Richard N. Rehlander

Saco

Richard N. Rehlander, 95, of Saco, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, in Biddeford.

Richard was born on November 22, 1929, and was raised by his mother Helen Maude (Burton) Rehlander.

As a young boy, Richard grew up on the Dorrance estate in Bar Harbor, where his grandfather, William Burton, was employed as head gardener. Richard was a very outgoing young man, acting in summer theater, earning his Eagle Scout Badge, sailing with his family, and enjoying life on the island. He earned his pilot's license and became part owner of a Piper Cub Pontoon airplane that he enjoyed flying.

Richard attended Bar Harbor High School where he played for both the football and basketball teams. He graduated High School in 1947 and enlisted in the United States Navy where he served for three years before serving in the United States Marine Corps for another four years. While in the Marines, he was honored to teach riflery to the cadets.

After his time in the military, Richard studied architecture in Boston where he received his associate's degree. After graduating, he was employed by Cambion Electronics in Cambridge, MA., where he worked 47 years as an electrical mechanical engineer. He had multiple patents while working there and was very proud to share his accomplishments.

Richard met and later married his wife, Marcelle (Lamirande) Rehlander, on September 1st, 1973. They spent 52 happy years together enjoying life and loved ones, and building their home in Billerica Massachusetts, and retirement home in Saco, Maine.

Richard was also very proud to be an Aleppo Shriner. He played the Bagpipes and later became Pipe Major of the Shriners Bagpipe Band; he was a part of and traveled with the organization for over 40 years. He was also a very creative and handy person. He would paint, draw and do wood carvings in his free time. He designed and built the two homes that he and his family lived in and enjoyed for many years.

In retirement Richard enjoyed life in Maine and sailing his sailboat the "Mimosa" around the islands of Casco Bay with friends and family.

Richard was predeceased by his mother: Helen Maude Rehlander, and his son Larry Rehlander.

Richard is survived by his wife: Marcelle (Lamirande) Rehlander, his son: Michael Rehlander and wife Lorie, his two stepsons: Gregory Mercurio, Alfred Mercurio and wife Janet, his two stepdaughters: Antoinette Mercurio and Reinette Fortunati, his nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Donations to the Shriners

To view Richard's memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com