Laconia----Richard “Rich” E. Leavitt, 64, of 25 Dewey St., passed away at the Lakes Region General Hospital, Friday, January 26, 2007 after a courageous fight with COPD.

Rich was born January 25, 1943 in Dover MA., the son of Gordon and Dorothy (Newcomb) Leavitt.

Rich worked for the Postal Service in Dover, MA. before he moved to the lakes Region in 1986. He worked for several years for KRB Marine and then Shep Brown’s Boat Basin in Meredith for 16 years.

Rich had a rare zest for life and a laugh, that once heard, you never forgot. He was an avid NASCAR fan, as well as spending quality time on the roads with his motorcycle. He was loved by all and he loved all with whom he came in contact with. He will truly be missed.

Survivors include his wife of 21 years Judy (Adams) Leavitt of Laconia; a son and daughter-in-law, Hardy and Melanie Wischlburger ; a granddaughter, Jaelyn Wischlburger all of Laconia; a daughter Amanda Michel of MA., as well as many cousins and a niece and a nephew.

According to his wishes, there are no calling hours or funeral service. His wishes were to be cremated and at a later date, to have “one heck of a party.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the NH Humane Society, P.O. Box 572, Laconia, NH 03247-0572

Wilkinson-Beane Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH.