Russell Dickerman Obituary

Russell "Russ" Edgar Dickerman, 94, of Milford, died peacefully on August 7, 2024 at the Community Hospice House, Merrimack, NH.

Russ was born on August 1, 1930 in Cambridge, MA. He was the son of the late Edgar and Ethelyn (Adams) Dickerman. He moved from his home in Somerville, MA to Milford, NH at the age of 16 to live and work the farm land that he loved so much. He enlisted in the Air Force at Manchester, NH on July 11, 1951 and served his country with pride and honor for four years.

He was Honorably Discharged from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida in 1955 and returned to Milford. He was employed at Grenier, A.F.B., Manchester, 2235th Air Reserve Fly Center and joined the Air Force Reserves. In his career, he worked as an Airframe Specialist and later was employed at the New Boston Satellite Tracking Station as an Engineering Equipment Operator. He retired from the 23rd Space Operation Squadron, New Boston A.F.S. with 40 years of federal service in May of 1992.

Russ was predeceased by the love of his life, Geri (Watson) Dickerman. Together they made a powerful team. They enjoyed cruising in a Corvette, whether it was his 1954, 1962, 1965 or 1958. Russ drove the 1965 Corvette year round for 40 years. They drove all over the Eastern seaboard researching the Adams and Dickerman genealogy. They will both be remembered for saving the Town of Monson, NH. They took pride in the restoration of the J. Gould House and it still can be visited today. Russ has been caretaker of the property since 1998. This is a legacy they created for future generations to enjoy.

Russ will be remembered as an historian, skilled craftsman, collector of antiques and true American. He and Geri restored their historic home and barn when they were first married. He enjoyed hunting and a good conversation. He could be found most days at Monson, with his little poodle sidekick, Niki, talking with visitors and dog walkers. He could remember facts long forgotten by others and weaved a story about life from "back in the day" that kept your attention. Russ was recognized as the Milford Citizen of the Year in 2015 presented by The Milford Historical Society, Milford Improvement Team.

Russ was also predeceased by his sister Virginia Saytanides. Although Russ and Geri had no children, they were adored by many close nieces and nephews, Charles (Linda) Saytanides, James (Jean) Saytanides, Julia (Steve) Warriner, Betty Hammond, Joyce Jensen, Nancy Orde, Brenda Young, Donald Shattuck, Pamela Young and Deanna Chaffee. Deceased: Shirley Rivard, Norma Smith, John Shea, Donna Kimball, Mary Hall and Richard Ashford.

Russ is survived by many great friends and special mention to Thomas Bayrd, who was like a son, and his wife Lisa. Tom watched over and cared for Russ to his final day. He was his best friend, caretaker and supporter. They shared many similar interests and viewpoints. Russ will be remembered fondly and missed dearly every day.

Visiting hours are on Wednesday, August 14th from 10:00-11:30am in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 noon in the funeral home. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Milford, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Society for the Protection of NH Forests, c/o Monson, 54 Portsmouth Street, Concord, NH 03301-9965.