Donald Lee Rich

Donald Lee Rich, 90, of Stuart, FL, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 17 at his summer home in Windham, Maine, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 12, 1934, in Portland, Maine, to Chester and Louine Rich. Don grew up in Windham, amidst the bustle of his father’s business, Rich’s Home Restaurant, where he learned the value of hard work, creative thinking and sense of community. Lessons that would guide him throughout his life. It was during those years that he also met Jan, the love of his life, whom he later married in 1956. In 1959, Don and Jan founded the Don Rich Oil Company. What started with a single truck and just a few accounts grew, under Don’s steady leadership, into a thriving family business serving more than 7,000 customers throughout the Sebago Lake region. His entrepreneurial vision didn’t stop there, he went on to develop Don Rich Plaza and other properties, providing space for countless small businesses and helping North Windham flourish. In addition to his business endeavors, Don devoted much of his life to public service. He represented Windham in the Maine State Senate (1990-1992), serving on the Joint Standing Committees on Business Legislation and Audit and Program Review. He was also deeply engaged in his community, serving on numerous boards and committees including the Windham Planning Board, the Windham Senior Housing Complex, the Windham Conservation Committee, Presumpscot Lodge #127 and the Kora Shrine, the Windham Historical Society’s, charter member of the Windham Jaycees, and was a long-time member of the Board of Directors for Opportunity Farm for Boys, just to name a few. Beyond his professional and civic commitments, Don was a man known for his kindness, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family. He greeted everyone he met with a kind word and carried an infectious positivity that lifted those around him. Even in difficult times, he had a gift for finding the good in every situation and encouraged others to do the same. To his family and community, he was a mentor and a creative thinker who always made space for others. He found great joy in meaningful conversation, building connections, and sharing his generous spirit with all who crossed his path. Of all his accomplishments, the one that Don cherished most was his beautiful and loving family. He took great pride in his whole family, treasuring the 69 years he shared with his partner and loving wife, Jan, and the life they built together with their four wonderful sons. He also took great joy in time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride. In his later years, Don split his time between his beloved hometown of Windham and Stuart, Florida, enjoying both family, friends and the outdoors. He will be remembered for his kind and generous nature as well his unwavering commitment to his community. Don is predeceased by his parents Chester and Louine (Manchester) Rich. He is survived by his wife Janet (Lowell) Rich, their four sons: Jeffrey (wife Lori), Steven (wife Pam), Blaine (partner Louise), and Kyle (wife Jill), as well as eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held for family in September followed by a burial at the Arlington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Windham Historical Society, P. O. Box 1475, Windham, ME 04062

Donald Lee Rich

October 12, 1934 - August 17, 2025

Explore Tributes &
Upcoming Services