TILTON — Mr. Richard M. Stephen, 98, formerly of Winnisquam and Melrose, Mass., died at the NH Veterans’ Home in Tilton on June 21, 2012.

He was born in Chelsea, Mass., on Feb. 20, 1914, the son of James Crole Stephen and Alice (Steadman) Stephen. He resided in Melrose for many years and graduated from Melrose High School in 1932.

Mr. Stephen summered in Winnisquam for several years before moving there full-time in 1972. He later resided in Naples, Maine, and Naples, Fla., before returning to live in Laconia.

During World War II, he served as a staff sergeant in the US Army, seeing service in Europe. He was a highly decorated combat soldier, receiving numerous awards and medals, including the Purple Heart Medal and the Bronze Star Medal.

He worked for many years at Polaroid in Waltham, Mass., prior to retiring.

His wife, Dorothy (Nelson) Stephen, died in 1993.

Family members include sons Richard E. Stephen of Old Orchard Beach, Maine, and Robert N. Stephen of Franklin; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother James Stephen of Palm Coast, Fla.; sister Dorothy Gile of Hillsborough; and nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service at Union Cemetery in Sanbornton on Monday, June 25, at 11 a.m. There are no visiting hours.

Thibault-Neun Funeral Home in Franklin (www.neunfuneralhomes.com) is assisting with arrangements.