STARLENE A. CARON

WINSLOW – Starlene Anita (McCommic) Caron, 79, passed away Friday, August 6, 2021, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. She was born February 5, 1942, in Waterville, the daughter of LeRoy Stanford Sr. and Mary Lucille (Poulin) McCommic.

She graduated from Winslow High School in 1960. On June 25, 1966, she married Richard Joseph Caron. She was employed for many years in bookkeeping and accounting by Keyes Fibre Co., in Waterville, and Suburnan Farms. She was a housewife, mother and grandmother.

Starlene was a member of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, bowling, spending time with family and friends, refunding, and playing games on her cell phone.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Richard Caron, of Winslow; three sons, Michael Phillips and wife Lisa, of Florida, David Phillips and wife Debbie, of Sidney, Joe Caron and wife Tina, of Florida; two daughters, Wendy Caron, of Winslow, Paul Murray and husband Bruce, of Winslow; two brothers, LeRoy McCommic Jr. and wife Laurel, of Clinton, Lyndon McCommic and wife Jacqueline, of Winslow; six grandsons; three granddaughters; two great-granddaughters; four great-grandsons; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 21, 2021, at 10 a.m., at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Starlene’s memory to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, One Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham ME 04086-1240, or the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville ME 04901.

ROBERTA A. HUSSEY

LIBERTY – Roberta Amelia Hussey, 84, of Liberty, passed away on Friday, August 6, 2021, at Woodlawn Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, in Skowhegan. Roberta was born in Morrill, to Robert Alvin Hatch and Millie May Whitcomb Hatch, on January 15, 1937.

She worked at Penobscot Poultry for several years before receiving her CNA certificate. Upon certification she got a job at Augusta Convalescent Center for a few years and then worked at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, until her retirement.
She had several hobbies she enjoyed, which her family and friends appreciated, including sewing clothes, knitting, baking, and decorating cakes. And everyone loved her cooking.

She is survived by her children, Olga Rumney, Laurie Sakata, Robert Hussey, Evert Hussey, Wanda Zimba, and her stepdaughter, Thiry Hussey; her siblings Nora Buck, Christine Cox, and Mabel Willey; her grandchildren Michael, Aurora, George, Kayla, Jaime, Ben, Lewis, Elissa, Jordan, and Drake; and several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held next spring.

Arrangements are by Riposta Funeral Home.

LINDA PATRIE

WINSLOW – Linda Patrie, 76, of Winslow, passed away on Sunday, August 8, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Linda was born in Waterville on November 14, 1944, to Wilfred and Annie (Gilbert) Huard.

She spent her early life in Winslow and graduated from Winslow High School in 1963.

After high school, Linda attended one year of business school in Portland, and then worked one year at Federal Trust Co., in Waterville. On October 16, 1965, she married Daniel Patrie, of Waterville. They have four children and were married for 55 years. After her children were all in school, she worked at Colby College, in Waterville, in the Admissions office for 25 years. She loved her job there and enjoyed everyone she worked with.

Linda had a love for the ocean, enjoyed knitting and giving to others. She loved spending time with her family, especially at Christmas.

Linda was predeceased by her parents.

She is survived by her husband, Daniel, and their four children; Brian Patrie and his wife Lori, of Olathe, Kansas, Barbara Pleau and her husband Robert ,of Vassalboro, Steve Patrie and his wife Denise, of China, and Scott Patrie and his wife Gail, of Oakland; eight grandchildren; Karly and Luke Patrie, of Olathe, Kansas, Stephanie, Sarah and Daniel Pleau, all of Vassalboro, and Lauren, Lyndsey and Cameron Patrie, all of Oakland; one great-grandchild, Robert Veilleux; her sister, Dianne Huard Jackson and her husband Bruce, of Oakland; her niece, Krystal Tavares and her two sons, Aiden and Keagan Tavares, all of Waterville.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, August 16, at Notre Dame Church, Silver Street, in Waterville.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home. Please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share your condolences and memories with Linda’s family.

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

WILLIAM W. WHEELOCK

JEFFERSON – William W. Wheelock, 72, of Travel Pond Lane, passed away Sunday, August 8, 2021, at his home. He was born in Augusta on February 27, 1949, the son of Leroy C. Wheelock Sr. and Fern (Brunelle) Wheelock.

Bill attended Gardiner area schools and then went on to attain his GED.

He worked at the mills as a laborer for several years. He also worked in carpentry. He loved working with his hands in woodworking and other trades. He also loved his time fishing and hunting and the overall peacefulness of the great outdoors. One of Bill’s passions was cooking and he enjoyed feeding his family his creations. He was an animal lover and enjoyed the companionship of his two loyal dogs, Budgie and Stewart, as well as his beloved bird, Tu-bird. And most of all he was very proud of his children and their accomplishments.

Bill was predeceased by his parents; his five siblings, Leroy Wheelock Jr., John Wheelock, Vance Wheelock, Gordon Wheelock and Nancy Lacasse; and his close cousin, Terry Sounier.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sandra Wheelock; children, Thomas Wheelock and wife Stephanie, Betty Ulmer and husband Malcolm, and Jessica Pilkington and husband Derek; seven grandchildren, Jocelyn Ulmer, Marissa Mannion-King, Corinne Ulmer, Will Wheelock, John Ulmer, Isabella Wheelock, and Ella Pilkington; one great-grandson, Grant Pelletier; siblings, Linda Trueman, Donna Perkins, Dianne Carr, Joyce Wheelock, Lillian Massie, Phyllis Sutter, Florence Sutter, Carol Meyer, Patricia Havey, Sandra Crockett, Ronald Wheelock, David Wheelock, and Robert Wheelock; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many beloved friends.

A graveside service was held on Friday, August 13, at Rest Haven Cemetery, Windsor.

Condolences, stories and photos can be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

PHYLLIS M. HUNTER

BENTON – Phyllis M. Hunter, 97, of Benton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 10, 2021. Phyllis was born January 22, 1924, in Benton, the oldest daughter of the late Albert E. and Ruby M. (Ranlett) Rowe in the home of her late grandparents, Bernard and Vesta (Hall) Ranlett.

It was also the home of her late great-grandparents, Samuel and Ann (Stewart) Ranlett and her great great grandparents, Charles and Nancy (Roundy) Ranlett which was established in 1831. Four generations were born in this Ranlett homestead.Phyllis was educated in the schools of Clinton, Benton, and Fairfield, graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1942.

After graduation she worked as a secretary for the athletic department at the old Colby College campus, in downtown, Waterville, until her marriage to Gut Ivan Hunter on August 1, 1943. Phyllis also was employed in the office of the late C.F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, for 27 years, retiring in 1985.

Phyllis has been a member of Clinton and Benton Grange since 1938, a member of East Kennebec Pomona Grange, Maine State Grange and the National Grange. She was also a charter member and past president of the Clinton Historical Society and a member of the Taconnett Falls Chapter of the Maine Genealogical Society as well as the Humane Society Waterville Area. She was a member of Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton. She became a member of the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) in the year 2013.

Since her retirement, she had enjoyed searching the Hunter/Rowe Ancestry and found it to be very interesting and rewarding. She and her husband also spent several winters in Florida which they enjoyed as they both had relatives in the area.
At the time of her retirement, she had 75 African Violets to care for.

Besides her parents, Phyllis was predeceased by her husband, Guy, in 1997; her only brother, Albert E. Rowe Jr., in 1985; a sister, Barbara (Rowe) Grant, in 2004; and a brother-in-law, Mark L. Grant Jr., in 2011.

Survivors include her two sisters, Gladys (Rowe) Lee, of Skowhegan, and Theresa (Rowe) Monk, of Clinton; a sister-in-law, Joyce (Hunt) Rowe, of Clinton; two nieces, Trudy (Monk) Hanson and her husband, Donald, of Winthrop, and Ellen (Rowe) Faulkner and her husband Kenneth, of Clinton; two nephews, David Lee and his wife,Johnna, of Skowhegan, and Gary Monk, of Bangor; grandnieces, Hannah E. Faulkner, Nicole Monk, Janet (Lee) Mathieu and Kristin (Lee) Waning; grandnephews, Jacob Faulkner, Timothy Monk, Jason Monk and Larry Lee; two great-grandnieces; four great-grandnephews; and several cousins. Also, on her husband’s side of the family, many nieces and nephews; a niece, Ann (Clifford) Shores and her husband George; brother-in-law, Roger “Babe” Clifford and sister-in-law, Patricia “Pat” Hunter.

A celebration of Phyllis’ life will be held at the Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton, on Friday, August 20, at 1 p.m.

Interment at Greenlawn Rest Cemetery, in Clinton, will follow the services.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

Memorial donations may be made to Brown Memorial United Methodist Church Trustee’s Fund, P.O. Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927, or Taconnett Falls Chapter of Maine Genealogical Society (MGS), 10 Lithgow Street, Winslow, ME 04901, ATTN: Laton Edwards, treasurer of individual choice.

DONALD D. MOREY

WHITEFIELD – Donald Drown Morey, 83, of Whitefield, passed away on Tuesday, August 10, 2021. The son of William and Marion Drown Morey, he was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on June 25, 1938.

He joined the U.S. Navy in 1958 and was stationed on several aircraft carriers. He met his wife Lois while at Quonset Point Naval Air Station, in Rhode Island, where she was stationed as a Navy WAVE. A Navy buddy led him to Christ, and it changed his life forever.

He attended Barrington College, in Rhode Island, and went on to work with computers at RCA, Sperry Univac, and as a field engineer for Lockheed Martin. He was blessed to travel, spending time in Japan and Spain.

At his home church he was at various times a Sunday school teacher, trustee, Deacon and Elder. He was a man who loved his family and walked with God.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois, his son Timothy and his wife Vicky, his daughter, Deborah and her husband Wayne, and grandchildren, Hayden, Caleb, T.J., Victoria, Leah, a new great-grandchild, Fitzpatrick (with more on the way) and a brother, Richard and his wife Wylda, and their sons and their sons’ families.

A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, August 29, at 2 p.m., at Calvary Baptist Church, in North Whitefield.

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.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

GARY A. THURLOW

WATERVILLE – Gary Alan Thurlow, 65, of Waterville, succumbed to injuries of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor. He was found with his self-inflicted wound, on August 5, by his brother, Jonathan. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut, on May 22, 1956.

Gary graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1975.

Gary was a professional golfer in Florida and North Carolina and was an avid skier.

He is predeceased by his mother, Eva M. (Voisine) and husband Dr. John M. Thurlow; and his biological father, Leon R. Burwood, of Hartford, Connecticut.

Gary is survived by two brothers, Jonathan Thurlow, of Waterville, and Daniel Thurlow, of Buckfield; sister, Raelene Thurlow, of Waterville; two nephews, Eric L. Thurlow, of Fairfield, and Evan M. Thurlow, of Waterville; a great-niece, Jada Eva Thurlow, of Fairfield, the daughter of Eric Thurlow, of Fairfield, and Stephanie Ross, of Skowhegan.

Anyone could be struggling with suicide. If someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need, it’s important to take care of yourself when you are supporting someone through a difficult time, as this may stir up difficult emotions. If it does reach out for support. How can you help them? It can be scary when a friend or loved one is thinking of suicide. It’s hard to know how a suicidal crisis feels and how to act. Call 1-800-273-8255 at any time for help if a friend of family member is struggling.

At Gary’s request that there will be no services.

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

The family would like to have donations in Gary’s memory be made for drug addiction and prevention. Please mail them to Pine Tree Recovery Center, 17 Bishop St., Portland, ME 04103.

GARY TRUSSELL

WHITEFIELD – Gary “Sam” Trussell, 76, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, August 12, 2021. He was born in Gardi­ner on July 21, 1945, and grew up in Pittston. His adult years were spent living in Topsham and Whitefield. He graduated fromSouthern Maine Vocational-Technical Institute, (SMVTI), in South Portland, as a civil engineer and spent 46 years working for Maine DOT. After retirement, he consulted with Kleinfelder, a private engineering firm.

He was a man of few words but much action. Some would say his passion was his career, considering it did take multiple retirement attempts before he stayed away. Others would say his passion was for woodworking and building things. He built a workshop above the garage, his happy place, where he would create everything from toy boxes to cabinets and many other projects. Many would even suggest being on his Kubota was what he enjoyed the most.

But in reality, his passion was his family. Gary and his wife shared a relationship based on mutual support and a deep love for each other. His children and grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. Family get-togethers around the pool or around the Christmas tree were the days he lived for. The legacy of Gary’s kind spirit, love for sports, craftsmanship, and love for life will live on through them.

He is now reunited with his parents, Roland and Marjory Trussell; and his brother, Bruce.

Gary is survived by his wife, Donna Trussell; five children, Jodi and husband Michael McCaffrey, Todd Trussell, Missy and husband Dov Cohen, Kristy and husband Billy Kinney, Luke Cote and fiancée Maeve O’Connor; three brothers, Chester and wife Bertha, Harold and wife Colleen, and Norman Trussell; 13 grandchildren, Tyler, Chloe, Dehvin, Hannah, Megan, Colin, Trey, Noah, Esmae, Aubrey, Aislinn, Zander, and Della; five great-grandchildren, Kasen, Eve, Lincoln, Olive, and Davina (who will be joining the family soon).

A Celebration of Life at the First Congregational Church, of Pittston (21 Arnold Rd.), took place on Tuesday, August 17, followed by the burial at the Riverside Cemetery (Arnold Road)

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Gary has twin great-grandchildren who were born premature. They have been in the NICU since June with serious heart complications. Though Lincoln was able to come home this week, Olive remains in the hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a fund for the twins, with checks payable to Donna Trussell, to help them get a strong start; send to Donna Trussell, c/o The Gallery Hair Studio, 10 Main St., Suite 5, Topsham, ME 04086.

JERRY M. BOSMA

SPRING, TEXAS – Jerry Michael Bosma, 85, of Spring, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 10, 2021. Jerry was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 25, 1936.

Although Jerry did not move to Texas until 1972, he always considered himself a real Texan. He loved history, a good bourbon, smoking his pipe, growing plants and spending time with family. He could make anything grow and his friends would send him plants from all over the country.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Carole; parents Rosalie and Edward Hagen, of China; brother Kenneth Hagen, of China,; mother and father-in-law Lillian and Clarence Wood, of Waterville; and nephew Jeffrey Pooler, of Fairfield.

He is survived by his daughter Lizabeth Carole Metzler and husband, Harvey; son Mark Edward Bosma and wife, Kathy; grandchildren Patsy Holmes and husband, Dakota; and William Kennedy and wife, Skye; great-grandchildren Carli, Kelby, William (Shooter), Korden and Tyler Rose, all of Texas; sister, Rosalie (Dolly) Batteese and husband, Robert (Bob), of China; sister-in-law Bette Pooler and husband John, of Fairfield; niece and nephews Sarah, Tyler (Ty), Keith, and Chad; and many more family members.

LUCETTE R. BOURGOIN

WATERVILLE – Lucette Rita Bourgoin, 95, of Waterville, passed away on May 12, 2021 in Cheney, Washington. Lucette was born in Hartford, Connecticut, April 28, 1926, a daughter of the late Alexina (Grenier) and Solomon Huard.

She attended schools in Waterville and Winslow, graduating from Winslow High School in 1945. In 1946, she married the love of her life, Raymond Bourgoin. Together they worked and raised their family of three children in the Waterville area. She was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Parish, in Waterville, in her earlier years until its closing, and then became a parishioner of Corpus Christi Parish. She taught CCD classes at Sacred Heart Parish for several years. For nearly ten years, she was a volunteer at Mid-Maine Medical Center, and for over 30 years she was a member of The Waterville Ice Skating Club, serving as its treasurer for most of those years. In her spare time she enjoyed sewing, knitting, needlepoint and, of course, ice skating.

Lucette is survived by her three children, Claude Bourgoin, of Standish, Bryant Bourgoin and wife Susan, of Winslow, Cynthia Bourgoin, of Cheney, Washington; her grandchildren, Kyle Bourgoin and wife Christy, Haley Bourgoin, Bethany Fromwiller and husband Michael, Amanda Wells, Chinedu, Cassia, Caryn, Calynne and Caton Oyolokor and wife Taylor, and Charisse Lyman and husband Justin; her 13 great-grandchildren, Leland, Gabrielle, Carson, Leyton, Chace, Mala, Lyla, Rowdy, Alessandra, Olivia, Wren, Zeke and one more on the way; her two sisters, Theresa Boisvert and Delcia Drouin; and one brother, Conrad Huard.

Besides her parents, Lucette was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Raymond Bourgoin, who passed away in 2007, and her brother, Victor Huard.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, August 14, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, Silver Street, in Waterville. Committal services were held on Monday, August 16, at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, in Augusta.

A Service of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, Maine 04901. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

MARCIA J. DOHERTY

WATERVILLE – Marcia J. Durrell (Hamblet) Doherty, 92, died Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. Marcia was born in Kingfield, the daughter of Elvin and Hilda (Nichols) Durrell.

She grew up on the family farm with her three brothers, Elvin Jr., Carlton, and Roscoe (Mickey). Marcia attended Kingfield schools and graduated from Kingfield High School in 1947.

She fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a nurse when she graduated from Central Maine Medical Center School of Nursing, in Lewiston, in 1950. Marcia worked in various nursing roles, but the majority of her career (32 years) was at Waterville Osteopathic Hospital (Northern Light Inland Hospital). She said she worked in every department except the furnace room and kitchen. She retired in 1989 but continued to work part time at Dr. Amalfitano’s office, in Waterville, and in private homes. Marcia was a nursing legend to many of her patients and colleagues. She touched people’s lives in their most vulnerable moments and stepped in when needed.

Marcia enjoyed reading, cooking, traveling, knitting and gardening throughout her life. She was always busy doing one of her hobbies and enjoyed any travel, whether five miles or five thousand miles. Her greatest joy, love and pride were her children. She made sure each had a strong foundation to grow upon and was an anchor in their lives.

Marcia was predeceased by her brothers, Junior and Carlton; and her husband, Clifford “Mike”; three of her grandchildren, Hilda, Dorothy and Elijah Howe; and son-in-law, Jim Maheu.

Marcia is survived by her children Jackie Hamblet Berlandi (Peter), of Plymouth, Massachusetts, Michael Hamblet (Carol), of Knox, Roylynn Hamblet, of Vienna, Marcia Hamblet Maheu (Mark Scribner), of Dresden, and Gayle Doherty Roy (Ken), of Rosemount, Minnesota; and her brother, Roscoe Durrell, of Largo, Florida; grandchildren Jennifer White, Jason and Nathan Hamblet, Clara Howe and Hayden, Silas and Evelyn Roy; great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Sunnyside Cemetery, in Kingfield, on Saturday, August 21, at 11 a.m.

An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at https://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers donations may be given in Marcia’s memory to the Oak Grove Center Employee Activity Fund, 27 Cool St., Waterville, ME 04901.

KENNETH J. CASHMAN

WATERVILLE – Kenneth J. “Snapper” Cashman, 90, passed away Sunday, July 18, 2021. He was born July 1, 1931.

He was a long standing member of the Atlantic Salmon Federation, Veazie Salmon Club, Trout Unlimited and the Elks. He enjoyed helping younger anglers to the hobby.
He is survived by his wife Dorothy; son Terry; grandsons Jesse and Cheyenne; sister Delores; and many nieces and nephews.

A service will be held in mid-August at the Veteran Cemetery, in Augusta.

SHIRLEY H. GILBERT

OAKLAND – Shirley Hope Gilbert, 92, of Oakland, passed away at her home on the morning of Thursday, July 22, 2021. Shirley was born in Winslow on February 9, 1929, and was one of six children (Estelle, Beverly, Geraldine, Richard, and David) of Joseph M. Begin and Florence (Pouliotte) Begin.

Shirley graduated in 1947 from Bingham High School and went on to work in administration for the Sears and Roebuck Company. On October 16, 1970, she wed the love of her life, Joseph “Leo” Gilbert and remained happily married for 50 years.

Shirley often spoke fondly of her younger years when she sang on the radio as part of the “Begin Sisters” trio with Beverly and Geraldine. Later in life, she volunteered as a member of the “Touch of Class”, a dancing troupe that preformed for the elderly throughout Central Maine. In addition, Shirley loved cooking, sewing, quilting, knitting and painting. She was especially fond of spending time with family at camp.

Shirley was preceded in death by her son, Steven J. Drew, who passed away in 2006.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph Leo Gilbert; her eldest son, Irving E. Drew II; daughters JoAnn D. Dworman, Terry L. Albright; her stepchildren, Lee Gilbert, Valerie Lovett; her brother, Richard Begin; 11 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 9, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. After the Mass, there will be a procession to St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, followed by a reception at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, 76 Industrial St.

JOHN R. DeMERCHANT

VASSALBORO – John R. DeMerchant, 81, passed peacefully on Sunday, July 25, 2021, at Woodlands Senior Living facility, in Waterville, following a lengthy illness. John was born on November 3, 1939, in Ft. Fairfield, the son of Ralph and Lillian DeMerchant.

He attended local schools, and during high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps serving two years in the Reserves. Following graduation from Cony High School, in Augusta, he proudly served four more years of active duty in the Marine Corps.

During his lifetime, he was employed by Augusta Supply Co., Sears Roebuck Co. and retired from Shaw’s Supermarkets.

John was a member of the National Rifle Association, American Legion and Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine. He enjoyed hunting and fishing but especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was very loved.

He loved dogs and had many, but his favorite was his chocolate Lab, Moses.

John was predeceased by his father, Ralph DeMerchant, mother, Lillian DeMerchant Masse, stepfather, George Masse, grandparents, Joseph and Euphemie Gorneau, and John B. and Ella Mae DeMerchant, his infant sister, Joanne, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Delores (Beane) DeMerchant; three children, two sons, John R. DeMerchant II and wife Cathy, and Joel R. DeMerchant and wife Jennifer; and daughter, Julie A. DeMerchant; five grandchildren, John R. DeMerchant III and wife Alyssa, Joshua Carrier and partner Kailee Nickerson, Logan P. DeMerchant, Leah J. DeMerchant, and Nicole A. DeMerchant; two great-grandsons, John R. DeMerchant IV and Colton T. DeMerchant; one brother, Terry L. DeMerchant and wife Bonnie; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no public visiting hours scheduled.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow.

Burial with military honors will be at noon at the niche wall in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

PAUL H. BERGERON

CANAAN – Paul Henry Bergeron, 69, of Canaan, died on Monday, July 26, 2021. He was born April 15, 1952, the son of Henry and Lillian (Vigue) Bergeron.

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

Paul was an avid hunter and enjoyed playing cards games with close friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; his daughter Danielle Sanborn; and his brother, Mike Bergeron.

Paul is survived by his son, Byron Bergeron and his significant other Kathy Goodblood; his grandson, Tresten Bergeron and wife Tiffany; his brother Robert Bergeron, and sister Dorothy Bickford and husband BO Bickford and their son Brandon Bickford; his aunt, Patricia Holmes.

There will be a graveside service at Pine Grove Cemetery, Grove St., Waterville, at 10 a.m., on Friday, August 13, 2021.

HAROLD C. CASEY

Harold Carlton Casey, 95, died peacefully Thursday, July 29, 2021, at his home of 65 years. He was born March 5, 1926, in Augusta, the son of Harold A. and Thelma (Weeks) Casey.

Carlton attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and was a World War II Navy veteran. On August 4, 1951, he married the love of his life, Lorraine D. Casey, and together they raised four children. “Casey” was an electrician for many years, retiring from IBEW Local #1253. He was a member and Past Master of Dirigo Lodge #104 A.F. & A.M., of Weeks Mills, a member of the Scottish Rite, Kora Shriners, American Legion and South China Community Church.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman, with many fond memories of “upta” camp. He enjoyed dancing and traveling with his wife, and oftentimes with family and longtime friends, to such places as Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, the Grand Canyon, as well as other western states, including Oregon.

Carlton was predeceased by his wife of 69 years; brothers, Clyde and Kenneth; half brothers, Howard and Arthur Sevigny; half sister, Beverly (Sevigny) Morang.

He is survived by his children, Ginger Chase, of South China, Linda Quimby and her husband, Stephen, of Orrington, Blane Casey and his wife, Kary, of South China, and Lisa Stevens and her husband, Thomas, of Newcastle; nine grandchildren, Stacy Clark, Kari Begin, Matthew Quimby, Katie Eslin, Regan Solinksy, Galen and Teagan Casey, Casey Stevens and Sarah Ward; 18 great-grandchildren, Abbie, Emily and Simon Clark, Nathan and Samuel Begin, Liam O’Halloran, Kason and Caroline Quimby, Emma Eslin, Kaden Solinsky, Trever Jones, Elle, Emme, Nelsen, Braelyne and Reuben Stevens, and Corie and Owen Ward; brothers, Owen (Marion) and Glendon (Gwendolyn); sisters-in-law, Elaine Kay, Barbara Day and Donna Casey Woodard; many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service with Masonic services will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 7, at South China Community Church, with Pastor Paul Harwath officiating.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation in Carlton’s memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children – Boston, Development Office, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114, or the South China Community Church, P.O. Box 335, South China, ME 04358.

MONTIE L. CUNNINGHAM JR.

VASSALBORO – Montie Leslie Cunningham Jr, 88, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 1, 2021. Junior was born in Windsor on June 12, 1933, the son of Montie Leslie Cunningham Sr. and Marguerite Cunningham.

He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China in 1950. He married Ellen Cunningham September 3, 1955.

Junior and Ellen lived their adult lives in Vassalboro until her death September 29, 2014. Junior had since married Betty Reed, of Bucksport, and continued to live their lives in Vassalboro until his untimely passing. Junior worked at Mister Market, the Kennebec Journal and J.S. McCarthy Printers, all in Augusta, until his retirement.

Junior loved the Red Sox and rarely, if ever missed a televised game. He also enjoyed traveling to Fenway Park with his family for a game. He loved coaching his sons through little league and umpiring his grandchildren’s softball games. Family trips to Moosehead Lake and camping at Green Valley Campground, in Vassalboro, and Aldus Shores Campground, in Searsmont, and playing cards with the neighbors were also a passion of his.

Junior was predeceased by his parents, mother- and father-in-law Archie and Lillian Reed; brothers Howard and Ronald; and sister Brenda; brother-in-law John Reed and sisters-in-law, Francis Soper and Vidy Glidden.

He is survived by his wife Betty; his sons Michael, of Vassalboro, Barry and his wife Sonja, of Hampden, Lee and his wife Nancy, of Vassalboro, and Scott and his wife Brenda, of Winchester, Virginia; grandchildren Stacy, Erin, Kelly, Michael, Amy, Jessica, Timmothy, Jaclyn and Patric; great-grandchildren Connor, Cash, Camden and Aubrie; sisters Donna, Gwen and her husband Glendon, Jacky and her partner Tim, Cheryl and her husband Jimmy and; brothers Robert and Darryl and his wife Lori; brothers-in-law Donald Reed; and sister-in-law Helen Cunningham; step-sons Daniel Reed and his partner Lisa, and Steven LaRue and his wife Sheila; many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services at Cross Hill Cemetary, Vassalboro, will be conducted on Saturday, August 14, at 11 am. A gathering of family and friends to celebrate Junior’s life will be held at his house in Vassalboro immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your charity of choice.

ROBERT B. GRAY

WATERVILLE – Robert Bruce Gray, 76, resident of Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, died, Tuesday, June 22, 2021. He was the son of the late Victor Henry Gray, and the late Reba Pearl Robertson Gray.

Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served honorably in Vietnam. Prior to his retirement he had worked as a logger, and most recently worked at Nicholson and Ryan Jewelry store, in Augusta. He enjoyed photography and nature.

He was predeceased by sisters, Mary Stanley and Grace Oliver, both of Massachusetts, and Doris Fontes, of Indiana, and brothers, James Gray, of Massachusetts, and Raymond Gray, of Indiana.

He is survived by brother, Charles Gray, of Brownville Junction; sisters, Priscilla Girard, of Massachusetts, and Alice DiPaolo, of Wales; many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville.

ROBERT J. BOLDUC

ENGLEWOOD, Florida – Robert J “Bob” Bolduc, 94, of Englewood, Florida, passed away Tuesday afternoon, July 13, 2021, at Heritage Oaks Assisted Living Community, in Englewood. He was born on April 18, 1927, in Hartford, Conn., the son of Emile and Ruby (Drury) Bolduc.

Bob was a graduate of Winslow High School class of 1947. He also served in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1946. He graduated from Gorham State Teacher’s College, in 1951, with a degree in Industrial Arts and began his teaching career in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. He taught in Lewiston, from 1952-1954 moving to Madawaska as their Industrial Arts teacher from 1954 – 1968 and to Skowhegan High School from 1968-1972. In 1972 Bob moved back to Winslow where he was Department Head for Industrial Arts, retiring from there in 1982. In those years Bob dedicated his life to education and during his many years teaching he touched thousands of students lives. In addition to teaching Bob built and/or remodeled many homes in the Skowhegan and Winslow area during the summer months.

Bob was married to his high school sweetheart, Dorothy “Dottie” Bolduc for 57 years. Dottie passed away in 2007. Bob and Dottie spent their retirement years in Englewood, Florida, and were avid golfers and members of Myakka Pines Golf Club. For many years they lived in the Foxwood Community where Bob was the local “handyman” to many of the residents. Bob loved woodworking and building model airplanes and when he was not golfing or being a handyman, you could find him flying his model airplanes with his Englewood flying club. Bob and Dot continued to enjoy spending most summers in Maine.

He is survived by his two daughters: Jane and her husband Roger, of Skowhegan, and Joan and her husband David, of St. Augustine, Florida, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made in Bob’s memory to Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center, 7318 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243 or Suncoast Humane Society, 6781 San Casa Drive, Englewood, FL 34224.

JAMES W. ALLEN

JEFFERSON – James W. Allen, 78, died unexpectedly Friday, July 16, 2021, at his home, in Jefferson. James was born March 2, 1943, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to Edward Knight Allen, Jr. and Althea Weldon Allen.

He grew up in Worcester and Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and graduated from Tilton Boarding School, in New Hampshire.

James was a construction worker for five years until he was injured and could no longer work. He enjoyed taking computers, engines, solar panels apart and putting them back together better than he found them. He also enjoyed making small steam engines.

He was a character, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He liked to go moose hunting, fishing, woodworking, farming, watching wildlife outside his home, and feeding his pet chipmunk, Chipee. He was also a HAM radio operator, KQ1H.

He was predeceased by his parents, and by a son, James Edward Allen, in June 2019.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Allen, of Jefferson, of 57 years; daughters, Kristina DeRaps and her husband Christopher, of Jefferson, Althea Harris and her fiancé Doug Wharton, of West Gardiner; daughter-in-law, Shannon Allen, of Missouri; grandchildren, Shelby, Paige, Stephanie, Adam, Justin, Trace, Audryanna, and Emelyn.

A service to celebrate James’s life was held at the Windsor Christian Fellowship Church, 9 Reed Road, Windsor on July 22, with Pastor Brandon Dyer officiating.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral and Cremation Services, 949 Main Street, Waldoboro.

Condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com.

Should friends desire, contributions in James’s memory may be made to Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pethaven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330.

MERVIN L. TUTTLE JR.

CLINTON – Mervin L. Tuttle Jr., 72, of Clinton, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2021, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, after a seven-month battle with COVID-19 respiratory complications. He was born in Waterville, on January 19, 1949, to Mervin L. Tuttle Sr. and Lenora A. Bickford Tuttle.

Mervin attended school in Clinton and Fairfield, where we graduated with honors from Lawrence High School in 1968. While in high school, he was active in the bowling and ski clubs and was selected to attend the Dirigo Boys State his junior year. After high school, Mervin joined the U.S. Navy where he learned his trade as an electrician aboard the USS Orion and the USS Gilmore while stationed in Virginia and South Carolina, respectively.

On July 5, 1969, he married his true love and adventure partner, Sally Marie Shores, and together they rode life’s roller coaster for over 52 years. Mervin and Sally moved into their new home in Clinton in January 1972, where they raised two children and he resided until his death.

There he also quickly made an impression on the local community by volunteering with the Boy Scouts and the Rod and Gun Club where he taught youths and adults the Maine Hunter Safety course. After his military service, Mervin worked as a licensed electrician on many Central Maine construction projects until he was hired by MaineGeneral Health where he faithfully worked for over 34 years. He was also a strong golf player on his company golf team, even scoring a 159-yard hole-in-one at Unity’s Lakeview Golf Course in 1998.

Mervin was not only a dedicated employee, father, and husband, but he also pursued several passionate hobbies. He enjoyed woodworking and was admired for his keen skills in which he built many pieces of furniture for his home and clocks for his family. Mervin also had a strong adventurous spirit and loved to travel. He would meticulously plan annual family vacations that spanned from Maine to Florida and all states in between. Mervin’s love of family and thirst for travel continued when his son joined the U.S. Air Force, and he and Sally would travel each year to Texas or California to explore those states.

He also enjoyed hiking many trails throughout Maine, but especially the trails of Acadia National Park with friends and family. A patriot at his core, Mervin was a proud supporter of the men and women of the U.S. military. He was a member of the American Legion, Willett-McKenney Post #186, and the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) of Maine. Mervin participated in numerous PGR events, providing honors to our Nation’s Fallen Military Heroes, First Responders and honorably discharged veterans. Furthermore, he volunteered with Wreaths Across America where he helped lay thousands of wreaths each year at Veteran’s Memorial Cemeteries in Augusta and Chelsea.

Mervin also continued his selfless dedication to the local community, where he cleaned, and power washed aged cemetery tombstones for veterans and civilians throughout Central Maine. After retiring from MaineGeneral in 2013, Mervin and Sally did not waste any time pursuing their lifelong goal of traveling the United States in their motorhome. Together they made two coast-to-coast journeys, visiting 48 states along the way – even taking their two young grandsons once. They also traveled to Hawaii where they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with their son, daughter-in-law and grandsons.

Closer to home, Mervin greatly enjoyed traveling the off-road trails of Maine with his wife and close friends in the Madison-Anson ATV Club. Mervin is lovingly missed by his wife, Sally; his son, Mervin Tuttle, III and his wife Jeanne, and his grandsons; Aiden and Andrew Tuttle. He will also be greatly missed by his Tuttle, Bickford, and Shores family members, close friends, and neighbors that meant so much to him.

Mervin was predeceased by his daughter, Cheryl Tuttle, his parents, Mervin Sr. and Lenora Tuttle, and his father-in-law, Wilson Shores.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 31, at 1 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, burial to follow at the Greenlawn Rest Cemetery, Route 100, Clinton.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield where condolences to the family may be shared on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northern New England Chapter of Cystic Fibrosis at http://www.cff.org/northern-newengland or the Make-a-Wish Maine Foundation at http://www.wish.org/maine.

DONALD C. COLSON

BENTON – Donald Clyde Colson, 75, of Benton, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 22, 2021. He was born in Waterville on September 12, 1945, the son of Sherwin Clyde and Mable Alice (German) Colson.

Donald worked at Northern New England Feed and Ware-Butler Co., in Waterville, for many years and then went to work as a custodian for SAD #49 and retired in 2020 after 22 years.

He was an avid four-wheeler, and loved hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and taking rides in his car. Donald was a member of the Elks and Messalonskee Riding Club.

He was predeceased by his parents, wife Margaret Colson, brother, Robert Colson and wife Sherry, and brother-in-law, Bud Bessey.

Donald is survived by his partner, Cindy Nelson; son, Michael Colson and wife Mary, of Benton; daughter, Cheryl Richards and husband Rodney, of Albion; sister, Carolyn Bessy, of Waterville; four granddaughters, Jenny Bolduc and husband Adam, Christina Colson and boyfriend Corey Martin, Sierra Richards and fiancé Benjamin Barber, and Allison Colson; three great-grandchildren, Parker, Ainsley, and Dexter.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, July 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 30, at 1 p.m., at the Brown Cemetery in Benton.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where condolences to the family may be shared on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in Don’s name to Waterville Elks Lodge#905, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, ME 04901.

FAYLENE M. FERLAND

PALO ALTO, Calif. – Faylene M. Ferland, 85, of Palo Alto, California, passed away peacefully in the early morning of Tuesday, June 8, 2021 following her battle with Alzheimer’s and cancer. She was born on October 18, 1935, in North Vassalboro, to Charles Arsenault and Martha Rogers, and lived the majority of her life happily in Waterville.

She relocated to California in 2018 to be closer to her son, daughter-in-law, grandson and wife.

Faye was a graduate of Waterville Senior High School and enjoyed a long career in the medical field for over 35 years. Upon retirement, she also enjoyed volunteering at Inland Hospital, in Waterville, in day surgery.

She and her husband Bob enjoyed bowling, playing golf together, dancing, and spending time with their many friends and family. Faye also enjoyed cooking and baking, especially for others, and tending to the garden flowers around her home.

Faye was predeceased by her mother and father Charles and Martha, step-father Harry Rogers, loving husband Robert (Bob) Ferland, brother-in-law Joseph Savarin, nephew Michael Savarin.

She is survived by her son Charles Godin of Palo Alto, California (and wife Lori), grandson Nicholas Godin, of Mountain View, California (and wife Jennifer), and sister Eleanor Savarin, of Memphis, Tennessee; along with numerous relatives.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on July 20, 2021, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, ME.

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, please consider a donation to Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org.

ARTHUR W. REED

FAIRFIELD – Arthur “Joe” W. Reed, 79, passed away Tuesday, June 15, 2021, at Oak Grove Nursing Home, in Waterville. He was born January 30, 1942, in Union, the fourth child of Arthur and Dorothy (Gerald) Reid.

He worked at Buck’s Taxi as a dispatcher and Hillman’s Bakery, in Fairfield. He enjoyed being a PAL and Little League coach, listening to country music and Lawrence Welk, fishing and always wanting to catch “the big one”. Later in life, he had his own ham radio shack. He could talk to anyone around the world. He also assisted with ham radio tests when needed.

Arthur is survived by his family; George Reid and wife Judy, Alan Reid and wife Sandy, Shirley Gifford and husband David, Jane Chamberlain, Betty Whitaker, Verna Goodwin and husband Wyman, Gail Dudley and husband Sheldon; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Paul and wife Kim Reid; brother-in-law, Sherwood Chamberlain; nieces, Vicky Reid, Lisa Robinson; nephew, Burton “Sonny” Danforth.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, July 24, 2021, at 10 a.m., at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield. A Celebration of Life will be held following the graveside service from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., p.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge, Industrial St., Waterville.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976

SPIRO YOTIDES

WATERVILLE – Spiro (Spike) Yotides, of Waterville, passed away peacefully at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta, on Saturday, June 26, 2021, following a brief illness. Spike was born in Winslow, son of Olga and James Yotides on June 20, 1928.

Spike graduated from Winslow High School in 1946 where he was a three-sport athlete – football, basketball and baseball – and he always wore his lucky number 13 on all his jerseys! As Spike was a stand-out athlete, he earned two scholarships to attend both Maine Central Institute, in Pittsfield, and Oak Grove School, in Vassalboro. Spike was drafted into the Army in 1950 and served during the Korean War. On Valentine’s Day in 1954 Spike married Gerrie Rackleff. Together they raised three children, Tim, Tony and Kelly. They were married for 66 years before Gerrie’s death in 2020.

Spike was a well-known car dealer in Waterville for over 28 years. He was employed by Furbush Chevrolet, in Waterville, for years, and later with Frame Chevrolet, also in Waterville. In 1982, Spike semi-retired, and would be seen at Christy’s Country Store, in Belgrade, a business he shared with his two sons.

As Spike was an avid sports fan, he never missed any of his sons’ games and even was often seen at their practices. He was always heard in the stands yelling words of encouragement. He was very loyal to both the Patriots and Red Sox, and even got his wife Gerrie to become a dedicated follower of the Red Sox. In his later years, he became a golf enthusiast and played several area courses around Waterville. He was especially keen on Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro, and Belgrade Lakes Golf Course. He participated in every one of the 10 Patriot’s Day Open tournaments at Belgrade Lakes Golf Course with his sons, Tim and Tony, and son-in-law, Jeff, rounding out his foursome.

Spike attended several of Engelbert Humperdinck concerts with his wife, Gerrie, who was a huge fan of the singer. Although he wouldn’t admit it, he too became a fan. In addition, Spike and Gerrie went to Las Vegas, Foxwoods and Atlantic City whenever they could. Gerrie loved the shows and entertainment while Spike would often be spotted at a poker table. Gerrie and Spike were regulars at the Friday night BBQ at the Waterville Elks Club and had lots of good times with their many friends.

Spike will be remembered for his quiet disposition and his quick one-liners. He was very giving and generous – he was selfless and always put others before himself.

Spike was predeceased by his wife Gerrie; his parents, Olga and James Yotides; and brothers George, Thomas and Antonio.

He is survived by his two sons Anthony Yotides and his wife Tonia, and Timothy Yotides and his wife Lori, his daughter Kelly Johnston and her husband Jeffrey; six grandchildren, Christy Yotides, Jenna Yotides and fiancé Chad LePage, Kara Simmons and her husband Jake, Ryan Johnston and his fiancée Taylor Murphy, Spiro Yotides and Jordan Stolt; two great-grandchildren, Isabella Allarie and Kayden Lane; his sister Maria Yotides; as well as several nieces, nephews.

A committal service was held on July 20, 2021, the Maine Veterans Cemetery, Mount Vernon Road, in Augusta.

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

Please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to view a video gallery and share your condolences with Spike’s family.

RONALD H. LEE

PALERMO – Ronald H. Lee, 82, passed away from heart failure on Monday, March 16, 2021, at his home, in Pal­ermo. Ronald was born December 27, 1938, was raised, and spent most of his adult life in Albion. He was the son of Frank and Mildred Lee.

He graduated from Besse High School , in Albion, (1957) and worked for Lee Brother’s Construction, in Albion. A few years later he and his wife Diana established Ronald H. Lee Trucking. Ron was an owner-operator and took to the road hauling potatoes from Aroostook County to Boston. Over time they bought several more trucks and he began hauling across the country. His drivers, mechanics, business owners, trucker friends, and their families became an important part of his day and life.

Ronald was a sports enthusiast who coached and played baseball and softball. He was involved in Lawrence High School Football Boosters. Ron enjoyed his racing days with his Moon Eyes race team where he took his fair share of checkered flags.

He enjoyed his years skiing both at Sugarloaf, where they owned a home, and trips out west to Colorado and Lake Tahoe.

Ron was a fan of New England sports and classic movies.

He was a gentle, loving, caring and wonderful husband, father, and grandfather and always had a special place in his heart for his dogs.

He is survived by his three sons, Christopher and wife Alice, of Bethel, Matthew and partner Dawn, of Palermo, Derek, of Albion; and grandchildren Gavin, Morgan, Alex, Claudia, and Owen; nieces, nephews, and many wonderful friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Diana of 62 years, and his sister Brenda.

A service and celebration of life in honor of Ron and Diana will be held at the Palermo Christian Church, on Saturday, August 14, at 10 a.m. All friends and family are welcome to attend.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

SYLVIA L. POULIOTT

WINSLOW – Sylvia L. Poulliot, 81, of Winslow, passed away Sunday, July 18, 2021, at home, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born February 22, 1940, in Waterville, the youngest child of Hector and Rose (Breton) Lefebvre.

Sylvia was educated in Waterville and Winslow schools, graduating from Winslow High School, class of 1958. She made many lifelong friends in high school and also met the love of her life, Milton Poulliot.

Sylvia worked at many community-oriented companies throughout her career, including Winslow Community Federal Credit Union, Winslow Insurance, and Maine Savings Credit Union, in Vassalboro. She especially enjoyed helping people while she was a loan officer.

Along with her husband, she owned and operated the former Winslow Maytag Highlander Laundromat and she did the bookkeeping for Milton’s construction business. She was involved with the Winslow Family Fourth of July event, organizing the legendary street dance in the first years of the celebration. She was also a Notary Public and performed a few marriages.

She enjoyed supporting her children and then her grandchildren at their various activities. She loved to travel, which included too many camping trips to mention, cruises, bus trips, visits to Florida, a cross country trip to various national parks, and a trip to Italy to see her exchange student “son” ordained a Greek Orthodox priest. She loved visiting her relatives and having company over, Christmas parties with her friends, the annual Poulliot summer lobster cookout and the Christmas party in December, and Monday lunches with the girls. If Sylvia was there, a good time was bound to be had.

Sylvia was predeceased by her parents Hector and Rose, her father- and mother-in-law Frederic and Eleanor Poulliot; her sister-in-law Judith Poulliot, brother-in-law Laurier Bouchard, and brother-in-law Frank Wilson.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Milton (Mickey), of Winslow; daughter Shelly Selwood and her husband Joel, of Winslow, and their children David, of New York City, and Carrie, of Winslow; and her son Brian Poulliot and his wife Kristy and their children, Natalie and Ashley, of Grafton, Massachusetts; her “adopted son”, Archimandrite Igumen Gabriele Invernizzi of Revello, Italy, who joined the family as an exchange student in 1985-1986; her brother Joseph (Reggie) Lefebvre and his wife Sheila, of Benton; her sister Rose Marie Wilson of Jacksonville, North Carolina; her brother-in-law Norbert Poulliot, of Fairfield; sister-in-law Sherril Bouchard, and brother- and sister-in-law Ronald and Sandra Poulliot, all of Winslow; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews; and more relatives in the extended Breton-Lefebvre-Poulliot families.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, July 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville, Maine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 9 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow. Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove 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 in Sylvia’s memory to MaineGeneral Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

RAY C. JOHNSTON

ALBION – Ray ‘Cap’ Johnston, 80, passed peacefully at his home, in Albion, on Wednesday, July 21, following a brave year-long battle with cancer. Ray was born on March 16, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

He was a person who valued quiet, privacy, and was an avid salmon and togue fisherman. He enjoyed classic science fiction paperback books, walks down unbeaten paths and family.

He graduated high school in Lake Forrest, Illinois, earned a bachelor of bcience degree from Marquette University in Pre-Med, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of West Florida.

Having flown only once in an airplane as a senior in high school, Ray decided he wanted to be a pilot. He went on to be a Navy Aviator as a lieutenant flying helicopters from aircraft carriers, chasing Russian submarines during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and volunteering for the Vietnam War.

One of Ray’s proudest moments was his last day of SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training for Vietnam, when the American flag was raised and the Star-Spangled Banner played while 100 men stood at attention, saluting with tears running down their cheeks. He was a proud American, who as a war veteran, was always dismayed with any disrespect given to the flag of the United States.

After nine years in the Navy, and Honorable Resignation of Commission, Ray became a dedicated and commended cost controller and analyst, for several major companies including Scott Paper Co., General Electric, Cole Haan Shoes, and Bath Iron Works, from which he retired.

Ray is survived by his wife of 28 years, Cynthia Johnston; sons James (Evelyn) and Joseph (Sandy); a daughter Jacqueline Fanning (Tom); grandchildren Nicholas, Matthew, Ryan, Andrea, Emily, Benjamin, Patrick and Daniel and great-granddaughter Kaleigh; his brothers, Jay, Michael, Thomas; and sister Kathleen.

A private family ceremony of life will be held at a future date.

Memorial donations may be made to: MaineGeneral Hospice & Volunteers of Kennebec Valley, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828, www.mainegeneral.org/hospice.

LINDA A. PELOTTE

BELGRADE – Linda Anne (Letourneau) Pelotte, 73, died peacefully at her home in Belgrade on Thursday, July 22, 2021. She was born in Waterville, March 18, 1948, the daughter of the late Gerald and Mary (Perry) Letourneau.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1966 and furthered her career at Bernards School of Cosmetology. Linda owned and operated Linda’s Beauty Shoppe for over 40 years. Linda also worked at Happy Wheels Roller Skating Rink in Winslow and then retired from Chasse Chiropractic Office after 23 years.

Linda enjoyed doing puzzles, 4-wheeling, camping, rides in the car and golf cart and frequent stops for ice cream with her fiancé Ted. In her earlier years she was a movie buff and enjoyed writing to her pen pal, Deanne, in Australia, in which they wrote back and forth for over 61 years. She was a wonderful, sweet caring person that loved her children, family and friends.

Linda is survived by her fiancé Howard (Ted) Wadleigh Jr.; three children and their spouses: Timothy Pelotte and wife Debbie, Irene (Pelotte) Richards and husband Scott, Anthony Pelotte and wife Jaime; grandchildren, Cody Pelotte, Jacob Stinson and fiancée Ashley, Zachary Dionne, Shawna Pelotte and fiancé Brian, Lucas Pelotte, Trevor Pelotte, Jaimie Jolotta, Melanie Thurston and husband Ben and Stephanie Gaddar and husband Nick; great-grandchildren, Colton and Camden Pelotte, Joseph Dionne and Mavin Gaddar; the Wadleigh families, aunts Gloria Etchie, and Irene Burke and spouse William; an uncle, Vincent Letourneau; as well as several nieces, nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, August 2, 2021, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service (Adams Chapel), 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, with interment to follow at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Linda’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association Maine, 383 U.S. Route 1 Suite 2C, Scarborough ME 04074.

CHRISTIE G. SNOW

VASSALBORO – Christie G. Holmes Snow, 88, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, following a very brief illness. Christie was born in Bath on October 13, 1932, the daughter of Bill and Thelma (Erskine) Holmes.

She married her husband Alfred Snow Jr. of 47 years on December 17, 1954. They began their family and lived in South Gardiner for several years where she worked at Associated Grocers. They later moved to Vassalboro where she and Al worked as poultry farmers. She worked at the Maine State Library and retired in 1994.

Christie was a founding member of the Riverside Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary in Vassalboro.

Christie was most happy spending time with her family. She was an avid reader and enjoyed camping with Al, family and friends. She loved being a mom, a grandmother and then a great-grandmother. She was known to many in the neighborhood as Aunt Christie and then as Nana Christie.

Christie was predeceased by her husband, Al.

She is survived by her children Dana, of Norwich, Connecticut, Wayne and his wife Paulette, of Washington, North Carolina, Jerry and his wife, Cathy, of Winthrop, Michael and his life partner Debbie Mosher, of Raymond, and Crystal and her husband Russell Peaslee, of Vassalboro; her grandchildren Jennifer, Mary, Lynn, Adam, Elliot, Caitlyn, Taryn, Benjamin, and Michele; great-grandchildren Penelope, Kyla, Arlo, Jubilee, Kayla, Teisha and Brianna; her brothers Stanley, of California, and Bill and his wife Ida, of Arizona.

A graveside service was held at the Cross Hill Cemetery, in Vassalboro, on Tuesday, July 6.

Memories and condolences may be shared at http://www.ripsotafh.com.

DENNIS C. PARENTEAU

WINDSOR – Dennis Camille Parenteau, 74, of Windsor, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 29, 2021. Dennis was born on December 10, 1946, in Augusta, to Camille Parenteau and Frances (Snell) Parenteau.

He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1966 and following graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a fireman on the USS Puget Sound until 1973.

In November 1974 he married the former Sharon McCamish and they began a family of their own. He worked at Hussey’s General Store, in Windsor, and Togus VA, in Augusta, as a carpenter in the early years of their marriage. In the 1980s he opened up Delta Video Store in the basement of their home and later expanded the business to an addition attached to the house. He loved shooting the breeze with all the people who came in and it brought him great joy to have Delta Video Store sponsor local race car driver, Todd Cummings’ #69, during his racing career at Unity and Wiscasset raceways in the late ‘80s early ‘90s.

When VHS movies became a thing of the past, he closed the video store and finished his career at Hannaford, retiring in 2012.

Dennis was predeceased by his father, Camille Parenteau and mother, Frances (Snell) Parenteau, both of Weeks Mills.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sharon (McCamish) Parenteau, of Windsor, and their three children, Chelby Leeman and her husband, Justin, of Palermo, Amy Adams and her husband, James, of Windsor, and Chad Parenteau, of Windsor; eight grandchildren, Conner, Garrison and Brooke Leeman; Abigail, Jacob and Gabriel Adams; and Izabella and Keagan Parenteau; his brother, Leslie Randall, and wife Hilda, of Weeks Mills; his sister Joan (Randall) Jones and her partner I.D. Thornton, of Windsor; several nieces and nephews

Family and friends may gather at the American Legion Auxiliary Post #179, at 79 Legion Memorial Drive, in South China, for a celebration of life on July 17, 2021, from 2- 4 p.m.

A private burial for immediate family will be held at the Maine Veteran’s Cemetery, in Augusta, on July 20, 2021.

Condolences and stories can be shared through Riposta Funeral Home at http://www.ripostafh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Travis Mills Foundation at http://www.travismillsfoundation.org.

GARFIELD H. PEASLEE

WINDSOR – Garfield “Guy” H. Peaslee, 92, died on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at his home. He was born July 2, 1928, the oldest of eight children of George and Gwendolyn (Suitter) Peaslee.

Guy was born in Augusta, grew up in Windsor and attended Cony High School, in Augusta. On September 1, 1951, he fell in love and married the former Mary Ellen Hold, a graduate of Erskine Academy, South China. The two settled in Windsor, raising their two daughters, Jenny and Beverley. Guy was employed as a locksmith and foreman carpenter at Augusta Mental Health Institute for 22 years. Hobbies included farming, camping, hunting and woodworking. He loved working with Maine grown trees, white pine, oak and cherry in particular, that grew on his property.

He made custom kitchen cabinets to tables, picture frames and small kicknacks. He was a member of the Maine State Grange, Maine State Employees Association, and was a strong supporter of the Historic Pittston Farm.

A man of deep faith, he was also a member of the North Windsor Baptist Church and Penney Memorial United Baptist Church, in Augusta, where he enjoyed volunteering on various boards.

Guy was a generous man in giving of his time and efforts not only to his family, but strangers as well. He, along with his wife, Mary Ellen were devoted sponsors for many individuals in AA and Al-Anon. In retirement, Guy and Mary Ellen enjoyed traveling and in the last few years with the help of daughter, Jenny, and son in law, Bob, were pleased to be “Snowbirds” in Clermont, Florida, and Windsor, the rest of the year.

He is survived by his daughters, Jennifer S. Mills and husband Robert, and Beverley A. Michaud; three grandchildren, Garfield Mills and wife Jeni, Ira Michaud and wife Kristen, and Amber Michaud; ten great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Keith Peaslee, Clarence “Hank” Peaslee and wife Lib, Judith Hutchinson and husband Richard, Pamela Gorden; and sister-in-law Marion Peaslee Casey; as well as countless nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife of 66 years, Mary Ellen Peaslee; son in law, Wayne Michaud; siblings, Neal Peaslee, Jerry Peaslee, Molly (Peaslee) Van Syckel, sister in law, Joyce Peaslee, Sylvia Peaslee, and brother in law’s Daniel Gorden and Don Van Syckel.

There are no planned visiting hours. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., on Sunday, July 18, at Penney Memorial United Baptist Church, 393 Water Street, Augusta, ME.

Burial will take place at Dyer Hill Cemetery, in Windsor.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Penney Memorial United Baptist Church, “Memorials Fund” in his honor.

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

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

JOEL E. WILLIAMS

SOMERVILLE – Joel Edwin Williams, 48, passed away on Wednesday, June 30, 2021. He was born in Waterville, Nov. 6, 1972, the son of Herm and Cathy Colby Williams.

Joel grew up on Togus Pond. He attended Cony High School, in Augusta, where he graduated in 1991. He was a Jack of all trades, but his true passion was in the agricultural industry. He went on to create his own business called Crooked Creek Cannabis, that he put his heart and soul into up until his passing.

He was a biker. His favorite thing to do was throw on his leather jacket and ride his Harley. Rain or shine he was ridin’. He loved spending time with his family.

He was predeceased by his brother, Corey Williams.

Joel is survived by his parents, Herm and Cathy Williams, of Pittston; his daughter Kyley Williams and her fiancé Richard Poirier; grandchildren Noah and Elliot Poirier; son Joel Williams and many other family members.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 17, 2021, at 1 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, followed by interment in Resthaven Cemetery, Windsor.

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: www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. Checks should be made payable to Maine Medical Center and mailed to Maine Medical Center Philanthropy Department, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102.

BENJAMIN WHEELOCK

JEFFERSON – Benjamin “Ben” Wheelock, 87, of Jefferson, Maine died Thursday, July 1, 2021, of complicated health issues. He was born December 3, 1933, in Calais, to David C. and Mabel (Sherman) Wheelock and was the last surviving child of 16 who grew up in Coopers Mills.

After graduating from Erskine Academy, inSouth China, in 1952, he worked in the local cotton and paper mills to help support his mother. He also proudly served in the Army Reserves for eight years. He moved to Norwich, Connecticut, to work at Electric Boat, the shipyard in Groton. After 10 years of working on submarines, he moved back to Maine and purchased Brownies Restaurant and ran it with his wife and children for 40 years, a job he truly loved. It was a very social profession, and he considered his customers his family.

Fifty years ago, he and his wife, Carline, built their own summer home on Big Dyer Pond, along with the children, teaching them lifelong carpentry and “fix it yourself” skills.

He considered himself very lucky to winter in Florida for the past 25 years, enjoying the warm winter weather with new friends and visitors from the “north”. Known for his warm personality, quick wit, and easy conversation he was fun to be around and always had a quirky story to tell. His interests included travel in his blue Chevy van, playing cards, flea markets, going to the fairs, a good cup of “chowdah” and harness racing. In his earlier years he enjoyed sulky racing and drove his own horses, Fire Island and Adam Butler, following the local race circuit.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carline (Beaulieu) Wheelock; his three daughters, Marlene and Matthew Colvin and their son, David; Teresa and Richard Holmes and their sons, Chad Maillet, Rick Holmes, and his partner, Jackie Gershman-Mannocchi, Ian Holmes and Justin (Juliet) Holmes; Valerie and Bill Worthing and their children, Benson (Lauren) Merrill, Marlaina and Lillyann Stickney; and his only son, Gary (Francine) Wheelock and their children, Cameron (Audra) and Chase; 14 great-grandchildren are Benjamin, Bella, Helaena, Elias, Graeff, Andrew, Eli, Luke, Jude, Addison, Grace, Eden, Raylee and Baylee; and nephew, Willie Wheelock, of Augusta.

A committal service with military honors was held on Saturday, July 10, at St. Joseph Cemetery, in Gardiner.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 17, at 1 p.m., 10 Overlook Drive, West Gardiner.

Arrangements are in the care of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

GENEVA AHEARN

WINSLOW – Geneva Ahearn, 86, passed away peacefully at the Alfond Center for Health on Friday, July 2, 2021. Geneva was born in Winslow on April 18, 1935, the daughter of Martin and Etta McCaslin.

Geneva graduated from Winslow High School in 1953. Geneva married Joseph Ahearn in 1955 and they made their home in Winslow with their six children. Geneva worked at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, and as a Special Education secretary with the Winslow school system.

Geneva enjoyed reading, gardening, and knitting. Everybody enjoyed receiving a pair of her coveted Grammy socks! She was a volunteer for the Winslow 4th of July events for many years. Geneva enjoyed rooting for Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.

Geneva was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Ahearn; her son, David J. Ahearn; her daughter-in-law, Kathleen Ahearn; her grandson, Jesse J. Ahearn; her brothers, Raymond McCaslin and Bernard McCaslin; and her sister, Virginia Lang.

Geneva is survived by her sons, Timothy J. Ahearn and wife Melissa, of Oakland, Stephen J. Ahearn and wife Hillary, of Norwalk, Connecticut, Kevin J. Ahearn and partner Daniel Sears, of Boston, Massachusetts, Keith J. Ahearn, of Cleveland, Ohio; her daughter, Wendy J. Porter and husband Donald, of Hartford.; eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., on Saturday, August 14, at the Village Cemetery, Cemetery Street, Vassalboro, Maine 04989.

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 in Geneva’s name can be sent to the Library at Winslow Elementary school at the following address: Winslow Elementary School, Attention Pamela W. Couture Library, 285 Benton Avenue, Winslow, Maine 04901.

PATRICIA FLEURY

WINSLOW – Patricia Fleury, 85, passed away at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, on Sunday, July 4, 2021. Patricia was born in Boston, Massa­chusetts, on February 13, 1936, the daughter of Katherine Kenney.

Pat spent her youth on a farm in Pownal, and later moved to Mexico, Maine. She graduated from Mexico High School in 1954, where she played basketball, softball, and was a cheerleader. She went to work as a bookkeeper at Lazaro Motors, in Mexico, where she met her husband, Emerson, to whom she was married to for 61 years.

Pat and Emerson moved to Kennebunk, where she fell in love with the ocean. She worked at the Biddeford Hospital as an EKG technician, and eventually moved to her lifelong home in Winslow, where she worked as a bank teller. She enjoyed working, but her favorite job was being a stay-at-home wife and mother to her family.

Pat enjoyed sewing and knitting and was a talented artist. She enjoyed many artistic hobbies, spending hours in her cozy craft room, tole painting, scrapbooking, making greeting cards, and enjoying her massive collection of rubber stamps, which she used to craft her custom-made greeting cards for friends and family. She was a great fan of the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Bruins, and loved ice skating. Their home at Ginger Avenue was known for the backyard ice rink, where Pat showed her children and their friends, how to skate as kids.

Pat was predeceased by her mother, Katherine Kenney.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Emerson Fleury, and their four children; Kevin, Kathy, Shawn and his wife Kathleen, granddaughter Isabella; and Pat’s youngest daughter Kelly, and her boyfriend Kevin Fabian.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, July 17, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, Maine 04901.

Burial will be held in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery following the Mass. A reception will be held at 1 p.m. following the burial. The location of the reception will be announced at the Mass.

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.

PATRICIA A. HASKELL

SIDNEY – Patricia A. (Harding) Haskell, 77, passed peacefully on Monday, July 5, 2021 at her son and daughter-in-law’s home after several years of declining health. Patricia was born in Waterville on April 15, 1944, to Virgil and Jeanette (Rancourt) Harding and grew up in Oakland and attended Oakland schools.

On February 16, 1963, she married David Haskell and moved to Sidney where they raised their family and had many joyful years together until David’s death in 2010.

When Patricia’s children were grown, she rejoined the workforce, first at Buddies Grocery, in Oakland, and then at Pleau’s Market, in Winslow, until she was forced to retire in 2018 due to her declining health. Pat loved to work and considered her co-workers at Pleau’s as a second family.

Pat grew beautiful flowers, vegetables and raspberries.

Pat was a member of the Sidney Trail Riders, enjoyed bus trips, NASCAR, the coast and fairs.

Patricia is survived by her daughter LeeAnn and son in law George Lizzotte; son James and daughter-in-law Nancy Haskell; grandchildren Benjamin Lizzotte and spouse Kristin, Tarra Bouchard and spouse Brendon, Samantha Haskell, Kyle Haskell and spouse Katlyn; as well as several great-grandchildren; brother Robert Harding, sister-in-law Ann Harding; her sister Pauline Gorham; and her brother Raymond Harding and spouse Sharon; sister-in-law Ethel Stevens and spouse Glenn; many nieces and nephews.

Patricia was predeceased by her husband David, parents, in-laws, her brother Ronald Harding, sister-in-law Nancy Harding, and granddaughter Emily Andrews.

There will be no funeral and a celebration of Patricia’s life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Patricia’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; email: donors@stjude.org.

COL. ROBERT E. NIXON

WINSLOW- Colonel Robert Edward Nixon Sr., 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. The son of John and Alice Nixon, he was born in Houlton on August 1, 1931.

Bob married his high school sweetheart, Beverly in 1952. He graduated from the University of Maine in 1954 where he was a member of Kappa Sigma and the UMaine basketball team. After graduation, he served active duty in the military for two years in Wildflecken, Germany. He retired from the military in 1985 as a ranking Colonel. After serving active duty, he served as the athletic director for 33 years at Winslow High School.

Bob devoted his life to his family and to coaching numerous athletic teams from high school to youth sports, affecting the lives of many. His accolades and impact on the community of Winslow are too numerous to list.

Bob is survived by his children, Robert Nixon Jr. and wife Debbie, Janice Souviney and husband Jim, Nathan Nixon and wife Tara, William Nixon and wife Alexandra; five grandchildren, Mystie Grant and her husband Joe; Katie Souviney and fiancé David; Nick Souviney and his wife Trisha; Cody Souviney and wife Katie; Nathan Nixon and wife Chantelle; and ten great-grandchildren, Malachi, Gailan, Marin, Cooper, Bethanny, Nixon, Jaclyn, Lillian, Colton, and Brantley.

He was predeceased by his wife Beverly, and his four siblings, Jack Nixon, Joe Nixon, Walter Nixon, and Betty Boudway.

Family and friends of Bob are welcome to a Celebration of Life at the VFW, in Winslow, on Wednesday, July 28, from 2-5pm.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com

DORIS A. GIROUX

WATERVILLE – Doris Arlene Cormier Giroux, 84, passed away on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. She was born on June 15, 1937, the tenth of 11 children to Aldrich and Marion Libby Cormier.

She was the last surviving sibling. She has two sisters-in-law, dozens of nieces and nephews, dozens of great-nieces and nephews, and many great-great-nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1955 where she was an active FHA member and secretary and a member of the Art Club. She was employed at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, as a stitcher. She stepped in to coach the Winslow High School cheerleaders in the 1980s. Doris spent most of her life as a homemaker who loved her gardening, knitting, sewing, jigsaw puzzles, and her soap operas.

She is survived by her husband, Norman Giroux, who she married in April 1956.

She is survived by her children Karen and her spouse, Gerry Rancourt, and Timothy and his spouse, Paul Anctil; four grandchildren, Jill and her husband, Jeff Merckens, John Rancourt, Todd Rancourt and his wife, Jenn, and Ryan Rancourt and his wife, Megan and her two sons; four great-grandchildren, Rylee, Bridgette, Alex, and Todd Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St, Winslow, ME, on Thursday, July 15. Private committal services to follow at a later date.

Please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share your memories and condolences with Doris’ family.

Memorial donations may be made to Northern Light Lakewood Continuing Care Activities Group, 220 Kennedy Memorial Dr., Waterville, ME 04901, or to Beacon Hospice, 5 Community Dr., SuiteA, Augusta, ME 04330, or to Pine Tree Camp, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome, ME 04963.

MILFORD A. THOMAS

SOUTH CHINA – Milford Allen Thomas, age 85, died Thursday, July 8, 2021, at the home he and his wife, Carol, built in 1958. He was born in Weeks Mills, on June 1, 1936, a son of the late William and Juanita (Pierce) Thomas.

He met Carol when she moved to Weeks Mills in 1947. They attended the one room school house for a short time until China School, on Lakeview Drive, was built. Carol and Milford continued their education at Erskine Academy, in South China, where he graduated in 1954.

On June 22, 1957, he married the former Carol Crane, who also graduated from Erskine.

For over 30 years, he worked at Marriner’s Paving, Inc., in Rockport, and retired in 1993.

He was a member of Dirigo Lodge #104, AF & AM, of Weeks Mills. He was a past member of Maine Good Roads Assoc. For several years, after his retirement, he served on the road committee and the appeals board for the town of China. He always enjoyed helping when the town roads were paved each year. He was instrumental in restoring the one-room school house in Weeks Mills.

Mr. Thomas was predeceased by his sister, Marilyn Gray.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carol C. (Crane) Thomas, of South China; two daughters: Cheryl Foss and her husband Kenneth, of Wales, and Barbara Brann and her husband Dean, of Whitefield; four grandchildren: Matthew Brann and his wife Kirsten, Meghan Brann, Andrew Foss and Benjamin Foss and his wife Kelsea; four great-grandchildren: Aiden, Kiley and Wyatt Brann and Thomas Foss; two brothers, Barry Thomas and his wife Sandra, of South China, and Wayne Thomas and his wife Diane, of Foley, Alabama; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours. A funeral service, with Masonic services, was held on July 13, at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor. Burial and committal prayers followed in Chadwick Hill Cemetery, Rte. 32, China.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Dirigo Number 104, c/o Thomas Squires, 89 Greeley Rd., Windsor, ME, 04363.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

GAYLE H. PINKHAM

WINDSOR – Gayle Hewett Pinkham, 62, passed away at home on Friday, July 9, 2021, following a long courageous battle with cancer. Daughter of Maynard and Gladys Hewett, she was born on March 18, 1959, and grew up in Weeks Mills.

Gayle attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and graduated in 1977. During her four years of high school, she was very active in sports – including field hockey, cheering, and softball – and she excelled in academics and was Salutatorian of her class. She met many of her lifelong friends at Erskine, but most importantly she met her soulmate, Cameron Pinkham.

After high school Gayle attended The University of Maine at Machias and graduated in 1979 with her associate degree. She would later return to school to complete her bachelor’s degree in accounting. Cameron attended Machias with her and after graduating they decided to spend the rest of their lives together and they married later that year on September 8, 1979. Soon after marrying, they moved to Wyoming for a couple years before returning to Windsor to build a house and start a family.

Gayle and Cameron welcomed their first daughter, Melanie, in 1988, and then their second daughter, Michele, in 1991. Gayle was a dedicated mother who loved staying home to raise her daughters. She did it all; extra curriculars, chaperoning field trips, helping with homework, Girl Scout Troop leader, instilling values, and preparing them for the “real world”. She was an exceptional mom.

As her children grew up, she went back to work, part time at first, then eventually full time. She revisited some of her lifelong passions, such as reading, and branched out to other hobbies. She became very physically active and spent years attending fitness classes and enjoyed walking in particular. In her later years she took up knitting, creating beautiful handmade gifts for family and friends. Perhaps her favorite way to relax was to spend sunny summer days at camp, in Pemaquid, sitting by the water with Cameron – oftentimes even bringing their chairs right into the water to sit in the gentle waves.

Without a doubt, the absolute highlight of her life was her three grandchildren, Landon and Kamryn Ritchie, and Efstratia “Tia” Gayle Xamplas.

Gayle is predeceased by her father, Maynard Hewett.

She is survived by her mother, Gladys Hewett, of Windsor; her husband of 42 years, Cameron Pinkham, of Windsor; her two daughters Melanie Ritchie and husband Kyle, of Orrington, and Michele Xamplas and husband Peter, of Australia; three grandchildren: Landon Ritchie, Kamryn Ritchie, and Efstratia Gayle Xamplas; four sisters: Marilyn, Gloria, Joyce, and Brenda; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside celebration of life will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery, in Windsor, on Saturday, July 17, at 11 a.m.

Arrangements are under Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rte. 32, Windsor.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Alfond Cancer Center, c/o MaineGeneral Office of Philanthropy, 35 Medical Center Parkway, Augusta, ME 04330, in her memory.

JUNE E. JABAR

WATERVILLE – June E. Jabar, 92, of Waterville, passed away at her home on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. June was born in Bar Harbor, in 1929, the daughter of Chuck and Elizabeth Nawfel.

She was a graduate of Waterville High School. She was employed as a sales representative with multiple companies and was considered a real people person. June and her husband Herb lived in Waterville but loved spending their summers on Great Pond. They also loved spending time with their family and friends.

June was married to and predeceased by her husband, Herbert Jabar.

June is survived by her son Michael S. McConkie, and his wife Lisa, of Fairfield; and stepchildren, Stephanie, Tammy, Lori, Michael, Gregory; and several grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, June 30, at June’s home at 28 North Street, in Waterville.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

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

WAYNE J. DELAWARE

WATERVILLE – Wayne Joseph Delaware Sr., 82, of Waterville, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at Maine General, in Augusta. Wayne was born in Waterville to Gertrude (St. Peter) and Gilbert Delaware on November 4, 1938.

He attended Waterville schools. He worked for Fred’s Vending, inWaterville, for many years, as well as Colby College and Thomas College, both in Waterville, in dining service. He also attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Waterville.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Annie Delaware, of Gardiner; his son, Wayne Delaware Jr., and his wife, Melissa, of Pittsfield; his daughter, Debbie Delaware, of Winslow; his granddaughters, Skylar D’Orio and her husband, Dakota, and Sophia Delaware; his grandsons Josiah Griffeth and Grayson Davis; and by many nieces and nephews.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents Gertrude and Gilbert Delaware; his twin sister, Jane, his sister, Juliette “Honey” Manson, his brother, Richard Delaware, his sister, Jean Houston, and his brother, Gilbert “Dud” Delaware.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 17, at MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, from 3 to 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

BYRON R. NORTON

WINDSOR – Byron Ralph Norton, 68, of Windsor, passed away peacefully at home, on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, following a long, hard-fought battle.

Byron is survived by his wife of 41 years, Lovina (Joslyn) Norton; their daughter Jessica Norton; and their son Jacob Norton with wife Jessica (Dunn) and children Elijah, Aubrey and Isaac Norton, all of Windsor; three sisters, Laurie Mullens with partner Richard Cummings, of Whitefield, Patty Preservati, of Somerville, and Pamela Metten, of Chelsea; a brother-in-law Don Joslyn with wife Cheyenne, of Sidney; and two sisters-in-law, Debbie Landry, of Jefferson, and Pam Norton, of Somerville; as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Eugenia (Moxcey) Norton, and his brothers, Richard and Timothy Norton.

In light of the pandemic, a funeral service was delayed. Those who knew and loved Byron are now invited to attend a graveside service on Saturday, July 17, at 1 p.m., at Resthaven Cemetery, on the corner of Maxcy’s Mills and Ridge roads, in Windsor. A celebration of life gathering will follow immediately after at 142 Griffin Road, in Windsor.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: RODERICK BELANGER

There will be a graveside service for Roderick (Wee-Wee) Belanger, who passed away on April 25, 2021, on Saturday, July 24, at 2 p.m., at the Bingham Village Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow outside at North Country Rivers, in Bingham. Please, no pets.

DIANE B. POMERLEAU

VASSALBORO – Diane B. Pomerleau, 66, of Vassalboro, died peacefully at her home on Friday afternoon, June 4, 2021, from pneumonia associated with Alzheimer’s. Diane was born on Jan­uary 26, 1955, the daughter of William H. and Theresa (Veilleux) Bean.

She was raised on the Cony Road, in Augusta, attended St. Augustine School, and graduated from Cony High School in 1973. Diane married Michael Pomerleau, of Winslow, in May 1974, and settled in Vassalboro where they raised three children.

The sixth of nine children, Diane was a wonderful mother and homemaker. Besides keeping an immaculate home, she tended several gardens, sewed, canned fruits and vegetables, and loved to cook and bake sweets. Over the years, she also enjoyed candlepin bowling, “Beano” at the American Legion, hosting parties, attending country music concerts, winemaking, exercise and meditation, long walks, and family vacations.

Diane was hardworking and industrious. She began working in high school at A&W and then Deering Ice Cream, in Augusta. She worked as a bookkeeper at Malcolm Cadillac-Oldsmobile, babysat several Riverside area children when her kids were young, was a cashier at Shop-n-Save, a hostess at the SenatorInn, in Augusta, and a receptionist in Radiology at the Veterans Administration Hospital, in Togus.

She began her career for the federal government as a clerk-typist at GSA, in Augusta, became the secretary for the director of the IRS, in Augusta, and then returned to work for GSA as a building management specialist until her early retirement in 2010. As her health declined, she received in-home care from family, caregivers, and hospice until her death.

Diane was always a perfectionist. She would do anything for her kids, but she once gave the “gift of life” to a total stranger as a bone marrow stem cell donor. Diane was very social, quick to laughter, loved to joke, and had an energetic, playful spirit. She carried these traits with her even as her disease progressed into its later stages. She will be dearly missed.

Diane was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Richard Bean, of Augusta; her sister, Linda Merrill, and nephew, Troy Merrill, of Windsor; and her nephew, Shawn Cormier, of Augusta.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; her son, Jason Pomerleau, daughter-in-law, Flora (Ming), and their daughters, Adelle, Celine, and Sophie, of Califon, New Jersey; her daughter, Mindy Puri, son-in-law, Rajeev, and their son, Maxwell, of Falmouth; and her son, Daniel Pomerleau, daughter-in-law, Elizabeth, and their daughters, Lucia and Fiona, of Alexandria, Virginia; her brothers and sisters, William R. Bean and his wife, Louise, of Augusta; Ronald Bean of Augusta; Ann Dube and her husband, Robert, of Vassalboro; Roland Bean and his wife, Diane, of Sidney; Donald Bean and his wife, Carol, of Augusta; Nancy Dumont and her husband, David, of Sidney; brother-in-law, Michael Merrill, of Windsor; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Augustine Church, in Augusta, at 10 a.m., on Saturday, July 17, 2021. A reception, memorial service and luncheon will follow at the Elk’s Lodge, in Augusta. All who knew and loved her are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Diane’s memory to MaineGeneral Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828 (give.mainegeneral.org).

FAYE I. POTTLE

BENTON – Faye Isabelle Pottle, 91, passed away on Thursday morning, June 10, 2021. She was born in Albion on September 22, 1929, to Cla­rence and Lizzie (Dow) Cookson.

She attended Besse High School, in Albion, and graduated in June 1948 as valedictorian of her class. Later that year, she married Edwin Pottle, of Benton, and they both went to work at Diamond Match Company, in Oakland. They both retired in 1982 after 34 years. Then they traveled by motor home for eight years to California and Florida in the winter months. Faye said it was always heaven to return to Maine and home.

She greatly enjoyed gardening and had many beautiful potted plants. She spent most of her time in her gardens and also in the woods helping to cut pulp and firewood. She attended the East Benton Church where she was church clerk for 13 years and Sunday School teacher for over five years where she had a great troop of 12 youngsters who came every Sunday.

Faye is survived by her children, Barbara and Gary Richards, of Clinton; grandchildren, Kelly and Bill McKenzie, of Albion, Greg Richards and wife Jennifer, of Clinton, Beth and Travis Brown, of Washburn; nine great-grandchildren; great-great-granddaughter, Evelyn McKenzie.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband in 1991; son, Fred; John and Dot Cookson, Luana and Norman Willette, Elsie and Norman Wilson, Shirley and Edward Ellis, Dora and Shesler Blaisdell, Gloria Cookson, Edith Cookson and Ralph Webber III; brothers, Robert and Mayo Cookson; and sister, Beverly Webber.

At her request, there will be no visitation hours or funeral service.

A graveside service and celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

JONATHAN G. JOSEPH

WATERVILLE – Jonathan George Joseph, 59, passed away peacefully at the Gosnell Hospice House, in Scarborough, on Tuesday, June 15, 2021. Jon was born in 1961 and raised in Waterville.

He graduated from Water­ville High School and attended Thomas College, in Waterville. He lived in San Antonio, Texas, and Kennebunk, ultimately returning to Waterville. He was a well-liked waiter whose customers followed him to jobs at several local restaurants. Later, Jon took over Joseph Vending, at Colby College. He was a bartender at the Colby Pub and events, most recently worked at Thomas College under the Sodexo umbrella.

He was a long time Waterville Country Club member and was an avid golfer. He enjoyed golfing adventures with his brother Duke, in San Antonio, and beach days with his brother Chris and family, in Kennebunk. Jon also enjoyed continuing the family weekly tee time with Dave Burbank. After his father passed, he took over as primary caregiver for his mom. He was known for his jumbo shrimp platters and his secret cocktail sauce he prepared for all holiday gatherings. Jon had an easy laugh and was the life of the party.

He was predeceased by his father Alfred “Al” Joseph.

He is survived by his mother, Ruth Joseph, of Waterville; his brother, Alfred Jr. “Duke” and Lyn Joseph, of San Antonio, Texas; his sister Sue Dunn and Robert White, of Bartlett, New Hampshire; his nieces, Lauren Dunn, of Denver, Colorado, and Caitlin Dunn, of New Zealand; his brother, Christopher and Frieda Joseph, of Kennebunk; his nephews, Lee Joseph, of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and Sam Joseph, of Arundel; and niece, Sophie Joseph, of Saco.

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 in Jonathan Joseph’s name to Maine General Hospice, P.O Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

RAYMOND L. DUDLEY SR.

VASSALBORO – Raynold L. Dudley Sr., 67, of Vassalboro, passed away at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Monday, June 21, 2021, due to COPD and heart failure. He was born on November 16, 1953, son of Theron Dudley Sr. and Patricia Dudley (Studley).

Ray loved fishing, hunting, cooking, and especially camping in Pemaquid in his younger days. He held a variety of jobs in his life – cook, meat cutter, construction worker, welder and iron worker, at Cives Steel, in Augusta.

Ray was well liked and had quite the sense of humor. He had many a good stories of his life’s ad­ventures to tell. Ray enjoyed his time with his grandson, Conner. He enjoyed getting Conner to laugh and giggle with his silly antics. He loved to feed him his viddles and sneak him his sippy cup and other things when others weren’t around. He’d say “Grampa will take care of you.”

He is survived by his son, Joshua Dudley and fiancée, Devin Henderson; grandson, Conner Dudley, as well as a brother, Theron Dudley Jr.; and two sisters, Linda Beaulieu and Tricia Darcia.

A family gathering will be held at a later date.

SANDRA S. KNIGHTS

WATERVILLE – Sandra Santos Knights, 65, died Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at Mount Saint Joseph Residence, in Waterville, having had a long battle with several medical issues. Sandra, or “Sandy” as those who knew her best would call her—was born April 26, 1956, born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Raul and Ester Santos, their only child.

She enjoyed being with her family, reading the Bible, conversing about Christianity, doing crosswords and trivia games, watching the news and her crime shows. She loved strawberries, traveling and animals, especially cats.

Before early retirement, Sandy was a registered nurse with the state of Maine and working for 20-plus years at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville. She loved working in the pediatric department, she absolutely loved babies and taking care of them. She was most happy when surrounded by infants and young children – and she knew how to care for them and show love.

Having been in the U. S. Air Force for so long, she traveled with them her whole life until they landed in Fairfield when she was in the eighth grade.

She was a good Christian lady. Even at the end she knew her Lord and Savior. She loved to sing in her early years, she loved to host her friends and laugh for hours. She was a very bright and special woman. Towards the end she would often discuss her favorite Bible passages. One being PSALM 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Another one she would discuss would be Roman’s 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good (A) of those who love him, who have been called (B) according to his purpose.” She was predeceased in 2013 by her mother, Esther B. Santos and father, Raul F. Santos, in 2001.

She is survived by her husband, Leland L. Knights II; daughter, Kerrilee M. Knights, son, Daniel S. Knights; grandsons Orestes Christopher Dixon, Alexander and Logan Knights, granddaughter, Akasha Rose Dixon.

There will be a private graveside service held in Fairfield at the Maplewood Cemetery, at noon, on Friday, July 9.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

NANCY M. LaBRIE

WATERVILLE – Nancy Marie LaBrie, 77, died at her home on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, following a long illness. She was born March 4, 1944, in Portsmouth, New Hamp­shire, the daughter of the late Alice Chapman and Harley Gallagher.

Nancy loved her cat Molly, listening to Neil Diamond, playing cards, and trivial pursuit. Above all, she was madly in love with and predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Joseph Robert Luis “Bob”. “Nanny”, as she was known, was highly creative and loved to cook with her family, needle point, quilt, and paint, among other things.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Joseph and Bonnie, Martha Spaulding, Allison and Mike Campbell and Kevin and Robin; 12 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren; brothers Herbert Gallagher, Calvin, Fred and Michael Chapman; and her sister, Christine Pullen.

Above all, the family would like people to, instead of mourn her passing, celebrate the wonderful life she had and the love she shared with us all. We will all miss her dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 10, at 1 p.m., at the Saint Bridget’s Center, 864 Main St., Vassalboro.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Nancy’s memory to the
Kidney Foundation of Maine, P.O. Box 1134, Portland, ME 04104.

BLAINE G. HENRY

KINGSTON, New Brunswick, Canada – Blaine Gordon Henry, 70, of Kingston, New Brunswick, Canada, passed away on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. He was born in Waterville on January 11, 1951, the only child of the late James and Jacqueline )McGregor) Henry.

Blaine graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1969, and then attended Central Maine Vocational-Technical Institute, in Auburn, where he graduated with a diploma in process control and instrumentation technology in 1971. Following graduation, Blaine was employed by Mobil Oil, in Chicago, Illinois, for a short time and then moved back to Maine where he worked at Bath Iron Works, in Bath. In 1974, Blaine and Gail were married and emmigrated to Canada (Saint John, NB) to start a career at Irving Oil, where he worked for 42 years.

Blaine had a wonderful sense of humor and could tell a great story. He was knowledgeable in just about every subject, and if you asked him a question you had better be prepared for a lengthy answer. One of his many sayings was, “to make a long story longer.” He loved the outdoors, was an avid hunter, and had a great love for animals. For many years Blaine enjoyed Friday night pool with his many friends.

Blaine is survived by his wife, Gail; his sons, Nathan and wife Sherry and son Justin; his daughter Sarah and husband Joe Gilliland; and his granddaughter, Summer.

RODNEY A. DESCHAINE

WATERVILLE – Rodney A. Deschaine, 77, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at Northern Light Inland Hos­pital, in Water­ville. He was born in Water­ville on April 26, 1944, a son of Rene and Anne (Martin) Deschaine.

He was raised in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1963. Over the years, he worked at Scott PaperCo., in Winslow, Carleton Woolen Mill and retired from Dorothy Egg Farm as a delivery driver. He was also known to be puttering around the house all the time.

Rodney was predeceased by his parents, infant daughter Terry and his sister Geraldine MacArthur.

He is survived by his life partner, Sharon Lane; his children: Trina Nickerson and husband, Frank, of Fairfield, Ken Deschaine, of Jay, Pam Howe and husband Millage, of West Coxsackie, New York, and Jaime Lane and domestic partner Claudia Jones, of Kiezer, Oregan; siblings: Roland Dechaine and wife Diane, Rose Paulette and husband Gene, David Deschaine, Martin Deschaine and wife Jane; grandchildren, Brock Deschaine, Zachary and Allison Nickerson, Freeman, Owen, Shayna and Haylic Howe; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

At his request there will not be a funeral service, but a Celebration of Life will be held on August 7.

You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Rodney’s guestbook at http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

A Service of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, Maine 04901. (207)872-7676.

ELAINE J. COLLIER

OAKLAND – Elaine Joyce (Bickford) Collier was born in Oakland on May 4, 1938, to Bessie and Earl Bickford, one of five children.

She worked her way through the Williams school system and married the love of her life, Buddy Collier in 1957. Together they shared big dreams. They shared five children together. Growing their family, they spent time traveling the west.

Montana proved to be an intriguing place with promises of mill work and missile silos, but two days before their final return trip in the early ’70s, President Nixon signed a peace treaty eliminating those job opportunities. To think that one stroke of the pen would be what finally determined Maine was where they would keep their family. In 64 years together, what started as two, would turn into 61, nearly a person for every year together. Five children, 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Not to mention the countless people she took in as her own.

She spent many happy years working for the Registry of Deeds, in Augusta. She also found great joy later in life working by her daughter’s side at Grower Merchandise Services. She loved to shop whenever she could and was always drawn to the ocean. But in the grand scheme of things, her true passion was always found in her family.

Her favorite holiday was Halloween because it gave her the opportunity to scare all her growing grandchildren and follow it with a chuckle. Simply the best seems the most accurate description for her. A rock. A sounding board for all your troubles. The storm. Pure heart and an everlasting fire for life. She is the reason we are all here. Her fire transcended through the generations and molded us into the beautiful, strong, passionate people we all are today. She was the force that drove the ship, the glue that bound us all together, the one we all strived to be. She was and will always be our guide through every hill and valley this life throws at us.

Every moment she spent here was enjoyed fully with not a second wasted. She ran, she danced, she laughed, cried and sang. She saw the world from cruise ships and gambled until her heart was full. She loved everyone, so strong, with everything she had. There will never be a replacement or a fix for this hole in all our lives that she will leave behind. She would not want us to cry for her, a resounding “I don’t need nothin’,” would have been the directions given. She lived, she loved, and as a family we are all better people for the priceless gifts she has bestowed upon us. She is finally at peace, Big Gram and Gramp, dancing away in Paradise together. This is how she would want to be remembered, smiling, dancing, laughing and loving. She was our light and she will be forever missed by every single person she ever touched.

Elaine was predeceased by her husband, Buddy Collier; her mother and father, Bessie (Knox) Bickford and Earl Bickford; her brother, Neil Bickford and sister, Janice Dorval.

She is survived by four sons, Chad Collier and his wife Lauralei, Flint Collier and his wife Susan, Nathan Collier and his wife Terri, Cord Collier and his wife Frannie; a daughter, Debbie Smith and her husband Terry; grandchildren Paige Collier and partner Kelsey, Joe Gagnon and wife Julie, Kahlie Desrosiers and husband Josh, Lucas Collier and wife Kristen, Jaimie Gagnon, Matthew Collier and wife Jessica, Kailyn Morlano and husband Joe, Jake Collier and partner Shelby, Alei Collier and fiancé Brandon. Carson Collier, Jennifer Langella and husband Nick, Meaghan Webster and husband Chad, Nikki Cummings and husband Casey, Delaney Collier and partner Jake, Abby Collier and Cassie Smith; great-grandchildren Aiden and Emilyn, Remington and Roanoke, Gracelyn, Madelyn and Joey, Gabby, Raya and Nathan, Charli and Liam, Evelyn and Maelyn, Gunner, Aubri, Lydia, Finn and Barry, River and Clark, Elaine; brothers, Earl Bickford and wife Alice, and Jack Bickford and wife Dorothy;

A celebration of Life will be held Saturday July 10, 3 p.m., at Gram’s home, in Oakland.

JASON BURNHAM

WATERVILLE – On Monday, June 21, 2021, Jason Burnham, 46, of Water­ville, unexpectedly passed away at his residence. Jason was born in Skowhegan on September 25, 1974, to parents Joan and Wayne Burnham.

He graduated from Madison Area High School with the class of 1992. After graduating he went on to work at Wood Tech like his father.

On his free time as a young adult Jason enjoyed riding snowmobiles and was the self proclaimed “#1 dancer at any bar around.” As a father he enjoyed spending time with his family and sidekick pup, Isabelle, and was often seen in his red Jeep jamming out to his favorite tunes. Jason will always be remembered for looking his best while having a Mountain Dew in hand.

Jason is survived by his daughter, Miriah Jo Casey; his son, Benjamin Ross Warrell; grandson, Ashton-Wayne Bautista; the love of his life, Brigette Warrell; grandparents, Marie Fortin, Donald and Elaine Burnham as well as many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Jason was preceded in death by his parents, Joan and Wayne Burnham, grandparents, Jean-Paul Fortin, Bernard and Stella Heil.

Services will be held at King Parish Cemetery, in Skowhegan, on July 7, 2021, at 1:30 p.m., with a celebration of life held afterwards at an undisclosed location. The family appreciates and welcomes anyone who loved and knew Jason to come pay their respects.