Richard Michael LeClaire

 Richard Michael LeClaire, 76, of Ellicott City, MD, passed away on December 19, 2025, surrounded by family.

Richard was born in Cambridge, MA and moved with his family at the age of 10 to Hollywood, FL. He was a merchant marine and a member of the American Maritime Officers union. He worked as an marine engineer until he retired in 2020. He married Kimberly Pfeifer in 2002 and had two surviving children, Sophie and Luca LeClaire. He was a loving and dedicated husband and father. Richard and Kimberly met through their common commitment to workers’ rights and economic justice. He followed Kimberly to support her in her career. He was so proud of Sophie and Luca whether in school or on the lacrosse fields. He loved time at the beach and fishing with his family and good food with family and friends.

Richard was caring and generous, always willing to help. He always lit up every space with his endless amazing stories to share from his colorful life and travels. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, daughter Sophie, son Luca, and brother Robert LeClaire.

There will be a mass of Christian burial for Richard on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 1:00 pm followed by a reception to celebrate his life at St. Paul Catholic Church, 3755 St. Paul St., Ellicott City, MD

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Mediation and Conflict Resolution Center of Howard County, Maryland at this link https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/honoring-the-life-of-richard-michael-leclaire You can find more on the mission of the Mediation and Conflict Resolution Center on their website: http://www.mcrchoward.org/