BINGHAM – Richard L. Wallingford, 80, one of the best known draft horsemen in the United States, had his time in the ring run out Sunday, Sept. 3, 2006. Dick had some of the most beautiful teams of horses that ever existed, and traveled the country competing at country fairs and community events. He and his horses still hold the world’s record for the largest load ever pulled by a two horse team. Dick was one of the founders of the Maine Draft Horse and Ox Association. Dick was also involved for many years in the local community. He was the master Mason of the Bingham Lodge, worthy patron of the Eastern Star, and a member of the Kora Shrine Temple. He served for many years on the SAD No. 13 school board, often as chair. Dick ran a successful logging and sawmill operation in West Forks for more than 45 years, but will long be remembered for his large beautiful horses and his ability to handle them in such a skillful manner. He invented and marketed the first aluminum hames for draft horses, and ended up managing many pulling events during his later years. Dick also co-founded Wallingford’s Inc., an international wholesale logging supply distribution company. Dick was raised, as one of five children, at Perkins Ridge in Auburn, son of John and Bessie Wallingford, on a successful family apple orchard farm. He served in the Navy during World War II as a pilot and attended both the University of North Carolina and Yale. Dick is survived by his wife of 62 years, Winnie. They raised four children who now have fine families of their own. Linda and her husband, Jim West, of Bingham, three sons, spouses and five grandchildren. Dick Jr. and his wife, Elaine Wallingford, of Rockwood, one son and two daughters, spouses and two grandchildren. Diane Wallingford of Jacksonville, Fla., her son, daughter and her husband. John Wallingford of Oakland, his two daughters, spouses and five grandchildren. He was predeceased by his grandson, Gabriel Wallingford; and his daughter-in-law, Ann Wallingford. He is also survived by his two sisters, Arlene Hawkins of Auburn and Jane Michaud of Northridge, Calif. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Eugene and Ivan. Visiting hours will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, at the Giberson Funeral Home, 18 River St., Bingham. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Congregational Church, Meadow Street, Bingham. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Dick’s name to HealthReach Hospice, 212 Main St., Waterville, ME 04901.
RICHARD L. WALLINGFORD
