Lewiston-Richard D. McCluskey II, 42, of Randolph, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 21st, 2013 while performing at a benefit for the “Rock Out Cancer! Rockfest benefit concert for the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing”.

Rich was born in Brunswick, December 1, 1970. He spent his early years in Freeport and moved with his parents to the Bath area at age six. Rich attended the Bath school system through his freshman year in high school when he moved to Richmond with his family. He graduated from Richmond High School in 1989.

Rich was an auto detailer for several years for local dealerships and was known in the industry for his skill in that trade. He later opened his own detailing business before returning to the corporate workforce with Newark Paper Industries. He worked at Newark for several years as a floor supervisor and machine operator. He traveled to Newark branch facilities around the country and Canada as a “set-up” man for various machinery installations. Rich had a natural mechanical intuition and was adept at troubleshooting and fixing all manner of machines and devices.

Rich had a generous nature and often donated his time for family projects at his parents and friends. His passions in life were his family, his music and fishing. He also loved to bird hunt, enjoying the autumn woods as much as the actual hunting. As a child, he often accompanied his father on fishing trips and was usually the only child amongst adults. As a father, his favorite fishing companion was his son Joey, whose passion for family and fishing rivaled his father’s. From the time both Joe and his daughter, Hannah, were born, Richie repeatedly expressed his delight and satisfaction with what wonderful children they were.

Rich was lead singer for the Rock band “Ruckus” with which he performed locally for many years. They had a loyal following who often became friends as well as fans. Rich passed away doing what he loved to do, performing for, and with, his friends and band members. His energy, passion and dedication to his family and music will be forever missed but forever remembered.

Survivors include his companion Deidra Fairley of Randolph; father and mother, Richard and Donna McCluskey of Richmond; a brother Daniel of Yonkers, New York; a sister Rebecca and husband Walter of Otisfield; a son Joseph of Bowdoinham and a daughter Hannah of Richmond.

A memorial service will be held Friday, September 27th at 2:00 p.m. at the Dresden-Richmond United Methodist Church at 121 Pleasant Street, Richmond Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: American Diabetes Association PO Box 10310 Portland, ME 04104

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home 130 Pleasant St. Richmond, Me 04357.