Richard B. Harden ’69

Richard B. Harden Jr., 77, passed away on January 9, 2025 at Exeter Hospital after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was born on August 21, 1947 in Rockland, Maine, the son of the late Richard B. Harden Sr. and Erleen (Cates) Harden. He was a much-loved athlete, artist, veteran, friend, son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather.
A resident of Fremont, NH for the last 8 years, Richard, known as “Rick” or “Ricky” to his friends and family, grew up in the seaside town of Rockland, Maine, where he forged many strong friendships that lasted his whole life. He attended Rockland High School where he loved being part of the Rockland Tigers football team and graduated in 1965.
He then went to Maine Maritime Academy, graduating in May of 1969. Just a month later, he married his high school sweetheart, Lucy who he would spend the next 55 years with. After graduation, he entered the Merchant Marines whose ships were sent to Vietnam. After 1 year he then joined the U.S. Navy and served for 4 years until he joined the U.S. Coast Guard where he would serve for over 20 years before retiring as a Commander in 1992. He also formerly resided in New York City, Virginia, Connecticut, Michigan, and finally New Hampshire.
Rick was employed for many years by Marine Safety Consultants where he assisted with the “Big Dig” tunnel project in Boston, Mass. He was an avid golfer and was a member of the Pease Retired Military Golf League. He also volunteered as a Pease Greeter. In addition to golf, Richard enjoyed many outdoor activities including boating and skiing.
Several years ago, he purchased his beloved Corvette, which had been a long-time dream of his. He loved to cruise around with Lucy, listening to Golden Oldies, and soaking in the sights.
He is survived by his wife, Lucy L. (Torfason) Harden of Fremont, NH; 2 sons, Christopher Harden and his wife Ashlee of The Woodlands, TX, and Jack Harden of Kittery, ME; his daughter Jill Backman and her husband Andrew of Newfields, NH; 8 grandchildren, Jarrod, Jordan, Cailin, Chase, Avery, Quinn, Milo, and Zeke; his brother Donald Harden and his wife Kathy Leavis; an aunt, an uncle, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Calling Hours will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 2-5 PM with Military Honors being presented at 5 PM, at the Brewitt Funeral Home, 14 Pine St., Exeter, NH. A celebration of life will be held in Rockland, Maine, in July.