BUXTON-Richard Lawrence Cleaves, 69, passed away on Sunday, December 25, 2016. He was born on February 23, 1947, in Portland, the son of William E. Cleaves, Jr. and Myrtle (Elliott) Cleaves. Richard was a graduate of South Portland High School, Class of 1965, and was Captain of the Cross-Country Team. Following high school, he enrolled at Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute [1965-1967], where he received his Associate Degree, majoring in Marine Technology. Richard's most proud accomplishment was serving his country in the U.S. Army 1967-1970. He was a combat veteran in the Vietnam war in the 3rd Battalion, 9th infantry division. Called "River Raiders." Dad was a boat engineer and gunner during combat. He manned a mounted .50 cal machine gun. After which he was awarded two Army Commendations with "V" device, and a Bronze Star with "V" device. He was a true American Hero!Richard was known for his kindness, unwavering strength, generosity, and creative side. He never failed to wear a smile no matter how bad he felt. Most notably in recent years, he honed his skills as a gourmet cook.He was predeceased by his parents, William E. Cleaves, Jr. and Myrtle E. Cleaves, both of South Portland. He was also predeceased by his second wife, Cindy Sampson Cleaves of Farmington.He is survived by his wife of thirteen years, Catherine Bobroff Cleaves; four children, Maryjo Hanna and husband, Lance, of Buxton, Katie Cleaves of Las Vegas, Matthew Cleaves and wife, Samantha of Westbrook, and Phillip Cleaves of Denver, CO; sister, Lorraine Cleaves Anderson and husband, Bob of Boston; brother, Rodney Cleaves and wife, Elaine, of Chelmsford, MA; eleven grandchildren; one aunt, Mildred Small, of Sarasota, FL; numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and cousins.Visitation will be 1-2 p.m., followed by memorial service at 2 p.m., Sunday, January 8, at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. Condolences may be expressed online at www.hobbsfuneralhome.com.