a hug thru the phone! I miss you girlfriend...and if you ever come down to Florida, please look me up. I'd love to see you!! Take care....Love Kay Boulette, Sarasota Florida. <3<3<3
Kay Boulette
February 28, 2015
Sue and Kelly, so sorry to hear of your dad's passing, our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Patty and Jerry Lachance
February 28, 2015
My dear Marcia and the McGee family:
My heart is sad for you on the loss of your wonderful father. Such a loss to all who knew him, and to the community he served so well. He is now safely in the arms of The Lord, and with his beloved Shirley. May this thought comfort you in these times of sadness and grief. I pray for you God's comfort when times seem unbearable without your dad. He will shine a light in your heart and remind you that "dad" is now young and happy again. With love and blessings, Lil Levesque
Lillian Levesque
February 28, 2015
To all the children,grandchildren and great grandchildren of Dick. I am so sorry for your loss. He was a very sweet man and am glad I got to know him.He was always smiling and made you smile too.
Sandra Paradis
February 28, 2015
Dick was a great man whose love of sports, family, and life itself was always evident. I always looked forward to hearing his stories about the special times of his life, and seeing the enthusiasm he had in retelling them. He will be greatly missed by many, and I pray that the family may find peace in knowing he was so greatly loved and appreciated by so many, and that he is now happy and at peace with his beautiful Shirley.
Jamie Lawe
February 28, 2015
Dick was a great and valued friend and a significant mentor to me as a young head football coach. Thank you very much Dick for all you did for me.
Frank Knight
February 28, 2015
james Bickford
February 28, 2015
To the McGee family our sympathy to such a wonderful Teacher, Coach and Mentor, he will always be remembered in Fairfield for all that he has done. May he R.I.P.
Maurice & Barbara Bard
Maurice & Barbara Bard
February 28, 2015
Jessica
February 28, 2015
Mike, sorry to hear about the loss of your Father. He had a beautiful life. Rest assured that you are in our prayers, during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Dr. Tom & Jackie Chasse
February 28, 2015
My thoughts are with the family.
Sherry Barstow
February 28, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Fran Purnell
February 28, 2015
To all of Mr. Mcgee's Family, He was an inspiration to all of us ever coached by him. In 1954 our Sophmore year at Lawrence High School, he coached J. V. Basketball to us with 17 Wins & 1 loss. How's that for a Football Coach? He taught me more moves from the pivot just like a quaterback.He was also a fine example as a Christian in the classroom as well. In 1964 when serving on the Fairfield P.D., I had the privilage of working with Dick, & Chief Gould. Two men that help mould my life.Dick was a true, honest,caring, loving man that was a great natural motivator loved by all. I look forward to seeing him again in Glory.
I love him dearly for all he ever did for us all in Christ's love, Ron Bro
Roonald Lucien Brousseau
February 28, 2015
To the entire Mcgee family our deepest condolences. Doug mentions Mr. Mcgee with great fondness. He was never to busy to stop and talk to anyone. A fine coach plus a great human being, he will be missed.
Doug & Linda Thorpe
February 28, 2015
My wife and I are very sorry to hear of Mr. McGee passing, he was an amazing person. Our thoughts and prayers goes out for Mike, Marcia, Sue and Kelly and all of there family as our community suffer a great lost.
Dennis Kent
February 28, 2015
Our thoughts are with your family. Your father was a wonderful man and Fairfield has suffered a great loss as well.
Roger & Lynne Spencer
February 28, 2015
I heard many good things about Mr.McGee, he lived a long and meaningful life that hopefuly people will follow. God bless the McGee family
Matt Brown
February 28, 2015
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Funeral services provided by:
Lawry Brothers Funeral Home - Fairfield107 Main Street, Fairfield, ME 04937
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