Richard “Dick” Ouimette

Richard (Dick) Everett Ouimette, age 91. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed Korean War veteran. Dick was born on June 28, 1932, in Ludlow, MA, the son of William Ouimette and Eva Stebbins. He departed from us on February 5, 2024
Growing up in the Hungry Hill neighborhood of Springfield, MA, Dick attended Springfield Trade School. On August 3, 1952, he married Gladys Ives. Shortly thereafter, at the age of 21, Dick answered the call of duty and served with honor in the United States Army during the Korean War. He demonstrated exceptional courage as a member of the Red Dragons, the 2nd Chemical Mortar Battalion, from 1952 to 1953. Though the majority of his unit did not return from the battlefield, Dick’s resilience ensured his safe homecoming, a testament to his remarkable strength and determination.
In 2009, Walter J. Eldredge immortalized Dick’s service and the bravery of the Red Dragons in his book titled “The Red Dragons,” featuring Dick prominently on the front cover. Returning to West Springfield after his military service, Dick established Ouimette Plumbing while raising four children with Gladys. He also served on the West Springfield Housing Authority and enjoyed friendly competition in a local candlepin bowling league alongside Gladys.
In 1969, the family relocated to Conway, MA, where Dick continued his plumbing and heating business for 28 years until his retirement in 1997. During this time, he served as a Conway Selectman for 12 years and as the Conway Town Moderator for an additional 15 years. Dick cherished his life in Conway, often visiting Baker’s Country Store for coffee and engaging conversations with fellow residents.
Upon retiring, Dick and Gladys settled in The Saddle Oak Retirement Community in Ocala, FL, where they actively participated in community events and hosted holiday celebrations. Dick also joined VFW Post 4781, where he served with pride as a member of the Honor Guard at over five hundred veteran burials.
In 2020, Dick and Gladys relocated to Drumlin Reserve Assisted Living in Cottage Grove, WI. The family expresses gratitude to the staff of Drumlin Reserve and Agrace Hospice for their exceptional care and support during this time.
Throughout his life, Dick remained modest about his wartime experiences, sharing his stories only later in life, offering invaluable insights into history. He will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, quiet strength, and profound sense of duty to his country, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, resilience, and sacrifice that will inspire generations.
Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gladys, on December 1, 2023, after 71 years of marriage, his parents William and Eva, his brother William Ouimette, and granddaughter Liza K. Ouimette. He is survived by his daughter Diane (Tom) Caron of Conway, MA; sons Rick (Sharon) Ouimette of Marshall, WI, Ken (Cyndie) Ouimette of Conway, MA, and Dave (Nancy) Ouimette of Buford, GA, Dick also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Michael Caron, Tracy Levasseur, Craig Ouimette, Keith, Ouimette, Bethany Zimmerman, Kendra Ouimette, Hailee Ouimette, and Brooke Ouimette, as well as several cherished great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A private service is being held on Sunday, February 18, 2024. A Celebration of life for both Dick and Gladys is scheduled for May 18, 2024 at the Conway Sportsman’s Club in Conway, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Drumlin Reserve or Agrace Hospice in memory of Dick. Rest in peace Dad, you are now Home.