Richard J. Sluben, Sr.

Claremont, NH — Richard (Dick) J. Sluben, Sr., 84, formerly of Colebrook, NH, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Born on June 18, 1941, in Winthrop, MA, he was the son of the late Joseph and Pauline (Grainger) Sluben. Dick honorably served his country in the United States Naval Reserve until 1968. A proud Eagle, he graduated from Boston College in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Dick was a natural communicator who found genuine joy in the stories and passions of others. His innate ability to build relationships fueled a long and successful career as an insurance entrepreneur. He founded his first agency in Fairfield, CT, in the 1970s, followed by a second in Meredith, NH, in the 1980s. In 2006, he opened his third business in Colebrook, which he took great pride in operating until 2021.

Beyond his professional life, Dick’s heart belonged to the outdoors. He was happiest at his camp in Stewartstown, NH, near the Canadian border—a place he considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Whether he was hiking, fishing, canoeing, or snowmobiling, Dick embraced every season with vigor. He walked miles each day, soaking in the sights and sounds of nature and living fully in every moment. On these daily adventures, he was rarely without his constant companion: a Golden Retriever, always named Maxie.

In 2022, Dick moved to Elmwood Center in Claremont. While the decline in his health and mobility was a significant challenge, he continued to find comfort and joy in regular visits and outings with his dear friends and family.

He is survived by his children: Elizabeth (Beth) McCarthy and her husband Dennis of Melrose, MA; Karen Rosania and her husband Rick of Portsmouth, NH; Richard (Rick) J. Sluben, Jr. of Ludlow, MA and his longtime partner, Carolina (Caroline) Salvatierra; and William (Bill) Sluben and his wife Laureen of Marietta, GA. He also leaves behind his sister, Maureen Mackenzie of Manomet, MA; his longtime companions, Penelope Arcone of Meriden, NH, and Lydia Harvey of St. Johnsbury, VT; as well as eight grandchildren and a wide circle of relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother-in-law and close friend, William (Bill) Mackenzie; and his former wife and the mother of his children, Eleanor “Honey” Collimore Sluben.

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Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Ammonoosuc Conservation Trust (ACT) at act-nh.org.

Arrangements: Knight Funeral Home of White River Junction, VT, has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.