Richard Pauquette Obituary, Death – Richard “Richie” John Pauquette, 87, died abruptly on Monday, December 19, 2022, at his daughter’s home in North Carolina.
Richard Pauquette was born on June 22, 1935, in Comstock, New York, to Melvin and Marion (La Barge) Pauquette. Richie grew up in North Granville’s “great yellow mansion” with his nine siblings (Jim, Jean, Bernie, Ed, William, Frank, Andy, Mel, and Sharon). Richard started working at Telescope Folding Furniture when he was 17 years old. In 1953, he joined the United States Air Force and served in the Korean War.
Richard married Joan “Joanie” Jones of Wells, Vermont on April 23, 1960. Richie quickly built Joanie the house on North St, just across the bridge, where they reared their three children Polly, Dickie, and Danielle for 57 years. Richie launched his own business, Richard J. Pauquette, Builder, which ultimately became “Pauquette Construction,” after working for Ridge Homes, Jim Emery, and Richard Holcomb. Richie was passionate about his profession and carpentry. He was a skilled carpenter who took great satisfaction in every house he built and renovation project he completed. Richie was a reliable employee who always delivered an “honest day’s work” to his clients. Richie employed and mentored many young men (including his son Rich Jr.) over the years, teaching and sharing his skills and passion for the building trade.
Richard was a member of American Legion Post 323 and a founding member of the Wells Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as Assistant Chief for many years.
Joan was cared for by Richard till her death on September 8, 2021. He was an exceptional father, grandfather, and uncle. He will be remembered for his gentle and compassionate nature, boundless love for his family, and distinctive laugh. Richie adores his canines, particularly Daisy, his devoted canine partner. Richie was a fantastic cook who created delectable baked beans, scalloped potatoes, molasses cookies, rice pudding, and chicken and biscuits. Richie drank a strong vodka and tonic every day (with very little tonic and a lot of ice). He adored any type of seafood (particularly oysters and clams) as well as a truly rare prime rib.
Richard is survived by his children, Richard Jr. “Rich” Pauquette of Wells and Danielle Pauquette-Houston (Andy Blanchard) of Moyock, NC. Paulette “Polly” Miller, a Middleburgh, New York resident (Loren). Nicole Bower (Scott), Lauren Flanders (Wes), Alex Towle (Kevin), Jordan Pauquette (Rachel), and Paige Pauquette are grandchildren; Mason Seuferling, Fiona Graves, Gavin Gensch, Grayson Towle, Libby Bower, Orla Towle, Elliott Bower, and Reese Towle are great-grandchildren; and Michelle Pauquette is a special niece.
Richard and Joan’s funerals and interments will take place at a later period.