Dwayne William Aldrich, a man of unwavering loyalty, discipline, and generosity, peacefully passed away at age 77 at his daughter’s home in Amherst, Massachusetts, surrounded by his loving family on Christmas Eve, December 24th, 2023. Born in Concord, New Hampshire, Dwayne was the son of John Seldon Aldrich and Elizabeth Louise (Dermon) Aldrich.
Above all else, Dwayne was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and friend. He developed a deeply personal faith that guided him to live with graciousness and gratitude, and he held these words of scripture close to his heart: "'For I know the plans I have for you' says the Lord.
'Plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)
Dwayne took great pride in having served his country in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His commitment and skill as a marine were recognized when he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the distinction of Rifle Sharpshooter. Even in retirement, he found serene joy in practicing marksmanship and diligently maintaining his equipment.
Discipline defined every aspect of Dwayne's life. A meticulous record-keeper and forward-thinking planner, he valued organization and order. In January of 2016, at the time of his 70th birthday, Dwayne wrote, "I will continue my simple lifestyle of living in less space, with fewer
things, and with more light. ... This allows me more time for daily meditation, prayer, and reading. This all creates more joy, a love for others, and much better decision making in life." His genuine kindness and generosity were evident in his relationships, as he kept in touch
with longtime friends over his lifetime.
In his youth, Dwayne was an avid scuba diver with dreams of pursuing a degree in Chemical Oceanography. After his military service from 1967 to 1971, he embarked on a career with AC Nielsen as a field market researcher in Clearwater, Florida, where he resided for more than
50 years.
In honor of Dwayne's life and service, a flag will be flown over the United States Capitol on what would have been his 78th birthday, January 25, 2024.
Dwayne is survived by his daughter Kristine A. Elison of Amherst, MA, and her husband Raphael Elison, along with their sons, Calvin and Keagan. He is also survived by his son Scott A. Aldrich of Belleair Bluffs, FL, and his wife Eva Aldrich, with their daughter Alex. Additionally, he is survived by his brother George S. Aldrich and George's partner Brenda Nixon of Clearwater, FL, niece Shaina, as well as his youngest brother Jack H. Aldrich and his wife Karen Aldrich of Laconia, NH, niece Lindsey and nephew Tate.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, 30 Locust Street, Northampton, MA, as a tribute to the compassionate care that brought comfort to Dwayne in his final days.