Tuesday, October 13, 2026 | St. Lawrence County, NY
MASSENA -- Richard L. “Dickie” Aubertine, 75, of Massena, passed away peacefully at Canton-Potsdam Hospital with his children by his side.
The family has entrusted arrangements to Phillips Memorial Home in Massena.
Richard was born in Massena on March 8, 1951, the son of the late Francis Aubertine and Pauline (LaRue) Aubertine.
He attended school in Massena and graduated in 1969. On October 18, 1969, he married Sally Horan, and together they welcomed two children. Their marriage later ended in divorce.
Richard dedicated 33 years of service to General Motors before retiring in 2004.
Retirement gave him more time to enjoy one of his favorite places, the Massena Country Club, where he could often be found enjoying a round of golf with his son, grandson, or close friends. A devoted member of the club for more than 30 years, Richard cherished the friendships and memories he made on the golf course.
A man of many talents, Richard was an exceptional gardener and cook who took great pleasure in sharing the fruits of his labor and his delicious meals with family and friends.
He enjoyed woodworking and had a remarkable ability to fix or build just about anything. Whether tending his garden, preparing a favorite meal, or working with his hands, Richard found joy in creating things to share with others.
Richard was also a member of the Massena American Legion Post No. 79, where he frequently stopped to visit and socialize with his many good friends. He was a proud member of UAW Local 465 and valued the camaraderie he found among his fellow members.
Above all, Richard was a devoted father, loving grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend. He had a warm and welcoming nature, and those who knew him will remember his friendly smile and the handshake he readily offered to everyone he met. He treasured time spent with his family and friends and had a special way of making people feel welcome wherever he went.
Richard enjoyed golfing, bowling in his younger years, cooking, gardening, and watching his favorite sports teams, the Montreal Canadiens and Atlanta Falcons. Whether cheering on his teams, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying conversation with friends, he appreciated life's simple pleasures and the people who made those moments special.
Richard is survived by his loving children, Bruce R. Aubertine and his fiancé, Meghan LaDuke of Massena, NY, Brooke Ward and her husband, Joseph, of Louisville, NY, and Jared Garrow of Massena, NY; his grandchildren, Hunter Hayden of Massena and Calen Ward of Louisville; his siblings, Nancy Rowell of Three Mile Bay, New York; Doris Jandreau of Massena, New York; and Thomas Aubertine and his wife, Wanda, of Parish, New York. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Richard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His kindness, generous spirit, love of family, and gift for bringing people together will live on in the many memories he leaves behind.
Memorial contribution in Richards’ name may be acknowledged to the Massena American Legion Post No. 79; 40 E. Orvis St., Massena, NY 13662
A Celebration of Life for Richard will be held at The Massena American Legion Post No. 79 located at 40 E. Orvis Street, Massena on Saturday, October 17, 2026, beginning at 12:00 noon.
Family and friends may share memories, photos, memorial trees and condolences by visiting Richards’s memorial page at www.PhillipsMemorial.com.
