OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 9, 2023

YVETTE G. POULIN

WINSLOW – Yvette Gloria Poulin, 88, passed away on Friday, October 20, 2023, at Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn. Yvette was born in Waterville on August 2, 1935, daughter of Harold and Cecile Roy.

In October 1954 Yvette married Reginald H. Poulin. They had five children, Steven, Roger, Joyce, Bruce, and Christine, all raised in Winslow.

She was predeceased by her husband Reggie, in 1989, and her grandson Joshua, in 1996.

Yvette is survived by her sons Steve with wife Deborah, of Manchester, Roger with wife Michelle, of Orlando, Florida, and Bruce, of Winslow; daughters Joyce with husband Paul Paquette, of Winter Springs, Florida, and Christine with husband Ken Tucker; grandsons Nolan with wife McKayla Dunfey, of Flagstaff, Arizona, Dominic, of St. Paul, Minnenota, Jason with wife Brenna Noel Paquette, of Jacksonville, Florida, Aaron with wife Laura, and Benjamin, of South Portland; granddaughter Taylor; great-grandson Brian; great-granddaughter Julia, of Winter Park, Florida.

At Yvette’s request, there will be no services.

MICHAEL L. POIRIER

WATERVILLE – Michael L. Poirier, 73, passed away on Sunday, October 22, 2023, following a short illness. He was born in Waterville, on September 19, 1950, son of Lionel J. Poirier and Ruth (Carey) Poirier.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1986. He attended the University of Maine in Orono, the Universitie’ de Pau in Nouvelle Aquitaine, France, as well as the Universite’ of Sorbonne, in Paris.

Michael, known as “Mickey” to his close friends and family members, earned the prestigious Eagle Scout award before he was even old enough to receive it. He went on to earn the “Three Palms” awards of Boy Scouts of America.

His last employment, before retiring, was at the Waterville Public Library, where he could be surrounded by books on the inside and apply his landscaping skills beautifying the outside.

Mickey was fluent in French and embraced his Franco-American heritage. He was a devout Catholic who not only attended Mass, but also services at the Blessed Sacrament, in Waterville.

Mickey will be remembered for his musical and dramatic talents, his love of horticulture, and his dry sense of humor.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, his younger sister Mary and his second mother “Aunty” Anna (Carey) Vigue.

He is survived by sisters Pam (Ed) Luwish, Janis (Gary) Ackendorf; niece Gretchen (Steven) Henderson; and great-nephews, Wesley, Preston, and Desmond Henderson.

A private service is planned for the coming spring.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

ROBIN L. DOUCETTE

WATERVILLE/SIDNEY – Robin Lee (Reynolds) Doucette, 66, of Water­ville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. She was born October 6, 1957, daughter to Robert and Louise (Chamberlain) Reynolds.

Robin grew up in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1977. She married the love of her life, Hugh Doucette Jr., on July 16, 1977, and the two raised three children in the Waterville/Sidney area.

Robin worked at the chicken plant, in Winslow, before going to be a C.N.A and Med Tech at Lakewood Nursing home from 1981 to 2012. She also sold Avon in her spare time. Her most important job was being a daughter, sister, mom, meme and a great-meme, and the matriarch of her family.

Robin loved to go Christmas shopping for her family. It was her favorite time of the year. She collected angels and enjoyed playing BINGO, going to family get-togethers with her loved ones, winter trips to Florida, and going to Disneyland with her grandchildren. She loved camping, going to Rangeley for the 4th of July every year, and many day trips. Robin adored seeing her grandchildren play their favorite sports and opening their Christmas gifts.

She was predeceased by both sets of grandparents; her parents; siblings, Henry, Irene, and Nelson Reynolds, son Chris Doucette, son-in-law Jonathan Elkins, great-grandchild Jellybean Elkins; as well as father-in-law Hugh Doucette Sr.

Robin is survived by her husband of 46 years, Hugh Doucette Jr.; daughter Elizabeth with her husband Jim Farmer; son Joey Doucette with spouse Trevor Kervin; grandchildren, Tyler with wife Ashley, Caitlin with husband Zack, Juli-Ann, DJ Farmer, Krystal Rolbiecki with partner Ezekiel, Buddy Rolbiecki with partner Erica; great-grandchildren, Kory, Kyler, Karsyn, Karter Rolbiecki, Ava Pound, Bentley, and baby Lawler; aunt Cindy Welch and family; siblings, Ray, John, Robert Reynolds, Lois Hayes, and their families; mother-in-law Jackie Doucette; brothers-in-law, Wayne, Mark, David, and their families; sisters-in-law; Cathy, Kim, Tammy, Lori, Nancy, and their families; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 255 Trafton Road, in Waterville.

Arrangements are in the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/robin-doucette.

VIRGINIA C. HUDSON

WINSLOW – Virginia C. Hudson, 89, of Winslow, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at Lakewood Continuing Care Center. Virginia was born in East Vassalboro, on May 25, 1934, the daughter of James and Clara (Willett) Shirley.

She attended School in Winslow and married her high school sweetheart, Kenneth W. Hudson, on August 12, 1951. They were married 56 years until Kenneth passed away in 2007. Together, they raised three daughters.

”Gina” as she was fondly called made a career in healthcare. She obtained her CNA at Waterville High School and her PT assistant credentials at CMVTI. She held multiple healthcare positions and finished her career at Oak Grove Nursing Center, in Waterville, after 39 years of service. Gina also loved to cook and make crafts. She provided family and friends with gifts made at her home and from her heart continuously. She could often be heard running the sewing machine in the middle of the night making her hand made gifts and there was always something fabulous she was cooking in her kitchen.

Virginia was predeceased by her parents; five brothers, one sister, and her husband. S She is survived by her only remaining sibling, Barbara Trahan; her three daughters and families, Barbara and Stephen Owen, Betty Ouellette and partner Robin Brown, and Brenda Pryor; four grandchildren and families, George and Elizabeth Ouellette, Fred and Amy Ouellette, Daniel and Beth Ouellette, and Bridget and Tim Mitchell.

At the request of Virginia, there was a graveside service held, at Lakeview Cemetery, in Oakland, November 4, 2023 at 11 a.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

RITA M. GLIDDEN

VASSALBORO – Rita M. (Pare) Arbour Glidden, 95, formerly of Cross Hill Road, in Vassalboro, passed away peacefully of natural causes at the Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation in the early morning, on Sunday, October 29, 2023. Rita was born to Ernest and Georgianna (Blouin) Pare on Jan. 6, 1928, on the Pare family farm in Vassalboro, the ninth of eleven children.

Those who knew her agreed she was the most outspoken member of the family, carrying that attitude throughout her life, to include her residency at the nursing home. She respected others’ opinions but wasn’t afraid to speak out when necessary.

Rita married Alphonse Arbour on July 25, 1946. As communicants of St. Augustine Church, in St. Michael’s Parish, they lived in the Sandhill area of Augusta and started their family with sons, Roland and Bob. Rita and Alphonse owned and operated Alphonse’s Taxi in the 1950s, having as many as four cabs in service at a time. The business eventually closed and both Rita and Al began a long career at the former Edward’s Textile Mill, in Augusta.

The family eventually moved to a single-family home in Augusta. Rita was proud of the home she kept, where she took great pleasure in entertaining family and friends. Rita was musically inclined and enjoyed being in the spotlight. She often spoke fondly of the many gatherings punctuated by piano, harmonica, singing, dancing, and always laughter. Many times, throughout her life, she mentioned that, under different circumstances, she would have liked to have been an interior decorator. Rita would almost always have some remodeling project going. Alphonse passed away in October 1971.

Rita was reunited with her childhood sweetheart, Clifton L. Glidden, in 1972 and they married that September. They relocated to the very area in Vassalboro, where they both spent their childhood years and established their home together. They traveled to all 50 states, her favorite of which was Hawaii. They were avid members of Good Sam camping club for many years, as well as spending time snowmobiling, boating, taking day trips with friends, and dining out. Working outdoors was a real passion of Rita’s. She adored cultivating her flower beds and coaxing her vegetables along, with her soulmate Clif by her side. Together, they enjoyed holiday gatherings and summer BBQs with family members. Clif passed away in December of 2016.

With the help of family, specifically granddaughter Tammy Ellis and husband Bob, and great-grandson Thaddeus Clark (Tammy’s son), Rita was able to stay in her Vassalboro home until June 2018, when her health deteriorated, making round-the-clock nursing care necessary. Both Tammy and Thadd had a close bond with their grand/great-grandmother until the very end. Rita relocated to the Augusta Center at that time.

Rita was predeceased by both Al then Clif, all of her and both late husbands’ siblings and their spouses, and her daughters-in-law Sheryl Arbour (Bob’s wife), and Janice Glidden, (Dale’s wife).

Rita is survived by sons Bob Arbour, of Readfield, Roland Arbour and his wife Jean, of Sidney; stepsons Dale Glidden, of Brunswick, David Glidden and his wife Pam, of Readfield; grandchildren Tammy Ellis and her husband Bob, of Vassalboro, Nathan Arbour and his wife Angela, of Holden, Massachusetts, Duke (Jeffrey) Arbour and his wife Angela, of Sidney, Keith Glidden and his wife Monica, of Alexandria, Virginia, Eric Arbour and his wife Crystal, of Sidney, Elaine Arbour and her husband Kurt Gergler, of Sunapee, New Hampshire, Kevin Glidden and his wife Tammy, of Bristol, New Hampshire, Ryan Glidden, of Wells, Shaina Peterson and her husband Dave, of Milton, Massachusetts, and Starr Lemelin, of Augusta; 15 great-grandchildren; and soon to be four great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A period of visitation will be held on Friday, November 17, from 1 to 2 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Agusuta, ME 04330, where a memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date at the Maine Veterans Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

DANIEL T. McCORMACK

SOUTH CHINA – Daniel McCormack, 78, of South China, passed away on Monday, October 30, 2023. Daniel was born on July 6, 1945, in Nashua, New Hampshire, to Donald Thomas McCormack and Dorothy (Rebidue) McCormack.

Daniel grew up and graduated high school in Milford, New Hampshire, before joining the Navy in 1962 where he was able to serve his country and explore foreign lands.

After being honorably discharged in 1967, he had many different careers. He owned McCormack and McCormack Plumbing with his brother Al, owned Toll House Variety, in New Boston, New Hampshire, and worked for the Milford School District before retiring to Maine.

Dan loved to stay busy in retirement. He would play golf, fish, garden, work on his Gravely, and even took a part time job at Hussey’s General Store, in Windsor, for a while.

Dan was predeceased by his life partner Janet Davis, his parents Donald and Dorothy McCormack, his sister Doris McDonanld, his brother Donald (Al) McCormack, his nephew Curt Jensen, and niece Sarah Jensen

He is survived by his daughter Amanda Weisel with husband Charles, of Waterville; grandchildren Joseph Levi and Duncan Alexander Wigley; his stepdaughter Dallas Davis; his sisters Donna Leavitt, Janet VanValkenburg, Sharon Stein, Judy Pearcy, and Susan Babine; 29 nieces and nephews; and close extended family in Nova Scotia and Worcester, Massachusetts.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, November 19, at 11 a.m., at Johnson Corner Cemetery, Purgatory Rd, Lyndeborough, New Hampshire, with a Celebration of Life following at 1p.m., at the Milford VFW Post #4368, 1 VFW Way, Milford, New Hampshire.

ROLAND A. SEELEY

BENTON – Roland A. Seeley, 96, of Benton, passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, following a recent decline in health. He was born on February 1, 1927, in Fort Fairfield, son of Ralph L. Seeley and Eva A. Hockenhull Seeley.

He grew up in Fort Fairfield then moved to East Corinth with his parents in the early ‘40s. He went to school at East Corinth Academy, joined the Navy his senior year of high school in 1945. He served his time on the aircraft carrier FDR with the rank of SSMB third class petty officer. At the time of discharge from active service he enlisted in the Naval Reserves for an additional five years. Upon discharge, he returned home to live with his parents in the town of Benton.

He met his wife Hilda, of Winslow, and spend 72-1/2 years together. Together they raised their four children, daughter Susanne Dyer, of Benton; three sons Calvin (wife Beckie), of Winslow, Keith (wife Terri), of Camden, Delaware, Ralph (wife Jane), of Benton; eight grandchildren, Kevin, Kelly, Kasey Dyer, Craig Seeley, Nathan Seeley, Kayla Holleger, Nicole Violette, Katie Seeley; 14 great-grandchildren, Alli, Kaden, Haylee, Lillyanne, Jake, Maddy, Tucker, Kurtis, Gracelyn, MaKenna, Alivia, Ava, Cody and Kayla; four great-great-grandchildren, Reese, Gavin, Aubrie and Paisley; many nieces and nephews.

He worked for Harris Baking Company, in Waterville, for 18 years as a wholesale route driver before leaving to work for the Keyes Fibre Company, in Waterville (now Huhtamaki), in 1967, he worked there for 22-plus years before retiring in 1989 due to health reasons.

He enjoyed many hobbies which included hunting, fishing, bowling, playing golf, flying model airplanes and gardening. He loved following his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in whatever they were involved in. He even had a Tee Ball team named after him as the “Seeley’s Sluggers”! In the late ‘40s he held a private pilot’s license flying a Piper Cub and Aeronca Champ. He loved his Black Labs Lady, Susie and Missy as they were all great companions to him.

They enjoyed their retirement years taking several trips to Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Florida and Prince Edward Island with their dear friends Stan and Spike Brackett, who predeceased them in 2009.

Roland was predeceased by his wife Hilda Seeley; parents Ralph and Eva Seeley; sisters Catherine Seeley, Hilda and husband George Clifford, Mary and husband Malcom Page; son-in-law Robert Dyer and a former daughter-in-law Pamela Seeley.

After Hilda passed away and Roland‘s health declined, a granddaughter Nikki continued with a lot of household duties when she came to visit daily. Her Gramp as well as his children are deeply grateful that she took on this responsibility and want her to know just how much it meant to all of them.

Visiting hours were held at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, on Saturday, November 4, 2023, with a funeral service and a burial followed at Falls Cemetery, in Benton.

An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at http://www.lawrybrothers.com Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be sent to Maine General Home Care & Hospice, 10 Water Street, Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901 or Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

DEBRA SAWTELLE

WATERVILLE – Debra “Debbie” Sawtelle, 63, of Waterville, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 1, 2023. Debbie was born July 27, 1960, in Waterville, daughter to Mary J. Peace.

Debbie was a nurse for 35 years. Employed at a number of nursing homes in the area, it was her passion to take care of people.

Debbie had many loves in her life; boat rides on the lake, Patriots football, a good cribbage game, horror movies, and long drives on Sundays with her friend, Arthur, but nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren and seeing them happy.

Debbie was predeceased by her mother; as well as several uncles and aunts.

She is survived by her three children, Anthony Sawtelle and wife Midori, of Tokyo Japan, Jodi Cochran and husband Dusty, of Chelsea, and Amanda Sawtelle and her husband, Dylan Coutts, of Windsor; four grandchildren that called her “Nanny”, Alivia, Madi, Myla and Owen; her siblings Billy Sawtelle and his partner Esther, Ronald Sawtelle and his wife Sherry, and Lisa Sawtelle, all of Waterville; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 10, at 10 a.m., at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville, for people to visit and remember Debbie together. At 11 a.m., there will be a time for her loved ones to share memories.

An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared, at http://www.gallantfh.com.

DONALD S. TOZIER

AUGUSTA – Donald Savage Tozier, 85, passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at Gray Birch Nursing home in Augusta. Donald was born June 12, 1938, the son of Raymond and Margaret (Savage) Tozier.

He graduated from Skowhegan Area High School in 1956. Donald joined the Maine Army National Guard in March 1956 and after a 39-year career he retired in 1995. During this time, he also worked for O’Connor Motors, in Augusta. After retiring, he and Donna wintered in Florida for 15 years.

Donald was predeceased by both his parents, five brothers, sister, father-in-law, mother-in-law, four brothers-in-law, five sisters-in-law, several nieces, and nephews, as well as a great-grandchild.

Donald is survived by his wife Donna, of Augusta; son Daryl, of Winthrop; daughter Diane with husband John, of Litchfield; grandchildren, Tracy with husband James, Kyle with wife Emily, Molly with husband Ryan, and Keith with wife Megan, 10 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Gail and Madeline; many nieces, and nephews.

Graveside service will be heldSunday, November 12, 2023, at 11 a.m., at The Pooler Cemetery, 419 Oak Pond Road, Skowhegan, Maine.

Celebration of Life to be held at T & B’s Celebration Center, 414 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, from noon to 4 p.m. Please come and share memories with the Family.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692, or The Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dan & Scott’s Cremation, Skowhegan, where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/donald-tozier

BARBARA I. WATTS

GAINESVILLE, Georgia – Barbara Irene Watts, 93, formerly of Oakland, died Monday, October 9, 2023, at Manor Lake Assisted Living, in Gainesville, Georgia. She was born in Oakland on July 30, 1930.

Barbara attended Oakland area schools. At Williams High School, Barbara met future lifelong partner, Gordon, and both shared a love for playing varsity basketball. In her senior year, Barbara co-captained the girl’s team.

In 1950, Barbara and Gordon married and moved to Willimantic, Connecticut, where their son Gordon, Jr. was born. After returning to Maine in 1952, Barbara and Gordon built their first home in Waterville on Shores Road. Their fondness of the outdoors, namely fishing, hunting, boating and snowmobiling, led them to purchase several acres and they built a camp on McGrath Pond, Kelleher Trail, Oakland, in the ‘60s. By the early 1980s, they expanded the camp to a four season home.

In her early years, Barbara was employed by area fabric mills, including Bates Manufacturing cotton mill, in Augusta. She was later employed by First National Supermarket, in Waterville.

Barbara was a member and president of Waterville Exchange Club. She and Gordon enjoyed winters with the Fairfield area Snowmobile Club. They joined Central Maine Square Dancers and loved dancing regionally and with Canadian clubs. In later years, volunteering at the elementary school reading to kindergartners brought Barbara great joy.

Barbara remained active and engaged in many hobbies throughout her life. She was a lifelong expert knitter, creating and giving away to family and friends cherished sweaters, hats, scarves, mittens and throws. She took up quilting in her golden years and loved tending to her gardens. Barbara especially enjoyed bird watching from her home’s shore-facing back deck. She walked four to five miles most days well into her 80s. In summers, she kayaked and would solo paddle around the lakeshore from her dock, around Pleasant Point, to the opposite shore each July birthday.

Barbara enjoyed local family, looking forward to holiday reunions, bringing her famous peanut butter fudge to family, neighbors and friends. She savored annual summer visits from her three grandsons. In later years, she visited them regularly, enjoying warmer temperatures in the Georgia outdoors. In 1998, Barbara was widowed and continued to enjoy her lakefront home for over 20 years. She worked diligently at maintaining her property and camp road. In 2019, Barbara moved to north Georgia to be closer to her son and family.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband Gordon Sr.; parents, Clifford and Mary (Whitman) Taylor; and brother Gilbert (Sonny) Taylor and wife Mary Taylor.

Surviving family includes son, Gordon, Jr. and wife Natalie of Gainesville, Georgia; grandsons Wesley Watts, of Nevada City, California, Alec Watts, of Oakland, California, and Drew Watts, of Brooklyn, New York; her sister Leatrice and husband Louis Collar, of Southington, Connecticut; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial gathering will be held in 2024.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of one’s choice.

RALPH FARNHAM

OAKLAND – Ralph Farnham, or as most of his family called him “Jr.”, 86, passed away quietly at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, where he had been a resident for two-and-a-half years. Ralph was born on December 13, 1936, to Ralph E. Farnham, Sr. and Mattie Mae Furbush, of Oakland.

He was always sharing that his sister, Jane, was born on his birthday 22 years apart.

Ralph graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, where he played football with his brother, Donald (Popeye). After graduating high school in 1956, he had a few jobs and then took a position with National Cash Register (NCR) which he retired from at age 57.

Serving his country, he served for three years in the Maine National Guard, until his honorable discharge in January 1963. Ralph married Donna Bickford, the love of his life, on January 13, 1962.

Ralph enjoyed serving on the Oakland Town Council for a total of 36 years. He continued until his wife, Donna, who had been diagnosed with PSP, could no longer be left home alone. He also helped set up the town museum, researching and putting together informational signs of the items on display. Ralph also spent time volunteering for the museum to be open in the summer a few hours a week. He was a social butterfly and enjoyed meeting everyone who visited the museum.

Horse racing was one of his loves and during the summer fair season you could find him betting a few dollars and often winning. Ralph enjoyed dancing at the Fox Den or the Melody Ranch on Sunday nights with Donna. He did this for years. His favorite country artist was Lorrie Morgan, and her songs were always playing whenever he drove. He and Donna liked to travel to Branson to see the shows, to Dollywood, and to visit Donna’s cousin in the Boston area. At Oak Grove, he often talked to staff about his dancing days. He enjoyed watching the Grand Ole Opry, sports, the news, and the weather channel on TV. Ralph loved animals with his last pet being, Princess, the cat plus the many birds, chipmunks, and squirrels he fed.

He was devoted to his wife and took care of her at home for several years until she took up residence at Lakewood Continuing Care. He was there daily spending most of the day with her until she passed on January 15, 2015.

Ralph is survived by his daughter, Lynn Farnham; his brother, Vaughn; his sisters, Jane Butler and her husband Craig, and Jean Rasar and her partner Warren; his in-laws, Raymond and Lorraine Robinson; many nephews and nieces but was particularly close to Brittany, Lydia and Jeb.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Donna, and his brother, Donald.

Visiting hours took place at Wheeler Funeral Home, on Friday,. November 3, 2023, at 3 p.m., with a Memorial Service following. Burial will be at Lewis Cemetery on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 10 a.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home 26 Church Street Oakland Maine where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oakland Firefighters Association or, Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

MICHAEL L. FORTIN

WATERVILLE – Michael Leo Fortin, 42, passed away on Friday, August 25, 2023. He was born on February 1, 1981, to Michael Fortin and Michelle Sweet.

Michael brought joy and laughter to those who knew him. He was the king of practical jokes – a skill he learned from his mother, Michelle. As a child, he was cute and humorous and offered endless smiles to family and friends. Christmases with Mémère and Mr. Wheeler were a highlight in Michael’s younger years.

Michael’s path was not without obstacles. His father passed while Michael was an infant and the path ahead was difficult to navigate; he faced challenges that often tested his resilience. As a man of faith, one thing is for sure – he held onto a glimmer of hope that one day he could overcome his circumstances and fulfill his potential. Most recently, Michael sought opportunities for growth and rehabilitation within the confines of his situation. He believed in the possibility of change, both for himself and for others and was committed to someday counseling those in similar situations.

Tragically, Michael’s journey came to an untimely end on August 25, 2023. While we grieve the loss of the potential that will never be fully realized, we also remember the moments of love, connection, and laughter that he brought into the lives of those around him.

Michael was predeceased by both his father and mother; paternal grandparents Donald and Priscilla Fortin and maternal grandparents Joanne Sinclair and Phil Sweet.

He leaves behind several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In his memory, let us reflect on the importance of compassion, understanding, and second chances. Michael’s story serves as a reminder that every individual carries a unique set of struggles, and together we can work towards creating an environment that fosters love, hope, and support for those who need it most.

A private ceremony with family will take place at a future date.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 2, 2023

HENRY C. DILLENBECK

EXETER, New Hampshire – Henry “Hank” C. Dillenbeck, 94, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023. He was born August 18,1929, in Pittsfield, Massa­chusetts, to parents Ben and Emilie.

Henry along with his siblings, lived in Interlaken, New Jersey, before settling in China, Maine, where he had spent summers with his grandparents. After attending Coburn Classical Institute for Boys, in Waterville, Hank obtained a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Maine, Orono.

Having been admitted into pilot school his senior year, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after graduation. He trained in the desert heat of Arizona before he was deployed to serve in the Korean War in 1953. He flew several missions and endured enemy gunfire, which left him with permanent tinnitus. One positive memory of his time in Korea was the chance to meet Marilyn Monroe, whose picture he proudly displayed as a widower in later life.

Hank returned to civilian life in 1957 and was proud to be hired by what he considered the best airline in the world, American Airlines. Based out of Boston, he purchased an old Colonial in Kensington, New Hampshire, with seven acres of land – the perfect setting to grow vegetables and maintain his small farm with laying hens, ducks, Canada geese, quail, pheasant, sheep, steers, oxen and the family dog Snoopy.

After flying the Boeing 727 for 30 years, he took early retirement in 1987, and relocated back to family property in China. A pilot by profession, in his heart, Hank considered himself a biologist, a farmer, an ad­venturer, and a man from Maine. Even into his 90s, he would fondly tell new acquaintances, “I never worked under a roof!” “Biologist Hank” could rattle off the identities of seemingly any tree, bird or insect (including the Latin ones) and was particularly fond of butterflies of which he had a prized collection. (His eggshell and Indian arrowhead collections, a close second and third.)

“Farmer Hank” loved working in the woods to keep his home warm in the winter, living off his harvested vegetables all winter long, and hunting for deer with family and friends.

“Adventurer Hank” enjoyed fly-fishing in Canada, hiking into the Grand Canyon, mushing huskies in the arctic circle, trekking across glaciers in Switzerland, going on safari in Africa, and soaking up the natural beauty found in the breezes and women of Hawaii.

Hank lived a life of vigor and wanderlust, and was a man who “stayed on his feet”, just as his father instructed him to do.

“Man from Maine Hank” designed and built a cedar log camp at Killdeer Point, on China Lake, the perfect launching point to paddle his birch bark canoe, (a preferred vessel over a noisy and polluting motor boat), skip rocks at Killdeer Point, or sleep tentless under the stars. He built and installed the World Traveler Signpost still located at the four corners, in South China Village.

He cared deeply for environmental conservation and contributed to numerous wildlife groups. In both New Hampshire and Maine, he served on the boards of the town library, historical society, and community church. He was an enthusiast of Native American and Japanese culture, western art, early American history, and he supported and volunteered at the New Hampshire Farm Museum, and The Benedict Arnold Expedition Historical Society. When old age finally forced its hand, dimming once eagle-eyed vision and restricting his step, reading – another favorite pastime – became a welcomed escape and comfort. A good book took Hank to places he’d visited and still wished to explore.

He was predeceased by his wife Noriko in 2020.

He is survived by his children, Chris Gernert, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Lee Young, and Amy Dillenbeck, both of Exeter, New Hampshire; four grandchildren; brother Richard Dillenbeck, of Augusta, Georgia, and China.

There will be a private family interment of ashes this summer in Waterville, followed by a celebration of life with friends at the camp he built on Killdeer Point, in China.

TERESA BUTKIEWICZ

AUGUSTA – Teresa Butkiewicz, 97, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at Maine Veterans’ Home, in Augusta. Terri was born to Omer and Doris Proulx, in Oakland, on July 30, 1926.

Following her graduation from Waterville’s Mt. Merici Academy, Terri attended the Boston Conservatory of Music to pursue her passion for opera and to hone her beautiful mezzo-soprano voice. She later moved to New York City, where she immersed herself in its rich opera and classical music culture. In New York, Terri met Alexander Butkiewicz, who was attending Columbia College as he prepared for a career in medicine.

Terri and Alex were married in 1956. Lisa was born in 1958 and Christopher arrived in 1960. After Alex graduated from Boston University Medical School and served as a flight surgeon in the U.S. Air Force, he took his young family back to New York City, where he began his medical career. The family settled into a happy life in nearby Westchester County. Terri and Alex ultimately enjoyed retired life by dividing their time between their homes on China Lake, and in Palm Beach, Florida.

Terri will be remembered for her effervescent and charismatic personality, her enchanting operatic voice, and her love of the arts, travel, and all things French. In particular, she enjoyed singing with her local opera group, attending weekly performances at the Metropolitan Opera House, spending time with the Maryknoll Sisters, and entertaining at her home. A frequent full house of guests was clear evidence of Terri’s love of people – she had a gift for making everyone feel valued and welcome. Most of all, though, Terri will be remembered for her unshakable love of and dedication to her family.

Terri was preceded in death by a son, Christopher, and four siblings, Patricia, Raymond, Richard, and Shirley.

She is survived by her husband, Alexander, and daughter, Lisa.

A funeral Mass will be held at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church, in Waterville, on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11 a.m.

A private interment will take place at St. Francis Cemetery on a date to be determined.

MARJORY L. LALIME

DAMARISCOTTA – Marjory Lucy (Robbins) (Feeney) Lalime, 91, of Damariscotta, peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at LincolnHealth’s Miles Campus, in Damariscotta. She was born in Waterville on September 24, 1932, the daughter of Maurice Smiley Robbins and Malvena (Masse) Robbins.

Marjory attended Vassalboro schools and East Vassalboro Friends Meeting (Quaker). She graduated from Higgins Classical Institute, in Charleston, and continued her education at the University of Maine in Orono. There, she submitted the winning entry to name a new student gathering place, The Bear’s Den. Marjory graduated from the University of Maine in 1954 with a B.S. degree in nutrition. She completed a dietary internship at Beth Israel Hospital ,in Brookline, Massachusetts, in 1955.

One memorable event was the time Marjory got to shake John F. Kennedy’s hand at an event in Boston.

Marjory’s first career was as a dietician, beginning at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. She met Joseph Patrick Feeney, a Dorchester native and U.S. Air Force veteran; they married on June 23, 1957. Just three months later, as they were expecting their first child, “Joe” (aged 24 years) died of a heart attack. Now a young widow, Marjory returned to her parents’ home in East Vassalboro. In 1959, she married Ronald Lalime, a widower with three small children. Their combined family grew to six girls.

Marjory’s love of sewing allowed her creativity to thrive as she made clothing for her daughters. She was a wonderful interior decorator and created beautiful living spaces in all her homes, throughout her life.

Marjory resumed her career as a dietitian and worked at Thayer and Seton hospitals, in Waterville, for 15 years. During this time she took up running and won many prizes.

She moved to Midcoast Maine in 1983, started a new life and established the successful Serendipity House gift shop, which became the “store to visit” for both locals and tourists. She used her composed eye and was an intelligent marketer. She was always ready to offer her clients help in finding just the right gift. Her store was full of whimsical and also practical objects sourced from all over the world. Marjory was one of the first shopkeepers to practice recycling at her shop and encouraged other shop keepers in the community to do the same.

After retiring from her business in 2002, Marjory was active in multiple bridge groups in the Midcoast area. She organized The Lincoln Home weekly bridge group, served on the board of The Lincoln Home, and supported community health care for Lifespan Family Health. She loved her volunteer work at Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop. Marjory dedicated time to support Barack Obama’s campaign volunteers. She dabbled in local theater productions and was an avid reader, Scrabble player and river watcher. She passionately lived for 40 years on the Damariscotta River.

Marj enjoyed traveling to her children’s homes in many states: Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, California, and New York; also, to Italy, the former Yugoslavia, and Aruba. She vacationed with family in Maui, The Turks and Caicos Islands, and in the Caribbean. Her work for her shop took her to many locations in the U.S. on buying trips, which she greatly enjoyed.

Marjory was predeceased by her parents; and three brothers, Louis, Gerald, and Wallace.

She is survived by her six daughters; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be in May 2024, and held outside.

Notes of condolences may be expressed to the family in care of Andrea Lalime Keushguerian, at 52 Water St., Damariscotta, ME, 04543.

STEPHEN MONTMINY

BAR HARBOR – Stephen (Steve) Montminy, 65, died unexpectedly on Thursday, September 7, 2023, in a tragic accident on Mount Desert Island.

Steve, the oldest of five children, was born on February 15, 1958, to parents Philip Arthur and Joy Maire (Bureau) Montminy, in Portland. He grew up in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1977. If a common thread could be seen through Steve’s life, it would be his unerring and steadfast commitment to family and public service and the lifelong pursuit of helping people. Steve joined the United States Air Force in 1977 and had a highly successful career of 24 years, serving in Desert Storm. He retired as a Master Sergeant in 2001 with an Associate Degree in Applied Science under his belt, many honors, and countless peers and subordinates who called him a friend and mentor.

Steve started his prolific military career at Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, as an avionics technician. Here he reconnected with a childhood acquaintance, Kathleen (Kat) Riley, of Winslow, who he quickly realized was his soul mate, best friend, and meant to be his wife. Without hesitation, Kat stepped into the role of wife and mother to Steve’s son, Nathaniel (Nate) Montminy, from his first marriage. The trio embarked on a life of fun and adventure together at stations in Atwater, California; Okinawa, Japan; and lastly, Grand Forks, North Dakota, where Steve retired from the Air Force.

Steve had a passion for learning and living life to its fullest. He earned his pilot’s license and diving certification in Okinawa, often spending weekends flying with Nate over the Ryukyu islands, diving among some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world with Kat and Nate, and immersing himself in the Japanese culture. While overseas, he connected with many people who have spread across the world but remain lifelong friends and family.

Upon retiring, Steve, Kat and Nate settled in Bar Harbor, where he worked for Hinkley Yachts for two years and then stepped into his role for the last 21 years as the Chief Water Operator for the Northeast Harbor Water Plant, in the Mount Desert water district. Steve’s commitment to public service continued when he joined the Mount Desert Fire Department as a volunteer and EMT. He was also past president of the Blue Hill Rifle and Pistol Club, and a member of the American Legion and MDI Photo Club. Steve loved nothing more than making a connection with people. His mustache-lined smile and infectious laugh were hallmarks of the community. It was often joked that any activity with Steve would require hours of extra time because he would inevitably run into someone or a dozen someone’s he knew who would want to catch up. He was a kind and gentle soul who not only had an unparalleled way of connecting with people but also with animals. He had countless stories of fun animal encounters and spent most mornings feeding his chipmunk friends directly out of his hands and evenings chatting softly with the generations of deer that visited him on his back deck.

Steve is survived by his wife, Kat Montminy of Bar Harbor; and son, Nate Montminy, of Hampden (wife Lera and grandsons Cash and Bayu); sister Sharon Jolicoeur, of Oakland, (husband Ken, son Tyler and daughters Jessica and Kylie); brother Stan Montminy, of Waterville (wife Colleen and daughter Casey); sister Sonya Marrello, of Londonderry, New Hampshire (husband Joe and sons Matt St. Cyr, Alex St. Cyr and Andrew St. Cyr); and brother Philip Montminy Jr., of Las Vegas, Nevada (partner Kendra Gray and daughters Kaia and Jade); several cousins.

Steve was predeceased by his parents and a uncle, Lee Bureau.

A celebration of life was held on Thursday, October 5, 2023. A graveside service was held on Friday, October 6, 2023, at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta, ME.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.

SHARON A. KNIGHTS

UNITY – Sharon Alberta Knights, 80, died peacefully at Heritage Rehabilitation and Living Center, in Winthrop, on Saturday, October 21, 2023. She was born in Belgrade, April 20, 1943, daughter of Clyde E. Cummings and Rena V. (Warren) Cummings.

After graduating from Belgrade High School, she married the love of her life, Lewis Knights, with whom she had five children.

Sharon worked for Depositor’s Trust Co., in Waterville, for five years before beginning her long career at shoe manufacturers – Norwalk Shoe, New Balance, Dexter Shoe. After her position was eliminated at Dexter, she attended college at KennebecValley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, graduating in May 2001, then worked for Pine State Trading until retirement.

One of Sharon’s favorite pastimes was listening to classic country music. In her earlier years, she and Lewis frequented The Fox Den to enjoy country music and dance, and spent many weekends camping at Smith Pond, in Brighton. Finding treasures at yard sales and anniversary trips to Campobello Island were also favorite activities. After her husband passed, she learned to crochet and enjoyed making towel hangers for people, and was blessed with the company of close friends in Unity.

Sharon was predeceased by her husband, Lewis Knights; her parents; and her son, Kris Knights.

Sharon leaves behind four children: Sharon (Maurice) Cormier, of Belgrade, Keven (Katrina) Knights, of Virginia, Kurt (Gena) Knights, of Pennsylvania, and Rebecca (Russell ‘Kato’) Ramos, of Missouri; two brothers: Robert Cummings, of Oakland, and Carroll (Sharon) Cummings, of Vassalboro; 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Gould Cemetery, in Smithfield; son-in-law, Russell Ramos will officiate.

A celebration of life will follow immediately at the North Belgrade Community Center (508 Smithfield Road).

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland where memories may be shared and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a local food pantry.

AGNES M. CASSIDY

AUGUSTA – Agnes May Cassidy, 92, a veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 21, 2023, while in the care of the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Agnes was born in Skowhegan on May 15, 1931, to Daniel E. and Odell (Thibodeau) Cassidy.

The family moved to Portland before settling in Winslow in 1948. They owned and operated Cassidy’s Market, on Augusta Road, in Winslow, for many years.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1949, Agnes enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps for a tour of duty and studied to become a laboratory technician. She was stationed at hospitals in Colorado, Virginia, Texas, Europe, and Okinawa. Deservedly so, Fitzsimons General Hospital, in Denver, Colorado, awarded her the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.

Agnes returned to the Northeast where she worked as a medical technician in New York. She continued her studies at Hudson River Valley Hospital, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to become a registered nurse, specializing in mental illness. She also earned a bachelor of science degree.

In 1960 Agnes was stationed at the 97th General Hospital (Army and Air Force) near Frankfurt, Germany. While there, Agnes discovered the sport of skiing. She introduced skiing to her brother, Daniel, and several of her nieces and nephews. She is, thankfully, responsible for creating a lifelong love of skiing for her family. Agnes also developed an interest in Volkswagen vans. After her return to the United States, with the help of family members stationed in Germany, she ordered and was shipped a VW camper in the early 1970s. Agnes traveled the country in the camper and shared her love of exploration with her nieces and nephews. She took them to many places including Massachusetts, New York, Colorado, and Canada.

Proudly, Agnes served at Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH) during the Vietnam War where she earned the rank of Captain. She was honorably discharged in 1969 and returned to Winslow where she continued her nursing career working at Togus VA Hospital, in Augusta, and other area hospitals. She frequently volunteered to take weekend and holiday shifts so her colleagues could spend more time with their families.

Agnes was a devoted member of the Catholic Church. She worked to promote Catholic ideas and principles throughout her community. She regularly attended the Latin Mass at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, in Portland. Unfortunately, Agnes was not the most punctual and often had to race to Portland to be on time for Mass. As a result, she received many speeding tickets in order to show her devotion to her faith!

After retirement, Agnes provided care to her mother, for which her family is very thankful. She also enjoyed spending time at her camp on Belgrade Lakes.

Agnes was predeceased by her parents, Daniel E. and Odell, and her brothers Lionel and Francis.

She is survived by her brother Daniel E. and his wife Jean (Mathieu), of Winslow, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., in Winslow, at 10 a.m., on Friday, November 3, 2023. A burial with military honors will immediately follow at Saint Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.

An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to MaineGeneral Hospice, 10 Water Street, Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901. (www.mainegeneral.org/ hospice)

LYNNDA B. HACKETT

WINSLOW – Lynnda Beverlie Hackett, 88, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta. She was the wife of the late Arthur August Mea Sr. Lynnda was born in New Haven, Connecticut, on December 14, 1944, daughter of the late Arthur Acker and Muriel Hubbard Chmielewski.

She lived in Connecticut until she moved to Maine in 1984.

Lynnda is survived by her children, Arthur Mea Jr. (Rhonda) and Michael Mea (Denielle), both of Winslow, Regina (Linwood) Smith, of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Nicole Mea, of Augusta; her grandchildren, Paul (Adriana) Killam, Heather (Michael) Clark, Ashley McCutcheon (Danny) and Sarah (Derek) Poulin, Tyler and Michael Greenlaw, Mikayla Mea; six great-grandchildren; her sister, Lexie (Jeff) Klarman and her sister-in-law Mary Martin, both of Branford, Connecticut, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son, Edward Mea, and brothers, Arthur Acker, August and Robert Helland.

Lynnda, known to many as “Mama Mea”, was a fabulous cook, had an amazing green thumb, loved her cats and was the strongest woman we knew.

Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours on Sunday Oct. 29, 2023, from 2-4 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield. A graveside service was held on Monday, October 30, at Libby Hill Cemeter,y in Albion.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

JEFFERY THOMAS

CLINTON – Jeffery Thomas passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. He was born in Provi­dence, Rhode Island, the son of Edwin and Harriet (Snell)Thomas. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Burial with military honors took place at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, Rhode Island, on Saturday, October 28, 2023.

A full obituary may be seen at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

DONALD E. LaROCHELLE

WATERVILLE – Donald E. LaRochelle, 86, of Waterville, died Wed­nesday, October 25, 2023, at Oak Grove, in Waterville. Born February 16, 1937, in Waterville, he was the only child of Wilfred and Alice LaRochelle (Joler).

Don attended Waterville schools and married the love of his life, T. Pauline LaRochelle, on February 5, 1965, in Oakland. He worked at the Wyandotte-Woosted Woolen Mill, in Waterville, for 26 years where he gained the nickname “Red” for his red hair, until the mill closed. Don then worked at Mount St. Joseph, in Waterville, until he retired in 2010.

Don loved dancing, was a member of the Boy Scouts of America for many years and enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his favorite shows on TV including football, wrestling, and the Hallmark channel.

Don was predeceased by his parents, and his wife, T. Pauline LaRochelle (Poirier) who passed away in 2009.

He is survived by his three children, Julie Stillwell, of Winslow, Tim, of Smithfield, and Dan and his wife Libby, of Waterville; and two grandchildren Sara Warner (Stillwell) and her husband Forest, of Topsham, and Joshua Stillwell, of Winslow; and two great-grandchildren, Madelyn and Elijah, of Winslow; along with several cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m., Thursday, November 2, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville. He will be buried at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made online to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/ by following the link Ways to Give, then make a memorial donation.

STEPHEN F. THOMPSON

OAKLAND – Stephen F. Thompson, 69, of Oakland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 26, 2023. Stephen was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, on November 5, 1953, the son of Edward and Constance (Reed) Thompson.

He graduated early from Brookline High School to join the U.S. Air Force where he served four years as a sergeant in U-Tapao Air Force Base, in Thailand, during the Vietnam conflict.

After leaving the Air Force, Stephen moved to Waterville, where he served in the police department for four years. While on the force, he met Tom Hachey, who became his lifelong friend and business partner and, some may say, his “partner in crime.” Together, they owned and operated Arbo’s Towing and Repair service for several decades.

Stephen was known by all for his extraordinarily generous heart. He organized countless fundraisers in the community and brought immeasurable joy to numerous local daycares and nursing homes as Santa Claus every holiday season. Stephen and Tom originated the annual “Buck Night” fundraiser at the Waterville Elks Lodge and were recently recognized for their efforts with the dedication of the Thompson and Hachey Pavilion.

He was predeceased by his father Edward Thompson, mother Constance (Reed) Thompson, brothers, Jimmy and John Thompson, and brother-in-law Richard Paquette.

Stephen is survived by his wife of 22 years Carol (Paquette) Thompson; sons, Thomas Thompson, of Ingleside, Texas, and Barry Martin with wife Rebecca, of Drummonds, Tennessee; daughters, Nicole Boivin with wife Laura Casey, of Limerick, and Katie (Boivin) Demanche with husband Leo, of Standish; grandchildren, Steven Charles Thompson, Caitlyn and Dean Martin, Brennan and Noah Demanche, and Broghan and Finnegan Casey; his sisters, June McNulty with husband Jack and Cheryl Long with husband Mark; brothers-in-law, Michael Paquette, Gary Paquette with wife Kathleen, and Roger Paquette with wife Shari; sisters-in-law, Judy Paquette with husband Brian Bertelsen, Michele Lacombe with husband John, and Melissa Paquette; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at the Waterville Elks Lodge, Industrial Park Road, on Thursday, November 9, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Stephen to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To learn more about the amazing work of this organization, visit: https://t2t.org/.

EVELYN M. POTTER

CHINA – Evelyn M. Potter, 87, passed away on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Woodlands Senior Living, of Hallowell. She was born on December 27, 1935, a daughter of Elmer and Isabelle (Halloway) Haskell.

Evelyn grew up in China and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. After marrying David Potter in 1952, she became a mother to children, Lorraine and David. Evelyn received her associate degree from the University of Maine at Augusta and her bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College. She became a Registered Nurse and worked at various healthcare facilities including AMHI and Riverview.

Evelyn enjoyed tending to her gardens, shopping, and traveling. She was pleased to have the experience of traveling to Europe and the Amazon. Time spent with family made her happy, especially during the Christmas season. Evelyn will be remembered for her spicey personality, generous spirit, and independence.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; her son, David T. Potter; her son-in-law, Dean Rhoades; and her brother Merton Haskell.

She is survived by her daughter, Lorraine Rhoades; her grandchildren, Kevin Rhoades and his wife Jerry, Kelly Rhoades, and Shawn Potter and his partner, Danielle Guimond; and her niece Sandra Campbell and her husband, Albert.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 7, at 10 a.m., at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta ME 04330.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Branch Mills Grange, 20 Branch Mills Rd., Palermo, ME 04354.

ISABELL WITHAM

FAIRFIELD – Isabell Witham, 92, passed away Friday, October 27, 2023. She was born October 14, 1931, to Ethel Marshall and Frank Niles, in Augusta.

Isabell married Bill Witham and raised their daughter Linda at their home in Benton. She worked many years at the Cascade Woolen Mill, in Oakland, where she retired. Isabell enjoyed spending time with her family by hosting dinners on Sundays. She enjoyed cooking, knitting and crocheting. She made many hats and mittens for the church and afghans for her family and friends. She loved to chat on the CB and would go by the handle Biscuit Maker.

She is predeceased by her parents; her husband Bill Witham and her brother Frank Niles.

Isabell is survived by her daughter Linda Davis; granddaughter Christine Fontaine and husband Ted Fontaine; grandson Keith Davis and wife Magda Davis; three great-grandchildren, Mariah, Nicolas and McKenzie; and two great-great-grandchildren, Reed and Walker.

Funeral services will ve held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, Maine. Burial will take place at Maplewood Cemetery, ,in Fairfield.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 26, 2023

EDWARD N. TANSEY

WINSLOW – Edward Nelson Tansey, 79, of Winslow, passed away on Sunday, September 24, 2023. He was born, in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 11, 1944.

As a youth, Ed enjoyed sports and outdoor activities, and achieved the Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts. He attended the University of Maine, Orono, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. While in college, Ed participated in the ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corp.) program, and entered the United States Army Officer Candidate School upon graduation. After two years of active duty, he transitioned to the U.S. Army reserves where he eventually attained the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Professionally, Ed was a guidance counselor, teacher, and swim coach for Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, where he worked for 32 years. In addition to this, he was a national champion bowler and excelled at golf and softball – especially as a lefty.

Ed and his wife Darlene loved wintering in Florida, where they enjoyed the beaches, theaters, and dancing the night away. He thought he was too young for a golf cart, he always used his bicycle.

Ed is survived by his wife, Darlene Caron Tansey; his children Lisa S. Tansey, Heather L. Hatch, and grandson Matthew Hatch; his step-son Shane A. Gagne and grandsons Parker and Kyle Gagne; step-daughter Tara L. Bradstreet and her husband Dan, her children Justin Martin and wife Maddy, Nathan Martin and wife Haley; and his granddaughter Arianna Bradstreet; his sisters Barbara J. Poulin, and Marilyn T. Hamm and her partner Peter Bland; and brother J. Alden Tansey and his wife Darla; .

Ed was predeceased by his parents Edward Eugene Bevan Tansey and Elizabeth Nelson Alden Tansey, and nephew Michael Tansey.

Interment will be at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, in the spring.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or act.alz.org.

LORI A. CAYFORD

WATERVILLE – Lori Ann Cayford, 51, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, following a brief illness. Lori was born in Waterville to Vance A. Cayford Sr. and Nancy A. Dubois Cayford.

Lori worked at Thayer Hospital and Fireside Inn and Suites, both in Waterville.

Lori had an infectious smile, loved kids and animals and traveling with her mom and stepfather, Dan, especially to the coast, Las Vegas and Oxford/ Foxwoods. We will miss her teasing and kidding and the twinkle in her eyes that came with that.

Lori is survived by her mother, Nancy Cayford, stepfather Daniel Pooler Jr.; father, Vance A. Cayford Sr., and stepmother, Karen Pressey Cayford, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Lori was predeceased by her grandparents Ivan and Evelyn Cayford, Wallace and Shirley Dubois, Lynn and Pauline Pressey, her brother Vance A. Cayford, Jr., her uncle Tim Dubois, and aunts Susan Moffett and Linda Nivison.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers donations in Lori’s memory may be made to MaineGeneral Hospice, 10 Water Street, 3rd Floor, Waterville ME 04901.

GERARD J. BECHARD JR.

SIDNEY – Gerard (Tiny) Joseph Bechard Jr., 74, passed away peacefully at home following a long two years, on Tues­day, September 26, 2023. He was born in Waterville on January 12, 1949, the son of Gerard Bechard Sr. and Theresa Bechard.

He graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1968, with a scholarship to Votech Institute Massachusetts as a machinist.

He loved sports, played football, was a fantastic ice hockey player. For years, he did Judo, scuba diving, fresh and deep sea fishing, hunting, shooting range, rode his Harley, was a UBM representative, loved dogs, farming and haying for his folks, Theresa and Gerard Sr.

He had a very fulfilling life. He was a machine parts fabricator for Edwards Mill, in Augusta, the state of Maine, and Bath Iron Works, drove a snowplow for the Maine Department of Transportation and the town of Sidney, drove class 2 school and tour buses, was a welder, member and bartender for Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, was Eagles Club president and vice president, in Augusta, belonged to the Maine State Employees Association and SEIU union representative, Chelsea substitute teacher, was on the Sidney Fire Department and planning board, and more.

Gerard owned a seafood store and large apartment building with his son, Gerard III.

He considered everyone a friend, and many in all walks of life, like Gov. John McKernan, U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe, Malcolm Forbes, Willie G. Davidson, and many policemen.

Gerard is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ernestine (Tina) Bechard); his son, Gerard Bechard III; grandson Gerard (Jake) Bechard IV; a sister Anita Breton and husband James Breton; sisters-in-law Nancy Davis, Mary Copage Colfer and Aurora Carreia; brothers-in-law Brian Squires and wife Carol, Dick Colfer and wife Mary, Mark Colfer and wife Brenda; cousins Roger and Maddie, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post #887, 509 Leighton Rd., Augusta, on Saturday, November 18, from 4 – 5:30 p.m., 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. potluck supper, 6:30 – 11 p.m., live band and silent auction, plus a 50/50 raffle.

MARIE A. PELOTTE

WINSLOW – Marie A. Pelotte, 100, of Winslow, died peacefully on Friday, September 29, 2023, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. She was born in Fort Kent on May 17, 1923, the first daughter born to Alphie Hebert and Isabelle (Dufour) Hebert.

Marie loved fishing and hunting. She loved foraging for berries and fiddleheads and she excelled at Beano and gambling, and she always won. She loved and adored her family and couldn’t wait to get her hands on the “babies” that would emerge throughout the years in her family. She was kind and loving and enjoyed spending her summers at Moosehead Lake having fish fries.

Marie was a homemaker and also worked for prominent families in the community. She also assisted with child rearing for these families. She love to cross stitch and make quilts. Many of her quilts were donated to the Waterville Homeless Shelter, and were known as Mémère’s blankets. She kept busy in her earlier years with frequent garage sales and getting a bargain anywhere she could.

Marie was predeceased by her husband, Adelard J. Pelotte; her parents; her two children, infant son, baby Gerald and daughter, Elena Giroux; several brothers and sisters; her granddaughter, Tina Pelotte Libby; and great-grandson, Joseph W. Violette II.

Marie is survived by a son, Thomas Pelotte (Claire), of Benton; granddaughter, Kathy Violette, of Winslow, with whom she made her home, and four more grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Robert Hebert, of California, and her sister, Jane Poulin, (Charles), of Waterville; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, October 24, at St. John Church, in Winslow, followed by burial at Saint Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, in Waterville.

CLARENCE G. BUTLER

WATERVILLE – Clarence “Ken” G. Butler, 93, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 6, 2023. He was born October 22, 1929, in Oakland, to Nellie and Clarence Butler Sr.

Ken was raised by his mother and stepfather, Frank Kenniston. Frank gave him the nick-name “Ken” which stayed with him for life. He attended schools in Oakland and enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, spending time in Germany during the war. Ken took classes at the University of Maine in Farmington when he returned to civilian life.

He was a long-time member of the Newhall Street Second Baptist Church, in Fairfield, for many years. He was a deacon and trustee of the church and he and his wife also sang in the choir.

Ken was an extremely hard worker, holding many jobs over the years. Back in his youth, he worked at the Oakland Axe Shop. He also drove truck, yellow cab, and a school bus. He was employed by Harris Bakery, Redman’s pet care, and taught driver’s education. He retired in 1995 from security at Thomas College, in Waterville.

Ken was predeceased by one son, Derril Butler, as well as stepchildren Darlene Nicholas and Daniel Sawtelle.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara Butler; sons Craig, Eric, Jeff and Ben Butler; a daughter, Michelle Waters; stepsons Dana Sawtelle and his wife April, Daryl Sawtelle with his wife Tina, and Donald Welch with his wife Kristina; also including many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Please visit Ken’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/clarence-g-butler-jr-2023 to share condolences, photos, and special memories.

JAMES E. DODGE

WINDSOR – James E. Dodge, 72, of Windsor, passed peacefully at the Comfort Care/Hospice Unit at Glenridge, on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, following a battle with Fronto­temporal Dementia and a sudden diagnosis of colon cancer.

Jim was born on November 10, 1950, to the late Dorothy and Erskine Dodge and grew up in Farmingdale. In 1969 he graduated from Hall-Dale High School. He continued his education and graduated from Unity College in 1973. James went on to teach Earth Science at Cony High School, in Augusta, for 36 years from 1973-2009. He started soccer as a club sport and coached the Rifle Club in his earlier years. Jim and Sue were married in June 1974. They moved to Windsor where he built their forever home and raised their three children.

James was a man who never stopped working, from running Windsor Video out of their home in the late ‘80s, working at Western Tool after school with Jason, farming, cutting wood down back, milling lumber, haying, hunting, rebuilding antique cars with Josh, creating amazing woodwork pieces for all, taking care of Sue’s “L” shaped pool for Katie’s daycare kids, growing an enormous garden, and golfing at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro. James was very skilled at whatever he did. Although his facial expressions didn’t always show it, he was a caring man underneath.

Jim was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. At this time he loved telling jokes and still remembered everyone. He spent any time he could with his six grandchildren. In his last year, he and Sue were able to drive to Florida where they vacationed for two months. Jim loved taking videos with his camera and collecting shells on the beach. His days back home were spent filling picture frames, albums, and walls with photos. He called it his scrapbooking. He loved giving his photos to people with his famous handwritten Post-it notes. Reminiscing with family through his home videos was a daily activity. Each day he would awake and ask “Susie, where are we going today?” hoping for a shopping trip to Sam’s Club, Walmart, or Marden’s.

Jim will be remembered by his “high school sweetheart” and wife of 49 years, Susan (Wallace) Dodge; his three children and their families, son Joshua Dodge (wife Rena children Dylan and Addison Dodge of Vassalboro), daughter Katie (Dodge) Bailey (husband Chad, children, Duncan and Delia Bailey of China), son Jason Dodge (wife Megan twin boys Charles and Sawyer Dodge-Michigan); his sisters, Kitty Carrier (husband Roger) and Bonnie Squiers (husband Tom) and many sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service was held on Friday, October 20, at Rest Haven Cemetery, in Windsor. A celebration of life followed at Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, on Friday, October 20.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at Directcremationofmaine.com.

KYLEE A. TURCOTTE

LISBON FALLS / WINSLOW – Kylee Ann Turcotte, 30, passed tragically on Friday, October 6, 2023. Kylee was born February 23, 1993, in Waterville, daughter of Michael and Susan Ri­singer, of Winslow.

She graduated from Winslow High School (2011) where she loved being part of the basketball and softball teams. She was someone who always put her nose to the grind to reach success. She graduated from Thomas College (2015), in Waterville, where she earned her master’s degree in accounting.

In 2014, Kylee met Adam Turcotte, of Lisbon, at FHC, Inc., of Bowdoin, where Kylee was on an internship. Kylee and Adam married October 15, 2016, bought their first home, adopted their chocolate lab Zeus, and then became parents of a handsome little boy, Xavier, within 15 months. For the past seven years, she was employed as Controller for Precast of Maine (Division of Crooker Construction), in Topsham.

Kylee was beautiful, caring and loving. Her family and friends will remember Kylee for her amazing work ethic, her beautiful smile and her passion for making a difference in the lives of others no matter the cause. She enjoyed scrapbooking, couponing, running, and going to the gym.

Kylee was the brightest light to others and she now lives in their hearts. Kylee made an instant impact on everyone she met and on thousands who never will.

In addition to her parents, Kylee is survived by her handsome little boy, Xavier; husband, Adam Turcotte; his sister Jill Risinger; by in-laws Darlene Culbert (Pat) and Paul Turcotte; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 28, at 1 p.m. at FHC, 1201 Main St., Bowdoin.

Arrangements are in the care of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to a fund for her son Xavier Turcotte, c/o Lisbon Comm. F.C.U., P.O. Box 878, Lisbon ME 04250-0878

DALE R. COLLIER

OAKLAND – Dale R. Collier, 88, passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023. Dale was born on April 19, 1935, son to Glendoris (Nadeau) and Victor H Collier.

Dale was brought up in Oakland and raised his family in Belgrade, close to his childhood roots. He married his bride, Bernadette Busby, in 1958. They celebrated their 65th anniversary on October 4, 2023.

Dale joined the U.S. Army just out of high school and was eager to support his country. He was a member of the American Legion, Waterville Elks, and a proud U.S. Veteran. Dale was a great enthusiast for all sport venues, participating in his youth as well as a spectator in his later years.

He was predeceased by both parents and his oldest son Lucky.

Dale is survived by his daughter Kellie with Max; son Jack with Annie; grandchildren, Joshua, Madisyn, Sydni, Caitie; great-grandson Brody; brother David with Bonnie; many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held at the Elks, 76 Industrial Street, Waterville, Fridasy, November 10, from 1 – 4 p.m.

Dale will be buried at the Collier family cemetery at a future date to be announced.

Please visit Dale’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/dale-collier-2023 to share condolences, photos, and special memories.

NANCY VanDERVEER

WINSLOW – Nancy VanDerveer, 79, passed away peacefully on Saturday October 14, 2023. She was born in Waterville on May 26, 1944, the daughter of the late Leonel J. and Andrea (Talbot) Fortin.

Nancy graduated from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, in 1962. On September 7, 1968, she married the love of her life, James VanDerveer. Together they made their home in Winslow with their two children Holly and Scott. Nancy worked for Central Maine Power Co. until her retirement. She and Jim enjoyed rides to the coast, a good lobster roll, spending quality time at the Samoset Resort, in Rockport, and spending countless hours with their grandchildren.

Nancy was a woman of strong faith and a was a lifelong communicant of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow. She was an avid QVC client and faithful to many news programs, with CNN being her favorite.

She was very soft spoken and kind hearted. Her Lakewood family said she always had a beautiful smile on her face. After Jim’s passing you could always find her son Scott by her side whether they were getting ice cream, groceries, going to Mass or visiting family. They shared a very special bond.

Along with her parents Nancy was predeceased by her husband Jim, her sister Louisette (Lou) Roy and her brother Reggie Fortin; brothers-in-law Robert Roy, Ron LaPlante, and Carl Vanderveer.

Nancy is survived by her son Scott, of Winslow; her daughter Holly (James) Anderson, of Vassalboro and her granddaughters Rachel, Lauren, Tori and Kara and great granddaughter Elainna Linnell; her sister Jeanne LaPlante and her companion Chuck Perkins, of Waterville; her brother Michael Fortin and his wife Jill,of Winslow; sister-in-law Joan Gould, of Littleton New Hampshire, and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, at 9 a.m., Friday, October 27, 2023. Burial will immediately follow at Saint Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, in Waterville.

Please visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your condolences and memories with Nancy’s family.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Nancy’s name to Spectrum Generations/Muskie Center, 39 Gold St., Waterville, ME 04901.

KATHY ROWLETTE

ALBION – Kathy Rowlette, 81, of Albion, passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

A graveside service for Kathy and her husband Fred, who passed away January 23, 2022, will take place at Puddledock Cemetery, on the South Freedom Road, in Albion, on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 1 p.m.

Following the service, the family invites guests to the Bessey building, on Main Street, in Albion, for a luncheon, where they will have a Celebration of Life and share memories of Kathy.

SAMUEL N. GODDARD

WATERVILLE – Samuel Nevers Goddard was born in Waterville in what was known as Thayer Hospital on August 25, 1938.

Sam had a good life; born to educated/ professional parents. He attended Waterville Public Schools, graduated from Waterville High School in 1956. In high school, he was part of the prestigious “Club 56”. He graduated from Maine Central Institute (MCI), in Pittsfield, in 1957, and from the University of Maine at Orono in 1961, with a science degree of entomology.

In 1961, Sam married his high school sweetheart, Jeannette Bard. Shortly after their marriage, Sam proudly served in the U.S. Army as a medical specialist. At Fort Sam Houston, in San Antonio Texas, he was part of a M-A-S-H Unit; he taught biology and worked in the hospital treating burn victims; he was later transferred to Fort Devons, Massachusetts, where he worked as a game warden.

Sam was decorated with various medals, including “Expert” in markmanship.

Discharged from the Army, he joined the family insurance business (then known as L.O. Tebbetts) He was instrumental in the merger of that family business with another Waterville insurance agency (J. B. Friel Co); it then became known as Goddard-Hodgdon-Mitchell (now known as GHM Agency). He served GHM Agency as its president, and was the designated broker for their real estate division. Retired from GHM in 2001, and became a “gentlemen farmer” in his country home of China Village.

Sam enjoyed hunting and fishing, locally, throughout the country and internationally; he valued the friendships of his long-time (some life-long) friends.

Restoration of his 1925 Pierce Arrow became a fun and challenging hobby for him; parades, conventions and met many new friends.

Sam had a lifelong interest in volunteerism. Shortly after his discharge from the military, he co-started and was troop leader for Boy Scouts of America at the First Baptist Church,, in China. Among the many volunteer functions, he served as Assessment Review chairman, for the city of Waterville; Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Moderator for First Baptist Church; Chairman of Waterville Osteopathic Hospital (now Northern Light Inland Hospital) New Horizon; Chairman of Foundation Board and Finance Committee for Kennebec Behavioral Agency, and took pride in the 40 years of service to the agency. He was proud of his Scottish heritage of the Colquhoun clan.

Sam was a 50-year member of the Waterville Rotary Club, and served as its treasurer and president in 1964 and was awarded the coveted “Paul Harris Fellow”. Sam was a charter member of the China Historical Society. He is named in the “Outstanding Young Men of America” (1971).

Sam was predeceased by parents G. Cecil and Clara “Pat” Nevers Goddard; and niece Julie Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Jan; daughters Suzanne, of China Village, Rebecca (David) Bean, of Williamsburg, Virginia; sisters Jacqueline Black, of China Village, Melissa Ayer, of New Jersey; nephew James Smith, and niece, Joanna Bearce.

At his request, there will be no funeral; a private burial will take place at a later date.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 19, 2023

GERRY L. WRIGHT

WINSLOW – Gerry L. Wright, 89, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at his home, in Winslow. He was born March 18, 1934, in Lewiston, at Central Maine Medical Center, to Paul and Bertha (Miller) Wright.

Gerry began playing piano at the tender age of 7 and continued with select learning about playing piano through 2002 with instructors such as Peter Re, (Colby College) Katherine Foley, (UMO), and Fred Green, (Boston, Mass.).

He graduated from Edward Little High School, in Auburn, in 1952, and Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1969, then continued his education further, graduating from the University of Maine at Orono in 1982.

After graduating from Edward Little High School on a Friday evening in 1952, he moved to Waterville that weekend, hired by the Templeton Hotel, in Waterville, as a pianist. This kicked off his 71-year career as a musician and teacher. While his family would love to list all the musicians with whom Gerry performed, all the clubs at which he performed, and all the students with whom Gerry taught musical education up and down the East Coast, space in this newspaper would not allow.

A Musical Tribute to celebrate Gerry’s life will be held on Sunday, October 22, from 2 to 4 p.m., at The Performing Arts Center, in Oakland (Messalonskee High School) with The Al Corey Big Band under the direction of Brian Nadeau. A full listing of Gerry’s resume will be available as inspiration for those just starting or continuing a life in the world of music.

Gerry’s life as a music teacher began in 1970 at SAD #47, in Oakland. This “gig” lasted until 1998 at which time he was employed by The Gifted and Talented program for Oakland, Waterville, and Fairfield choral music until 2004. From 2005 until 2018 Gerry taught at Maine Central Institute, (MCI), in Pittsfield (vocal and piano music). After “retiring,” Gerry continued performing and accompanying musicians until 2023. During his “downtime,” he provided music for the Mt. Washington Hotel, in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, for 27 years with occasional private concerts.

Gerry started working at Al Corey’s Music Center, in Waterville, in 1962 as a clerk in the store, which then led to an illustrious career with Al and his band throughout the rest of both gentlemen’s careers. Gerry had planned to play with the Al Corey Band, in November, of this year (so, he never actually did retire).

Gerry met Fred Petra in 1952 and played with the Fred Petra Band, in New England and Canada, until 1998. He also played with his longtime friend and fellow musician, Don Doane, and his “Portland Gang” throughout his career.

Gerry was the pianist with the Tony Bruno Orchestra, from Boston, Massachusetts, which allowed him to perform with Elvis Presley.

Gerry would say we were remiss if we didn’t mention his deep affection for Steve Fotter, Andy Forster, Chris Neville and Brian Nadeau, and the memories they shared from all the years of working together and their friendship.

Gerry is survived by his wife and best friend of 48 years, Sharon (Philbrick) Wright; his daughter, Jennifer Wright, of Mount Vernon; granddaughters Kassidy Freitas (Jo), of Augusta, and Evelyn Giroux, of Mount Vernon; several nieces, and nephews; as well as brothers and sisters-in-law.

He was predeceased by his son, Steven L. Wright; his parents; his brother, Paul; his mother and father-in-law, Ray, and Florence (Keene) Philbrick; sister and brother-in-law, Rae Ann (Philbrick) and Darrell Brann.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Condolences, stories and photo’s may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the “Gerry L. Wright Summer Camp Scholarship,”, c/o Messalonskee High School Music Department,, 131 Messalonskee High Dr., Oakland, ME 04963.

JANICE C. QUIRION

WATERVILLE – Janice Caroline Quirion, 77, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023. She was born on April 22, 1946, in Charleston, South Carolina, to the late Romeo Quirion and Helen Chitty.

Janice, also known as “Ma”, was a very loving and caring woman with a heart of gold. She was deeply devoted to her family and loved them immensely. Janice had a fulfilling career at Lipman’s Processing Plant, in Augusta, before becoming a homemaker, which she found to be her most enjoyable career. She dedicated herself to raising and taking care of her four boys and her husband.

Janice was predeceased by her father Romeo Quirion, mother Helen Chitty, brothers, Danny, Timmy, Bruce; and sisters, Sheila, Bedilia, and Linda.

Janice is survived by her sons, Ernest Royer and his partner Leslie, Henry Royer and his wife Leslie, Seth Reynolds and his wife Summer, Richard Reynolds and his wife Kassie; sister Brenda Bartlett; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Pond Cemetery, in Unity, Maine, on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 2 p.m. Service to be officiated by Pastor Mark Tanner, of the Skowhegan Confederated Church, of Skowhegan.

Janice’s family invites you to visit her memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/janice-c-e-quirion to send condolences, share photos, and special memories.

GERALD CORBIN

WINSLOW – Gerald “Jerry” Corbin passed away on Friday October 6, 2023. Jerry was born on June 27, 1945, in Waterville, the son of Claude and Germaine (Doucette) Corbin.

Jerry proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1964 – 1968, in France and Massachusetts. He served most of his career working at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, and then at Sappi Mill, in Skowhegan, until he retired. After retirement Jerry and wife Jan spent winters in St. Petersburg, Florida, for 20 years. They enjoyed spending time with the family and also with their special friends (the Gang), both in Florida and also in Maine.

He loved the ocean and the beach, playing tennis with great friends as well as dancing, cooking and going to concerts. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by both his parents; brothers, Fernand, Maurice, and Roger; and his oldest grandson Daniel Clark.

Jerry is survived by his spouse of 59 years Janice (Nabarowsky) and their three children, Kevin Corbin with his wife Diana, Laurie Denis with her husband Todd, Ken Corbin; grandchildren, Thomas Tibbetts, Ben Corbin, Dalton Denis, Nick Denis, Logan Denis with his fiancée Emily Manocchio, and Joscelyn Denis.

Jerry will be interred with military honors at the Maine Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., in Augusta, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at 2 p.m.

Please visit Jerry’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/gerald-corbin to send condolences, share photos, and special memories.

TAMMY L. THERIAULT

CLINTON – Tammy Lee Theriault, 51, passed away on Monday, October 2, 2023, following a very long battle with cancer. Tammy was born on September 18, 1972, in Waterville, to Carolyn and Roland Theriault.

Tammy was a very loving mother to three children, and seven grandchildren. She lived a full and vibrant life with more friends than you could count, and spent many years with her soulmate, Robert H. Myers, before his passing. Her nieces and nephews meant more to her than words can describe. Family was everything to her. She would give you her last dime if she knew if would make you smile. She endured many tragic events in her short life, but it never diminished her look on life, or her contagious smile. She helped you believe that all things were possible even after battling her third round of cancer. Her faith was relentless.

She was predeceased by both her parents Carolyn and Roland Theriault; grandparents John and Lavina Thomas, grandparents Pete and Eve Terrio; three brothers, Daniel, Bruce, and Justin Theriault; nephew Jason; as well as her life partner Robert H Myers.

Tammy is survived by her son Austin Theriault; daughters Megan and Melinda along with their families; siblings, Brenda Tuttle with her husband Alton, Karen Reid, Roland Theriault with wife Amy, Steven Theriault, Scott Theriault, Belinda Sweatt with her husband Brian; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews, and special loved one.

All are welcome to attend Tammy’s celebration of life, taking place at St. Bridget Center, 864 Main Street in Vassalboro, on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan.

For more service details or donation options, please visit the public page ~ Celebration of life for Tammy Lee Theriault on Facebook.

MARTHA M. DOORE

ALBION – Martha Marie Cassidy Doore, 91, passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. Martha was born on July 30, 1932, in Savannah, Georgia, to the late Joseph Edward and Blanche Cilley Cassidy.

She grew up in Brownville, where she met the love of her life, Charles Doore. They married in 1951 and moved to Waterville after Charles finished serving his country in the U.S. Army. In 1959 they made their home in Albion where they raised their family and she remained for 63 years before moving to Woodlands Assisted Living, in Waterville.

Martha, along with Charles, worked tirelessly to provide a loving home for their children. She always found time to help others, especially when children were involved. She belonged to the PTA, serving as president for several years. She was an active supporter of the Boy Scouts, in Albion, as a fundraiser and Cub Scout Den Mother. She served as town clerk and tax collector for many years. She loved her years as the librarian for Albion Elementary School, and later in life she worked tirelessly to help fund, found, and build the Albion Public Library.

Out of her love for the Lord and her love for children she was active in her local church, serving as deaconess, secretary, and Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher. She led the Good News Club for many years, inviting children to come to her home to hear about God’s Love and the way of salvation. She will be remembered as a compassionate and generous person with a playful sense of humor. She loved books, music, art, and poetry and found the beauty in God’s creation, enjoying long walks, flowers, and wildlife.

Martha was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Charles, son Charles Doore Jr, son-in-law Ronald LeBlanc, as well as her siblings Lewis, Earl, Edith, and Merrill.

She is survived by sons Stephen Doore and wife Penny, of Hallowell, James Doore and wife Nancy, of Albion; daughters Patricia LeBlanc, of Albion, Kathleen Ladd and husband Ron Alan, of Albion; son Brian Doore and wife Stacy, of Waterville; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren along with their families.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 28, at 10 a.m., at the East Benton Christian Church, followed by burial at Sweet Cemetery, in Atkinson.

Martha’s family invites you to visit her memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/martha-doore to share condolences, photos, and special memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Albion Public Library, PO Box 355, Albion, ME 04910.

ERIC V. NELSON

FAIRFIELD – Eric Vincent Nelson, 38, passed away on Friday, October 13, 2023, in Bangor. He was born on October 30, 1984, in Waterville.

Eric graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and worked as a carpenter.

Eric had a kind heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. He loved hiking, the great outdoors, working with his hands, and spending time with friends.

Eric was predeceased by his mother, Wendy Johnson.

He is survived by his father Michael Nelson, stepmother Ellen Nelson; sister Sarah Briley and her wife Ty Briley; his nephews, Asher and Beckett Perkins; cousin Laura Weatherbee; as well as many loving family members and friends.

An informal memorial service was held on Wednesday, October 18, at the home of Peter and Melinda Nelson, at 13 Patterson Ave. in Winslow.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

PETER A. SERRADA

ROME – Peter Anthony Serrada, 76, of Rome, passed away peacefully at home. Peter was born in Flushing, New York, on August 23, 1947, the son of the late Frank & Mary (Palenzona) Serrada.

At the age of 12 Peter became fascinated with Astronomy, which stayed with him his entire lifetime. Peter graduated from Rider University in Trenton, New Jersey, with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In 1966 Peter joined the U.S. Navy and served his country on the USS Howard Gilmore until an honorable discharge in 1968. In the 1970s, Peter would visit the area where his future home would be built, having a camp placed on the property prior to the house built, so he was able to enjoy hunting and the land.

In 1982, he met Colleen VanHouten , at a Catholic dinner dance…and in February 1984 they were married in Saint Bartholemew Church in East Brunswick, New Jersey. Peter had purchased land in Rome, Maine, and shortly after their marriage brought Colleen to what would be their forever home. His years of employment as a CPA as a Civil Servant for the State of New Jersey and retired in 1997 from his profession as an Internal Auditor for Union County, New Jersey. After his retirement Peter and Colleen moved to Maine and built their forever home.

Peter had a love for Astronomy as well as a love and appreciation for the woods, especially oak trees. When constructing their new home in Maine, Peter was able to have a home dome incorporated in the project so he would be able to view the stars. Once settled in Maine, Peter met Dr. Magri at the University of Maine at Farmington, a fellow Astronomer, and their love of astronomy created a friendship. He taught a course in Intro to Astronomy at Gold Leaf at UMF in which he was a founding member. He enjoyed being a local astronomer for the Astronomy 101 Course at the University of Maine-Orono with Dr. Batuski.

Peter was enthralled for over 35 years at the Stellafane Convention, in Springfield, Vermont, a convention for telescope makers, which Peter had built numerous ones. He enjoyed inviting folks to his home dome to view the nights sky and all its wonder. Colleen and Peter loved to travel to areas where a solar eclipse could be viewed, experiencing the eclipse in both Mexico and Idaho. Peter was also a lifetime member of the Kennebec Rock & Mineral Club, attending many conventions and collecting various rocks and minerals he displayed in their home. He also found great enjoyment in reading a good nonfiction book…usually a text on building telescopes while smoking one of his various pipes.

Peter is survived by his wife of 39 years, Colleen, and many cousins in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

His Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, October 18, at St. Joseph Church, 133 Middle Street, Farmington, with Father Paul Dumais officiating. Burial took place immediately following the Mass, in Brookside Cemetery, Rome, with full military honors.

Visit Peter’s Book of Memories at http://www.wilesrc.com to share fond memories and condolences. Honored to be caring for the family of Peter A. Serrada is Wiles Remembrance Center – Farmington.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 12, 2023

TINA BISHOP

BEAVER COVE – Tina Bishop, 96, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Tina was born on September 1, 1927, in Waterville, the daughter of Achille, “Archie” York and Aurelie “Thelma” nee Cloutier, of Winslow.

Tina’s father passed away when she was young. Her grandmother, Aunt Evelyn and Uncle Reme, helped raise her. She was predeceased by all of her siblings and the family who raised her. Tina graduated from Winslow High School and soon after, Tina met Bernie. They were married June 16, 1947, and renewed their vows on their 65th anniversary, at their grandson Craig’s wedding and happily celebrated 66 years together.

Early on, she was a teacher at Colby College Nursery School and a Sunday School teacher at Sacred Heart Parish, both in Waterville. She was co-owner of Bernie ‘s Market, on West Street, in Waterville, then a manager at SoFro Fabrics, in Waterville. She used her creative skills as manager and children’s buyer for Stern’s Department Store, in downtown Waterville. She created the latest styled outfits, making the Waterville area youngsters look their best. She believed we should all look put together and live each day to the fullest.

Tina was a master seamstress. She made many dance costumes, gowns and wedding dresses. Her talents led her to Cottles “I Do” Bridal Salon, in Waterville, which became “Memories and More”, until they closed. At that time, she then worked at Patricia Buck’s Bridal, in Augusta, where she created each perfectly fit wedding gowns and hand beaded veils. She coordinated the entire bridal party’s ensembles. Brides came from all over the country and abroad, to have her work her magic, for their perfect day. She worked full time and didn’t retire until she was 83 years old.

Tina’s focus was always on her family at their home, in Waterville. She hosted many family and holiday dinners, while enjoying the gathering of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved cooking and decorating, for all the holidays, especially for Christmas. She always made them personalized gifts, such as crocheted afghans, knitted sweaters and quilts for each. Bernie and Tina enjoyed traveling, and treasured their family vacations. They especially enjoyed their spur of the moment trips, driving to Connecticut to visit their daughter, Cathy and family, and frequent trips, to visit their daughter, Debbie and family, in New Hampshire.

Since Bernard’s passing 10 years ago, Tina lived with her daughter, Debbie, and husband, Rick. Her cat, Winston, shared their days together, watching the deer who came to visit their yard. Tina was the true Matriarch of the Bishop family. She will be sorely missed by everyone she cherished.

Tina is survived by her son, James (wife, Jessica) Bishop, of Maine; daughters, Cathy (husband, Bruce) Cusson, of Connecticut, and Debbie (husband, Rick) Palmer, of Maine; eight grandchildren, Jennifer (husband, Dennis) Turner, Craig (wife, Rachel) Cusson, Ryan Cusson, Eryn (husband, Chad) Farley, Jessica (husband, Sam) Gong, Jason (wife, Darcy) Palmer, Joshua Palmer, and Joseph Bishop; 13 great-grandchildren, Kai, Arrow, Kaleb, Jason II, Addy, Emmy, Brady, Peyton, Connor, Maddison, Haley, Samantha, and Cole; and one great-great-grandson, Jensen; former daughter-in-law, Clare Milton, who assisted in taking her to appointments and shopping as needed. She was a wonderful companion.

A Memorial Mass will be held at the Notre Dame Church, located at 16 Silver Street, Waterville on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11 a.m. A reception will follow in the church hall.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home, Dover-Foxcroft. Condolences and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.

ANNE B. TOWNE HAYWOOD

BENTON – Anne Ballou Towne Haywood, 64, passed away at home on Friday, September 15, 2023. Anne was born in Proctor, Vermont on November 29, 1958, to Charlotte (Parker) and William Horace Towne.

Anne grew up in Arlington, Vermont, and attended the University of Vermont, where she earned her degree in education with a focus in special education. Anne served as an educator in Special Education programs in Maine for over 25 years. Anne was an impactful and inspirational teacher by all rights, dedicating herself to bettering the lives of children and their families.

She was predeceased by her father, William.

Anne is survived by mother Charlotte; husband Michael; daughter Ingrid and her children Mason and Ava; son Ian and his wife Nicole and children Nevick, Capri, Myles, and Zephelin; daughter Alyssa and her wife Siobhann and their son Henry; daughter Alaina; as well as her siblings David, Jeffrey, Jane, Bob, and their children.

Please visit Anne’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/anne-haywood to send condolences, share photos, and special memories.

JUDEE A. JANDREAU

KENNEBUNK – Judee Anne Jandreau, 66, of Kennebunk, passed away at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House on Sunday, September 24, 2023. Judee was born on June 27, 1957, to Donald and Pauline Jandreau, in Waterville.

After graduating from Waterville Senior High School in 1975, she attended Thomas College, in Waterville.

Judee discovered her passion early in her career while working at Tardiff’s Jewelry and Larsen’s Jewelry, both in Waterville. After training in these established businesses, she launched her jewelry sales company. Judee’s talent for selecting and marketing her jewelry enabled her to create a long-lasting and highly successful business that has spanned over 40 years. She frequently traveled to New York City to personally handpick exquisite and unique jewelry for her many clients. She also represented a host of jewelry artisans from various parts of the world.

Judee was delighted to live near the ocean in Kennebunk, loving the sandy beaches, salty air, and community of people living there. She was deeply involved in her community as a board member of the Kennebunk Historical Commission and a member of the Kennebunk Yacht Club. Judee loved celebrating the holidays, especially Halloween and Christmas. Her decorations and parties were beyond compare.

Throughout her lifetime, Judee achieved great success due to her hard work and perseverance; however, she was always humble and filled with kindness and thoughtfulness toward everyone. She truly was beautiful inside and out with her gorgeous, long, blonde hair, stunning blue eyes, open smile, and loving heart. And just like Maria in The Sound of Music, Judee had her favorite things: fashion, decorating, gardening, jewelry, sports cars, and her family and friends. Judee enjoyed nothing more than celebrating her loved ones’ special days with a beautifully handwritten note, a heartfelt message, and often a piece of jewelry.

Judee was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Pauline Jandreau; sister, Nancy Jandreau Johnson; brother, Richard Jandreau.

She is survived by her son, Christopher Jandreau, and his wife, Jami, of Arundel; dear love, Barrie Miller, of Concord, New Hampshire; siblings, Donald Jandreau, Jr., of Waterville, Peter Jandreau and wife, Carol, of Soldier Pond, Brian Jandreau, of Norridgewock, Kevin Jandreau and wife Janice, of Benton, David Jandreau and wife Kristie, of Winslow; several nieces and nephews, Nicole King, Jared Jandreau, Brent Jandreau, Kenneth Jandreau, Britney Jandreau, Sabrina Jandreau, Nathan Jandreau, Sarah Martin, Moriah Giguere, Andre Giguere, and Deahna Liguere.

A Celebration of Life was held on Monday, October 9, 2023, 4-7 p.m., at the Silver Street Tavern, in Waterville.

GERMAINE I. JACKSON

WATERVILLE – Germaine Irene Jackson, 89, passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. She was born on December 7, 1933, in Waterville, to Clarence and Margaret Stewart.

Ger­maine grew up in Waterville, and lived in Maine for most of her life. She graduated from Waterville High School. She was employed at Laverdiere’s Drug Store, First National Supermarket, Cottles Supermarket, Hannaford and Marden’s, all in Waterville. Once she retired she was a teacher’s aide at St. John School, in Winslow.

She enjoyed her trips to the casino and stayed active doing aerobics well into her 80s. Those who knew her never heard her say a bad word about anyone. Germaine’s memory will be deeply cherished by all.

Germaine is survived by her sons, Gary Jackson (Kathy), of Winslow, Rick Jackson (Mary), of Augusta, James Jackson, of China; her sisters, Beverly Stewart, of Waterville, Patsy Jolicoeur, of Waterville; and her brother Alfred Stewart, of Oakland; her grandchildren, Carrie Jackson, Jamie Jackson, Kimberly Jackson, Travis Jackson, Samantha Moore, Jody Jackson, Thor Borssen, Adam Chase, Monica Jackson, Erica Jackson, and Krista Jackson; great-grandchildren, Willow, Kendalyn, Maddyn, Landon, Keira, Brady, Chase, Jada, Kaiden, Sanova, Aiden, Brooklyn, Leah, Jackson, Jordanna, and Kylee; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

She was predeceased by her parents, Clarence and Margaret Stewart, her son Bruce Jackson, her daughter Brenda Jackson, and her brothers, Clarence (Sonny) Stewart and James Stewart.

A Catholic Mass is scheduled for 11 a.m., Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, with the burial to follow at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville. Following the burial a celebration of life will be held at Notre Dame Church.

LILLIAN G. BICKFORD

CLINTON – Lillian Greenier Bickford, 79, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023, following a long battle with cancer. She was born on January 7, 1944, in Fort Fairfield, to Sterling and Marjorie Drew Greenier.

She graduated from Winslow High School in 1963.

During her lifetime, Lil worked several different jobs, including C. F. Hathaway Shirt FActory and Stern’s Department Store, both in Waterville. She owned her own fitness business called the Health & Reducing Spa and eventually found her true passion as a hairdresser. She worked in various shops and made lifelong friends along the way.

Lillian was a social butterfly, touching the lives of many throughout her life. Her heart was large, and she did not hesitate to bless those around her, adopting many as extended family. She will be missed dearly.

Lil is survived by her husband of 40 years, Andrew Bickford, of Clinton; two sons, Scott Raymond and his wife Anne, of Waterboro, and Philip Raymond and his wife Lesley, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; two grandchildren, James Raymond and Cameron Raymond; as well as nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Faith Church Waterville. Watch their Facebook page for details.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Resolve Lif – 872-5070.

BEVERLY J. RIAVEZ

UNITY – Beverly Jane (Landry) Riavez, 90, passed away at home on Friday, September 29, 2023. Beverly was born in Waterville, February 1, 1933, the daughter of Clarence and Mary (Pelham) Landry, one of six children.

Her family moved to Rahway, New Jersey, when she was 12, where she attended Rahway High School, graduating in 1950. Beverly met Joseph Riavez soon afterwards, and they were married on September 7, 1952.

Beverly was an at-home mom raising her nine children. Once her children were grown, she worked in the family-owned business, Five Queens Bakery. After the bakery closed, she worked as a diamond setter. She moved back to Maine in 1992 with her husband, living close to her sisters, nieces, and nephews. Soon afterwards, many of her children followed.

Beverly loved to sew, cook, and bake. No one could make cookies like she did. The entire family looked forward to the boxes given at Christmas. Her wedding cakes were exquisite, and, of course, she made them for all of her children when they married. A few weeks prior to Thanksgiving, they would spend the weekend making hundreds of home-made ravioli. Beverly loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. When living in New Jersey, Christmas mornings were spent gathered at her home. She loved when spring arrived because that meant the hummingbirds were soon to follow. Watching them was her favorite pastime, she hated when they left. Her family and friends will always remember her kindness, humor, and sarcasm.

Beverly was predeceased by her parents, Clarence and Mary Landry, husband Joseph P Riavez, daughters Suzanne Riavez and Michele Schindler, son Mitchell Riavez, granddaughter Marylin Riavez, as well as all her siblings.

Beverly is survived by her sons Joseph Riavez Jr., Keith Riavez and his partner, James Norwak; daughters Donna Regaj, Denise Works and husband Keith, Lori Bertram and husband Raymond, Kelli Riavez and partner Richard Beaulieu, daughters-in-law Maryellen Riavez and Debbie Riavez; 18 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Since Beverly was a breast cancer survivor, in remembrance of her, contributions can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (www.bcrf.org).

JON FORTIER

WINSLOW – Jon Fortier, 59, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023, following a three-year battle with cancer.

Jon grew up in Maine and graduated from Winslow High School in 1982. He went on to graduate from Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, with a BS in engineering in 1986.

Jon embarked on his prolific engineering career after graduation. He was the engineer on the Lightship Nantucket for her journey from Rockland to New York Harbor for the Fourth of July unveiling of the refurbished Statue of Liberty in 1986. After several years with General Dynamics Electric Boat Division as a Submarine Construction Foreman, Jon began his long career with Westinghouse/ Northrup Grumman as a field engineer supervising the construction and installation of turbines and turbo generators in many US Navy vessels.

Jon retired from Northrup Grumman as a full-time engineer in 2010 and began a career as an independent contract engineer where his expertise was in constant demand. One memorable assignment for the Navy had him flying to the Middle East and landing on an aircraft carrier to oversee a turbine repair. Once done he was catapulted off the carrier (one of the wildest rides of his life) to begin his journey home.

In 2011, the City of Boston hired him to oversee the construction of its new fire boat which was being constructed in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. When the project was completed, Jon’s fee was officially noted to be the best money they spent because of his attention to detail. Jon sailed on the delivery voyage through the locks into the Hudson River then down around New York City and back up to Boston.

Jon’s passions included a lifelong love of music and photography. The outdoors always spoke to Jon. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and especially loved snowmobiling where he circumnavigated both Moosehead Lake and the Gaspe Peninsula, in Québec, several times.

At Maine Maritime Academy Jon became part of a large “band of brothers” that became lifetime friends. Many of those midshipmen were the very ones, amongst his many other great friends, who kept him laughing and reminiscing in the last weeks of his wonderful life.

Jon made a generous donation to the MMA Class of 1986 endowed scholarship fund prior to his passing and will forever be associated with that great institution.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Jon’s family would like to invite you to visit her memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/jon-fortier to share condolences, photos, and special memories.

PAULINE M. MULLEN

OAKLAND – Pauline Maryann (Quirion) Mullen, 79, better known as “Paulinsky”, “Mother Bear”, or just “Ma”, passed away at her home on Saturday, September 30, 2023, following a several year battle with cancer. She was born on December 27, 1943, in Jackman, in her family home. She is the daughter of Anntoinette (Roy) and Alfred J Quirion Sr.

Pauline enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, lawn saleing, and always had to have the strangest item that she or another person could find.

She was predeceased by both parents, siblings; Shirley, Raymond, Alfred Jr., Theresa, Robert, Elsie, and Leana.

Pauline is survived by the love of her life of 59 years James Chester Mullen Sr., of Oakland; nine children, Michael Quirion, Scott with Jerrilene Mullen, all of Oakland, James Jr. with Jodie Mullen, of Waterville, Billy with Tammy Mullen, Thomas Mullen with Michelle Bard, Rebecca with David Violette, Todd with Lindsy Mullen, Lorene with Rev.Dean Marston, and Kirk Mullen with Sarah Landry, all of Oakland, 27 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at noon, at Blood Bought Church, at 866 Kennedy Memorial Drive, in Oakland, where she was a faithful member for 20 years.

A graveside memorial service will immediately follow at Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland.

The family invites you to visit Pauline’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/pauline-mullen to send condolences, share photos, and special memories.

RICHARD L. AYER

WATERVILLE- Richard L. Ayer, 90, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023. He grew up in Gray and New Gloucester, the son of Frederick and Marie Ayer.

He graduated high school from Pennell Institute and earned a degree in Industrial Arts Education from Gorham State Teachers College.

He married his true love Pauline in 1954, finished college in 1955, and spent his first year of teaching in Fort Kent. In June 1956 he moved to Winthrop, where he filled the position as the WHS Industrial Arts teacher. During his years at WHS he taught drafting, was athletic director, and led the Cooperative Ed. Program. He taught Drivers Ed. for many summers. Richard coached girls basketball, boys baseball, archery and golf. He was also a basketball referee. After 16 years at WHS he became a consultant for the Department of Vocational Education. As time passed, he missed the classroom and returned to teaching at the middle school level in Waterville.

Richard was a loyal fan of the Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics. In his younger adult years, he enjoyed deer and duck hunting with some of his fellow teaching buddies. He had a strong devotion to the Winthrop community serving on the Winthrop Conservation Committee, the start up of the Winthrop Federal Credit Union, and was very active with the Winthrop Bicentennial celebration. He loved the Winthrop Ramblers and kept track of the various teams throughout the years. He was thrilled to hear about Winthrop’s’ state-of-the-art athletic field and expressed a wish to see it for himself.

Richard was devoted to family and enjoyed spending his retirement years being a faithful follower to his granddaughter’s many activities.

Richard is survived by his daughter Susan Lamontagne and her partner Michael Twombly, of Winthrop; his son Michael Ayer and his wife Judith, of Waterville; granddaughter Jenna Lamontagne and her partner Adam Huff, of Winthrop; sister Lucille Sawyer and her husband Ed, of Virginia; his brother William Ayer and his wife Sharon, of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada; sister-in-law Linda Ferri, of Gray; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his loving wife Polly and his parents, Richard was predeceased by his brother Frederick Ayer and his wife Barbara.

A private family graveside service will be held at Gray Village Cemetery, Gray.

Arrangements are in the care of the Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin Street Winthrop where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to support Winthrop High School Athletics. Please make checks payable to Winthrop Athletics and mail to 211 Rambler Road, Winthrop, Maine 04364.

NORMAN LANDRY

BANGOR – Norman “Paul” Landry, 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October. 1, 2023, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Bangor. He was born in Waterville on July 15, 1940, to parents Helen (Veilleux) Landry and Napoleon Landry.

Paul attended Waterville schools. Paul enlisted in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in both France and Germany, serving from 1957 – 1960. He then entered the construction trades as a pipefitter and certified welder. He thoroughly enjoyed hunting, fishing, skydiving, and golf with his family and the people closest to him.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, brothers Charles “Charlie” Landry and Roland Landry, and nephew Charles “Chuck” Landry.

He is survived by his wife Vicki (Parker) Landry, of Bangor; daughters, Andrea Gagnon, of Sidney, Elizabeth Padham, of Mercer, Mary-Ellen Savage, of Oakland; sons, Randall Landry, of Londonderry, New Hampshire, Marc Landry, of Falmouth, Barry Wheaton, of Smithfield, Carl Landry, of Norridgewock, Andrew Landry, of Smithfield; along with several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and Vicki’s family.

Out of respect for Paul’s wishes there will not be any services. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Kiley and Foley via Cremation Basics, Inc., Bangor.

PAUL H. PAGE

SOUTH CHINA – Paul Harland Page, 92, passed away on Monday, October 2, 2023. He was born in East Vassalboro, May 22, 1931, to Gustavus and Lena (Levitt) Page.

Paul attended East Vassalboro School and Cony High School. Paul and Charlotte met and married at a young age and were completely devoted to each other. They were an inspiration to their family and everyone whose lives they touched.

Paul was a self-made man, owning and operating Page Construction for many decades. For many years, he also worked for the local towns, whether it was cutting down a tree, delivering a load of gravel or snow plowing the roads. Paul’s love of his work lasted all his life, even after reaching an age when he could no longer physically do it.

He and Charlotte enjoyed traveling, including family trips to Cape Cod. He loved the beauty of winter including snow mobiling with his wife. They shared many wonderful family gatherings at their camps and winter homes in Florida.

Paul was a 50-year and life member of many organizations, such as Kora Shriners, Knights Templar, The Commandery, Masons and Odd Fellows. He was especially proud of his title of Brigadier General of the Odd Fellows and was honored to be chosen by them to lay a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Washington, D.C. He was also most proud of his family and very loyal to all of his friends he acquired over the years. He will be greatly missed by all. He is survived by many family members, too numerous to mention.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to MaineGeneral Hospice.

REV. SYLVIO J. LEVESQUE

AUGUSTA – Rev. Sylvio J. Levesque, 93, priest of the Diocese of Portland, passed away on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation. Fr. Sylvio was born in Augusta, on July 13, 1930, the son of Joseph F. Levesque and Mathilda (Lagace) Levesque.

He attended the former St. Augustine Grammar School and then went to St. Charles Seminary, Sherbrooke, Québec, for high school. He then completed his studies in Philosophy and Theology at St. Paul Major Seminary of the University of Ottawa, Ontario, where he obtained a Bachelor of Philosophy Degree and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 4, 1955, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Portland, by the Most Rev. Daniel J. Feeney, eighth Bishop of Portland.

As a “Parochial Vicar” he served in the following assignments: St. Louis Parish, Limestone, from June 1955 to September 1957 and St. Joseph Parish, Biddeford, from September 1957 to June 1969. As a “Pastor”, Fr. Sylvio served in the following assignments: St. Joseph Parish, Sinclair, and Holy Family Parish, Daigle, from June 1969 to September 1974, St. Athanasius, St. John Parish, Rumford, from June 1974 to September 1982, St. Francis de Sales Parish, Waterville, from September 1982 to September 1989 and St. Francis Xavier Parish, Winthrop, from September 1989 to June 2001.

Fr. Levesque retired from full-time active ministry on June 1, 2001. In his retirement, he kept on assisting in parishes wherever there was a need, until his deteriorating health made it impossible to continue.

Fr. Levesque also offered faithful services to his diocese, fellow priests, and lay parishioners as Chaplain to the Knights of Columbus and the Order of Catholic Women. He was also a member of the Diocesan Planning Board and the Priests’ Personnel Board.

Fr. Levesque was better known as Uncle Sylvio to his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, as well as great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, whom he loved very much. Uncle Sylvio was an avid golfer, a master cribbage player who loved skunking his opponents, and cherished celebrating holidays with family. His face would beam when it came to barbecues, lobster, and ice cream. His humor was contagious and could make anyone laugh.

Fr. Sylvio was predeceased by his parents and his siblings: Gerard Levesque, Marie Jeanne Douin, Leo Levesque and Alfred Levesque.

He is survived by his sister: Annette Dostie.

Viewing of the body took place on Tuesday, October 10, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington St., Augusta, followed immediately by a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated by the Most Rev. Robert Deeley, Bishop of Portland. Fr. Sylvio’s remains will be buried immediately after the Mass in his parents’ lot at St. Augustine Cemetery, Townsend Road, Augusta.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME. Condolences, photos and stories may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fr. Levesques memory may be made to: Maine Right to Life, PO Box 257, Auburn, ME, 04212 or St. Michael’s School, 56 Sewall St., Augusta, ME 04330.

JENNIFER L. ASSAF

OAKLAND – Jennifer (Lohnes) Assaf was born on December 5, 1971, at 11:52 p.m., eight minutes before her father’s birthday. Every birthday after that only one cake was made and shared by father and daughter.

She was predeceased by her father, Tom Lohnes, of China Village.

She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Rony Assaf, of Oakland; her mother, Susan Lohnes, of China Village; and her brother, Christopher Lohnes, of Lewiston; as well as a large extended family.

There were many obstacles and sometimes high hurdles to jump in Jennifer’s life of 51 years, but she never let that stop her.

She married the love of her life, a man who was equally as strong, sturdy, and honest as Jennifer. Together they withstood every challenge that came their way. A strong faith was the cornerstone of the life they built together. With imagination and a deep love of animals, Paws and Claws daycare was created, redefining the pet care industry in Maine. Jennifer and Rony, through their tireless work turned pet care into an art form.

Jennifer’s love of animals extended to pets with disabilities. She often would reach out to find a good home for three-legged pets that shelters found difficult to place. At times she would take an animal who was due to be euthanized and care for it until the perfect home could be found.

A conversation with Jennifer rarely included talking about herself. Her main concern was always with others. Though she lived with many forms of cancer for 38 years from the age of 13, on, enduring countless surgeries and many rounds of chemo, she felt privileged to have lived such a full life; a life filled with the love of a devoted husband and the love, respect and admiration of family and friends.

Jennifer was able to live an enriched and extraordinary life in spite of cancer because she had a brave heart, endless courage, a loving unselfish husband, and a determination not to let cancer define her.

The things in life that go unnoticed in most of our everyday lives were the little treasures in Jennifer’s life. No one can live your life for you, and no one can face what is yours to face or feel what is yours to feel and no one can do it alone. It was all the love and support that enabled her to have a Life Well Lived.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 24, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville; followed by a burial at Saint Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, with a reception to follow at Notre Dame church hall.

Jennifer’s family invites you to visit her memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/jennifer-assaf to leave condolences, share photos, and special memories.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jennifer’s name to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, P.O. Box 1807, Auburn, ME 04211.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 5, 2023

JACK S. GIGUERE

PALERMO – Jack Steve Giguere, 77, of Palermo, passed away on Wed­nesday, September 13, 2023. Jack was born in Oberlin, Ohio on Oct­ober 21, 1945, to Bernard and Evelyn (Greszler) Giguere.

In his earlier years, Jack was enlisted in the United States Army. He served as a paratrooper in the 173rd Airborne Brigade, of which he was most proud.

Jack was an incredibly capable man. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t build, modify, or repair if he put his mind to it. He spent the last 30 years (or so) of his life as a produce farmer where he perfected his art of growing all things edible at his Good Earth Farm.

Jack was a man with a story to tell, one who would talk for hours about any topic that would come about. He entertained many with the stories of his life. Anyone who knew Jack knew he was a man with opinions, a man that had strong beliefs and believed “if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything”.

Jack was a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved spending time with his family, being outdoors, fishing, going up to camp, farming and working on vehicles and other mechanical things. Jack would never show up somewhere empty handed, whether he was bringing a quart of raspberries, a basket of produce or even a can of Cheez-Whiz for the great-grandchildren, Jack was always giving to those that he loved.

Jack is survived by his sons Brett Giguere and wife Susan, Bradd Giguere and wife Rebecca, and Stephen Giguere and wife Tanya; stepchildren James Mayo and wife Hannah, Desiree Mayo, Jessica Mayo and significant other Jared and their son Calihan, and Joseph Mayo; grandchildren; Bradd Giguere and his wife Angela and their two children; great-granddaughter Madison Giguere and great-grandchildren Bennett Giguere, Jake Giguere and his significant other Tori Fraser, Elyssa Giguere, Emily Giguere, Garrett Giguere, and Luke Giguere; siblings Joan Cowing, Jim Giguere and wife Karen, Jon Giguere and wife Betty, Melanie Giguere, and Carolyn Arline; several nieces and nephews.

Jack will be missed by everybody that knew him, but will be remembered in our hearts through his sense of humor, strength, and the knowledge he shared.

A celebration of Jack’s life is being planned and will be announced when details are available.

FLORENCE E. EAMES

WATERVILLE – Florence E. Eames, 77, Waterville, died peacefully on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at Marshwood Center, in Lewiston. She was born in Portland on January 19, 1946, the daughter of Ora R. Eastman and Ella I. Eastman.

Florence graduated from Waterville High School in 1964, and attended the Northern Conservatory of Music where she was a Music Education Major. She worked at the Mammoth Mart, in Bangor, as a service desk clerk and cashier while attending college and eventually became a bookkeeping secretary at the W.T. Grant Company, where she met her future husband, Chester Eames Jr., known as “Chet”.

Florence and Chet married in Brewer in 1972 and loved and cared for one another for 48 years until Chet passed in 2020. Florence worked as a Head Start teacher in South Paris and as a secretary/receptionist for the Penquis Community Action Child Development Office, in Bangor, when they were first married.

Florence and Chet moved to Greenville, South Carolina, in 1978, where she first worked in the Emergency Room for the Greenville Hospital System in admissions and billing. Eventually, Florence and Chet owned and operated a laundromat called “Soap and Suds” while Chet studied theology, at Bob Jones University, to become an ordained minister. Their Christian faith remained strong and central throughout their lives. To be nearer to family, they moved back to Maine and settled in Waterville in 1984. Florence went to work for K-Mart, in Waterville, where she worked in the office and could often be found at the service desk until she retired.

Florence will be remembered by her family for her beautiful voice and musical talents, her love of family, and her Christian faith.

Florence was predeceased by her husband, Chester Eames, Jr.; her parents, Ora and Ella Eastman, her in-laws, Chester and Clara Eames; her sisters, Rose Micue, and husband Theron Micue, Jr.; and Wilma Eastman.

She is survived by her sisters, Phyllis Corey and her husband George, of Sidney; and Roberta Brown and her husband Fremont, of Terryville, Connecticut; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At Florence’s request, there will be no service.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at DirectCremationofMaine.com.

In Florence’s memory, donations may be made payable to “Amedisys Foundation” and sent to Beacon Hospice, 245 Center St., Suite 10A, Auburn, ME 04210.

HERBERT S. CROMMETT

WINDSOR – Herbert Smith Crommett, 75, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, September 21, 2023. He was born July 21, 1948, a son of Theda (Tompkins) and Leslie Crommett Sr.

He married the love of his life, Candace Hall, in 1967, until she passed March 26, 1998, from cancer. Herb went on to spend 23 years with his life partner, Pam Powell, aka “The Cook”.

Herb worked at Central Maine Railroad for 20 years, then Local Union #320 as a millwright, retiring in 2005. In retirement, he spent 21 years working alongside his son Shane, at 15 Mile Stream Lodge & Outfitters, in West Forks.

He loved his family and being outside was his favorite place to be, especially playing softball, hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, and snowmobiling. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and tinkering in his garage everyday.

Herb was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Candace Crommett; and his siblings, Leslie Crommett Jr., Myrtie Nowlin, Joanne Shorey, and Mary Davis.

He is survived by his sons, Chad Crommett, and Shane Crommett and his wife Rachel; his partner, Pam Powell; stepsons, Troy Cunningham and his wife Tammy, and Wade Cunningham and his wife Jody; seven grandchildren, Patrick, Kelley, Sarah, Meagan, Katie, Kara, and Brittany; ten great-grandchildren, Braiden, Tarynn, Wyatt, Walker, Lilah, Mason, Zakk, Autumn, Chloe, and Levi; and siblings, Clayton Crommett, Vincent Crommett, Darrell Crommett, Grace Davis, Barbara Mayberry, Vicki McPhee, Dianne DeMerchant, Beverly Smith, and Marietta Field; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at the Hall Family Farm Cemetery, 330 Quimby Road, Albion, ME 04910.

A celebration of life followed at the Albion Town Hall, Besse Building, 22 Main St., in Albion.

Condolences, stories, or photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Herb’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.

MARYANNE PARKER

CLINTON – MaryAnne Parker, 82, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2023, following a long battle with cancer. She was born in Waterville, on April 12, 1941, to Robert and Virginia (Crommett) Nash.

MaryAnne worked in Radiology in the Farmington and Skowhegan areas. After her retirement her passion was quilt making and genealogy.

Maryanne was predeceased by her husband Jeffrey Parker, of Farmington.

She is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Steeves; sons, Robert Steeves, Chris Shibley, and James Shibley; as well as four great-grandchildren.

The family invites you to visit MaryAnne’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/maryanne-parker to send condolences, share photos, and special memories.

GERARD J. TALBOT

WATERVILLE – Gerard “Gerry” J. Talbot, 94, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 26, 2023.

He was born to the late Cyrille and Rose M. (Morency) Talbot, June 9, 1929, in Winslow.

Gerard graduated from St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, in Waterville. After completing eighth grade, he went to work at a local supermarket to help support his family. That first job as a teenager would prove to be the beginning of a long career in local grocery and retail stores. He worked for many years in the produce department of the First National Store, first at the Main Street location, and later at the Elm Plaza, in Waterville.

When the store went on strike in 1968, and with a young family to support, Gerry was thankful to be offered a job at Stern’s Department Store, in Waterville, where he would become a fixture in the boys’ and men’s departments for many years. When Stern’s closed, he went to work for Furniture Farm, in Fairfield, and in his final years for Shaw’s, in Waterville. Along with his full-time day jobs, Gerry always worked one or more part-time jobs in the evening. He worked hard his entire life to make sure his family was well provided.

Gerry served stateside in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was very proud of his time in the service and was rarely seen without his Korean War cap.

Gerry had an easy-going personality and a quick wit, which served him well while working in the community. He was always a gentleman, polite, kind, and respectful to everyone he met. Besides his family, practicing his faith was extremely important to him. He was a member of Corpus Christi Parish and attended Mass faithfully and prayed the rosary daily.

With all the jobs he worked, Gerry’s “spare” time passions included preparing meals and baking, especially during the holidays, when he would make several tourtière pies as gifts for family and friends. He also enjoyed listening to music, playing his harmonica and guitar, as well as refinishing furniture and chair caning.

He noticed Lucille, the love of his life, in the late 1940s when she would walk by the grocery store where he was working. After a two-year courtship, they were married at 7 a.m., on July 4, 1951. Their last anniversary before her passing earlier this year marked 71 years of marriage. He was proud of the fact that in all the years they were married, he never removed his wedding band after she slipped it on his finger on their wedding day.

Gerard is survived by his three children, Donald G. and his spouse, Edward J. Bell, of Lisbon Falls, Angela and her husband, Jerry Bickford, of Sidney, Brenda and her husband, Mark Gosline, of Waterville; and by his one and only grandchild, Hannah Gosline; his brother, Roland J. Talbot and his sister, Mary Jane (Talbot) Paquet; his sister-in-law, Suzanne (Veilleux) Talbot, and his brother-in-law, John Viens, of Vassalboro; cousin, Doug Mathieu; along with several nieces and nephews.

Gerry will also be deeply missed by Theresa Hunnewell, her daughter Amanda Kimball and her sons Ryan and Travis, whose visits brought him great joy. He will also be missed by longtime family friend Carl Parker.

He was predeceased by his brothers Joseph Robert, Donald J (Brother Roger Paul, F.I.C.P.), and Roger P., and by his sister Orita M., and her husband Reginald Couture, his sisters-in-law, Jean (Dostie), Jeannine Viens, Bonnie Viens, and his brothers-in-law, J. Lawrence Paquet, Wilfrid Viens, and Joseph Viens.

Friends and family are invited to attend visiting hours that will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., on Thursday, October 5, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 6, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, followed by a committal at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

TENLEY R. CAMPBELL

CLINTON – Tenley R. Campbell, 70, passed away on Thursday, September 28, 2023. She was born in Waterville on March 28, 1953, the daughter of Claris A. Johnson and Maurice E. Penney.

A loving mother and partner, Tenley always put others first. She was a caretaker and lived with a true sense of service to friends and family. For the past 24 years Tenley worked as a newspaper carrier for the Waterville Morning Sentinel. She absolutely loved her job and always felt at peace out on the roads at night. The last several years Tenley also ran Sunday Bingo, held at the American Legion, in Madison. When Tenley wasn’t working, she enjoyed being home with her partner of over 20 years, Bill. She also very much enjoyed spending time with her daughters and granddaughter.

Tenley was incredibly passionate about her horse, Buddy. Working with Buddy in his pasture and taking care of him was something that was very important to her. Tenley’s compassion for others and willingness to look after her friends and family will surely be missed.

Tenley was predeceased by her mother and her brother Brent Tweedie.

She is survived by her longtime companion Bill Parent, of Clinton; daughters Kari Ferrenbach, of Clinton, and Heather Ferrenbach; granddaughter Ashley Sanderson, of Brunswick; sister Anne Wing, of Rockland; two brothers, Theron Tweedie, of Spruce Head, and Eric Tweedie, of Thomaston.

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service being held for Tenley on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. Viewing hours will be from 1 – 2 p.m., with the service beginning at 2 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made, in Tenley’s name, to Double B Equine Rescue, 997 W Mills Rd, Industry, ME 04938, (207) 778- 6479.

BERNADETTE RODRIGUE

BENTON – Bernadette Rodrigue, 73, of Benton, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 29, 2023, at Oak Grove Nursing Home, in Waterville. She was born in Fort Kent, on March 16, 1950, the daughter of (deceased) Fred Plourde and Anna Beaulieu) Plourde.

Bernadette married John Rodrigue in 1967. She was the mother of Michael Rodrigue (son), and grandmother of Marshall (grandson) and MacKenzie (granddaughter).

Bernadette was employed at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, Hawaiian Paradise Restaurant, Dorr’s Bakery, and was then the owner of Mémère’s Baked Goods.

Bernadette loved to bake, her gardening, sitting on the swing with a cup of coffee listening to the birds, making puzzles, and playing cards with family.

Bernadette was predeceased by her brothers, Louis, Edmund, Wilfrid, and Normand Plourde, as well as her sisters, Theresa Voisine and Jacqueline Lajoie.

Bernadette is survived by her siblings, Leopaul Plourde and his wife Dora, of New Britain, Mary Oakes, of Newington, and brother Elmer Plourde, of Winslow; nieces and nephews; daughter-in-law Casey.

There will be no funeral services at the funeral home or church. A private burial will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Jude’s Research Hospital, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

WENDELL WHEELER

ROME – Wendall “Wayne” Wheeler, 52, of Rome, died unexpectedly while helping his brother with a job on Saturday, September 30, 2023. He was born in Lewiston, on June 4, 1971, the son of Wendall and Carol (Yates) Wheeler.

Wendall grew up in Pittston and graduated from Gardiner Area High School, class of 1990. After graduation he went on to work at various jobs, AG of Maine, Bancroft Construction, Bower Construction and many more. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed classic cars, spending time with his family, friends, and was always willing to help anyone in need. Wendall was a member of the American Legion and the Steel Workers Union.

Wendall is survived by his parents Wendall and Carol Wheeler; a brother Willam F. Wheeler; two nieces Eliza and Vivian Wheeler; significant other Anne Marie Stewart; and her sons William and Anthony, all of Dresden, several aunts, and uncles.

Wendall’s visiting hours will be held on Saturday, October 7, from 3 – 5 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick, Avenue, Gardiner.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

DEATH NOTICES

MARK M. REYNOLDS

Mark M. Reynolds, 70, of China, passed away on Friday, September 22, 2023. He was born February 4, 1953.

LINDA L. MATTSON

WATERVILLE – Linda L. Mattson, 66, of Waterville, passed away on Monday, September 18, 2023. She was born on May 17, 1957, in Waterville.

There will be a graveside service held in her honor on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 10 a.m., at the Lakeview Cemetery, in Wilton.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service 488 Farmington Falls Road Farmington. Maine, where memories may be shared at
dsfuneral.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 28, 2023

DALE C. ALLEN

SOMERVILLE – Dale (Swift) Clark Allen, 74, of Somerville, passed away peacefully on the morning of Monday, September 4, 2023. Dale was born August 12, 1949, in Gardiner to William H. and Mary E. (Sullivan) Swift.

She attended schools in Hamilton and Beverly, Massachusetts, graduating from Hamilton-Wenham High School. After graduating she returned to Maine marrying David Clark and together, they raised two daughters. She worked for the State of Maine for 33 years at the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, then Marine Resources, retiring in 2009.

Dale enjoyed painting and working with stained glass at her camp on Long Pond. After a long engagement she married David Allen in 2020. Together they loved traveling and visiting the national parks. Dale was very adventurous with a love of the outdoors. Together they visited many countries while taking many cruises.

She enjoyed family gatherings, yearly trips to Martha’s Vineyard with her special friends but she loved her grandchildren more than anything on this earth.

Dale was predeceased by her parents; and her brother, Brian Swift.

She is survived by her husband, David Allen; her daughters, Terri Belanger and husband Moe, Jackie Cartlidge and husband Tony; stepsons Rusty (Lori) Allen, Bert (Kelly) Allen, and Ryan (Georgia) Allen; grandchildren, Dave (Amber) Belanger, Walter (Kristi) Travis, Dannie Belanger, Crystal Dale (Christopher) Dolan, Samantha (Dylan) Peaslee, Brandon (Elizabeth) Cartlidge, Brooke (Isaac) Noon; 11 great-grandchildren, Joseph, Jeremiah, Jaelynn, Dylan Jr., Avery, Harper, Chloe, Owen, Evan, Aidan and Piper; her sister, Darlene (Bryan) Potter; brothers Billy (Irene) Swift, Bruce (Ellen) Swift, Barry (Martha) Swift and Bradford (Samantha) Swift; brother-in-law, Glen Allen; as well as a multitude of cousins, nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life at Somerhill Events, on Friday, September 29 at 1 p.m., 826 Somerville Rd., in Somerville.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity in Dale’s name. Dale gave to many charities over the years, she was partial to military, autistic, and cancer charities

VIRGINIA L. LABBE

SMITHFIELD – Virginia L. Labbe “Ginny”, “Jenny”, 78, born September 24, 1944, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Ginny was born in Sidney on the Middle Road. Her birth was one of the last home births at that time.

At the young age of one, she moved to San Marcos, Texas, with her parents until the age of six. On the return to Maine, they bought an old camp on Messalonskee Lake, Oakland, which they moved across the ice, to a lot on the east side of the lake. During that summer they lived in a tent while remodeling the camp which became her year-round home until she graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1963.

On August 11, 1971, Virginia married the love of her life, Michael Labbe. Mike and Ginny worked hard raising five children while building a home on Messalonskee Lake, in Sidney. During that time Virginia worked for Coughlin Real Estate Agency as a sales associate and office manager.

Her love of life was no secret to anyone who knew her. She was always seeking out adventures with her family. Many fond family memories were of her carrying her favorite rod to numerous bodies of water to catch brook trout from the Maine brooks to the massive rivers and lakes of Québec and Labrador. She always dreamed of the next fishing trip before the one she was on was over.

She was ready for the snow to fly when the fishing season ended. Snowmobiling was her winter passion. She was often seen signing the trails or running a snowmobile business, Dana’s Rental, in Jackman, with her husband, Mike, and son, Dana. After a day of work or riding, she and Mike could often be found at the Northland Hotel owned by Margaret Hall, telling tales of snowmobiling and trail conditions with Gerry Smith and fellow riders. She was an avid snowmobiler throughout Maine and Québec for the last 50 years, always looking forward to her spring ride in the Gaspé Peninsula, in Canada, with Mike, her long-time friend, Sue Milspaugh, along with anyone who would like to join them.

Virginia was predeceased by her parents Bernard and Annie Ratliff Bulmer; and her daughter, Lorna Labbe Brackett.

She is survived by her husband, Mike Labbe; her children, Rick Labbe and wife Nancy, Dana Labbe and wife Barbara, Michael Labbe, Jeffery Labbe and wife Tracy; grandchildren, Tyler Brackett, Maureen Brackett Mosher, Mercedes Labbe, Ciera Labbe Lambert, and Jenna Labbe Murray; step-grandchildren, Jack and Christopher Belyeu; several great-grandchildren; aunts; nieces, and nephews.

Celebration of life was held at the Smithfield Fairview Grange on September 24. A family graveside service will be held at a future date.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Jackman Border Riders Sportsman’s Club, P.O. Box 413, Jackman, ME 04945.

MARY E. LEWIS

UNITY – Mary Esther (Fogg) Lewis, 83, of Unity, passed away on Friday, September 8, 2023. Mary Esther was born Nov­em­ber 10, 1939, in Livermore Falls, to Ernest A. and Barbara L. Fogg.

She was the youngest of six, Robert Fogg, Elizabeth Pray, Claire Jane Fogg, Barbara A Lamb, and Janet Tucker.

She graduated from Buckfield High School and attended what is now known as the University of Maine Farmington (formerly Farmington State Teachers College), where she earned her teacher’s degree.

Mary Esther was the wife of Clair Howard Lewis Jr. for 46 years, whom she met through his sister Eleanor and married on June 26, 1965. They made their home in Unity, raising two children, Barbara Louise Jewett (Eric) and Christopher Lewis (Michelle).

From a young age, Mary Esther held a deep faith in God. She and her husband were long-term members of the Unity Union Church, and later in life were very active in the Belfast United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clair; daughter, Barbara Louise; parents; and siblings.

Mary Esther had a deep passion for her family, church, and community. She was always creating “crafty” items to benefit a church or community effort, cooking for potluck suppers, or knitting for the grandchildren. As her youngest child entered school, she returned to the classroom at Unity Elementary. She enjoyed her students as well as fellow teachers, staying in touch with them through the years.

Her five grandchildren were her greatest joy, Alinda Lewis Smith (Justin), Keith Jewett, Ian Jewett (Miranda), Tad Jewett (Hallie), and Daniel Lewis; along with her three great-grandchildren.

The funeral was held on Friday, September 15, at Liberty Baptist Church, in Liberty. A private family burial followed.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at RipostaFH.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Good Steward Thrift Shop, c/o Unity Union Church, 13 Depot St., Unity, ME 04988 in Mary’s memory.

LUCILLE ROMUNDO

WATERVILLE – Lucille Romundo, 100, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Born September 6, 1923, (youngest of seven children) to Maud and Victor Robichaud.

She became the matriarch of a family growing to more than 30 (four generations).

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 29, 2023, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

To read the obituary in its entirety, go to http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

PATRICIA A. PARADIS

WATERVILLE – Patricia Ann Paradis, 84, passed peacefully on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, inWaterville. She was born October 2, 1938, in Belgrade, the daughter of James Paradis and Jeannette Grivois Paradis, and twin to Patrick.

Despite living with learning disabilities she had a full and active life. Her happiest days were spent at the Muskie Center, in Waterville, where she made many friends.

Patricia is survived by her sisters Mary Boulette and Celia Williams; and brothers Omer Saucier and Mike Paradis; along with many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by sisters Germaine Paradis and Theresa Jurewicz and brothers Patrick and Paul Paradis.

There will be no funeral at this time and she will be laid to rest with her parents at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Waterville.

She will be remembered for her outgoing nature and love of family. In her memory just be kind..

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

NORMAN F. POULIN

SIDNEY – Norman “Norm” F. Poulin, 83, of Sidney, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 18, 2023, at the Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn. Norm was born in Sidney on October 11, 1939, the son of the late Alfred and Desange (Bernier) Poulin.

He attended school in Sidney and then on to Cony High School, in Augusta, graduating in 1958. During his high school years, he worked at Kennebec Brick, in Sidney.

After high school, he joined the Air National Guard and attended boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas. Upon returning home, he continued to be active in the Guard until 1964 while working at Eastern Packing, in Waterville, where he helped to make different kinds of meat products. He then went on the road delivering these products to various businesses and dedicated 30 years of commitment to the company. Norm also raised broiler chickens for Maplewood Poultry, in Belfast. Along the way, Norm built many friendships and established connections that he carried with him throughout the years.

Norm’s next adventure was purchasing his own pastry business, delivering a variety of pastries throughout the Central Maine area.

From the time he was a boy, Norm always loved country music and listened to the Grand Ole Opry and WWVA’s Wheeling Jamboree. He would ride his bike to Augusta’s City Hall to watch the local country musicians. At the shows, Norm would befriend the performers backstage, which grew into lifelong relationships, both professional and personal. He was also the Maine State Fan Club representative for Loretta Lynn for 10 years.

Back when Norm was working for WKCG Radio, in Augusta, he heard Yodelin’ Slim Clark give an interview on the station. In 1970, after speaking with Yodelin’ Slim, Norm came up with the idea to start putting on shows to get musicians in front of the crowds, establishing Norm Poulin Productions, which later evolved into the Country Music Pioneer Show featuring Maine country artists, as well as performers coming up from Nashville, Tennessee, to perform throughout Maine. Norm’s saying “If the ticker ticks, the music clicks, and they come from the cities and out of the sticks” which certainly rang true when seeing the thousands of people that attended the shows throughout the years. As a result of his dedication and passion for country music, Norm was honored and proud to be inducted into the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame in 2021.

Many people throughout Central Maine would often see Norm’s truck with a sign advertising blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or corn for sale. If you stopped to buy from Norm, plan on an extended sale because you would hear several stories from Norm with a few wise cracks thrown in for free.

After the seasons were done for selling, he would enjoy his favorite hobbies of deer and bear hunting. His love for the hunt started at a very early age for Norm, often choosing his favorite spots on his own family homestead where he was born and lived his entire life.

Norm enjoyed sharing holiday meals at his brother and sister-in-law’s home, and later attending many holiday dinners at his niece, Kimberly’s home, where he truly enjoyed her raspberry pies, and a haircut when needed. When Norm had business or financial questions, or just someone to lend a hand, he would call on his nephew Ryan who was always willing to help Uncle Norm.

Many people knew Norm as the greeter and card checker at Sam’s Club, in Augusta, where he worked for 17 years. To many, he was not just the greeter, but the conversation starter.

Norm was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Desange; his brother, Henry, sister, Jeannine, and sister-in-law, Helen Poulin.

Survivors include his brother, Gerald Poulin, of Sidney; niece, Kimberly Murgo and husband Lorenzo, of Benton; nephew, Ryan Poulin and wife Charity, of Sidney; niece, Ann Lefebvre and husband Rick, of Waterville; and niece, Rose Hunt and husband Phil, of Norridgewock; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.

At Norm’s request, there will be no services or celebration of life. Norm would want you all to continue celebrating life every day and live it to the fullest. As Norm would say,” I’ll see you when I saw ya”, and “Toodeloo”.

Arrangements are under the direction of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services of Skowhegan. The family invites you to visit Norm’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/norman-poulin-2023 to share condolences, share photos and special memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Maine Country Music Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 62, Athens, ME 04912.

LEON P. JOLER

WATERVILLE – Leon Paul Joler, 72, passed away recently He was born in Fairfield to Lawrence and Jeannette (Gagnon) Joler.

He graduated from Winslow High School in 1971. While in high school he worked for the local IGA, then Purlac Dairy, delivering milk door to door. From there he went on to work for Oakhurst Dairy and lastly working and retiring in 2000 after 25 years, from Nissen Baking Co (IBC).

His undying love for the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, and New York Giants was like no other. He was a wealth of knowledge and useless information that he kept “all right here”. He was a self taught skilled woodworker that spent many hours building many wooden projects. He loved to be in the woods cutting trees, on the water fishing, or in the truck on an “adventure”.

Leon was predeceased by his parents; his in-laws Harold and Arwilla Higgins; his sister and brother-in-law, Claire and Donald Phair; “Best Aunts Ever” aunt, Neta Morrissette and aunt, Irene Ware, uncle, Bill Morrissette, uncle, Louis Ware; sisters-in-law Nancy Cote and Lera McGray; nieces Valerie Phair and Nicole Wilkie.

He is survived by his wife Jeannie whom he met on a blind date, they would go on to enjoy each other for 54 years through the good times and the bad. Also left behind are his daughters Lori and husband Vincent Arduini, of Leicester, Massachuset, and Jocelyn and husband Chad Pooler, of Winslow; grandchildren Riley Pooler, Garrett Pooler, Jordan Clarke, and Connor LeBlanc; his only brother, James Joler and wife Linda; cousins Jean Morrissette and Bill Morrissette and wife Dodie; nieces Missy Dorr, Michelle Joler-Labbe, and Danielle Lazcano; nephews Jeremy Lagasse, Marc Cote, Ben Jandreau, Tyler Jandreau, and Mike Cote; goddaughter, Melissa Morrissette; Also, but not forgotten, his baby girl, Fenway.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, September 26, at Notre Dame Church, Silver St., Waterville.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Joler family.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

ELIZABETH B. LaCHANCE

WATERVILLE – Elizabeth B. LaChance, of Waterville, passed away in Waterville, September. 15, 2023.

Visiting hours will be Friday, September 29, from 5 – 7 p.m., at Gal­lant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville.

You can read a full obituary at http://www.gallantfh.com and sign guestbook, share condolences and memories.

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EMILY ZAHRADNICK-FENDROCK

WATERVILLE – Emily Zahradnick-Fendrock, 85, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, September 17, 2023.

She was born February 11, 1938, in Archbald, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Bertha and Andrew Zahradnick.

She graduated from St. Patrick’s High School and Lackawanna Business School, in Pennsylvania. Her working career was on Wall Street, which she enjoyed very much.

She had many interests with season tickets to the New York Metropolitan Opera, many years of competitive tennis at various country clubs, including the Arthur Ashe Flushing Meadows Tennis Club and season tickets to the New York Football Giants, where she traveled every Sunday to Yale Bowl, before the Giants had their stadium built.

Survivors include her partner, John Alden III; two sisters, Alice Gaskin, of Scarsdale, New York, and Cheryl Lieberman and her husband Irv, of Dayton, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by brothers Andrew, Paul, Jerry, Ambrose, and sisters Pat Law and Ann Krisanda.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 29, at 2 p.m., at the Leeds Plains Cemetery, Leeds.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book may be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

MARY L. DAVIS

PALERMO—Mary L. Davis, 86, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at the Maine Veteran’s Home, in Augusta, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born in Lewiston to Theda (Tompkins) and Leslie Crommett Sr. on March 23, 1937.

For over 35 years, Mary worked as a florist; designing floral pieces and working with customers gave her great satisfaction. Mary enjoyed listening to country music, and in her younger days, attending Saturday night dances. She was a true Mainer who looked forward to camping trips and being outside during all seasons especially while gardening. She also enjoyed decorating her home for every holiday season.

Mary was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and TOPS. In her last years, Mary could often be seen holding her baby dolls which gave her great comfort.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, William J. Davis; her daughter, Heidi Glidden; and siblings, Leslie Crommett Jr., Myrtie Nowlin, and Joanne Shorey.

Her brother, Herbert Crommett joined Mary in the afterlife later on the same day, September 21, 2023.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Angel Hall and her husband, Rodney; son- in-law, Rodney F. Glidden; her siblings, Clayton Crommett, Vincent Crommett, Darrell Crommett, Grace Davis, Barbara Mayberry, Vicki McPhee, Dianne DeMerchant, Beverly Smith, and Marietta Field.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at 11 a.m., at the Palermo Christian Church, 322 Branch Mills Rd., Palermo, ME 04354. Burial will follow at the Greely Corner Cemetery, on Rte. 3, in Palermo.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

MADELINE D. STEVENSON

UNITY – Madeline Dickey Stevenson, 96, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 21, 2023. She was born to Alice (Nickerson) and William Dickey, on November 23, 1926.

Madeline grew up on a farm in Swanville and graduated from Belfast High School, and then from the University of Maine in 1949. She spent 25 years as an educator teaching high school English and serving as school librarian. She received a master’s degree in library science from UMaine in ’71 and was an avid reader.

She married Dana P. Stevenson in 1950 and together they raised three children while continuing to work and serve in the community. They built a home in Unity, where Madeline spent many hours in the garden raising vegetables and creating beautiful flower beds to attract pollinators and birds. Madeline loved bird watching and kept a journal of the varieties of bird she spotted. She also enjoyed spending time outdoors on the golf course or swimming in her pool.

As a young girl she learned cooking, sewing, and knitting skills from her family and she used these skills throughout her life. The kitchen in her home always smelled wonderful. She sewed clothes and quilts and knit mittens, hats, and sweaters for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She got together with crafters in town to create handmade items for church fairs. She also enjoyed painting and playing bridge with her friends.

Madeline was an active member of the community. She served as a Representative in the Maine Legislature for five years and served multiple terms on the Board of Trustees at Unity College. She was involved with the Unity Barn Raisers, in Unity Union Church activities and was an active member of the Maine Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, an organization for women educators.

She was predeceased by her husband of 38 years, Dana Stevenson; son-in-law Peter Young, granddaughter Meghan Young; brother Joseph Dickey and nephew Alan Dickey.

She is survived by her son David Stevenson and wife Sonia, of Vassalboro; daughter Paula Young and husband Dana Turcotte, of Skowhegan; and son Jeff Stevenson and wife Brenda, of Orono; six grandchildren, Aaron, Jenny, Anthony, Shannon, Elizabeth, and Megan; nine great grandchildren; two nieces; and one sister-in-law.

The family will hold a graveside service to celebrate Madeline’s life on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Unity Pond Cemetery, on Kanokolous Road, in Unity Maine.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Madeline’s memory may be made to: a charity of one’s choice.

JOHN T. GRANT

WATERVILLE – Born in Waterville, John Thomas Grant was a descendant of the Thomas family, founders of Thomas College. He was raised primarily by his mother, Freda Gagnon Grant, a woman of great resourcefulness, love, and grit.

John attended St. John School,, in Winslow, and Winslow public schools, received his BS in psychology from Uni­versity of Southern Maine (where he was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity), and his Master of Social Work from the University of New England, in Biddeford

. A man of great kindness and generosity, John dedicated his career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to serving individuals facing severe challenges. He worked at the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, at various agencies as a mental health crisis worker, and ultimately became Director of Residential Services at Kennebec Behavioral Health.

John had extraordinary talents as a comic and could crack jokes even in the darkest moments (as the doctors and nurses caring for him during his last year could attest). He once appeared on the front page of the Waterville Morning Sentinel dressed in drag singing You Are So Beautiful into a mirror. His favorite activity was bantering with his son Casey Ford Grant, the greatest love and joy of his life. He was also an aficionado of the Blues and Rock-and-Roll, with a special fondness for Bob Dylan.

He died of cancer at home surrounded by family. Among those who will miss John the most are his son, Casey (and Casey’s mother, Teena French); and his wife, Ankeney Weitz; his sister, Amy; his stepson and stepdaughter, Miguel and Lily Schwiderke; his aunts, Linda Gagnon and Ida McDonnell.

Friends and family will meet to share their fondest memories of John from 12:30 to 2 p.m., on Saturday, September 30, at the Winslow Town Gazebo (114 Benton Ave.). A reception will follow.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

Those who wish to remember John with a gift might consider donating to the Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England, 219 East Main St., Ste 100B, Milford, MA 01757, https://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/.

OTHERS DEPARTED

MILLICENT DONAHUE

BRATTLEBORO, Vermont – Millicent “Millie” Donahue, 92, died peacefully on Sat­urday, Sep­tember 2, 2023, in her cottage at her daughter’s home in Brattleboro, Vermont.

She was born on October 29, 1930, in Fairfield. Millie graduated from Lawrence High School, where she was the childhood sweetheart of Patrick Donahue. Millie and Patrick were married on June 21, 1952.

After the passing of her husband, Patrick, when she was 81 and in failing health, she relocating to a quaint cottage in Vermont at her daughter’s home.

She is survived by her children Pat Donahue Jr. (Amy), Belgrade Lakes; John Donahue (Karen), Falmouth; Andy Donahue (Richard), Northampton, Massachusetts; Sue Strasenburgh (Paul), Falmouth; and Meg Donahue (Lisa), Brattleboro, Vermont; eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, James Donahue, Ali (Austin) Brown and daughters Winnie and Mari; Kylen (Owen) Bolster and their son Sean Mathew; Gabe (Tom) Ray and son Thomas John; Tyler (Casey) Strasenburgh; Eric (Bridget) Strasenburgh and daughter Aria; Jason Donahue and Annie Donahue.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday October 1, 2023, at 2 p.m., at the Woodlands Country Club, in Falmouth.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 21, 2023

JOHN M. LESSARD

OAKLAND – John M. Lessard Jr., 42, passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2023. He was born on October 5, 1980, in Waterville, the son of Brenda Houston and John M. Lessard Sr.

John was educated in the Messalonskee School District. He was a gifted and talented athlete. He especially loved baseball. He received the award for Most Valuable Player.

John worked for Sarah Donnell as a carpenter remodeling properties. John loved his group motorcycling trips and he enjoyed a good snowmobile ride in the winter. His favorite fishing place was in Bingham where he also loved to camp. He was adventurous and loved to explore new places.

He was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents; uncle, Dr. Craig Houston, aunts Marie (Lessard) Inglefinger and Elizabeth (Lessard) Lowe; as well as his children’s mother, Nicole Wilkie.

John is survived by his children, Lily and Jonathan Wilkie; sister, Christie Houston and her two sons, Jordan and Colby; aunt, Ann Houston and wife Marion; uncles Bill, John M. Lessard Sr. had a special Mass said for John at the VA Chapel, in West Palm Beach, Florida, on September 7.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Oakland American Legion on Saturday October 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Saint Francis Cemeter,y on Grove Street, in Waterville.

The family invites you to visit John’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/john-lessard-jr to send condolences, share photos and special memories.

KATHLEEN F. ROWLETTE

ALBION – Kathleen “Kathy” Frances Rowlette, 81, of Albion passed away on Tuesday afternoon, August 29, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born on May 5, 1942, in Ballybrack Roscrea, Tipperary Ireland. Kathleen was the daughter of John O’Hara and Ellen (Mcloughlin) O’Hara.

She came from Ireland and settled in Brooklyn, New York, where she held various jobs. She met the love of her life Frederick Rowlette, of Drumkeeran Co., Leitrum Ireland. They were married on January 27, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York.

She worked at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, Webber Steak House, in Fairfieold, Curtain Shop and Profeno Chiropractic, both in Waterville. She also did in-home care until retirement.

She owned and operated Shamrock Kennels with her husband Fred for many years, raising Irish Jack Russell terriers.

Kathy enjoyed the little things in life, watching her hummingbirds and enjoyed her Jack Russell terriers MB and Taffy. She enjoyed going out to eat with her daughter Gerry. She enjoyed God’s word and listening to Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell.

She is survived by her daughter Geraldine Travers and her husband Flint, of Litchfield; two grandchildren, Tanya Fournier and her husband Kyle, of Greene, and Evan Travers and his wife Alicia, of Bowdoin; three great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Caleb, of Greene, and Damon, of Bowdoin; her brothers Mick O’Hara and his wife Marie, and Philip O’Hara and his wife Mary, all of Ireland; and sister-in-law Margaret O’Hara, of Ireland; and many nieces and nephews and relatives in Ireland.

Kathleen was predeceased by her husband Fred; her parents John and Ellen O’Hara; her brothers Charlie O’Hara, Jackie O’Hara and Pat O’Hara; her sister Eileen McMadden and Mary O’Hara and Anne O’Hara, of Ireland; and great-granddaughter, Rylee Mae Travers.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 28 at 1 p.m., located at the Puddleduck Cemetery, in Albion, on South Freedom Road.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

SUSAN E. BARTSCH

Waterville – Susan Elizabeth (Richards) Bartsch, 81, passed away on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, following a lengthy illness. Susan was born on April 24, 1942, to Freda Margaret (Greene) Richards and Frederick Joseph Richards, at home, in Warren.

Susan graduated from Winslow High School, Class of 1960. After high school, she worked at Eastern Maine General Hospitl, in Bangor, for a brief time before joining the Navy WAVES. She was stationed in Hawaii for several years.

After her enlistment was complete, she returned to Maine and attended the Augusta Maine School of Practical Nursing, later known as KVCC, where she earned her LPN License. She then started working at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, as a Scrub Nurse in the Operation Room. This was a job she thoroughly enjoyed until her retirement. After retirement, Susan worked at a lawyer’s office and several clinical positions before deciding to completely retire and move to Florida. She enjoyed stock car racing, camping, writing, collecting movies and traveling.

She was predeceased by both parents, her first husband Harry Wilkinson, second husband Richard John Bartsch, and soulmate Wayne Douglas Parker.

Susan is survived by her sons, Vincent Bartsch (Dee), from San Diego, California, and Chris Bartsch Sr. (Connie), from Albion; a grandson Chris Bartsch Jr., from Albion; a granddaughter Jena Walker (Broady); and great-grandchild Noah, from Benton; her brothers, Peter Richards (Nancy), from West Gardiner, and Tom Richards (Linda), from Vassalboro; sister Jane Vigue (Jim), from Winslow; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A committal service with full military honors will be at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery and a committal service in North New Portland Cemetery at future dates.

The family invites you to visit Susan’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/susan-bartsch to share your condolences, photos, and special memories.

WILLIS C. BEAN

Willis C. Bean, 96, passed away on Sunday, September 3, 2023. He was born June 3, 1927, in Rangley where he grew up and went to school.

He started working at the age of 9 at the local golf courses. As he grew older, at 14, began working in the woods with his father. At 18 he joined the United States Marine Corp for duty in World War II, and was stationed in the country of China.

Upon returning home he married Lorraine Campbell and they had two children, Scott and Wileen. Willis started his career in the Maine Forest Service under the guidance of Kenneth Hinckley as a watchman in a fire tower in Kennebago. He moved on to Albany and became a Forest Ranger, then on to Newport. His final move was to Norridgewock when he achieved the promotion of District Forest Ranger. Willis, known as Beanie to so many, retired in 1980.

He married his second wife, known as “his Bride” Charlene, and they were hitched at the hip for 52 years.

Once retired he enjoyed life doing his favorite things. He rebuilt their camp on Ironbound Pond, in Solon, had beautiful vegetable gardens and very manicured lawns. He liked to putter, Beanie, was very meticulous in all he did and was a quiet man with a very dry sense of humor.

After 23 years they moved to Winslow, to be closer to her daughter, Marlene, his girl Friday.

He was predeceased by his parents Enona Anderson and Guy Bean, his siblings Robert, Herbert, Emma, Edgar, Shirley, Mary and Peggy, his first wife Lorraine and daughter Wileen.

Beanie is survived by “His Bride” of 52 years, Charlene H. Bean; his son Scott [wife Carolyn] and children, daughter Saydra and son Shaygan; children of Wileen, son Jeremiah and daughter Ashley. Charlene’s children daughter Marlene [husband Joel Iverson] and son Daniel W. Reed

A gathering for R/R Reminisce /Refreshments will be held Saturday, September 23, 2023, at St. Bridget Community Center, Main St., No. Vassalboro, 1 – 3 p.m. and Burial will be, in Rangeley, on Sunday, September 24.

MICHAEL A. HIGGINS

SOUTH CHINA – Michael A. Higgins, 65, of South China, passed away peacefully at Glenridge Comfort Care, in Augusta, on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, following a brief but valiant battle with cancer. Mike was born towards the end of May 1958, at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, to Seth and Constance Higgins, of Columbia Falls and Windsor, respectively.

Of the five babies born to Bud and Connie, Mike topped the charts, weighing in at 10 pounds, 3 ounces, yet he grew up to be the smallest of the five. What he may have lacked in physique, he made up for in heart, being adored by all of his siblings and by being a favorite uncle to his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Mike was a man who exuded joy, his genuine smile was infectious, and his unmistakable laugh could brighten anyone’s day. He attended China Elementary and Erskine Academy, in South China, graduating in 1976.

Mike was a man with skillful hands, and he learned carpentry at an early age, working side by side with his grandfather, Vernon Boynton, on multiple projects. He was a dedicated worker and handyman. For many years, he was a commercial painter. Before that, he worked various jobs, including vinyl siding installation, prep cook and dishwasher, and clerk at a plumbing supply store.

He loved watching all sports, especially the New England teams: Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins and Celtics. Although he didn’t have children of his own, Mike was a beloved family man, cheering on his nieces and nephews as they played various sports. He was an avid hunter and fisherman; he particularly enjoyed ice-fishing on China Lake. Mike loved playing cards. He was very successful in Texas Hold’em tournaments. It was hard to beat him at a game of cribbage and he cut his teeth on “63” and Spades. There were many a family gathering that included a family game of scat or the occasional competitive round of cribbage, even games between him and some of the youngest Higgins descendants.

Mike was predeceased by his mother, Constance, his father Seth, also known as Bud, and his younger brother, Jonathan.

He is survived by his brother Seth, also known as Bill; his sister Lucinda, also known as Cindy, her husband Scott; his brother Joel and his wife Trish; many nieces and nephews, and the great-nieces and great-nephews.

For Mike’s family and friends, there will be a private celebration of his life with the date, time, and place yet to be determined. It will be a chance to gather in remembrance and perhaps play a game of cards or two in honor of Mike’s life.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street, Augusta. Condolences, photos or stories may be shared by visiting http://www.PlummerFH.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, in Augusta.

GERALD “RAY” COTE

OAKLAND – Gerald “Ray” Côté Jr., of Oakland, passed away on Friday September 8, 2023, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a courageous battle with cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, September 22, 2023, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Burial will follow in Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

CALLUM J. HALL

OAKLAND – Callum Joshua Hall, 5 months, passed away Friday September 8, 2023, at Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. Callum was born April 5, 2023, in Augusta, to Ellie (Mori­sette) Hall and Joshua Hall.

Cal was a ray of sunshine in the lives of all who knew him. He radiated joy even at such a young age. He was a happy baby who smiled easily. Cal especially loved bath time, being outside, using his newly-discovered voice and his Merlin’s Magic Sleep Suit. He also loved watching the family dogs Penny and Boone playing.

Callum is survived by his parents, Ellie and Joshua Hall; grandparents, Mark and Terry Morisette, Dean and Linda Hall, Lisa Ravelo; uncles, Chad Morisette, Jacob Hall; aunt, Samantha Rezk and husband Alexander; great-grandparents, David Noel, Warren and Linda Hall.

Callum was predeceased by great-grandmother, Donna Noel

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 21, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Burial will follow at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

RICHARD L. LeCLAIR

CLINTON – Richard “Dick” Leo LeClair, 68, of Clinton, passed away on Friday, September 8, 2023. Dick was born in Waterville, on September 22, 1954, to Leo Dorian and Laurence E. LeClair.

Dick graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1973. He continued to devote over 20 years to coaching and inspiring many people. He was employed at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, for over 22 years until its closure, he then took a position as a pipefitter/welder at Huhtamaki, in Waterville, for over 20 years until his retirement.

In his retirement years, he and his wife, Linda, enjoyed many adventures, especially in Brighton Plantation with their extended family. Dick was known for his selfless nature always lending a hand to family and friends. He could be counted on for his hard work and compassion towards everyone. Dick’s favorite time of year was Christmas and being “Mr. Santa” for his children and grandchildren; whom he was immensely proud of each and every one.

He was predeceased by both his parents; and his sisters Lucille McCannon and Lorette Martin.

Dick is survived by his wife, Linda; his sons Corey and Adam; daughter, Sarah and bonus daughter, Shelly; grandchildren, Trey, Bronson, Jack, Finn, Elijah, and Isaiah; sisters Jerry Shirley, Leona Moses, and Louise Grenier; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 23, at the Waterville Elks Lodge, at 76 Industrial St., Waterville, from noon to 4 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to come and share stories of Dicks’s life.

The family invites you to visit Dick’s Memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/richard-leclair to share condolences, photos, and special memories.

RUTH A. BOURQUE

WATERVILLE – Ruth Annette Bourque, 93, passed away on Sujnday, September 10, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, just days shy of her 94th birthday. Ruth was born in Waterville on September 23, 1929, daughter of Odilon A. Mathieu and Laura (Michaud) Mathieu.

She was educated in Waterville schools and later married Raymond L. “John” Bourque, on May 29, 1954. They were married for 63 years.

Ruth was a homemaker, an avid reader, an excellent cook (known for her baking powder biscuits, a good batch of spaghetti, tourtière pie and her chocolate fudge), loving mother and known fondly as “Mémère” to her two granddaughters and “Mémère Ruth” to her three great-granddaughters. She loved spending time with family, always enjoyed going to school events and games for her granddaughters, playing cards (she always won!), recalling old stories, and spoiling her grandchildren and granddogs over the years.

She loved to take day trips to various places in Maine – grabbing a crabmeat roll in Belfast and visiting other coastal Maine towns were among her favorites. Her joy for discount shopping was ever present – she loved a great trip to Reny’s or the dollar store! She always had a way of keeping her family and friends in stitches whenever they all got together for family events – she was often the life of the party and loved playing the role of “entertainer”.

She is survived by her son-in-law Roger G. Gagne, of Winslow; granddaughters Shelley (Gagne) Glidden and her husband John Glidden, of South Portland, Katie (Gagne) Callow and her husband Brad Callow, of Weston, Massachusetts; and her great-granddaughters, Madison, Taylor and Blake Callow, to whom she would sing many old-time songs; her nieces Dianna Giguere, of Waterville, and Juanita Bragdon, of Brewer.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband Raymond, daughter Debby (Bourque) Gagne, sister Pauline (Mathieu) Picard and many sisters- and brothers-in-law.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, at 9 a.m., on Ruth’s birthday, Saturday September 23, followed by a family burial at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, and reception at St. John’s hall. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers and in support of her love for animals, donations may be made to: Old Dogs New Digs (https://www.olddogsnewdigs.com/support-us/), in her memory.

MARION E. DeROSIER

WEEKS MILLS—Marion Elsie DeRosier, 60, died at home on Saturdasy, September 9, 2023. She was born October 30, 1962, a daughter of Darrell A. Willey Sr., and Betty E. (Haskell) Keene.

Marion grew up in Weeks Mills and attended school locally. On May 5, 1990, she married Freeman F. DeRosier and the two settled in Weeks Mills. Marion worked for the Kennebec Journal, in Augusta, and earned her CNA license, working for a nursing home before returning to the Kennebec Journal.

Marion enjoyed spending time with her family, doing puzzles and playing cards. She also enjoyed going to car shows and trips to the ocean. Her favorite time of year was the holiday season and Marion did not lack Christmas spirit; she loved sending cards, listening to Christmas music, and watching all of the Christmas movies. She also had a gift for remembering people’s birthdays and never missed sending a card.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Darryl Willey Jr., and her baby sister, Pamela Jean Willey.

She is survived by her husband, Freeman F. DeRosier; her children, Scott Willey, Kay-Lynn DeRosier, Vickie DeRosier, Debbie DeRosier, and Jason DeRosier; grandchildren, Mara Nickerson, Christopher Winchenbach, Jocelyn Willey, Justin Wydner, Christina Darity, Leslie Leon, and Christopher DeRosier; many great-grandchidlren; sisters, Brenda Willey and Darlene Jackson.

No public services are being held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

PAMMY ROBINSON

WINDSOR – Pammy “Mimi” or “Pamky” Robinson, 52, of Windsor, passed away unexpectedly at her home, after battling with many health problems, on Saturday, , September 9, 2023. She was born in Augusta on January 12, 1972, a daughter of Ralph and Karolyne (York) Rideout and attended Cony High School.

Pammy held employment at Mount St. Joseph’s, in Waterville, Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, Motivational Services, and Rebecca’s Restaurant, in Augusta, throughout the years, Caire Home Healthcare being her present place of employment.

Pammy loved camping, four wheeling, the mud runs watching her brother Bill race, watching her grandchildren play sports, random no destination drives with her partner of eight years, Douglas Hamm. She will be remembered for her contagious laugh, sense of adventure, and her spunky soul. Her selflessness and endless love is to never be forgotten.

She was predeceased by her daughter Ashley Rideout, who passed away on October 18, 2015.

She is survived by her children, Katie Robinson and fiancé Jason Thomas, and Robert Robinson, III, all of China; seven grandchildren, Harper Jackson, Lauren Bolduc, Kevin Robinson, Kiara Robinson, Nathan Robinson, Kayson Thomas, and Raelynn Thomas; her siblings, Joanne Leach, Tammy Rideout, Bill Rideout, and lots of close nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 1 to 5 p.m., at The Windsor Town Office, 523 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

Arrangements are in the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

SR. ALINE ROY

WATERVILLE – Sr. Aline Roy, 89, known to some as Sr. Christine Marie, died at Mount Joseph, Waterville, on Thursday,, September 14, 2023. Sixty-eight of those years she lived as a Sister of St. Joseph of Lyon. She was born the 12th of 13 children to Philippe and Eugenie Roy, of St. Georges, Québec, Canada, on June 5, 1934.

She recalled her parents as ‘people who taught religious values through example rather than words and this left its mark on how she lived her life and faith.

After graduating from Sacred Heart Academy, in Jackman, in 1953, and inspired by the example of her older sister Marcelle, she entered the novitiate of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Lyon, in Auburn, making her first vows in August of 1955.

In over 60 years of active ministry, she served not only all over Maine, but around the world as well. She taught school or worked in religious education or pastoral care at St. Rose of Lima, Chisholm; Sacred Heart, Auburn; Holy Family, Lewiston; St. Mary of Lourdes, Lincoln; St. Anne, Danforth; St. Margaret, Old Orchard Beach; St. Francis of Assisi, Belfast; St John the Baptist, Winslow; St. Agnes, Pittsfield; St. James, Baileyville; and St. Kateri, Calais.

In the 1960s, feeling personally challenged by the civil rights movement, she transferred to Benin, Africa, where for nine years she provided religious and vocational education and did pastoral ministry. In the 1990s, with attention on the rights and realities of immigrants, she spent three years serving immigrants and visiting female prisoners in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, and Laredo, Texas.

Her last place of active ministry was in Down East Maine. She visited the sick and shut-ins, provided religious education to Passamaquoddy children, and was involved in local interfaith anti-poverty efforts. She was well known in many parishes for the creative and meaningful ‘Living Stations of the Cross’ she organized each Palm Sunday. It thus seems fitting that she died on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, September 20, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. She will be buried at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for the ministry of the sisters may be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph, 80 Garland Rd., Winslow ME 04901.

MARY A. BOUCHARD

OAKLAND – Mary Anita Bouchard, 81, passed away from Alzhiemers, at Bedside Manner. She was born at Thayer Hospital on July 24, 1942, to Donald and Ida (Pooler) Gleason.

Mary graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1959. She married the love of her life, Richard Bouchard, on September 24, 1960. The two of them would have been celebrating 63 years together this year. Mary spent most of her days caring for children at her in-home daycare for 30 plus years. After her years of providing childcare she was employed at Wheeler’s Funeral Home. She enjoyed her time there working for Dick and Jeannine Lord.

Not only was Mary a devoted mother to her own four children, she loved spending time with her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and daycare kids. Holidays were always made special with her home cooked meals and special treats as everyone knew they were made with love.

Mary had many passions which included, sewing clothes, making quilts, gardening, canning, and yard saling. She loved to dance, listen to country music and to go rollerskating. Mary also had a love of the outdoors where she was fond of berry picking, hiking, taking daily walks, snowshoeing, fishing and feeding the neighborhood deer. Many memories were made at the family camp in Kingsbury exploring on the side by sides with her husband and her brother-in-law, George. Mary was always excited to cheer on her grandchildren at sporting events and all their other endeavors.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of her husband, Richard Bouchard and their children, Sonya and Micheal Lachance, of Oakland, Scott and Jennifer Bouchard, of Clinton, Sherri Bouchard and partner Stephen Mills, of Oakland, Shawn and Marie Bouchard, of Clinton.

Mary is also survived by her brother, Guy Gleason, of Oakland, and his daughter, Heidi Gleason and husband Denis Pilla, of Oakland; many grandchildren, Tobey Lachance and partner Tiffany, of Oakland, Jamin LaChance, of Oakland, Kelsey and Andrew Lovley, of Benton, Kasey and Matthew Fish, of Skowhegan, Bryant and Kaitlin Higgins, of Benton, Megan Bouchard and partner Dylan Costigan, of Fairfield, Jacob MacDonald, of Oakland, Sydney Bouchard, of Clinton, and Hope Bouchard, of Clinton; nine great-grandchildren; great-nieces, Brandi Sylvain and Dawn Hanna and their families.

Please join the family at Richard and Mary’s home, at 119 Summer Street, Oakland, for her celebration of life on Sunday, September 24, 2023, at noon.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 14, 2023

DR. DAVID S. CORWIN

WATERVILLE – Retired Waterville veterinarian, Dr. David S. Corwin, 77, passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2023.

Dave was born in 1946 in Greenport, New York, to David E. and Helen Corwin.

He moved to Maine with his wife, Carol, and two-year-old daughter in 1976 after graduating from Purdue University’s Veterinary Medicine program.

He will be best remembered for his sense of humor, loyal friendship, and adventurous spirit.

Dave started Animal Hospital of Waterville with Carol in 1982. The practice was originally located on College Avenue. Years later, Dave purchased land on Washington Avenue and built a brand new veterinary hospital which opened in 1998. In 2002, Dave retired from full-time work and sold his practice, but continued to do part-time work at local veterinary clinics until 2020. During that time, he also helped build the new Humane Society Waterville Area, on Webb Road.

Throughout his 40 years as a veterinarian, Dave liked the challenges and variety that veterinary medicine offered. He also enjoyed getting to know his clients and their pets, as well as the many folks whom he worked with over the years.

Beyond his profession, Dave was an avid sportsman. In high school and at Oberlin College, he was a star football and track and field athlete. As a father, his love of sports continued as he encouraged and watched his children play soccer, basketball, and run track at Waterville High School and for regional teams.

Dave also had an adventurous spirit on both land and sea. He had a life-long passion for sailing, which started as a child on Long Island where he mowed lawns to earn enough money to purchase his first boat. He went on to own multiple sailboats throughout his life and to join his friend Harry on the annual sailboat race around Long Island and his son Joe and wife on their sailboat down in Rockland. Mid-life, Dave got into mountain biking. This included winter riding on the Monday night rides in Waterville and venturing out to Moab, Utah’s Slickrock Bike Trail.

Later in life, Dave became an avid motorcyclist. He crisscrossed the country multiple times on his motorcycle visiting family and friends along the way. Some of his best trips included motorcycling across Alaska with his son-in-law, touring around Nova Scotia and British Columbia, Canada, and cross-country rides out to California to visit his children. He motorcycled until he was 77.

He did all of this as a type 1 diabetic. He developed diabetes in 1959 at the age of 13, at which time he went to Joslin Diabetes Center’s Pediatric Education program. He never let diabetes hold him down and lived his life to the fullest.

Dave was a committed husband, father, grandfather, and friend who always made time for people.

He leaves behind his wife Carol of 55 years; daughters Christine Corwin Cowdery and Heidi Corwin Collins; son David Joseph Corwin; granddaughters Phoebe and Isla Collins; sons-in-law James Cowdery and Marcus Collins; daughter-in-law Samantha Corwin; sister Dale DeCastro, her three children.

A celebration of life for Dave Corwin will be held at 2 p.m., on Sunday, October 1, at the Lakeside Lodge, 28 Marigold Lane, in Sidney, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Joslin Diabetes Center’s Pediatric Education program at https://tinyurl.com/dave-corwin-memorial-donation.

CLIFTON V. JOHNSON

WINSLOW – Clifton Vincent Johnson, 85, passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023. Clifton achieved much in his 85 years of life.

Please visit lawrybrothers.com. for his complete obituary/biography.

RONALD E. DAVIDSON

OAKLAND – Ronald E. Davidson, 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at home. He was born May 26, 1944, in Oakland, to John and Gladys (Lambert) Davidson.

He attended Williams High School. He married the love of his life Judith (Haley) Davidson, on May 29, 1965.

He was employed by Rossignol Dairy Farm and Sears Roebuck Company as a mechanic. He truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures, spending time with family and chatting with friends. Ron had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

Ronald was predeceased by his parents John and Gladys, and his siblings, Harold, Howard, and Timothy.

He is survived by his wife Judi; children Kevin Davidson and Sonya Fuller, Christopher and Deborah Davidson, Michael Davidson and Karen Quinn; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; siblings, John Davidson,
James Davidson, Robert Davidson, Richard Davidson, Gerald Davidson, Beatrice Campbell, and Cynthia Stevens; many nieces, and cousins.

Burial took place at Lewis Cemetery, 51 Cottle Road, Oakland, on Saturday September 9, 2023.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, Ronald’s wish that donations be made in his memory to Blessed Hope Advent Christian Church, 10 Pleasant St., Waterville ME.

MARLENE JABAR

WATERVILLE – Marlene Jabar, 90, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 21, 2023, at Wood­lands Assisted Living, in Water­ville.

After enduring the loss of her husband Tony in June, it seemed only a matter of time before her heart – filled with his loss – could no longer stand the pain of missing him.

Marlene was born October 8, 1932, to Dorothea (Ivers) and Alden Hurd. She was the older of two children. Her brother Charlie was only a year younger than she. They were extremely close and so was devastated by his passing in January 2023. She was raised predominantly by her mother and therefore was often the head of the household. She often talked fondly about growing up on High Street and about Myrtle Street School. She was an excellent athlete, and a fierce competitor, excelling in badminton, skating, basketball, cheerleading, and as an adult she was a spectaculr golfer. She was an excellent student and a voracious reader. But her greatest love was Tony. They met in junior high and that would be the beginning of a lifetime together. They would go together all through high school.

She and Tony both went to Colby College, in Waterville, graduating together in 1954. They married on June 20, 1954. They would then spend 18 months in Germany where Tony was stationed, and their daughter Jan was born. They spent time traveling all over Europe and making lifelong friends. Their love for travel would continue throughout their lives.

Once home, they first lived in Auburn, then Dryden, then Wilton. She taught physical education and health, and coached field hockey at Farmington High School. They moved back to Waterville in 1966.

She substituted for several years, then in 1973 she began teaching English at Waterville High School. She was extremely proud of her time at Waterville. She loved her students and loved the school environment. Her co-workers were her second family and her senses of humor and prankster personality made for a memorable and fun-filled career. She was a generous soul and was known to anonymously donate to needy students. Her enthusiasm for all that was Waterville High School was demonstrated by the number of programs/activities she initiated either by herself or by ‘convincing others to help her’: ‘Spirit Week’, ‘Spirit Club’, GAA, making the well-known flower arches for graduation, class advisor, and Friday afternoon ‘seminars’ to name a few.

Retiring in 1992, she filled her days with tennis, golf, decorating for holidays, following her grandchildren, and reading. Always the teacher, she enjoyed immensely her golf outings with her children and grandchildren teaching them the game she came to be so good at herself. In 1994 after Tony retired, they headed to Florida. There they spent their time golfing, enjoying visits from her children and grandchildren and entertaining her neighbors on Kimela Ave., in Zephyrhills, Florida. Always wanting to be busy, she painted, made cards, started writing – often writing about her grandchildren, and any other activity that was available. Marlene was extremely proud of her five children: Jan Riley (Mike), Tony Jr., Jody Veilleux (David), MaryJo Hodgkin (Jim), and sister, Michele Jabar.

She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She shopped every holiday for all of them, never missed a birthday, or anniversary, or special event. She didn’t hesitate to fly to Maine or New Jersey to attend a game or a play, or any other special occasion. She was dearly loved as “Grammy” by 12 grandchildren: Joni (Ramon) Zarate, Matt (Sara) Riley, Erin (Bobbie) Poller, David (Michelle) Veilleux, Dylan (Jane) Veilleux, Anthony Jabar III, Kellyn (Dan) Torcascio, Jaime (Tom) Cooper, Jessica Hodgkin, Cody Veilleux, Ben Hodgkin and Jake Hodgkin. As well as 12 great-grandchildren; Raz, Taylor, Jack R., Althea, Cora, Callan, Cameron, Connor, Cole, Carter, Jack C. and Tatyana.

Marlene is also survived by brothers-in law Norman and Joe Jabar; sisters-in law Mary Hurd, Regina Santos, Marge Jabar, Rene Jabar, Pat Jabar; and cousin Marlene Marchetti, as well as a multitude of nieces and nephews.

Marlene was predeceased by her parents, brother Charlie, as well as brothers-in law Herb, John and Paul Jabar, Ted Santos and Earl Lee, sisters-in law Teresa Lee, Margaret, June and Jackie Jabar.

A Mass will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville. Family and Friends are invited to a reception following the Mass.

Funeral services are under the direction of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, Farmington, Maine. Complete obituary and online condolences may be expressed at http://www.dsfuneral.com/obituaries/.

ALLEN J. GILBERT

OAKLAND – Allen Joseph Gilbert, 75, passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023, following a courageous battle with lung disease and cancer. Allen was born on August 30, 1948, to Jane and Lester Gilbert, in Waterville.

Allen graduated from Waterville High School in 1966. He then worked for Sappi for 36 years. Allen was an avid fisherman, loved being outdoors, his family, and being at their seasonal campsite at Mic Mac Campground.

He was predeceased by his parents Jane and Lester Gilbert; brothers Michael and Robert Gilbert; and his daughter, Stacey Valeriani.

Allen is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 45 years, Vicki Gilbert; his sons Anthony, Michael and Brian; brothers Steven Gilbert and wife Michele, Eddie Gilbert and wife Sheila, and David Gilbert; grandchildren Chelsey, Kori, Nick, Kohl, Paris, Caleb, Mariah, Katelyn, Kayla, Joshua; great-grandchildren Anthony, Alex, Paityn, Easton, Reagan, Cayson, Cohen, Parker; several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Allen’s life will be held on Saturday, September 23, at his brother and sister-in-law’s home, in Mercer.

ROBERT L. STROUT SR.

CHELSEA – Robert Linwood Strout Sr., 90, died Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Togus VA Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Sanford on December 17, 1932, the son of Charles and Lottie (Hewitt) Strout.

Robert started working early on in his life. As a young boy, he delivered movies to the Colonial Theater, in Augusta and Livermore Falls, before being drafted into the United States Army, where he served proudly during World War II from 1953 until his honorable discharge in 1955, achieving the rank of Corporal. Soon after, he found employment with Statler Tissue, in Augusta, for a few years before working for Augusta T.V. for 17 years. He then worked for Associated Grocers, in Gardiner, where he remained until his retirement after 20 years.

Robert was an avid old car buff. He was married to the love of his life, Georgie, for 67 years until her passing on February 21, 2014.

In addition to his wife, Robert was predeceased by five brothers, William, Charles, Paul, Larry and Joseph Strout and a sister, Nettie Withycomb.

He is survived by four sons, Robert Sr., of Chelsea, Reginald, of Skowhegan, Scott and Randall, both of Chelsea; two brothers, Richard, of Chelsea, and Joseph, of Fayette; as well as nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

A committal service with full military honors was held on Wednesday, September 13, in Section “B” at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St., Augusta, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

ALBERTA B. FISH

BENTON – Alberta Bess Fish, 85, died on Sunday, September 3, 2023, at her home, in Benton. Alberta was born on May 29, 1938, in Clinton, the daughter of the late Ray and Vella (Brown) Proctor.

She, along with her late husband Frederick, were dairy farmers for 42 years. It was on that farm that they built a life for themselves along with their daughters and grandchildren. Fond memories were made while working hard on the farm.

Frederick and Alberta were avid race fans, fun times were had going to Unity, Oxford, and Loudon, New Hampshire, with their family. They also enjoyed spending time together at Lovejoy Pond. Once retired, they spent several years during the winter traveling the United States and enjoying all the sites.

Alberta enjoyed cooking, making crafts, and was famous for baking her delicious apple pie. She belonged to the Clinton Evening Extension and the Clinton Day Group Extension. She also enjoyed going to the Wednesday sewing group, sewing and laughing with her friends. She had a very special friend, Rita Fortin. They would have supper together and go on adventures after both of their husbands passed away.

She is survived by her daughter Stephanie Clark and husband Glen; grandchildren: Sarah Wishart-Rogers and husband Jake, Daniel Wishart and wife Stacey, Julie Salsbury and husband Bruce, and Dustin Gerow and wife Katie; great-grandchildren, Kloee, Riley, Zebadiah, Rory, Bella, Anna, Isabelle, Trent, Wesley, Zachary, Mariah, Chandler and Colton; great-great grandson, Cereese; siblings, Charles Proctor and companion Joyce, Richard Proctor, Theresa Whitaker and husband Myron “Butch”, and Ralph Proctor and companion Margaret; several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Frederick Fish; two daughters, Deborah Gerow and Vanessa Wishart; her granddaughter Liza Yvon; and two brothers, Ray Proctor Jr and Carl “Perry” Proctor.

A celebration of Alberta’s life with refreshments will be held from 1 – 2 p.m., with a time of sharing at 2 p.m., Sunday, September 17, 2023, at the Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home, 191 Hartland Avenue, Pittsfield. A private burial will take place at the Brown Cemetery, in Benton.

To leave a message of kindness or to share a memory, please visit http://www.shoreynichols.com.

Care has been provided by Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Pittsfield.

LOIS M. DeRAPS

BENTON – Lois Mary DeRaps, 84, passed away peacefully at Lakewood Nursing Home, in Waterville, on Sunday, September 3, 2023, following a brief trip down memory lane that day spoken to her by her grandson Kevin Miller less than three hours before her passing. Lois was born on November 11, 1938, in Benton, to Albert and Ruth Thompson.

She enlisted in the Navy after graduating high school. Thereafter, she worked various jobs over the years such as at Marden’s, James Julia Auctions, in Fairfield, Unit Secretary, at Thayer Hospital, banquet staff at the former Holiday Inn, in Waterville, event staff for Colby College, in Waterville, the L.L. Bean Call center, in Waterville, and selling and leasing real estate with Rodrigue Reality.

She was also one of the first female truck drivers in the country. Since 1999, she spent her final working years at Affiliated Realty / Per­kins Leasing & Management, where she sold residential real estate and managed and rented many local properties in the Greater Waterville area. A few years back, Lois retired from selling real estate but she continued her property management work and finished her working career until just three days prior to her illness forced her into the hospital and into retirement. She always said she would go crazy being home alone and not working so she fulfilled her goal of working until her health no longer permitted her to work.

She enjoyed staying busy throughout life by also being involved with the Waterville Stamp Club, the Benton Grange Hall, was a past president of the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835 Auxiliary, in Winslow, and served on the Supervisory Committee at Keyes Fibre Credit Union, now known as KSW FCU.

She loved to go to post card and antique shows to buy and sell her collection. She enjoyed going on road trips to various places like her camp on Messalonskee Lake (Snow Pond), in Oakland, the Bangor and Portland Malls and camping on Moosehead Lake with her husband Leo. Up until the last few years she even rode her own Harley-Davison motorcycle. She also enjoyed going out to eat nearly every meal as she always said “I can’t make it any cheaper at home”. Her favorite dining establishments were Governor’s, The Villager, Young’s Lobster Pound, and the Manor when it was open in Waterville. Lois was a devout Catholic. She attended Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

Lois would always say she’s “a tough ol’ lady” and many other classic one liners, and boy she meant it. She didn’t take anyone’s nonsense. She also had a low tolerance for other’s nonsense, and she wouldn’t be afraid to tell you that to your face or speak it out loud. You never had to guess where you stood with her. You could be a good friend or not, and that choice was yours. The flip side was she would often do anything for anyone including paying for a stranger’s meal, offering her grandson and his friends a safe ride home from school or elsewhere anytime they wanted it and she would say “all you have to do is call”. At Perkins Leasing & Management, she would go out of her way to buy many types of candy to put out at the front counter for the mailmen, tenants coming in, and others to enjoy on a daily basis. She also was very much valued by Gregg Perkins, the owner, as daily she would ask him if there was anything she could do to help and ease his work load.

Lois was predeceased by her parents Albert and Ruth Thompson of Benton, and her beloved husband Leo S. DeRaps of Benton.

Lois is survived by her brother Arthur Thompson, of Benton; her son Richard Revels and his wife Becky, of North Carolina; grandchildren Christy and Nicole; her husband Leo’s two daughters Brenda and her husband Rusty Bates, of Clinton, and Jill and her husband Don Goodwin, of Patterson, Louisiana; and her grandson Kevin Seth Miller, of Waterville.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 1 – 3 and 5 – 7 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St, Fairfield, Maine.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours, 116 Silver St., Waterville, Maine.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Maine St, Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

GEORGE EZZY

SIDNEY – George Ezzy, 85, passed away on Sunday, September 3, 2023. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021 and persevered through nearly two years of treatment before finally succumbing to the disease. His strength and courage throughout was a testament to George’s love of life, willpower, and commitment to his family. George was born in Hamlin on April 15, 1938, to the late Anthony and Germaine Ezzy. He is the third youngest of eight children.

He graduated from Van Buren High School in 1956. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Maine Farmington in 1961 and a master’s degree in Guidance from the University of Maine Orono in 1967. He married the love of his life, Shirley Elias, in 1972.

George worked the majority of his career at the Maine Department of Labor. He was passionate about his work, especially rehabilitation. Upon retirement from state service, George created the New Horizons Academy which was a program designed to help at risk youth. He was active in politics throughout his life and cared deeply about creating redemptive opportunities for young people. People who worked with George knew of his tenacity and strong work ethic. Retirement was not a word in George’s vocabulary. George got older, but he never got “old.”

George had a variety of talents and interests. He loved to garden and was known for his huge zucchinis, tomatoes, and corn. He was an avid outdoorsman. Hunting and fishing were his favorite hobbies and his annual fishing trips with his close friends to northern Maine were a priority throughout his lifetime. Despite his battle with cancer, he even made an appearance on the fishing trip in May of this year.

George had a zest for life that made people want to be around him. He had a way of making strangers feel like family. He loved a good steak or lobster feed, and hosted many family gatherings over the years. His sense of humor was magnetic. He would plan out jokes and jabs for gatherings with family and friends that may include silly props or songs that he would write and sing with his brother, Pete.

He loved to host card games with his friends and never shied away from grabbing a microphone, just like his father, to say a few inspiring words at family gatherings.

George was deeply spiritual. His wisdom on life was a guiding light for his family and friends. He had a unique ability to balance his deep philosophical wisdom with his whimsical bright sense of humor. He was very grateful for the blessings in his life and was a voice of reason and guidance for his loved ones. George will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his brothers Peter, Gabriel and Michael Ezzy, and his sister, Antonia Davis.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Shirley E. Ezzy, of Sidney; his daughters, Jennifer Ezzy and her husband Kevin Charette, and Julie Ezzy Payne and her husband Jeremy Payne, all of Manchester; his son, Paul Ezzy, of Bangor; and his granddaughters Katie, Emily, and Ashley Payne, of Manchester; his sisters Cecile Sparhuber, of New York, Betty Fitzgerald and her husband Geoff, of New Hampshire, and Thecla Quine, of Virginia.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, September 12, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Western Avenue, Augusta. Burial and committal prayers followed in Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Road, Augusta.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 7, 2023

LARRY DENIS

TUCSON, Arizona – Larry Denis, 69, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Larry was born on March 10, 1954, in Water­ville. He grew up in the area once known as Head of Falls. He has resided in Arizona for 32 years.

He was predeceased by his parents Wilfred and Helen Denis; a sister Mary Dyke, a brother Michael Denis; and grandson Zyah Denis.

He is survived by his wife and love of his life Lynne; sons Chad and Zachary Denis; and daughters Casey Perkins and Veronica Hunt; brothers Ronnie and wife Terry, Steve Denis; sisters Nancy Wilmot and husband Peter, Deborah Trepanier, Susan Coates and husband Ed.

There will be no services at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a future date at Head of Falls. Those interested in attending should contact Susan Coates.

KENNETH P. McCAUGHEY

WATERVILLE – Kenneth Paul McCaughey, 79, passed away early Saturday morning, August 19, 2023. He was born in Pro­vidence, Rhode Island, May 27, 1944, the son of Kenneth and Rita Mc­Caughey (Dubuque).

Kenny graduated from Waterville High School in 1962. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1963-1967.

Kenny loved his family and friends. His pride and joy were his two daughters and two grandsons. He was always quick with a story or a piece of wisdom. He was present for his family and his circle of friends. Kenny lived his life with a clear direction and expected the same of those he loved. His beliefs were rock solid and his love for family was unwavering.

Kenny was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Rita.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughter, Deborah and grandson Logan; his daughter Kristin and grandson Drew; his sister Ruth Crane, and his cousin Sharmon McCaughey.

GENE PAULETTE

WATERVILLE – Gene Paulette, 79, passed away Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at home. Gene was born Feb­ruary 26, 1944, in Wat­er­­ville to James and Vio­­lette Paulette.

He graduated Winslow High School in 1962 and started his lifelong career at the Morning Sentinel, in Waterville, where he worked for 44 years.

On November 23, 1967, he married the love of his life Rose Deschaine. They were married for 55 years and together they raised three children.

Gene was a hard worker, most of the time holding down two jobs to be able to provide for his family, in return he also loved to have fun. Many antics happened around the campfire and family gatherings.

Gene loved camping but most of all he loved his family. He looked forward to visits from his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gene was predeceased by his father and mother.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years Rose Paulette; children Cheryl Trott (Cabot), Scott Paulette and Debbie Blaisdell, Holly Paulette and Ed McCausland; grandchildren Dylan Trott, Cameron Trott, Justin McCausland and Rita Brown; great-grandchildren Oliver, Everleigh, Kamden and Waylon; his brother Ron Paulette (Sandra), Betty Pelletier, Paul Paulette (Denise) and Mike Paulette; brother-in-law Roland Deschaine (Diane), Martin Deschaine (Jane) and David Deschaine; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At Gene’s request there will be no funeral. Also at his request he wanted all to gather, have a party, remember him and have fun.

There will be a celebration of life Sunday September 10, 11 a.m., at Center for All Seasons, 1 Center Dr., Belgrade (formerly Bartlett’s campground). All are welcome.

MYRON A. SMITH

OAKLAND – Myron A. Smith, 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. Myron was born on October 25, 1928, in Mercer, at his family home, to Alton and Helen Grace Smith (Owens).

He was one of seven children. He attended grammar school in Mercer and Norridgewock High School. On October 25, 1952, Myron married Josephine Margaret Bacon and they raised two children, Gwendolyn and Robert. They lived in Mercer until 1968 and then moved to Oakland where he lived until his death.

As a young man, Myron showed baby beef at many fairs and participated in 4-H. Through the years, he was a member of Sandy River Grange #89, in Mercer, member of Eastern Star, in Norridgewock, and was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, on August 7, 1953, at Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116. On Monday, August 7, 2023, Myron was presented his 70th year star for being a member of Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116, in Norridgewock, for 70 years, by his son, Robert Smith. He was very proud of his Masonic Service over the years.

Myron worked for the State of Maine, Department of Transportation from 1952 until 1977. After retiring from the state, he couldn’t sit still so he started doing logging work for himself with his ponies. After this, he worked with Frank Varney building houses, worked for Tukey’s sawmill for over 20 years and finished his working career at RSU #18 as a maintenance worker.

Myron enjoyed several hobbies including pulling his ponies locally and at several fairs throughout Maine from 1970 – 1985. He also enjoyed camping with his wife and family in many places, to include Florida, Virginia, Tennessee and his dream trip to Alaska. He was a seasonal camper at Yonderhill Jellystone Park, in Madison, for the last 13 years. He loved roller skating, snowmobiling, playing cards and games (he made each of his kids marble game boards, pegs and jokers boards and potty boards (corn hole}, enjoyed reading the newspaper every day, dancing in his younger years, taking tickets monthly for the Masonic Lodge public suppers for the last 10 years and teasing his three grandchildren and his six great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Florence Stacy (Charles), brother Harold and his wife Gweneth Smith, sister Guinevere and her husband Gerald Lambert, brother-in-laws Gerald Bulmer, John B. Oblak, Carl Pooler, and James W. Bacon.

He is survived by his wife, Josephine, of 70 years; daughter Gwendolyn (Brian) Thebarge; son Robert (Cindy) Smith. Siblings Beverly Bulmer, Lee (Charlene) Smith, James (Dawn) Smith; his three grandchildren, who called him Grampie, Megan (Nick) Shorey, Caitlin (Shawn Dube) Smith, and Carleton (Mikala) Smith and six great-grandchildren who called him Bampie, Ava, Brady and Calhan (CJ) Shorey, Dawson and Addison Dube, and Kayden Smith; sisters-in-law Janiece B Oblak, Rosalie R. Bacon, and Georgia W. Pooler; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service, to include a Masonic Ceremony, will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church, at 14 W. School Street, in Oakland. Burial will follow directly after at Lewis Cemetery, Cottle Road, in Oakland.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service in Skowhegan, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Myron’s memory to Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116, c/o Brian Thebarge, Secretary, 225 Middle Road, Oakland, ME 04963.

NEAL D. HALLEE

AUBURN – Neal D. Hallee, 79, of Auburn, passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 in Au­burn. He was born on Oc­tober 21, 1943, the son of Florian and Constance Hallee, of Waterville.

He graduated from Waterville High School, the University of Maine, Orono and Penn State University, College Station, Pennsylvania.

He was an internationally published Agricultural Engineering Professor at the University of Maine, Orono, for 36 years, until he retired to Cooper and Topsham. During his university career, in addition to working with the farmers of Maine, Neal was one of the architects of the Maine Compost School.

He was predeceased by his wife, Margaret Anne Hallee; and his son-in-law Michael Robert Tibbetts.

He is survived by his son Richard and his husband Lawrence Griffin; his daughter Margaret; two granddaughters, Grace and Katie Tibbetts; two step-grandchildren, Brad Griffin and Katelyn Flint; brothers and sisters and their families.

Funeral arrangements are by Funeral Alternatives Group. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, in Lisbon, on Friday, September 8, 2023, beginning with a period of visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., with a funeral Mass to take place at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Grace Lawn Cemetery, in Auburn.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net and https://www.facebook.com/FALewiston.

SISTER VIRGINIA CONNORS

WATERVILLE – Sister Virginia Connors SSS, 94, a member of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, in Waterville, passed away in the early morning on Mon­day, August 28, 2023. She was born in Brooklyn New York, on November 5, 1928, and entered the convent here in Waterville, on November 4, 1954.

Before coming to the convent she had obtained a B.A . degree from Lincoln Memorial University, in Harrogate, Tennessee, and worked as a Blood Bank Laboratory Technician. As a religious she became a Licenced Practical Nurse, at Mt. St. Joseph, in Waterville.

She served the church in Waterville, Pueblo, Colorado, Kenner, Louisiana, and Cleveland, Ohio. In community she served as local and provincial treasurer. During the years after Vatican II she represented our community at the Diocesan pastoral council meetings for women religious in Portland. She loved to lead the weekly sharing on the Word of God and continued until her energy ran out..

When she returned to Mount St. Joseph in May 2023, she still thought of herself as a nurse giving medical advice to others, medical advice she had acquired over the years.

She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas Connors and Virgina Walsh and her brother Thomas.

She is mourned by her religious community; her brother Russell Connors and wife Rebekkah, from Cape Elizabeth; nieces and nephews Dr. Jean Yortz, Virginia and Dr. Daniel Hershman, of Massachusets, Sarah and Mary Ellen Colson, of Topsham, and John Connors, of Casco.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament Chapel, Silver Street, in Waterville.