Richard Desjardins

GLOUCESTER / SALEM - Richard Desjardins, 70, of Gloucester and Salem, longtime, devoted companion and best friend of Janie McNamara passed recently at his home.

Born in Salem, Rich was the son of the late Richard and Edna (Foster) Desjardins. He was also the nephew of Jeanette Foster, with whom he had a very special bond, caring for her until her passing. Richard attended St. Mary’s and Philips Grammar School, graduated from Salem High School and attended Bentley College and North Shore Community College.

Rich was blessed to be able to practice a trade he loved and cherished as a life-long clam digger. He worked as an Independent Contractor, primarily for Red’s Best Fisheries in the Seaport District. Everyone who had the pleasure of working with him respected and admired his passion, skill and love of the work. He came by this knowledge naturally, learning the craft from his father digging right alongside him.

His love of the outdoors extended to his hobbies. An avid birdwatcher, hiker and kayaker, he loved nature in all forms, and he documented that beauty as a painter and photographer. His knowledge of bird and plant species was astonishing, and he used his artistic eye creating beautiful flower gardens for himself and others.

Rich enjoyed staying active in sports his entire life. He played high school and college hockey, recreational volleyball and later in life took up cross-country skiing. He hit the trails in Bartlett NH, Plum Island Reservation, and along the carriage roads in Arcadia.

Richard and Janie loved travelling together. Favorite destinations varied from the Caribbean to Coastal Maine and Eastern Canada with Quebec City holding a special place in their hearts.

Rich was the kindest of souls with a quiet spirit. An introspective man, he loved learning and was interested in so many topics. He lived his life with such freedom, happy to help others and give of himself whenever there was an opportunity. He will be missed by all those who called him a friend.

He is survived by his sisters Dorothy Courtney of Huntington Beach, CA, and Helen MacKay of Waterboro, ME, and several nieces and nephews. In addition, he leaves his other family, The McNamaras. He was predeceased by his brother Kenneth and sister Gail Gauthier.

ARRANGEMENTS: At Richard’s request, there will be no services. If you wish to honor Richard’s memory, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Plum Island Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.