Richard W. Tuttle ’59 died on June 22, 2025, in Raymond, Maine.
(The following was provided by the Portland Press Herald on July 6, 2025:)
Brigadier General Richard W. Tuttle ’59
Brigadier General Richard W. Tuttle of Raymond, passed into the arms of the Lord on Sunday June 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service and love. Born in Boston, Mass., on Nov. 20, 1936, he was the son of Dr. Paul W. and Helen S. Tuttle. The Tuttle family built a home and thriving dental practice in South Portland, where General Tuttle grew up, attending local schools and graduating from high school in 1955.
Raised in the Christian faith by his devoted mother, Richard learned the significance of the Ten Commandments and the values of compassion and integrity. He often credited his success to exceptional teachers and inspiring coaches who guided him throughout his formative years.
His college journey presented challenges until he met the love of his life, Sandra. Her unwavering support and encouragement played a pivotal role in his academic success, helping him graduate from the University of Maine at Orono. General Tuttle is known to have said, “The winning combination in life is marrying the right girl and working for the right outfit.” He found both by marrying the oldest daughter of a Vermont dairy farmer and later joining the United States Air Force. During his school years, he achieved significant milestones, including becoming captain of his high school football team and co-captaining the track team, which laid the foundation for his leadership qualities.
“Dick Tuttle” was the former president and co-owner of Gould Equipment Company located in South Portland. A career spanning over forty years in the oil and propane equipment industry forged many lifelong customer relations, of which many became “Dick Tuttle’s” friends. He also served as a director of the Maine Oil Dealers Association. While in the industry he also served on the EXPO Advisory Committee for the Portland School Department, and was a member of the Kora Shrine Temple, Lewiston.
A defining chapter in his life was his distinguished military career, culminating in the rank of brigadier general in the Maine Air National Guard. In 1994, he was selected as the Assistant Adjutant General for the Air National Guard. His military decorations include: the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal with one device, the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Maine Commendation Award Ribbon.
Brigadier General Tuttle’s greatest joy was found in his family, particularly in his three beloved children, Benjaman W. Tuttle and his wife, Lisa, and their children, Kenneth Morgan and Sarah Jean; Pamela “LT” Hastings and her husband, Rob Hastings, and their children, Quinton August and Delilah Verne. He was also very proud of his son, Jonathan R. Tuttle who was the valedictorian of the Portland High School class of 1984. He is also survived by his sister, Irene T. Morine, and her husband, John T. Morine, along with their children, Justin and Adam Morine, and their families.
His dedication to service and leadership inspired those around him, earning him respect and admiration. His legacy extends beyond his military and business achievements, as he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him, demonstrating that true success is measured by love, integrity, and the relationships we build.