MONSON and THE BERKSHIRES, Mass. – Richard Coburn, 57, was called home to glory, May 13, 2008, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 15, 1951, in Holyoke, Mass., to Richard and Virginia Coburn of Shaw Pond, Mass., and currently of Monson. As a child Richard often moved with his family around the U.S. and Germany, eventually graduating from Waconah High School, Dalton, Mass., in 1969. After graduating, Richard joined the U.S. Army, where he served two tours in Vietnam with the 716th MP Battalion and 545th MP Company, 1st Calvary Division. He also spent time in Greece, Turkey and various other spots around the globe, until he retired in 1989 with a rank of sergeant first class. He re-enlisted in 2001 and served in Afghanistan, where he finally received a combat infantry badge, which he had always wanted. He then went on to graduate from the University of Maine, and spent many of his last years teaching in the local school districts. Richard was known for helping others, especially his fellow veterans, his lifelong quest for knowledge, his outspokenness and his love for his many, many hobbies. His stories, his humor and kindness to those who needed it will be greatly missed. Richard was predeceased by two sisters, Heidi and Avis; and his father, Richard Coburn. He is survived by his wife, Louise; and their son, Jonathan; his mother, Ginny Coburn; a brother, Ben Coburn and his wife, Rhonda, all of Monson; a sister, Lorrie Sears and her husband, Steve, of Carson City, Nev.; his brother-in-law and best friend, David B. Marsh of Glennville, Ga.; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers and gifts, please make donations to American Legion Towne-Hombolm Post No. 116, P.O. Box 66, Monson, ME 04464 or to any cancer research program of your choice. Arrangements by Bowers Funeral Home, Island Falls.
RICHARD COBURN
