Richard
“Dick” Lawrence Desautels, 78, passed away on September 2, 2024,
surrounded by his loving family, at the University of Vermont Medical
Center in Burlington, Vt., following a brief illness.
Dick
was born on September 25, 1945, and grew up in Winooski, Vt. At age
16, he joined the Winooski Fire Department and quickly created a life
to help others for years to come. He and Sally wed in 1966 and moved
to Colchester in 1972. Dick started at the Burlington Fire Department
in 1968, eventually becoming its fire chief. “Retirement” was a
loose term for Dick, and he worked multiple jobs at Burlington
Housing Authority, Colchester Water District, Colchester Fire
Department and many, many more.
While
Dick had many jobs, hobbies and interests, he cherished spending time
with his family the most. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sally;
sister, Claire; sons, Jeff (Tina) and Todd (Emily); daughter, Amy;
and his adored grandchildren, Tyler and Morgan. He was predeceased by
his parents, Reginald and Florina, and his brother, Roger.
A
mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, September 19,
2024, 11 a.m., at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Following the
service, the family invites friends and acquaintances to gather at
the Burlington Elks Lodge #916 to continue the celebration of Dick’s
life. As red was Dick’s favorite color, family and friends are
invited to don their favorite crimson hues and dress for festivities
and fun.
In
lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Colchester Volunteer Fire Department, in recognition of Dick’s several years of dedicated
service.
Arrangements
for Dick’s services have been entrusted to LaVigne Funeral Home in
Winooski. The Desautels family wishes to express their profound
appreciation for the support and comfort from the community and UVMMC
during this difficult time. To send online condolences to his family,
please visit vtfuneralhomes.com.
This article appears in Sep 4-10, 2024.