OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 11, 2021

PAULA M. FISHER

WATERVILLE – Paula M. Vashon Fisher, 65, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor, following a brief illness. Paula was born on March 29, 1955, the daughter of Armand and Adeline Vashon.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1973. She then attended Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, graduating as a Certified Nurses Assistant. She worked at Oak Grove Center, Mount St. Joseph and Northern Light Inland Hospital, all in Waterville, and the St. John Food Pantry, in Winslow.

Paula loved playing cards with friends.

Paula was married to Darrell Fisher for 35 years. They had many happy years together.

Paula was predeceased by her parents, Armand and Adeline Vashon, and her younger brother, Peter Vashon.

She is survived by her siblings, Michael and Susan Vashon, of Vassalboro, Norman and Sherry Vashon, Claire Young, Estelle and David Bucknam; sisters-in-law Janet Vashon, Sharon Clement, Cecile Goodno and Darlene Fisher; brothers-in-law Conrad and Joanne Fisher, and Lionel and Linda Fisher; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held later this spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. John Food Pantry, 26 Monument St., Winslow, ME 04901.

CLARENCE W. HANNAN

SOUTH CHINA – Clarence W. “Sonny” Hannan, 75, of South China passed away at his home on Monday, February 22, 2021.

Sonny retired from Huhtamaki, in Waterville, after 37 years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, camping with friends and family, spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, chihuahua Sweetie and close friends Dennis McKenney and Joe Pilsbury.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elaine; son Todd, of South China; daughter Tina and husband Daniel, of South China; grandchildren Stephen and Jenn, Elizabeth and JJ, Ashlie and Brian; great-grandchildren Jayden, Melodie, Rylee and Scarlett; sisters Genevieve Bulmer, Viola Fuller, Betty Stratton; sister-in-law Gloria Russell; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Jake and Anna Hannan; his sisters Ruth Hannan, Roberta Warner, brother Buddy Russell; and grandson Dennis Quigley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Avian Haven Rehabilitation Center, 418 North Palermo Rd., Freedom, ME 04941.

FREEMAN A. HIGGINS

ALBION – Freeman Arthur Higgins, 72, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at his home. in Albion. He was born September 11, 1947, in Waterville, the son of Clarence G. and Laura (Rowe) Higgins.

He graduated from Besse High School , in Albion, in 1966. In 1968, he married Rebecca Piper, in Albion. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge. He was employed for many years as a mechanic at Lee Brothers, Inc., in Albion. He was a member of Mason’s Central Lodge #45 and enjoyed gardening and woodworking.

Freeman is survived by his wife of 53 years, Rebecca (Piper) Higgins, of Albion; two sons, Lance Higgins and wife Valerie, and Adam Higgins and wife Melissa, all of Albion; two granddaughters, Abigail Higgins and Hannah Higgins, both of Albion; five brothers, Winston Higgins and wife Rebecca, and Clayton “Joe” Higgins and wife Geraldine, all of Albion, Wayne Higgins and wife Elaine, of Fairfield, Jeff Higgins and wife Raye, of Smithfield, Ronald Higgins and wife Linda, of Portland; three sisters-in-law, Wanda Boivin, of Clinton, Sharon McPhail, of Belgrade, Linda Weeks and husband Robert, of Fairfield.

He was predeceased by his parents and bothers, Clyde, Mike, and Clifton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 4445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine, 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Freeman’s memory to Veterans Voluntary Services, c/o Robert Weeks, 22 Savage Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.

SHIRLEY E. IBBITSON

VASSALBORO – Shirley “Mimmy” Ibbitson, 95, passed peacefully Thursday, February 25, 2021. She was born May 1, 1925.

She was a 1945 graduate of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School. After graduating, Shirley met and married the love of her life, Howard, on December 18, 1948. They left Hanson, Massachusetts, to reside in Vassalboro where she worked as a bookkeeper at the Vassalboro Woolen Mill. Later Shirley worked for the Gables House and also as a chambermaid at Howard Johnson’s.

After retiring, she and Howard traveled across the United States, always returning to Maine for the summers to be spent in their camp. Howard, with help from the family, built a modest camp at the top of their property so that they could look over their family, or what the kids referred to as “scooping it out”.

Shirley enjoyed knitting, painting, puzzles, sewing and her animals. She and Howard always had a dog, most recent one being a rescue named Bo, referred to as the Big Black Dog, and although she was unable to pick him up, she loved her guinea pig Sandy. Sadly Shirley had to make the decision to lay Bo to rest in January and Sandy has gone to live out his remaining days with a close family friend.

At one time she attended Pins and Needles at the old St. Bridget’s Church, in Vassalboro, and enjoyed field trips with the Muskie Center, in Waterville, when she was able to go. Shirley loved to go. It didn’t matter where, as long as she was in the car. Russell would often bring her to town whether it was for her shopping, a ride around the lake, or just an errand that he may have. She looked forward to breakfasts with Matthew, Cathy and the girls and she also looked forward to her weekly trip to the Winslow VFW with Paul and Lisa, where she was a lifetime member and also part of the Women’s Auxiliary. She was always greeted by the regulars as she was escorted in to have her one “toddy” made by her favorite bartender Peter, with whom she formed a special bond with and would exchange trinkets and gifts.

Shirley also loved her yearly trips with Bimp to Cabbage Island, a tradition that Crystal was able to continue for a few more years. Even though the trips had to end for Shirley due to her ailing legs, Crystal substituted them for Girlz Dayz and Ladies Lunches, a new tradition that Shirley loved just as much. Casey will always be able to cherish the last two trips to the ocean with her Mim.

There was no way that she was going to leave her home and for the last nine years, her family has made sure of it. Although her declining health, Shirley made her own meals and kept her home up until her last days, with some extra help.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Howard, her only daughter Cindy Douglass, and daughter-in-law Belinda Ibbitson.

She is survived by her four sons, Russell, Paul and wife Lisa, both of Vassalboro, Mickey and wife Tina, of Waterville, and Tommy and companion Crystal, of Lebanon; her first granddaughter Crystal and husband Ed Drake, of Vassalboro, Misty and husband Fernando Barrios, of San Diego, California, Jenna Poulin and husband Adam, of Whitefield, Brittney, of Winslow, and Shari and husband John Bryant; of Caanan; great-grandchildren. Casey Starratt and companion Roy Prue, of Gardiner, Matthew Starratt and companion Cathy Batchelder, of South China, Nicholas Olivera, of Miami, Florida, Kai Barrios, of San Diego, California, Paislee Poulin, of Whitefield (who is going to be a big sister to a new little), Devon and Justin Brown, both of Portland; great-great-grandchildren. Milayna and Letty Starratt, children of Matthew and Cathy.

There will be no funeral at this time. A burial and celebration will be later in the spring.

SAMUEL A. BARTLETT

WHITEFIELD – Samuel A. Bartlett, 89, of Mills Road, died Thursday, February 25, 2021, at V.A. Maine Healthcare Hospital at Togus, following a brief illness. He was born in Somerville, on July 7, 1931, the son of Samuel L.A. Bartlett and Grace (Jones) Bartlett.

Mr. Bartlett served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a salesman and mechanic at Bartlett’s Auto Sales for several years.

He enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family.

He was predeceased by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Surviving are two sons, Samuel L. Bartlett and Kenneth Bartlett, both of Whitefield; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Road, Windsor, Maine.

A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, March 12, 2021, at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, Maine.

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

GEORGE JOSEPH

WATERVILLE – George “Tony” Joseph, 89, of Waterville, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. Tony was born on February 1, 1932, the youngest son of David and Tamamie (Karem) Joseph. He was one of 22 siblings.

Tony was raised at the Head of Falls and Front Street, in Waterville. He graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1950. He was active in sports excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. Tony was a proud participant on the 1949 state champion basketball team. He also was vice president of the class of 1950.

Tony joined the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduation from high school. Upon his return from serving time in the Korean War he attended and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, on a GI bill, with an associate degree, in 1957. While in the Air Force he received many honors, the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

After graduating from Thomas, he worked at Joseph’s Billiard Academy, he opened Tony’s Italians on the rotary, and then enjoyed a career at the post office, all in Waterville.

Tony was active socially. He was a member of the Elks Lodge #905, Bouque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, and the Lebanon Youth Society, all in Waterville. Tony loved the family camp on China Lake, where there are so many memories from family reunions, weddings, christenings, and class reunions. Anything to do with family usually started at China. Tony was the “draw” and had so many stories to tell.

Tony was an avid sports fan. He followed his children’s and grandchildren’s sports teams, always supporting and cheering them on. He also followed and loved the New York Yankees and Notre Dame University. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. He was drawn to the water and enjoyed trips to the coast.

Tony was predeceased by his brothers, Joe Dave, Elias, James, Alfred, Naseeb, John and Phillip; brother-in-law, Douglas Day; sisters, Lena Fotter, Julia Campion, Selma Thompson, Celia John, Madeline Joseph, and Marianne Perry.

Tony is survived by his wife, Joyce (Day), to whom he was married to just one month shy of 69 years; his children Ricky and his wife Cindy, of Decatur, Illinois, and their daughters, Caitlin Pellitier and husband Zach, of Sierra Vista, Arizona, and Antonia Joseph, of Boise, Idaho; daughter, Lisa Joseph, of Maine; son, Kevin Joseph, of Waterville, and his son Tyler Joseph, of Portland, and daughter Kayla Joseph, of St. Thomas, USVI; sister, Josie Laflay, of Virginia; sister-in-law, Lolita Day; many nieces and nephews.

A memorial Mass and celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

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

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

Tony was proud of his lifelong church. He was schooled there until he moved to junior high. He was the son of parents who were part of the building of the church and lifelong communicant.

Donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville, ME 04901.

GAIL NOBLE

CHINA – Gail Noble, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021. She was born August 3, 1945, the daughter of Elden and Myrtle Pullen.

She grew up in Sidney and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1964. Soon after she married and had three children. She worked various jobs and owned and operated Our Place restaurant for 14 years with daughter Julie. She enjoyed gardening cooking hooking rugs friends family. Gail loved her dog Lu Lu Belle.

Gail was predeceased by both parents, Elden and Myrtle Pullen; sister and brother-in-law Ethel and Cecil Phair, brother George, and granddaughter Alyssa Savage.

She is survived by son Phillip Mckenney; daughter Naomi Savage and daughter Julie Mckenney; son-in- law Billy Mayberry; grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

No services were requested.

ELIZABETH J. CUNNINGHAM

WINDSOR – Elizabeth “Betty” Joan Cunningham, 76, of Windsor, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021, following a long illness. She was born in Waterville on August 13, 1944, the daughter of Harold Glen Dale and Helena Davenport Tibbetts.

She lived in South China as a child and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. She worked for the state of Maine and retired from AMHI after 25 years.

Betty loved to sew and made most of her children’s clothes. She made matching Easter dresses for her three daughters and many shirts for her son. She also made several wedding dresses and brides-maid dresses for her children and other family members. Betty was truly a master seamstress. She began quilting over the past 20 years and made countless quilts for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She participated in local craft fairs for years with many repeat customers who were always looking for her to be there.

Betty was an avid gardener and passed her love for this to her children. Her favorite flower was the yellow rose. She loved to go camping with her husband and family and was part of the Good Sam Club. She loved to travel to Tennessee and Florida and the Great Smokey Mountains were her favorite destination. She also enjoyed going to Dollywood and listening to gospel music.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Clinton and her brothers, Sherwood and Ronald Dale.

She is survived by her son, Ronald Peaslee and his wife Rhonda, of Windsor; her daughters, Judith Eugley and her husband Raymond, of Windsor, Jessica Gunning and her husband Mark, of Old Town, and Julie Ferguson and her husband Mike, of Sandy River Plantation; her sister, Beverly Dale, of Augusta; her grandchildren Raymond, II, Joshua and Richard Eugley, Ronald Peaslee, Jr. Zachariah Peaslee, Sharon Gunning and Hank Gunning; and her great-grandchildren, Kassidy and Silas Eugley and Vada-Leigh Yvette Peaslee; and was looking forward to the arrival of another great-grandchild in August.

A celebration of life will be held at her residence, 171 Legion Park Road, in Windsor, Saturday, May 22, at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street Augusta, ME.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

Those who would like to honor Betty can donate to Christian Life Fellowship, 1158 Eastern Ave., Chelsea, ME 04330.

MARISA A. GRIFFIN

WATERVILLE – Marisa A. Griffin, 64, of Waterville, died unexpectedly, on Sunday February 28, 2021. She was born on March 20, 1956, in Fairfield, the daughter of Ross and Marguerite Griffin.

She was raised in Waterville and educated in the Waterville school system. Over the years, Marisa enjoyed working for her father in his asphalt paving company, The Maine Dept. of Transportation, and eventually the health care field where she found work at local nursing home facilities providing care and comfort to others.

Marisa was a person that was known for her outgoing and playful personality. She could make anyone laugh and had a great sense of humor! She loved to go out and socialize. She participated in dance classes, and enjoyed listening to music and singing to the radio. Marisa also liked to cook and this was one of the ways she showed her love to people. She enjoyed travel and had opportunities to visit France and Sweden.

Marisa lived out of state in Colorado and New Hampshire for a number of years after graduating from high school. She eventually moved back to Maine to be closer to her family and raise her children.

At some point, Marisa’s health began to decline and took her away from many of the things that she loved doing. However, during the last few years of her life, Marisa found great enjoyment in her five grandchildren. She will always be remembered for being “Grammy Marisa”, her generosity and for her ability to make people find laughter and humor where others could not.

Marisa was predeceased by her mother, Marguerite Griffin and father Ross Griffin Sr., infant son, Marion Benoit, and her sisters, Marjorie Chase and Marguerite Bickford.

She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Albert, husband Jeff Albert and their four children, Joseph, Anna, Elizabeth and David Albert, of Wayne; son, Damien Benoit and wife Becka Benoit and their daughter, Anaya Benoit, of Waterboro; siblings, Mary Chase and Ross Griffin, of Waterville; nieces and nephews, Jeri Hume-Cole, Chris Cole, and Christian Trott, of Waterville, and Bobby Young, of Portland. Marisa is also survived by extended family members including many cousins.

A spring burial will take place at the Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, with a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the High Hopes Club House, 26 College Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

BEVERLY J. RICHARD

OAKLAND – Beverly Jean Richard, 86, passed away peacefully, on Monday, March 1, 2021, at home. She was born on March 28, 1934, in Hallowell, the daughter of Adjutor Pare and Alma Childs.

She graduated from Hallowell High School class of 1952. She married Leon Omer Richard, on February 12, 1955. Beverly and Leon resided in Vassalboro, where they raised their six children.

Beverly was a caregiver to many. After she raised her children she went back to school. She graduated from Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, in 1982, as a medical assistant. She worked for Dr. J. Stephen Anderson for many years.

She loved making a difference for people in need. She enjoyed working at Levine’s Department Store, in Waterville, during the holidays. Beverly was a remarkable woman, who took great pride in her role as a nurturing wife, mother, grandmother “Mimi” and great-grandmother. She loved her husband, six children, 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, wholeheartedly and unconditionally. She could often be heard saying “I love you” to each of them, and she gave the gift of many hugs.

She was very proud of her family and loved to be surrounded by them whenever she could be. Next to her family, Beverly loved sports. She so enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Bruins, and the New England Patriots.

Beverly’s love for her family and life, as well as her strength and her selflessness were inspiration to all who knew her. She was a strong woman who “loved all ways, always”, and will forever be admired and cherished.

She will be sorely missed, but her infinite love and her legacy will live on, through her loving family.

She is survived by her six children, Pam Jacques and husband Joe, of Rotonda West, Florida, Ammie Breton and her husband Alan, of Oakland, Tammie Richard and her sweetheart Tim Warren, of Smithfield, Leon Richard and wife Liezl, of Nikiski, Alaska, Carla Caron and husband Keith, of Winslow, Gene Richard and wife Alicia, of Rome; sister Patricia Chase and husband Walter, of Lewiston; sister-in-law Emily Loiselle and husband Leo, of Fort Myers, Florida, sister-in-law Maureen Richard, of Camden; grandchildren, Brian, Kelly, Jeffery, Jessica, Ashley, Casey, Derek, Justin, Jacey, Louise and Leon; great-grandchildren, Brian-Alan, Anthony, Bailey and Kannon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Adjutor Pare and Alma Cain; sister Edith (Bunny) Shirley; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Maine Street, Fairfield.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 4, 2021

ANNE S. FORTIN

SOUTH CHINA ­– Anne (Sawyer) Fortin, 87, passed away on the afternoon of Thursday, February 11, 2021. Anne was born on October 8 or 9, 1933, in Fort Fairfield, to Lewis S. and Beryl (Staples) Sawyer.

She met her future husband, Gerard (Jerry) Fortin, in Bristol, Connecticut, while both were working at the McLellan’s Dept. store. She from Ft. Fairfield and he from Augusta! This past October they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Anne was 21 when they married, Jerry was only 20, and could not wait the two days until his birthday to marry! He had to get his parents permission to marry; 56 years of their married life has been in So. China.

Anne grew up in Ft. Fairfield amongst the potato fields. She often told us how she used to pick potatoes alongside the German POWs.

She was a country girl who loved gardening and putting up her own canned goods. She made the best relish! She also loved reading, photography, flowers, sewing – from doll clothes to her children’s clothes. Knitting was also one of her talents. She enjoyed sitting on the shore with a good book while Jerry and the kids fished.

Anne is survived by her husband of 65 years, Jerry; three children, Joan (Tim) Chaffee of Clinton, Audrey Fortin of So. China, Neal (Stacy) Fortin of Riverside, Calif., also, Norman Black of Weeks Mills, whom she thought of as a second son.

She is also suvived by grandchildren, Cheslie (Eric) Kaherl, of Winthrop, and Elizabeth (Xavier) Fonseca, of Ontario, California; great-grandchildren, Katie, Jessica and Michael Kaherl, and Anne Fonseca; sister, Lillian Denison of South Paris; several nieces and nephews; great-great nephew William Sawyer Dowell, of Kentucky; cousin-in-law Jeanette Michaud, of Augusta; cousin Kermit Staples of Connor Twp.; special and long time friends, Julia Marois, of South China, and Alice Baxter, of Weeks Mills.

She was predeceased by brothers Bill and Paul Sawyer, of Ft. Fairfield, sister, Louise Hill, of Magnolia, Kentucky, cousin Angela (Marie) Staples, of Caribou, nephew Earl Hill, and sister-in-law, Cecile Chaisson.

Burial will be in the spring with family and friends.

KEVIN WIDELL

VASSALBORO – Kevin F Widell, 66, of Vassalboro, formally of Palermo, passed away on Thursday February 11, 2021, from a heart attack, at his home, in Vassalboro. Kevin was born October 15, 1954, in Melrose, Massachusetts, to the late M. Doris Doyle and John M. Widell. He grew up in Danvers, Massachusetts.

He married Margaret (Maggie) Jolly on April 21, 1995, in their home in Swampscott, Massachusetts. In April 2021 they would have been married 26 years.

In 1995 Kevin and Maggie, along with their son Ben Jolly, moved to Maine to run Christy’s store at the head of China Lake.

He and his family operated the Central Maine Siberian Husky Rescue out of thier home, in Palermo.

In retirement Kevin loved being surrounded by electronics and albums, and his music, especially Frank Zappa.

Kevin was a kind and caring soul and will be sadly missed by all who were blessed to know him.

In addition to his wife he leaves his step-son, Benjamin Jolly, his two grandsons James and Jackson Jolly; his sister Diane Gallagher of Massachusetts; and a brother David, of New Hampshire. He also leaves his dear friend Keith Boucher, of Massachusetts.

There is no service planned at this time, but a celebration of life will be held at the Augusta Spiritualist Church in the spring/summer of this year.

EARLENE V. BOWEN

OAKLAND – Earlene V. Bowen, 85, of Oakland, passed unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at Northern Lights Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. She was born in Waterville on April 6, 1935, the daughter of Merle and Lilian (McCarthy) Bickford.

Earlene left great sadness in her wake, that is not how she would of wanted it, she was a spit fire to the end.

She will be jitterbugging in heaven with her husband Kenneth Bowen, her parents Merle and Lillian Bickford, two brothers Franklin and Merle Bickford, and a sister Katherine Bickford.

Earlene leaves behind her daughter Sylvia Bowen; granddaughter Kacey Winingar; grandson Kenneth Sprague; four nephews, Timmy, Michael, Harvey, and Corey; two nieces, Cheryl and Cindy; many great-great nieces and nephews.

A spring graveside service will be held at the Oak Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 26 Church Street, Oakland, Maine.

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

DOROTHY GREENE

CHINA – Dorothy “Dottie” Greene, 83, died Saturday, February 20, 2021, following a brief illness. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, on August 26, 1937, the daughter of the late J. George and Sophie (Michalski) Cook.

Dottie graduated from Brooklyn’s Sacred Heart Academy High School in 1956 and worked as a dental assistant until she met and married a vibrant, red-headed former Navy frogman, Fred Greene, in 1960, and the two were married in 1961. In 1968, the couple and their three children packed up and moved from New York to Maine. Dottie was a city girl plunked down in the country where she learned how to plant and harvest a one-acre garden, raise 100 chickens and manage a variety of crazy cows and pigs. Dottie was an avid gardener and loved the four seasons from her chair in the kitchen in the 1790s farmhouse she and Fred renovated, sharing wonderful holidays with her kids and grandkids.

Dot was a Brownie troop leader, a member of the China Diners, and a long-time member of the Tole ‘n ME tole painting organization. Her talents as a tole painter were extraordinary. She loved to crochet, fish, and read mysteries. She also managed the business side of Fred’s business, Fred J. Greene Waterproofing.

She was predeceased by her husband, Fred Greene, in 2007.

She is survived by two daughters, Nancy Rountree (Larry), of Leesburg, Virginia, and Jill Bernier, of Brunswick; son Tim Greene, of China; four grandchildren, Natalie Greene-Dumont, Scott Bernier, Lexie Bernier and Lilly Rountree; and one great-granddaughter, Arya Dumont; as well as several nephews.

There are no planned visiting hours. Spring burial will be at the China Village Cemetery Extension, China, to be announced at a later time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor.

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

JEAN A. COSTON

CHINA – Jean A. Coston, 74, died unexpectedly on Saturday, February 20, 2021, at her home. She was born in Brunswick on December 26, 1946, a daughter of the late Louis Violette and Sylvia J. (Kennedy) and Richard Warren.

Mrs. Coston had been employed for over 20 years at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center at Gray Birch.

She was predeceased by two brothers, Louis “Peter” and James Violette.

Mrs. Coston is survived by her husband of 37 years, Chester M. Coston, Jr., of China; two sons, Stuart L. Rogers, of Topsham, and Adam L. Jipson, of Stafford, Virginia; three daughters, Sharon L. MacKeigan, of Bowdoin, Carol J. Harrington, of Phoenix, Arizona, and April J. Jipson, of Ogden, Utah; three stepchildren, Gloria Cascio, of Albion, Chester M. Coston III, of South China, and Wayne H. Coston, of Monmouth; a brother, Daniel Violette, of Webster, Massachusetts; two sisters, Carol Eichmuller, of Holland, Massachusetts, and Sherry L. Chute, of Carlton, Massachusetts; 12 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

There will be no public visiting hours. A graveside service will be held at a later date in the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, Maine.

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

THERESA O. LaPLANTE

AUGUSTA – Theresa O. LaPlante, 94, died Saturday, February 20, 2021, at the Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation, in Augusta, following a long illness. She was born in Waterville on October 17, 1926, a daughter of the late Herbert and Leanna (Daigle) Oakes.

Mrs. LaPlante was a Waterville High School graduate, graduating on D-day (June 6, 1944), attended the Sisters Nursing Program under the Cadet Nurses Program and was a communicant of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, in Augusta.

Theresa ventured off to New York City, where she was a nurse at the Brooklyn VA Center for several years. After marrying her husband, Charlie, they moved back to Maine to raise a family.

She had been employed at Williams Nursing Home, in Augusta, for 25 years.

After her retirement, Theresa enjoyed traveling with her many friends, both across the country and a trip to Italy. She enjoyed time with her family, especially her grandchildren and all her dogs.

Mrs. LaPlante was a member of the Red Hat Society – Cardinal Chapter.

She was predeceased by her husband, Charles A. LaPlante and her brother, Roger Oakes.

Mrs. LaPlante is survived by her two sons, Tony LaPlante and his fiancée Lisa Newell, of Augusta, and John O. LaPlante and his wife Karen, of Augusta; a sister, Joanne Villella, of Phoenix, Arizona; three grandchildren, Kate Greaton and her husband Tali, Abigail and Erica; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Burial will be held in the spring in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville.

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

The family requests that donations in Theresa’s memory be made to Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pet Haven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330.

KENNETH L. RIDEOUT SR.

SIDNEY – Kenneth L. Rideout Sr. passed away at his home, in Sidney, on Sunday, February 21, 2021.

Ken grew up in Richmond and attended school in Gardiner. He started working in the woods with his father at a very young age and grew to love horses and the logging industry.

He eventually built his own business, working for many years in logging and excavation. During his years in the logging industry, his most valued memories were the times he worked with his sons, building a family tradition.

His interest included spending time with friends and family stock car racing, camping, hunting, and pony and draft horse pulling. For 50 years he enjoyed pulling ponies and horses, and he was an active member of the Maine Draft Horse & Ox Association. During that time he was lucky enough to be a three-time representative of the United States at the International Horse Pull, in Nova Scotia. He enjoyed sharing his love for horses by participating in parades, sleigh rides and horse pulls across New England and Canada.

His most precious time was time spent with family, his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He greatly enjoyed road trips with his wife across the country loved exploring new places and scouting out prospective horses.

Ken was predeceased by his son Lauren, “Chubby” Rideout, his father, Lauren N. Rideout, his mother, Annie Clark Rideout, his three sisters, Evelyn French, Annie Trask, Barbara Sproul; and great-grandson Jesse Tillson.

Ken is survived by his wife, Priscilla “Pat” Rideout, of Sidney; son Kenneth “Petey” Rideout Jr., of Chelsea; daughter-in-law, Diane (Rideout) Benner, of Warren, and her son Lauren “CJ” Rideout Jr., and his siblings Chad and Travis Benner; daughter Sherry and husband Edwin Tillson, of Sidney, and their three children Jeremy, Joshua, and Justin; son Everett Rideout and wife Tina, of Warren, and their children Nicole and Zachary; son John Rideout and his wife Tammy, of Washington, and their children Kayla and Krista; daughter Tina and her husband Tim Ross, of Jefferson, and their son Ely; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home 949 Main St., Waldoboro, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Ken Rideout to Shriners Hospital for Children, donate.love-totherescue.org, or St. Jude’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.

HARVEY A. QUIMBY

ALBION – Harvey A. Quimby, 84, of Redlands, California, passed away Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at his home. Harvey was born on December 3, 1936, the son of Erving and Lucy (Glidden) Quimby.

He graduated from Bessey High School, in Albion. Harvey moved to California right after graduation where he met and married Carmen Chavez. The couple had two sons Rene’s and Hector.

He worked for American Medical Response stocking the ambulances and later drove a medical van transporting people to and from medical appointments which was something he truly enjoyed..

After retiring Harvey loved vacationing back in Maine, staying with his brother Erving (Duke) and his wife Lillian. Always planning his visit to be here for “Alumni Night,” in Albion. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends. There were many great memories of day trips to the coast, trips up north in hopes of spotting a moose, visits with cousin Bob at the farm, in Albion, relaxing under the shade tree with Duke and enjoying a movie, or listening to church music with Lillian.

Harvey was a kind, gentle, loving man who will be missed by many.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Cecile, Donald and Erving Jr. (Duke) and sisters Evelyn Howell and Barbara Bickford.

Harvey is survived by his two sons Rene’s and Hector; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, all of California; his sister-in-law and Lillian Quimby, of Winslow; sister-in-law Shirley Quimby-Tibbetts, of Benton, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will take place at #4 cemetery, in Albion, at a later date.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 25, 2021

RICHARD J. VERZONI

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – Richard John Verzoni, 69, of Schenectady, New York, passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2021. Richard was born in Waterville on July 7, 1951, to Angelo and Estelle Verzoni.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1970, where he excelled in track and field. He graduated from the University of Maine Farmington with a bachelor’s degree and continued his education in Caracas, Venezuela. He was a teacher before working as a sales executive for Anheuser Busch until his retirement.

He enjoyed attending his sons’ various sporting events and was an avid football and horse racing fan. He loved gardening, spending time in the outdoors, spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Willie.

He was predeceased by his father, Angelo Joseph Verzoni; his stepfather, Louis Barnes; and his brother, Stephen Verzoni.

He is survived by his mother, Estelle Verzoni Barnes; his sons, Richard A. Verzoni and Ian Verzoni; his brothers, Peter Verzoni and Angelo Verzoni and wife Lisa; his nephews, Angelo J. Verzoni and Anthony Verzoni; his former wife, Kathy Burgess, and his partner, Jackie Grady.

A celebration of Richard’s life is to be determined at a later date.

CATHRYN HUGHES

VASSALBORO – Cathryn “Katie” Hughes, 57, passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2021. She was born on July 2, 1963, the daughter of the late Myron and Carol (Csengery) Hughes.

She was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, class of ’82.

Her love of children led her to a job with SKCDC which she held for a number of years. Prior to her illness, which forced her to give up working, she was employed by Hannaford Bros., in Waterville. A job she truly loved. She took great pride in being able to assist the elderly with their groceries.

Katie was a hard worker. She was a kind-hearted person who loved children and had the gift to gab. She spent countless hours playing Sudoku.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her brother, William Hughes.

Katie is survived by her partner, Wayne Picard and stepchildren, Jamie Mercier, of Manchester, and Jason Picard, of West Gardiner; sister, Cynthia St. Peter and Bob Bower, of Monmouth; brothers, Stephen Hughes and his wife, Lisa, and Tim and Karen Hughes, all of Vassalboro; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no service. Burial and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

DONALD J. FORTIN JR.

WINSLOW – Donald Joseph Fortin Jr., 73, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 5, 2021. He was born in Waterville on July 8, 1947, the son of Donald and Priscilla (Violette) Fortin Sr.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1967, he enlisted in the Navy and served for four years on the USS Saratoga. He worked at Bath Iron Works his entire career, building Navy destroyers, recently retiring in July 2020. He also ran a van transportation service for commuters going to work at Bath.

Donald had a passion for cars, often entering them in car shows around the state of Maine, snowmobiling and riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed family gatherings at his sisters’ homes.

In addition to his parents, Donald and Priscilla Fortin Sr, Donald was predeceased by his brother Michael Fortin and sister Elizabeth Coonon.

Surviving are his children, Sherrilynn Violette Fortin and husband Craig Steiner, of Chula Vista, California, Kimberlee Johnson, of Anderson, South Carolina, and Ryan Fortin and partner Karrie Davis, of Winslow; six grandchildren, Jeanna, Erich, Jakob, Arianna, Desiree and Miriah; one brother, Richard of Alexandria, Virginia; four sisters, Beverly (William) Rhoades, of Clinton, Deborah Dubois, of Waterville, Theresa (Robert) Macklin, of Winslow, and Jennifer (Steven) Harrison, of Albion; several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will take place at a later date and will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Donald’s memory may be made to the Travis Mills Foundation, 747 Western Avenue, Manchester, Maine 04351; travismillsfoundation.org/our-retreat.

JAMES E. HUBBARD SR.

UNITY – James E. Hubbard Sr., 79, of Unity, passed away Saturday, February , 2021. He was born August 21, 1941, the son of Edison Sr. and June Rose (Roepelle) Hubbard and lived his life in Unity in the home he grew up in, eventually raised his family in, and cared for his many animals.

Jim attended Unifree High School and after completing his education he went to work for George and Beverly Murdock’s (DeCoster Poultry) farm, in Unity. From 1982 to 2007 he worked in the maintenance department at Unity College. He walked five miles to work every day, regardless of the weather. He had a big heart and a big smile and always thought of others. He was loved by generations of the college faculty, staff and students, many of whom joined him on his retirement day to make the final trek together.

He had a unique laugh that matched his sense of humor. He loved his collection of statues and the Patriots. He was also known for his love of animals and cared for and nurtured many exotic and domestic pets, including peacocks, a bobcat and an arctic fox.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Beverly Knowles and brothers, Harold Hubbard, Frank Hubbard and Timothy Hubbard.

He raised three children that survive him, Jean Salley, of Waterville, Linda Humphrey, of Liberty, and James Jr., of Unity; brothers, Edison Hubbard, of Waterville, Stanley Hubbard, of Machias, Larry Hubbard, of Albion, Ronnie Hubbard, of Unity, and sister, Joan Hubbard, of Unity; six grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider helping the family with final expenses. They may be sent to the town of Unity, PO Box 416, Unity, Maine 04988, with Jim’s name on the memo line.

JEANNE G. NORMANDEAU

WATERVILLE – Jeanne Georgianna Talbot Normandeau, 80, died at Woodlands Senior Living of Waterville, on Thursday, February 11, 2021, following a long illness. She was born July 19, 1939, in Winslow, the only daughter of the late Cyril and Carmeline Talbot.

Jeanne attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, and upon graduation, attended nursing school at St. Mary’s, in Lewiston, for three years, where she became interested in teaching. She worked for one year at Sister’s Hospital, in Waterville, before deciding to attend Boston College, where she received a baccalaureate and master’s degree in nursing.

She moved to Portland and worked for the state of Maine as a community health nurse for two years before accepting her first teaching position at Mercy Hospital. After only a year she was offered a full time teaching position at the University of Southern Maine, where she taught for 27 years, during which time she also completed her doctoral degree at Boston University.

Jeanne and Roland were married in 1976 and lived in Portland until moving back to Winslow in 2004. When they weren’t traveling around the U.S., Canada and Europe, they enjoyed having horses, dogs, spending time in their garden and getting reacquainted with her 26 first cousins.

Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by her husband, Roland Normandeau.

She is survived by her brothers, Jim Talbot, of Carabassett, and John Talbot ,of Concord, North Carolina; and two nephews, Peter and Cameron Talbot.

Jeanne’s memorial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

SCOTT S. SIMPSON

WATERVILLE – Scott Stephen Simpson, 55, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, February 14, 2021, following a long illness. Born on February 3, 1966, in Gardiner, he was the son of Donald and Nancy Simpson.

Scott graduated from Waterville High School in 1985 and went on to attend Central Beauty School, in Augusta. He graduated with his cosmetology license in 1991. His career was not a job, it was his passion. He was a very talented hair stylist and worked in various salons in Maine and New Hampshire.

He grew up in Waterville but moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, in 1997, and made it his home. He loved Manchester and all the people he met there. Eleven years ago, after his diagnosis, he moved back to Maine to be closer to his family.

Scott loved spending time with his dog, Frankie. The two of them were inseparable and he brought so much comfort to his Daddy in his final days. Scott got so much joy from doing hair and making people feel good about themselves. He enjoyed hanging out by the pool, taking care of his flowers, drawing, and spending time with the ones he loved.

Scott lit up a room when he walked in. He had a big smile that radiated. He always knew how to make everyone laugh with his crazy sense of humor and his knack for telling stories about his many adventures in life. Scotty to hottie with his signature stomp and hand in the air dance move was always the life of the party.

Scott was predeceased by his best friend in life, his grandmother, Yvette Doyon; his special uncle, Ronald Doyon and aunt, Gloria Simpson, and several other aunts and uncles.

Scott is survived by his parents, Donald and Nancy Simpson, of Waterville; his sister, Wendy Aucoin and her husband Gerard along with their son Cameron Scott Aucoin, of Waterville; his aunts, Pat Doyon, of Winslow, and Joyce Simpson, of Waterville; as well as several cousins.

There will be no services at this time. The family will hold a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life, in the spring that will be announced at a later date.

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, donations may be made in Scott’s name to the Ryan White Program/Maine General Horizon Clinic, in Augusta. Donations can be made via the link provided: https://give.mainegeneral.org/program-support—horizon-program.

JOHN F. VETTER

JEFFERSON – John Frederick Vetter, 77, of Jefferson, passed away Monday, February 15, 2021, at Togus VA Medical Center, following a brief illness.

He was born March 27, 1943, the first child of Juanita M. (Gillham) and Arthur F. Vetter.

He married Beth L. (Fellows), of Bangor, August 27, 1963. They had one daughter, Jeanne L. Vetter, of North Smithfield, Rhode Island.

John was educated in the U.S. and England. He attended St. John’s School, Northwood, England, and several schools in the U.S. He graduated from Fairview High School, Dayton, Ohio, in 1960, and The University of Iowa in 1972 with a B.S. in math. His entire professional career was in IT.

He served in the U.S. Air Force for seven years with duty assignments in Texas, Maine, California, Spain, England, and Missouri. He was honorably discharged in 1969. John was very proud that he had served his country.

John was a very loving, caring, kind, and generous husband, father, and friend. He loved domestic and wild animals that visited his home. Over the years, he had several indoor cats. His Siamese, Rumford, was an extra special friend. He cared for several outdoor kitties with shelter, love, and food, and when necessary, veterinary care.

He had been a participant in the Cornell Project Feeder Watch for many years. He was doing his weekly 2020-2021 count up to the last week of his life. He was especially pleased with the variety and number of birds he tracked around his home on Damariscotta Lake.

John participated in bowling leagues and golf leagues. His hobbies included coin collecting, reading, and boating. He was a member of Coastal Senior College and enjoyed taking CSC courses.

In addition to his wife, Beth and his daughter, Jeanne, he is survived by a brother, David (Cheryl) Vetter, of Warsaw, Indiana; two sisters, Nancy Perea, of Brooklyn, New York, and Barbara (Robert) Miller, of San Diego, California; and cousins in Iowa; his Maine family, Lucille Fellows (William), Augusta, Caroline Fellows (Oscar), Raymond, Sandra St. Germain (Albert), Bangor, Michael (Lisa) Fellows, Readfield, Lorraine Fellows, Chantilly, Virginia, Laura Fellows, Pittston, Cheri Walton, Eastport.

There will be a burial service at Silver Lake Cemetery, Bucksport, at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: http://www.StrongHancock.com.

The family suggests memorial donations to Togus Fisher House, Togus VA Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service, 1 VA Center (135), Augusta, ME 04330, or to the charity of your choice.

TOM COREY

WATERVILLE – Tom Corey, 81, of Waterville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 15, 2021. Tom was born October 29, 1939, the son of Joseph T. Corey and Elizabeth (Nedoff) Corey.

He graduated from Caribou High School in 1958.

Tom enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1961. He was honorably discharged in 1965.

He worked for Bell Atlantic Phone Company and had over 32 years of service before retiring as a manager. In 1974 he met the love of his life, Joan M. (Gravel) Corey. They were married for 42 years.

Tom was a past president of the Kennebec Councile, Telephone Pioneers of America, past president of the Lebon Youth Club, past senior councilor UCT, life member of the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, house committee member of the Waterville Elks Lodge and life member of the Waterville American Legion Post #5.

Tom loved to travel and was very passionate about playing cards. Put Tom at a poker table and he would spend hours playing with his friends. He loved to watch football on Sundays with his wife. He volunteered a lot of time helping out at the Waterville Elks Lodge doing whatever was needed.

His immediate family includes his wife, Joan; and daughters, Kimberly Cormier and husband, Greg, of Waterboro, Melissa Brown and husband Nick, of Winslow; grandchildren, Kristen Egdorf and husband Eric, Ryan Cormier, Lindsay Cormier, Dylan Brown, Kaylin Brown; and one great-grandson, Noah; son, Kevin Miller and wife Kristie and granddaughters, Brianna and Bailey; brother-in-law, John Gravel and his wife Phyllis Gravel, and son Eric Gravel; sister and brothers, Jacqueline and husband, Jerald Anderson, of Arizona, Wanda Rose, and Michael Corey, both of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,; and many nieces and nephews.

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

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Morning Sentinel website at: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mainetoday-centralmaine/

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 please send donations to MaineGeneral Homecare & Hospice, 10 Water St., Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901.

VIRGINIA L. COST

WATERVILLE – Virginia Lemon Cost, 72, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late John Russell Lemon and Ida Jenks Lemon.

“Gini”, as known by her friends and family, graduated from the Canandaigua Academy, and from the Community College of the Finger Lakes, both in Canandaigua, New York, Roger Williams College, in Bristol, Rhode Island, and a master’s degree from American International College, in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Always with a smile on her face, Gini will be remembered for her enthusiasm and love for writing and photography.

She was predeceased by her son, Bennett Stephen Cost.

She is survived by her sisters, Patricia Lemon Hess and Mary Lemon Latessa, both of Rehoboth, Massachusetts; and her niece and nephews.

Graveside services and burial will be private and held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

RITA A. DESCHENES

WATERVILLE – Rita A. Deschenes, 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February16, 2021. She was born in Madison to the late Archile and M. Emma (Thébeau) Mercier.

She was married to Leo R. Deschenes for 69 years who predeceased her.

Rita graduated from Madison High School and received her degree as a U.S. Cadet Nurse at the Elizabeth Ann Seton School of Nursing, in Waterville, class of 1948.

After graduation she worked as a registered nurse and an operating room supervisor at Seton and Thayer Hospitals, both in Waterville.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Ann and husband David Vashon; grandchildren, Greer Vashon and Evan Vashon and wife Phina; and her great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her brothers, Arnold and Richard.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday, February 25, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Arrangements were under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 18, 2021

JOHN A. ROLLESTON

CLINTON – John Alvin Rolleston, 64, died Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at a local hospital. He was born October 10, 1956, in Mahopac, New York, the son of George A. Rolleston and Rae E. Prahl.

He attended Fenton High School, in Fenton, Michigan, and attended Albion College for one year, Albion, Michigan.

John was self-employed in tax and financial services for over 35 years. John also enjoyed golfing and spending time with family and friends. He was a past treasurer for many years for the Clinton Lions Agricultural Fair, member of the Ira Berry Lodge #128, Blue Hill and the Sebasticook Lodge #146, Clinton and a member of the Skowhegan Elks.

John is survived by his stepmother, Barbara Rolleston; brothers, George J. and his wife, Roxanne, and Guy J. Rolleston; nephews and nieces, Kristopher, Matthew, Christopher, Lura and Jonathan.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Currently, there is no memorial service.

Memorial contributions in John’s may be made to your favorite charity.

CARMEN L. GIROUX

VASSALBORO – Carmen L. Giroux, 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 31, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. She was born on June 5, 1944, the day prior to D-Day, a daughter of the late Phillip and Sadie Morneau (Bolduc). She was one of nine children.

Carmen married Richard Giroux on July 6, 1963. Early on, Carmen was a homemaker raising her family. She worked many jobs throughout her life. She worked early on at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, and was later employed in the medical field as a CNA, at Volmer’s Nursing Home, Lemieux’s Orchard, both in Vassalboro, and drove bus when she was needed. The last position that she was very proud of was her housekeeping position that she held at MaineGeneral Medical Center. This position she received awards for her excellence in her work ethics.

Carmen could cook! She was amazing and always had food on the table and in the oven. She could make the best food out of nothing. No one could duplicate her food. She would always want to feed you when you came over. She loved her flowers and planted many different flowers around her house. She had a soft spot for animals and loved to feed the birds, squirrel and chipmunks that came upon her deck. Many strays found their home with her. Carmen loved to garden and was always canning her rewards that she grew. She was a hard worker all her life. She was very religious and was always praying.

Carmen will be deeply and forever missed by all who knew her, but especially by her son Peter and her husband Richard who cared for at home as her health faltered.

Carmen was predeceased by her parents, Phillip and Sadie Morneau, sister, Jacqueline Halle, brother, Phillip Lawrence Morneau, sister, Mary Jane Cliché, and great-grandchild, Larissa Patnaude.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Richard Giroux; sons, Peter Giroux, of Vassalboro, Richard Giroux Jr. and wife Cynthia, of Albion; daughters, Jacqueline Giroux, of Vassalboro, Barbara Patnaude and husband David, of China; her nine grandchildren, Daven Giroux, Jessica Bolduc, Jacob Boivin, Jaron Boivin, Jestil Boivin, Jadelynn Giroux, Nathan Patnaude, Michael Patnaude, Caleb Patnaude; her siblings, Robert and Mary Morneau, Paul Morneau, Theresa and Joe Thibodeau, Reginald and Laurie Morneau, Roger and Cindy Morneau, as well as seven great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, February 10, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Burial followed in the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, Maine, 04330.

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 can be made in Carmen’s name to the Muscular Dystrophy Association USA National Office, 161 N. Clark, Suite 3550, Chicago, IL 60601

NANCY L. RODRIGUE

WINSLOW – Nancy L. (St. Pierre) Rodrigue, 76, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. She was born November 22, 1944, in Brunswick, the daughter of George and Georgette (Johnson) St. Pierre.

She was educated in the schools of Brunswick and on December 27, 1976, she married Joseph Rodrigue. She enjoyed reading and crocheting.

Nancy is survived by daughter, Nancy Clowes, of Waterville; granddaughter, Terri Clowes, of Waterville; two brothers, James St. Pierre, of Portland, and LonAllen St. Pierre; two sisters, Linda St. Pierre and Betty St. Pierre.

She was predeceased in 2020 by her husband, Joseph Rodrigue.

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

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

DANIEL N. GORDON

WINDSOR – Daniel Norman Gordon, 78, of Weeks Mills Road, died Monday, February 8, 2021, at his home following a brief illness. He was born in Gardiner on December 20, 1942, the son of Robert N. Gordon and Anne (Thomas) Gordon.

Dan served honorably in the U.S. Army 1961-1964.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a line foreman for Joseph Kirschner Co. in Augusta, for many years, He worked for 10 years as a supervisory security guard at Digital, in Augusta, followed by security guard at Augusta General Hospital. His last and favorite job was special education driver for RSU #12.

Dan was a member of North Windsor Baptist Church where he served as deacon and trustee.

He was very involved in his community; he was on the organization committee for Windsor Days for 10 years, was a selectman for the town of Windsor for six years and volunteer ambulance driver for five years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Robert Gordon and Ronald Gordon, and one sister, Judith Tuttle.

Surviving is his wife, Pamela (Peaslee) Gordon, of Windsor; a daughter, Tammy Colfer and her husband Tim, of Hermon; two brothers, William Gordon, of Leesburg, Florida, and Leon Gordon, of Litchfield; a sister, Barbara Thompson, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire; two grandchildren, Shawn and Alexis Colfer; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no planned visiting hours. Spring burial will be in Rest Haven Cemetery, Windsor, to be announced at later time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

DONALD T. WESCOTT

SIDNEY – Donald T. Wescott, 86, of Sidney died Monday, February 8, 2021. He was born July 22, 1934, in Meriden, Connecticut, the son of Donald L. and Iva (Tracy) Wescott

He was a graduate of Meriden High School, in Connecticut, and a 1958 graduate of Norwich University, Northfield, Vermont, with a degree in business administration and commissioned Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army. In 1965, he continued his education at University of Maine Orono, earning a teaching degree in physical education and kinesiology.

Don was a high school teacher and football coach at Newburyport, Massachusetts; Stearns High School, Millinocket, Croton-Harmon High School, Croton-on-Hudson, New York; and Messalonskee High School, Oakland.

An avid outdoorsman, Don enjoyed fly fishing, hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. But it was competitive canoeing that filled his later life. He competed in races all over the U.S. and Canada. He felt honored to be named “Ten Canoes” by canoists in the Penobscot Nation. Don was proud of his canoeing, his downeast heritage, and his family. His little piece of “Heaven on Earth” was the family camp on Pleasant Lake, above Patten.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Beverly (Suedmeyer) Wescott; a daughter, Jennifer L. Hickey and husband Colin, of Waterville, three sons, Kyle T. Wescott and wife Donna, of Waterville, Stephen M. Wescott and partner Deborah Kelley, of Winthrop, and Jon D. Wescott and wife Larissa, of Lions Bay, British Columbia, Canada; six grandchildren, Casey P. Wescott, of Belgrade, Melissa N. Wescott, of Aubrey, Texas, Benjamin I. Hickey and Jacob C. Hickey, both of New Orleans, Louisiana, Keaton D. Wescott and Elena C. Wescott, both of Lions Bay, British Columbia, Canada.

There will be no public service.

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

DAVID H. TONDREAU

AUGUSTA—David H. Tondreau, 69, of Augusta, died Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at his home. He was born in Augusta October 23, 1951, the son of Conrad and Ruth (Fletcher) Tondreau.

David attended Cony High School, in Augusta, and joined the Army soon after. He served in Vietnam for just over four years. David worked as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator for many years. His true loves in life were his family, his country and his pug dogs.

David was predeceased by his father, Conrad Tondreau and his brother Lionel Tondreau.

He is survived by his wife, JoAnn (Noble) Tondreau; his mother, Ruth; his children, David Heath Tondreau, Brandon Tondreau and his wife Lisa, and Amanda Lemarre and her husband, Gerald, all of Carthage, Texas; a brother, Gary Tondreau and his wife Lorena, of Sidney; his sisters, Cheryl Dutil and her husband Jim, Laurie Tondreau and Valerie Schriver and her husband, Mike, all of Augusta; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A graveside service will be held later in the Spring .

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 11, 2021

DOREEN L. SCOTT

FAIRFIELD – Doreen Lyn Scott, 60, passed away suddenly on Friday, January 8, 2021. Doreen was born in Waterville on September 23, 1960. She was the daughter of Norman and Gwendolyn Scott.

She attended Fairfield schools and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1978.

Doreen loved to shop and was on a shopping excursion when she passed away. She loved Christmas and started her next year’s Christmas shopping the day after Christmas and shopped all year long for her family and friends.

Doreen was predeceased by her parents, Norman and Gwendolyn Scott; and an uncle, Don Adams, of Winslow.

She is survived by a sister, Penny, and brother, David, both of Fairfield; a brothers, Danny, of Canaan, and Steven and wife Cynthia, of Winslow; nieces and nephews, Chris, Brian, Kevin, Bradley, Rose, Bobby, Heather, and Rory; as well as many great-nieces and nephews; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

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.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Doreen’s name to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

JOHN L. WRIGLEY

OAKLAND – John L. Wrigley, 53, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, January 11, 2021. John was born February 16, 1967, where he resided most if his life at his family farm with his late mother, Alice L. Wrigley, and his late aunt, Beverley O. Wrigley.

He graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 1986. He worked for Fabian Oil, in Oakland, for approximately 10 years and Hammond Lumber Co., in Belgrade, for approximately 25 years.

John enjoyed spending time with his family and friends as well as camping, attending races and four-wheeling. He also took great pride for the last 15 years restoring his grandfather’s 1946 Red Chevy pickup truck.

He is survived by his stepdaughter, Maila E. Couture, of Oakland; and his brother, Jason Meade and his family, of Skowhegan; his uncle Dana and aunt Marie Wrigley, of Oakland, aunt Betty and uncle Tom Pierce, of Belgrade; his cousin, Bill Wrigley and Heidi Otis and family.

In honoring John’s wishes there will be a celebration of life at a later date.

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

LOIS M. STARBIRD

CLINTON – Lois M. (Gibson) Starbird, 87, of Clinton, passed away on Saturday January 23, 2021, following a long illness. She was born February 4, 1934, the daughter of J. Holman Gibson and Freda (Dixon) Gibson.

Lois grew up on the Gibson and Son Dairy Farm, in Clinton, where she was no stranger to hard work. She not only delivered milk by horse and buggy, but also picked beans and hayed the fields alongside her parents and brother.

Lois graduated from Clinton High School and then married Donald Starbird, also of Clinton. Together they built and sold homes in the community. Lois also was employed in the offices of Skiland Woolen Mill, in Clinton, Harris Bakery Co. and Marden’s store, both in Waterville.

She found great enjoyment in gardening, selling Avon products, being a charter member of the Evening Extension, fishing, camping and traveling. Lois traveled to many places in New England as well as California, Alaska and Kamloop, British Columbia, Canada. She went on many bus trips with friends, Virginia and Phyllis, enjoying every minute and had the stories to prove it.

In her later years Lois looked forward to camping and fishing with her longtime companion, Gordon Flewelling, and his family. Their adventures took them from the light houses on the coast of Maine to the back woods beyond Greenville.

Lois was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Donald Starbird; and most recently her brother, Wendell Gibson.

She is survived by her companion, Gordon Flewelling; her children, Joyce (Smith) Starbird, Leslie Starbird, Linda Starbird and her partner, Celena Ranger, and David Starbird; several grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; and a special “sister cousin” Ellen (Humphrey) Russell and her husband, Neil.

At Lois’s request no services will be held.

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.

IRMA W. SIMON

CHINA – Irma Wilcox Jones Simon, 92, passed away from natural causes on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville.

Irma was born on December 3, 1928, in an old stone cottage on the campus grounds of the (Quaker) Friends’ Central School, in Overbrook, Pennsylvania, to (Headmaster) Dr. Barclay L. Jones and Esther L. (Coffin) Jones.

She had three older sisters, Louise, Frances and Hoylande.

A love for nature began at an early age as she was known to spend hours after school in neighboring fields playing, exploring, and studying the flora and fauna of the natural world around her. In the summers, Irma and her parents and sisters vacationed in South China, where a family cottage was built above the shores of China Lake. Here, she fell in love with the lake and time spent with cousins and many Quaker Friends and relatives. Irma always called South China, her “home”.

Irma attended Earlham College, in Indiana, graduating in 1950 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. There she met Stephen W. Simon, her future husband of 19 years. Upon their divorce in 1971, Irma and her five children moved to Maine to stay. As a “Maine-iac”, she once worked as an assistant teacher in Waterville High School’s science department where she was affectionately known to her students as “Mother Nature”. She was involved in a federal program called Project Tree at the elementary school, and for many years passed on her knowledge and love of nature as a volunteer working with counselors and campers at the (Quaker) Friends’ Camp, in South China, establishing a pond and the Woods Trail. Irma also became the first laboratory employee for Northeast Laboratory Services, in Winslow, was a histologist at the former Mid-Maine Medical Center, and an inorganic chemist and bacteriologist in the Department of Environmental Protection lab for the State of Maine which she loved until her retirement.

As a life-long Quaker, Irma attended her beloved Vassalboro Friends Meeting, in East Vassalboro. As a member of the Peace Committee for several years, she promoted peace-making endeavors and activism, and participated in peaceful demonstrations across New England.

In her retirement years, Irma enjoyed traveling out of state to visit family and friends, looked forward to summer gatherings of family, and Jones and Coffin cousins at the family cottage, and time spent on the shores of China Lake.

She was a lover of nature, birds and cats and an active member of several national and local environmental and wildlife organizations including the Natural Resources Council of Maine, the Maine Wolf Coalition and the China Lake Association. She was strong willed, never one to miss an opportunity to express her opinion regarding politics and the environment, believing world peace was possible and climate change can be fixed. This trait also served her well in overcoming several health crises in her lifetime.

In passing, may her spirit now run with the caribou in Alaska, howl with wolf packs, canoe the wild rivers of Maine, enjoy the waters of China Lake, and fly with all her feather friends. May she know that good people continue to work hard to end hatred and violence, to protect our earth, and to save our wildlife.

Irma is survived by her five children, Sylvia (Robert) Eppig, Andrew Simon, Peter (Melinda) Simon, Esther (James) Emmert and Emily (Russell) Poulin, as well as 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be hosted at a later date in Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to either The Vassalboro Friends Meeting, the China Lake Association, or the Natural Resources Council of Maine.

ALBERT R. BOYNTON

WHITEFIELD – Albert R. Boynton, 94, of 98 Mills Rd., died Sunday, January 31, 2021, at his home. He was born May 18, 1926, in Whitefield, to Chester A. Boynton and Addie F. (Knight) Boynton.

He was the youngest of seven children. He was born at the mill house across the road and moved to his current address one year later.

Albert was very much influenced by his mother who died when he was six years old. He always referred to her as “Mama”. He spoke of how she baked big pans of molasses cookies and raisin squares and took the responsibility to open the church and played the piano there. She had a marble top table full of African violets and took all the kids with her in the car to collect bills for his father’s sawmill business.

After she died his father kept their family together through the Great Depression even after losing his lumber business. Albert thought of him as a hero. It was a hurricane in 1938 that brought their family out of the Depression, when they were able to take a portable sawmill to Peterborough, New Hampshire, to clean up downed trees for wealthy families. Albert called it an “act of God”.

He went to Peterborough High School for two years. When the family moved the sawmill to Plainfield, Massachusetts, Albert went with his brother, George, to East Hartford, Connecticut, and attended school there for a semester. He then returned to Whitefield with his family and finished high school at Erskine Academy, in South China, graduating in the class of 1943.

After starting classes at the University of Maine at Orono, Albert decided to enlist in the Navy because he wanted to choose the branch he served in. He chose the Navy because he liked the blue uniforms rather than the olive drab. He entered boot camp in May 1944, on his 18th birthday, and served for two years on the USS Goodhue.

It wasn’t until later years that he shared with great emotion what it was like to have his ship hit by a Kamikaze and witness the loss of many of his shipmates. When he came back from serving in World War II, he returned to UMO, finishing with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering.

He graduated in 1950 and got a job at Togus as an orderly to be able to pay for equipment for dairy farming. He met his wife Carolyn there who was an RN at the facility, and they married in 1954. She was the first and last girlfriend that he ever had. Albert worked for 30 years as a rural mail carrier in Whitefield, Coopers Mills and Somerville. He went the extra mile for his customers and enjoyed working with many special people. The job of mail carrier suited him to a “T”.

Albert went out of dairy farming when his barn burned in 1967 but always maintained a small herd of dairy cows. He accepted Jesus as his Savior on Palm Sunday 1971 which was the defining moment of his life. His faith influenced every aspect of his life from then on.

In retirement Albert cared for Carolyn for 12 years until her death in 2003. He was a member of Calvary Bible Baptist Church, in Whitefield, and later South Somerville Baptist Church. He enjoyed being in God’s House and reading and studying His Word. He passionately wrote letters to local papers on issues of life and morality. He was an avid reader and was always singing.

Albert was predeceased by his wife, Carolyn Tarbox Boynton; three daughters, Jeanne, Nancy and Mary Anne; and a grandson, Taylor Kittner, his mother and father; and six siblings, Virginia, Alden, Marcia, George, Dana, Shirley and their spouses.

Albert is survived by a son, David Boynton and his wife Melissa, of Whitefield; a daughter Beverly Cronkhite and her husband Rick, of Whitefield; a daughter Janet Kittner and her husband Wilfred, of Charlotte, North Carolina; grandchildren Kate Parker and husband Joe, of Augusta, Sam Boynton and wife Julie, of Walpole, Massachusetts, Meg Dyer and husband Jeff, of Palermo, Sawyer Maldovan and girlfriend Taylor Hickey, of Whitefield, Miranda Proud and boyfriend Josh Grenier, of Fairfield, Justin Cronkhite and wife Courtney, of Whitefield, Addie Joslyn and husband Jeremy, of Jefferson, Olivia Finnemore and husband Brendon, of Rockland, Jonah Cronkhite and wife Lydia, of Waldoboro, and Natalie and Brigitte Kittner, both of Charlotte, North Carolina; great-grandchildren are Cora and Ivy Parker, Ilyda, Vivian, and Ruby Dyer, Mia, Riley, and Izzy Proud, Abe Cronkhite, Brennan, Grayson and Haven Joslyn, Afton Finnemore, and Makiyah and Mitchell.

He was also the guardian to Larry Sturges. Albert was very much looking forward to meeting three more precious great-grandchildren this year. Albert also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends.

The funeral service will be private. Spring burial will be in Highland Cemetery, in Jefferson.

Arrangements were by Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pine Tree Camp, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome, ME 04963; Zoe A. Women’s Center, 1056 Commercial St., Rockport, ME 04856; or Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19104.

MICHAEL J. COYNE

FAIRFIELD – Michael J. Coyne, 51, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Thayer campus, in Waterville. He was born December 2, 1969, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the son of Michael G. and Rosanne M. (Beaudreault) Coyne.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1988. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United State Marine Corps from 1988 to 1989 until his honorable discharge.

He was employed as a cook for 20 years at Belanger’s Drive-In, in Fairfield, Thomas College, in Waterville, as head chef for 10 years and Camp Pinecliffe as head chef for the last five years.

He was a member of the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Post #14, in Fairfield, the women’s Auxiliary and the United Bikers of Maine. Michael loved to cook, tell dad jokes and spend time with his granddaughter, Gracelyn. He enjoyed Harley-Davidson, Bald Eagles and the Marine Corps.

Michael is survived by three daughters, Makayla Coyne, of Augusta, Victoria Blaisdell , and boyfriend Matthew Quinn, of Fryeburg, Kyrrah Guerin, of Waterville; granddaughter, Gracelyn; twin brother, Gregory Coyne and wife Lori, of Natick, Massachusetts; brother David Coyne and life partner Shannon Cortois, of Waterville; niece and nephew, Adam and Katherine Coyne; father, Michael G. Coyne and wife Marlene, of Augusta; second family, the Blaisdells, Kelly, Lori and Roger.

He was predeceased by his mother, Rosanne Mary (Beaudreault) Coyne; stepsister, Sheila White.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family.

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 Michael’s memory to the American Legion Post #14, 86 Main Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.

EMMA Z. DRYSDALE

WATERVILLE – Emma (Zeffer) Drysdale, 97, recently of Waterville, passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Lakewood Northern Light Continuing Care, in Waterville. She was born in Edison, New Jersey, on August 3, 1923, the daughter of Peter and Juliana (Tompa) Zeffer.

Emma lived in the Metuchen and Edison area of New Jersey most of her life, marrying Gordon W. R. Drysdale and raising her family there. Family was most important to Emma.

She was a member of The Ascension Lutheran Church, of New Brunswick, New Jersey, and worked at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital for many years, retiring in 1994. She moved to Sarisota, Florida, in 1998 and then to Waterville in 2005.

She is survived by a daughter, Bonnie Cohen and husband Paul, of Orono; son, Gordon R. Drysdale and wife Nancy, of Fairfield; grandchildren, Danette Baltutis and husband Tony, of Azle, Texas, G. Edward Drysdale and wife Rebakah, of Auburn; three great-grandchildren, Emma and William Drysdale and Kate Kirchner; many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Gordon; four sisters, Julia Kalman, Edith Bascelli, Margaret Margolis and Irene Anderko.

At Emma’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral services. Interment will be at the convenience of the family at Franklin Memorial Park Mausoleum in North Brunswick, New Jersey.

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

DONALD SCHILLING JR.

BENTON – Donald Schilling Jr., 40, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2021. Donald was born at Central Maine Medical Center, in Lewiston, on January 5, 1981.

He had numerous close friends who can attest to his heart of gold. Donald loved listening to music, watching game shows, drawing and doing puzzles. He was very proud of his children who gave him great joy. Fly high superman.

Donald was predeceased by his mother, Kathy Lynn Schilling and his maternal grandparents.

He is survived by his three children, Gavin, Alivia and Danica; his father, Donald Schilling Sr.; his sister, Melissa and her spouse, Jeremiah Musselman; his companion, Christine Berryman; many aunts and uncles; and lots of cousins.

No services will be held at this time.

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.

NANCY L. RODRIGUE

WINSLOW – Nancy L. (St. Pierre) Rodrigue, 76, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. She was born November 22, 1944, in Brunswick, the daughter of George and Georgette (Johnson) St. Pierre.

She was educated in the schools of Brunswick and on December 27, 1976, she married Joseph Rodrigue. She enjoyed reading and crocheting.

Nancy is survived by daughter, Nancy Clowes, of Waterville; granddaughter, Terri Clowes, of Waterville; two brothers, James St. Pierre, of Portland, LonAllen St. Pierre; two sisters, Linda St. Pierre and Betty St. Pierre.

She was predeceased in 2020 by her husband, Joseph Rodrigue.

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

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

MARLENE A. HARRIS

WINSLOW – Marlene Amber (Ham) Harris, 81, passed away on Monday, February 1, 2021, at her home, in Winslow, following a lengthy battle with ovarian cancer. She was born in Waterville on July 1, 1939, to Amber (Jakins) and William E. Ham.

Following graduation from Winslow High School in 1957, Marlene became employed as a private secretary to Miss Pearl Fisher at the former Thayer Hospital, in Waterville. She met and married Richard E. Harris on February 1, 1958, exactly 63 years ago. They raised three children in the home they built together in Winslow. Later, they built a summer cottage at Prince Edward Island which they enjoyed for over 45 years.

Marlene achieved her medical assistant certification and was proud to work with several local physicians, including over 25 years as Dr. John W. Towne’s medical assistant. After retirement in 1997, she and her husband spent winters at their home in Fort Meade, Florida. Both in Maine and Florida, she was very active in the Order of Eastern Star and was a Past Matron of Martha Washington Chapter #15.

Marlene was talented, creative and industrious. She was an artist and restored many antiques with her husband. She loved art, music and was an accomplished knitter and quilter, making quilts for all her family. An active person, she especially enjoyed square dancing, country dancing and clogging, and roller-skating. She and her husband rode motorcycles together for many years and owned and showed antique automobiles.

Marlene had a busy, happy life and will be remembered by her family for her independence, stamina and sheer determination, especially during her illness. Throughout her life, she shared her love and care for many people, and for many animals, both wild and domestic.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Richard; a daughter, Allison Watson and her husband Michael; a son, Martin Harris and his partner Rhonda Kennedy; three grandchildren, Melissa Audet Stewart, Brian Audet and his wife, Sydnee, Benjamin Audet and his fiancée, Felicia Paradis; two great-grandchildren, Cameron and Abigale Stewart; a brother, Wayne E. Ham and his wife, Peggy; and two nephews, Jason Ham and Christopher Ham and his partner, Sarah Austin.

Her eldest son, Dana R. Harris, predeceased her.

A celebration and remembrance of Marlene’s life will be held at a later date in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent in her memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 4, 2021

MARION PELOTTE

WATERVILLE – Marion “Judy” Pelotte, 77, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, following a hard and long fight with multiple illnesses. Judy was born on April 21, 1943, in Howland, the daughter of Joseph Walter and Mary Helen (Albert) Belanger.

Judy moved to Passadumkeag and then Old Town before she settled in Waterville. Judy married and had four sons, Jody, Robby, Chad and Toby, who didn’t survive childbirth. She worked at Waterville Window Co., in Winslow, and then retired from Scott Paper Co., in Winslow.

Judy enjoyed cooking, knitting, playing cribbage, listening to country music as well as visiting her many friends and family. Her greatest joy in the world was doing things for other people. If you went to visit her at her home, no matter what she had or didn’t have, you never left empty handed.

She is survived by her three sons, Jody, of Benton, Robby and his wife, Kathy, of Hallowell, and Chad, of Waterville; her brother, Lawrence Belanger and his wife, Lynn, of Winslow; her sister, Theresa Culbertson, of Old Town; her grandchildren, Annalisa and her significant other, Gendhai, Tanner, Stephanie, Brandi, Dean, Jessica and her husband, Norman; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held later this year. From the moment Judy was diagnosed with cancer she started donating to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital to help children in their fight against cancer. Judy loved children and supported St. Jude’s for many years.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net.

If you feel called, please donate in Judy’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

RICHARD R. KANE

SOUTH CHINA – Richard R. Kane, 79, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at his home. Richard was born in Worcester, Massa­chusetts, on April 3, 1941, the son of George H. and Jeannette (Buron) Kane.

He attended schools in Worcester and graduated from Commerce High School in 1959. Richard dated Elizabeth in high school and they married in July 1959.

After high school, he went to work for Bianchie Tile Co. until 1981. Richard and Elizabeth raised four children. They bought a house in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and lived there until 1981 before moving to Augusta later that year and building a home on Three Cornered Pond.

Richard went to work at Digital Equipment Corp., in Augusta, for 23 years, which later became S.C.I., and was still installing tile on the side. He was a very hard worker. He loved fixing up his houses, planting a garden and flowers. After the children were married, they sold their house and moved to China. He retired but then decided to go back to work for Lawson’s Property Service Co., until 2016.

Richard and Elizabeth spent many summers at Pemaquid Point Campground, having a seasonal site there. They met many friends there over the years. They loved going to the Pemaquid Lighthouse every night just to listen to and watch the waves crashing over the rocks.

Richards’s greatest joy was their family gatherings and going to his grandchildren’s soccer and field hockey games, dance recitals and Boy Scout functions with his grandson. Richard looked forward to his fishing trips every fall with his Digital friends up to East Grand Lake. He also loved watching the Boston Bruins and NASCAR.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, George P. Kane; and his son, Richard R. Kane.

Richard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth F. (Smith) Kane, of South China; his children, Candace E. Dieterich and her husband Kevin, of Winthrop, and their son James Lane, of Monmouth; Sharon Kane, of Manchester, and her children Brianna LaChance, of Mount Vernon, and Tara Moulton, of Augusta; Carolyn Allen, of South China, and her children Angelica, of Vassalboro, and Allyson, of North Dakota; and their father Glen Allen Jr., of Vassalboro; his sister, Patricia Laganelli, of West Boylston, Massachusetts; a brother, William Kane, of Millbury, Massachusetts; brother-in-law, Paul R. Smith and his wife Sandra, of Gulf Port, Florida; also many nieces and nephews; is son-in-law, Kevin Dieterich.

Graveside services will be held in St. Mary Cemetery, Manchester, in the spring.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St., Augusta, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirtsfuneralhomes.com.

Memorial contributions may be made t HealthReach Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903 or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, NE Division, 101A 1st Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 04251.

MARY FOLLETT

WINDSOR – Mary Follett, 83, passed away Friday, January 22, 2021, at the Alzheimers Care Unit, in Gardiner, where she has resided for the last two years. She had lived in Windsor for the past 55 years. Mary was born July 30, 1937, in Portland, the daughter of James and Margaret Goodall Sr.

She married George Follett Jan. 7, 1956.

Mary worked for the VA Center – Togus in the laundry and retired after 35 years of service.

Mary was a member of the Whitefield Lions’ Club, in Coopers Mills, for 30-plus years. She always enjoyed and was very proud of the work she did with this organization. She loved working for them at the Windsor Fair every year and she wanted to be there every day of the fair, she just loved it! She made wonderful friends through this organization. She also participated in the Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society, as she was a lung and liver cancer survivor. She was always ready to support anything she could within her community.

She loved to knit mittens in her early days and crochet dish cloths later in life. The thing she liked best was spending time with her family and friends at camp on Clary Lake. She especially enjoyed the 4th of July celebration and her birthday spent at camp. She always looked forward to having a fish fry with fresh fish caught from the lake by Cracker and Steve York. She loved her daily trips to the post office and Hussey’s for coffee where she always entered the door with a smile and a loud “Howdeeee!”.

She had a personality that made people want to spend time with her. She had a smile that would light up the room.

She was predeceased by her husband, George; and her sisters, Rita Rowe and Maggie Goodall.

She is survived by her daughters, Nina Bergendoff and husband Gary, from Bowdoinham, and Patty Althenn and husband Rusty, who has been her “son” since his teenage years, from South China; grandchildren, Greg Althenn and his partner Crystal, from Vassalboro, Melissa Althenn and her fiancé Lance, from Augusta, Katie Mcpherson and husband Ethen, from Bowdoinham, Beth Evangelista and husband Tomas, from Florida, and Kay Melba and husband John, from South Carolina; great-grandchildren, Lilliane Herard, Patrick Willis, Hayley and Collin Melba, Savi and Lina Evangelista; brothers, Richard and James Goodall; as well as several nieces, and nephews.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Whitefield Lions Club, 52 Main St., Coopers Mills, ME 04341 or Alzheimer’s Care Unit Day Services Program, 154 Dresden Ave., Gardiner, ME 04345.

KENNETH A. COUTURE

WATERVILLE – Kenneth A. Couture, 91, passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021, following a long battle with a stroke and end stage Renal disease, at Northern Light Continuing Care Nursing Home, in Waterville. Kenneth was born the third child on March 12, 1929, into a family of 13 siblings.

He attended Waterville schools and went on to become an electrician and plumber and received a master’s in electrical work. He joined the family business know as W.A. Taylor, Inc., in Waterville. He always rose above any challenge in his lifetime, whether it was his home or work life.

On May 2, 1948, he married the former Marie Rose Tardiff, and they were married 64 years. They were the proud parents of five children.

Kenneth is surrived by his sons, Raymond and wife Pamela, Donald and wife Barbara; daughter, Cathy Simpson and former husband David (predeceased), Cheryl Rood and husband Duane; son, Richard, (predeceased) and his surviving wife Sandra; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; siblings, Rita Cormier; Betty DeRaps; Genny St. Peter, Norma Stankevitz; Eugene and wife Judith; Harvey and wife Renette; James and wife Enola; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was also preceded in death by his parents, William and Elizabeth Couture; brothers, William Jr and wife Dorilla; Reginald and wife O’rita, Bernard; and sisters, Cecile Dugas and husband Lawrence; Agnes Pomerleau and husband Frank.

A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be scheduled in the spring of 2021.

Memorial donations may be made, in lieu of flowers, to the “Good Shepard Food Bank, 3121 Hotel Road, Auburn, ME 04210; the American Lung Association website, or Beacon Hospice at Amedisys Foundation, 3845 American Way, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

PATRICIA SLEAMAKER

WATERVILLE – Patricia Sleamaker, 89, passed away on Saturday, January 23, 2021. She was born on January 26, 1931, to Warner and Mildred Danforth in Peoria, Illinois. The family later moved east and settled in eastern Massachusetts.

Pat graduated from Boston University and began her lifelong passion for teaching young children in Sudbury, Massachusetts. She took time away from the classroom to raise her own three children and then returned to teaching elementary grades in Keene, New Hampshire.

On July 3, 1969, she married Bill Sleamaker and together they blended two families with a combined seven children (five still at home) and moved to North Vassalboro. Their children were unsure about the old farmhouse into which they were moving or life in a small country town, but in time it all came together nicely. Pat taught fourth grade at Pleasant Street Elementary School, before moving to Brookside School (later renamed George J. Mitchell School), both in Waterville, where she taught kindergarten and first grade.

She retired from teaching in 1995 and enjoyed tending to her flower gardens, water aerobics, and painting. She also enjoyed traveling – to London, China, an Alaska cruise, and many other U.S. destinations. She was a talented artist and seamstress, and loved making a variety of Christmas cookies to the delight of the recipients.

Her health took an unexpected decline in her later years and following a stroke, Pat lived at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville, where she received excellent and compassionate care.

Pat was predeceased by her parents; and three siblings, Warner “Dan” Danforth Jr. and his wife Marge, Rev. Frank “Skip” Danforth, and her youngest sister, Martha Burgess.

She is survived by her husband W.V. “Bill” Sleamaker; her sister Mary Jenkins; and her children, Suellen Sleamaker, of San Francisco, California, Gini (Tom) Mulligan, of Center Strafford, New Hampshire., Jay (Sue) Bradshaw, of Belgrade, Jane Sleamaker Costello (Harvey Rivard), of Amherst, Massachusetts, Betsy Glencross, of Sabattus, Rob Sleamaker (Carol Sullivan), of Underhill, Vermont, and Peter (Maria) Bradshaw, of Keene, New Hampshire; 13 grandchildren and four great- grandchildren.

Her family will hold a celebration of life at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Oakland/Sidney Methodist Church, PO Boxs 145, Oakland,ME 04963.

DALLAS M. HODGKINS

WHITEFIELD – Dallas Mayo Hodgkins, 93, of Whitefield, passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2021. He was born at his family home on West Neck Road, in Nobleboro, on December 30, 1927, the son of George and Ruth (Marsh) Hodgkins.

One of his first jobs, as a teenager, was cutting ice blocks from Damarriscotta Lake. He later went to work for the State of Maine plowing snow, accepted a position at the Damariscotta State Liquor Agency, and advanced to other store locations throughout his career. He and his wife Barbara owned Dal’s Lunch, on the Togus Road, in Randolph. After selling the restaurant, he went back to work at the State Liquor Agency where he retired.

Dallas’ passions included being part of the Masonic family of the Dresden Lodge #103 for over 50 years, harness racing and playing poker with his friends and family. He loved sharing his life stories and so enjoyed being a character with his jokes.

He was predeceased by his parents; wife, Barbara (Potter) Hodgkins; two brothers, George and Vance Hodgkins, two sisters, Shirley (Hodgkins) Waltz and Nada (Hodgkins) Waltz.

Dallas is survived by five children, Cheryl Sawyer and husband Bill; Greg Hodgkins; Daryl Hodgkins and girlfriend Lori; Doreen Hodgkins; Donna Wendt and husband Chris; four grandchildren, Jayson and Justin Goranson, Jamie Thompson, Brad Snell and eight great-grandchildren; and his sister, Becky Malone.

At his request there will be no visiting hours and a private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of 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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in loving memory of his wife, Barbara; or the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, 383 U.S. Route One, #2, Scarborough, Maine 04074.

STEPHEN J. LODER JR.

CLINTON – Stephen James Loder Jr., 49, of Clinton, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 25, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Thayer Unit, in Waterville. Stephen was born in Waterville to Rose Marie (Latulippe) and Stephen Loder on March 3, 1971.

He was married to the former Emily Sears, of Clinton, on October 31, 1998, in Waterville.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1990. He worked as a cook for Sodexo, at Thomas College, in Waterville, since 2011 and worked part-time in the summer for Pyro City, in Winslow. He had previously worked for Governor’s Restaurant, the Waterville Country Club, both in Waterville, Olive Garden, and Kirshners, both in Augusta, and Sodexo, at Colby College

Stephen was known as “the Egg-Man” at Thomas and was loved for his smile, positivity and dedication to his role. He was also a strong supporter of the Thomas athletic programs and could be seen standing on the sidelines or bench at most home games. Stephen was a dedicated father to his daughter, Cecile, attending all dance lessons, and recitals from about 4-years-old until she graduated from high school. Supporting her during the Barrel Races and everything in which she was involved.

Stephen is survived by his ex-wife, Emily Sears, of Clinton; his daughter, Cecile, of Clinton; his two brothers, Jeramy Loder and wife Tammy, of Clinton, and Tobey Loder and wife Heidi, of Fairfield; his aunts, niece and nephews, great-niece and nephew, and many cousins. Stephen was looking forward to his first grandchild due in early July.

Stephen was predeceased by his parents, Rose Marie and Stephen Loder, and grandparents.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

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

PAUL E. PARE

AUGUSTA – Paul E. Paré, 91, died Monday, January 25, 2021, at his home, following a period of declining health. He was born on May 20, 1929, in Vassalboro, a son of the late Ernest and Georgianna (Blouin) Paré.

Paul attended school in Vassalboro. Until he married, he worked the family’s dairy farm on Cross Hill Road, in Vassalboro, and with his mother, sold and delivered butter and eggs from the farm to Augusta customers, including the family of his future wife, Lorraine C. Labbé. On June 24, 1952, Paul and Lorraine were married and spent over 67 years of marriage together before Lorraine died on Jan. 17, 2020.

Prior to his retirement in 1992, Paul was the maintenance superintendent at Statler Tissue Company (formerly Hudson Pulp and Paper), in Augusta, where he worked for 40 years.

He was a life member of Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, and served as the club’s house chairman for many years. He was a parishioner of St. Michael Parish, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta. Paul was an avid gardener who grew a wide variety of vegetables and flowers. He was especially proud of his annual crop of tomatoes. His carpentry and woodworking skills included remodeling the home he shared with Lorraine and their four children and building finely crafted furniture.

Paul was predeceased by a son, Norman Paré; his brothers, Alphonse and Robert Paré; and his sisters, Marie Blanche Burchell, Marie Rose Fortin, Madeline Sanborn, Josephine Lavallee, Roselia Violette, Merilda Poulin, and Beatrice Pomerleau.

He is survived by his daughter, Anne Marie Paré, of Augusta; his son, Paul E. Paré, Jr. and daughter-in-law Bev, of Dixmont; his daughter, Rita J. Paré-Peters, of Waterville; grandchildren, Shane Paré, of Houston, Texas, Jak Peters, of Waterville, Chrissy Paré, of Miami, Florida, and Nick Paré and his wife Alison and their daughters, Addy and Izzy, all of Topsham; sister, Rita Glidden; sister-in-law, Jeannine Paré; and brother-in-law, Bert Ayotte; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no public visiting hours or public services. Burial will be in the spring in Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Road, Augusta.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, Maine.

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

Those who desire may make donations in Paul’s memory to MaineGeneral HomeCare and Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, Maine 04903.

SARA M. PRATT

WINDSOR – Sara Mitchell Brown Pratt, 94, passed away on Monday, January 25, 2021, in Farmington. Sara Mitchell Brown Pratt was born during a blizzard at the family farm in Princeton, Maine, on April 1, 1926, the day after her mother arrived back in Princeton by train from Florida. Sara was born to C. Elwood Brown and Marjorie (Mason) Brown and was the second of three daughters.

Sara grew up on the family farm driving tractors and working the gardens with her father. She attended the Princeton, Maine, school system graduating in 1944, honorably completing the college course of study. She was the senior class treasurer as well as the business manager of PHS newspaper and yearbook. Many of Sara’s classmates and friends served in World War II.

Sara studied home economics at the Farmington State Normal School, now known as the University of Maine at Farmington, from 1944 to 1946. She happily left college upon the return of her high school sweetheart, Harold J. Pratt, who had arrived home from his distinguished service overseas with the Army Ranger Special Service forces.

On September 29, 1946, Sara married Harold J. Pratt, son of Earl and Mona Pratt at the home of her parents in Princeton.

Sara and Harold had two sons, Michael D. and Elwood G. Sara and Harold lived in Augusta and Gardiner and in 1954, they moved into the family home on the Griffin Road in Windsor.

Sara was civically minded; very active in the Eastern Star becoming a Grand Officer. She and Harold were members of the Windsor Grange and always highly involved in the churches they attended. She taught Bible school and youth group. In her later years, Sara hosted a Bible study group in her home.

Sara’s last months were spent at the Woodlands Assisted Living Home, in Farmington.

Sara’s long life spanned ten decades of rural Maine living. Sara had a quick wit and a fierce independence. Sara attributed her good health to a life of clean living devoted to God. Providing healthy meals for her family was especially important. Growing a large vegetable garden, preserving the bounty, baking from scratch, cooking what the “boys” had harvested while fishing and hunting, and stretching a dollar were perfected talents.

Sara appreciated a well-set table and took great pride in hosting holiday celebrations. Picnics were a beloved year-round recreation, especially lakeside. She loved to sew and made gifts of clothing, quilts and stuffed animals. Sara’s flower gardens were something to behold. There was always room for a cherished family dog.

She enjoyed a hot cup of tea, reading her Bible, and rooting for the Red Sox. Sara was a true Matron, especially dignified and respectable whether in dresses or denim.

Sara was predeceased by Harold Pratt, her husband of 65 years, parents, C. Elwood and Marjorie, sisters, Florence H. Bailey and Eleanor M. Curtis.

Sara is survived by her sons, Michael D. Pratt and wife Laureen (Nadge) Pratt, of Weld, Elwood G. Pratt and wife Victoria Pratt, of Windsor; grandson, Jerrod M. Pratt, of Washington; granddaughter, Julie A. (Pratt) Bartlett and husband Nathan, of New Sharon; great-grandchildren, Grace S. Pratt, Joshua H. Pratt, Abigail R. Bartlett and Elias M. Bartlett; step-grandchildren, Steven Furrow, Michael Furrow, David Furrow and Joseph Furrow and their families; a brother-in-law, sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a private family burial service at the Maine Veteran’s Cemetery, in Augusta. If Covid restrictions are lifted this Spring or Summer, there will be a public memorial service at the Veterans Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net.

Anyone wishing to make donations in Sara’s memory may make a contribution to the Shriner’s Hospital, or to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society.

BEVERLY M. MEUNIER

WINSLOW – Beverly “Bev” M. (Witham) Meunier, 74, succumbed to cancer on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. Beverly was born February 8, 1946, the eleventh of 13 children of Archie and Etta (House) Witham.

On May 27, 1961, she married Eugene Meunier. They enjoyed 59 years together. They built their family in Norridgewock for 26 years, then moving to Winslow for 34 years.

She was very proud to get her GED and to go on to take college courses with their daughter at University of Maine Farmington. Bev was a dedicated homemaker, wife, mother and friend. She worked at Labun’s and Libby’s, in Norridgewock, for a few years. When the family moved to Winslow, she was employed by Dr. Culver and Dr. Waldron’s offices. She eventually retired from LL Bean Call Center, in Waterville.

Beverly had an abundance of interests. She loved gardening, canning, her lily flower beds, baking, tole painting and most recently, quilting. But her best quality was her calming demeanor. She was always cool-headed and so reasonable.

She is survived by her husband, Eugene, of Winslow; two sons, Eugene Jr. and wife Kathy, of Norridgewock, Dennis, of Winslow; one daughter, Deedra Fuller and husband Rocky, of Albion; two sisters, Avis Willey, of Waterville and Rosie Wood and husband Don, of Oakland; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews; in-laws, Carl Laney, Louise Witham, of Norridgewock; Shiann Witham, of Oakland, Charlotte Higgins and husband Larry, of Sidney, Norman Meunier and wife Polly, Margaret Meunier, of Hickory, North Carolina, Wilfred Meunier, of Skowhegan, and Wayne Meunier and wife Linda, of Mercer.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by four sisters, Arlene Frost, Doris Kinney and husband Carroll, Maxine Peters and husband Percy, Kathy Warren; six brothers, Archie Jr., Leslie, Maurice, Lloyd, Royce and Roger Witham; two brothers-in-law, Gordon and Ludger Meunier; two sisters-in-law, Cynthia (Meunier) Laney and Agnes (Meunier) Dion.

A graveside service will be held in the Spring at Sunset Cemetery in Norridgewock.

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

LAURA E. MOSES

WATERVILLE – Laura E. Moses, 76, of Waterville, passed away unexpectedly at the Maine Veterans Home, in Bangor. She was born April 8, 1944, in Waterville, the daughter of the late Henry W. Moses Sr. and the late Lorette (Albert) Moses

Laura was educated through the Waterville school system; starting at Mt. Merici Academy, in Waterville, and graduated from Waterville High School.

Early in her employment, Laura worked as a cook (a very good cook) at the old Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, before joining the U.S. Army. Laura served for seven years and received several commendations. She was stationed in Nicaragua and Germany as a dietitian. Laura was a veteran that loved her country and enjoyed talking and visiting with other veterans.

In the last few years of Laura’s life, she struggled with Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease. She would want to be remembered as she was before this disease stole her mind. She was full of life and love until the end.

Laura was a member of the Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville. She loved her Lord greatly. She would talk about, “how Jesus would take care of her,” and he did and will continue to do so.

Laura was predeceased by her parents; Henry Sr. and Lorette Moses; two brothers, Reny E. Moses and Henry Moses Jr.; and a niece, Deborah L. Moses.

Laura leaves behind two brothers; Roland A. Moses and wife Blanche, of Fall River, Massachusetts, and her twin brother Leo E. Moses and wife Leona, of Fairfield; sister-in-law, Kathryn Moses, of Waterville; nephew, Robert L. Moses and family, of Villa Rica, Georgia.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, February 2, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

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

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 28, 2021

MILLICENT CILLEY

WATERVILLE – Millicent (McInnis) Cilley, 96, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021. Millicent was born in Waterville on April 30, 1924, the daughter of Allan and Marcella (McCabe) McInnis. She was the fifth child of nine.

Millicent married Edward (Ted) Cilley on February 5, 1946. Edward was a Pearl Harbor survivor and the son of Harold and Mary (Morin) Cilley. Together they had three children, Steven, Michael, and Bryan, as well as 10 grandchildren and 12 great- grandchildren. Ted and Millie were happily married for 70 years.

Millie graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. She was a faithful Catholic her whole life. She was known for “wicked” sense of humor. She was making people laugh even into her 90s.

As the spouse of a career military man, she moved around the country, always able to find success. In California, she became a cosmetologist, eventually becoming an instructor and part owner of the beauty academy.

Millie’s biggest contribution to the world seemed to be the laughter she brought to all she encountered.

Burial will be held in the spring.

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

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

EDWARD JURDAK JR.

WATERVILLE – Edward Jurdak, 95, passed away on Friday, January 8,, 2021. He was born Dec­ember 7, 1925, in Waterville, the place he called home and built homes in.

A wildly handsome World War II Navy veteran who used his GI Bill to learn how to lay tile. These tiles would become the foundation upon which he would build his name. He built the homes of countless individuals on Water Street, Cool Street, Spruce, and Oakland to name a few. A man who used his hands to provide for his family, which he did so for 95 years.

Money to him was a mere object that could be reinvested into his community. Into his tenants who were like “family” and into the local businesses that supplied just the right tool for the job, and just the right amount of friendship. In every nail hammered and piece of siding hung, an act of generosity was bestowed, knowing that he was not only building a structure for this life but for one that would live on long after his own.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law George and Kathy Jurdak; his daughters Carol Ezhaya, and Donna Jurdak-Roy and son-in-law Peter Roy; seven grandchildren, Melissa Giguere husband Jeff, Brian Jurdak and wife Linda, Paul Ezhaya and wife Jessica, Amy Ezhaya, Daniel Jurdak-Roy and wife Jaime, Arielle Jurdak-Roy and partner Jordan Carson, and Lucas Jurdak-Roy and partner Ashleigh Footer; six great-grandchildren Xander and Isabelle Giguere, Ava and Benjamin Jurdak, Brady and Jaxon Jurdak-Roy. He was looking forward to meeting his newest great-grandson Ezhaya in February; his brother Richard Jurdak; sister Sandra Marcoux; cousin “Little Eddie”, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife Carmen Lessard Jurdak in 2017. They were married for 69 years; his parents Edward George Jurdak Sr., and Anastasia Belanger Jurdak; his brothers Robert and Donald Jurdak, his sisters Marie Paradis, Jeannette Ross, Madeleine Plisga and Elizabeth Lancaster.

There will be a gathering in the spring at the time of his burial.

Arrangements are by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service Skowhegan, Maine.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Travis Mills Foundation, 747 Western Ave., Manchester, ME 04351 or Belgrade Lakes Association, 137 Main St., Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918.

ALFRED F. OBERLERCHNER

WINSLOW – Alfred F. Oberlerchner, 73, passed away on Saturday, January 9, 2021. He was born on October 5, 1947, in Millstadt, Austria.

Without a doubt, he would always be cheering for his homeland when watching skiing or soccer on television. He, himself, was an amazing athlete and a beautiful skier. He played soccer, tennis and golf, as well as, hunted and fished. He looked forward to his Wednesday afternoons at the Waterville Country Club with his loyal “foursome,” as well as his time playing cribbage with his friends and grandchildren. His grandchildren would often repeat his “Alfredisms” in cribbage, such as, “you stinked me” or “it’s a willy.” This fall Alfred got a deer when his lifelong friend, Alan Veilleux, took him out on his four-wheeler for one last hunting trip.

Alfred spent his life working in the hospitality industry which gave him the opportunity to travel the world. He actually met his wife, Sharon, working in Elbow Beach, Bermuda. His dream of opening his own restaurant happened with Alfred’s Restaurant, in Augusta, and subsequently, running the restaurants at the Waterville Country Club and Sugarloaf Brewhaus. Sugarloaf was a special place for Alfred and he spent many Sundays skiing with his children at the “loaf.”

Most important to him in life was his family. He loved all of their visits to Winlsow, and especially his time with his grandchildren riding on his lawn tractor, filling his bird feeders and picking vegetables from his garden. Alfred was very proud that his grandchildren were able to travel to Austria with him last year. His Austrian family meant so very much to him and were always close to his heart. He passed on the love of his birth country to his wife, children, grandchildren, and many of his friends.

Alfred is survived by his wife, Sharon Hurvitz Oberlerchner; two children, Karli Whitney and her husband Matt, and Franz Oberlerchner and his wife Jaime; four grandchildren, Griffin and Emma Whitney, and Taylor and Keegan Oberlerchner; his mother, Herta Oberlerchner, of Seeboden, Austria; his four siblings, Karin, Helmut, Astrid and Heidi; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ellen and David Landau; several nieces and nephews in the United States, Austria and the Netherlands.

Alfred was predeceased by his father, Franz; as well as his in-laws Melvin and Gladys Hurvitz.

Alfred did not want services but in celebration of his life, toast a “half glass” of wine in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou/.

JAMES C. STEWART

WATERVILLE – James “Jim” Colin Stewart, 78, passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a long illness. He was born in Waterville on March 27, 1942, the son of Clarence and Margaret (Gaudet) Stewart.

Jim attended Waterville High School, where he met his future wife, Joyce (Buker) Stewart. They were married for 58 years.

After high school, Jim held various jobs in the Waterville area. He worked for Central Maine Power Co., and then became a firefighter/EMT for the Waterville Fire Department. He made many lifelong friends there.

At the ripe old age of 33, Jim decided to attend the Maine Criminal Justice Academy and become a law enforcement officer. He was employed for several years as a sheriff’s deputy for the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office. However, Jim wasn’t done yet…he made his final career move by becoming a safety and security officer for Sappi Fine Paper, in Hinckley, before retiring in 2001.

Jim loved fishing, Moosehead and Rangeley lakes, and anything to do with landscaping and making his yard look impeccable. He had a great deal of pride in it. Jim also loved to tinker in his garage and could fix just about anything. He mostly loved being a “Papa” to his two grandsons. His family meant the world to him.

Jim was predeceased by his mother and father; and brother, Clarence “Sonny” Stewart.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughters, Vicki (Tom) Higgins, Trisha (Dan) LeGage; his grandsons, Lucas and Logan LeGage; sisters, Germaine Jackson, Beverly Stewart, and Patsy Jolicoeur and brother, Fred Stewart.

There will be a graveside service later this spring.

DANIEL L. SAWTELLE

FAIRFIELD – Daniel Lee Sawtelle passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.

Daniel was a kind, caring, Christian man who never hesitated to help someone in need. He was a member of Sidney’s Second Baptist Church. He enjoyed finding deals on Ebay, going fishing, taking long rides with his wife Cindy to look for antiques and enjoy the outdoors. He especially loved his two dogs, Sampson and Xander.

Daniel attended Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield; he graduated the top of his class in accounting on the nationwide accounting exam. He received an award for placing second.

Daniel is survived by his wife of 37 years, Cynthia Hosea Sawtelle; his mom and stepdad, Barbara and Ken Butler; his brothers, Dana Sawtelle and his wife, April, Daryl Sawtelle and his wife, Tina, Don and his wife, Kristina Welch; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Darlene Nicholas; and his grandparents, Roland and Anita Sinclair.

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.

In lieu of flowers, donations to pay for cremation services and future bills are appreciated. Please go to go fund me page at: https://gofund.me/1ffcde67 or send your donation to Cindy Sawtelle P.O. Box 102, Fairfield, ME. 04937.

WILMOT R. JONES III

OKLAHOMA – Wilmot Rufus Jones IIII, 86, passed away peacefully in his home in Ada, Oklahoma. Rufus was born in New York City, New York, on December 29, 1934.

He spent his formative years growing up in Wilmington, Delaware, where his father Bill was headmaster at Wilmington Friends School. From his parents and his schooling, he was raised in the light of the Quaker faith yet still found means of expressing (and frequently getting away with) a mischievous sense of humor that he never abandoned in adulthood, as his sister Lee can attest. Rufus’ childhood summers were enjoyed at his family’s vacation home in South China, where the family escaped the cloud of the Depression and war and where Rufus came to embrace his father’s love of sailing. Rufus graduated Friends School in 1952 to attend Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, where he studied Hotel Adminis­tration. At Cornell he met his first wife Joan with whom he graduated in 1956. That year he was called into military service when, keeping with his Quaker faith, he served as C.O. at Memorial/Sloan Kettering Institute in New York. In 1957, Rufus and Joan were married and then returned together to Ithaca where Rufus obtained his MBA from Cornell. The year 1959 marked the dual launch of his successful career in marketing, and more importantly to him, the start of their family which grew over the next 12 years to seven children strong.

As the ‘Great Provider’ for nine, Rufus pursued a career path where a willingness to move and meet opportunity facilitated a steady and steep career trajectory. Rufus ascended into senior management with many large food service companies including General Foods in Indianapolis, Indiana, R.T. French Co. in Rochester, New York, Nestle Foods’ chocolate division (a hands-down favorite of his children) in White Plains, New York, and Pet Foods in St. Louis, Missouri, leaving his mark at every stop. Anyone who is familiar with the ‘Squeeze Me’ bottles of French’s Mustard or has ever enjoyed the crunch of Rice Krispies in their chocolate bar has Rufus to thank.

He somehow found the time for competitive sailing with his daughter Jennifer on Lake Ontario, going to Indian Guides campouts with his boys, teaching his cheerleader daughters the finer points of high school football just so they would know the perfect cheer to call, or simply showing up at the back row in the audience of a school play when you knew he had to work late. All this while saving enough to send all seven kids to college.

In 1992 Rufus married Rusty Pardon in St. Louis, Missouri, expanding his family to include stepdaughter Pamela and stepson Douglas. Still with some career energy to burn, Rufus purchased Mike & Min’s, a renowned blues bar in the Soulard neighborhood downtown which he owned and operated until his retirement in 1997. In 2002 he and Rusty decided it was “time for re-potting” and moved to St. Augustine, Florida, where together they built the home of their dreams. Over the decades, South China was a steady hub for Rufus, a love for which his family came to share. In a life already full of victories, it was a personal highlight for Rufus to acquire with Rusty a property of their own on China Lake, just a stone’s skip down the shore from the original Jones family camp founded by his namesake grandfather.

In 2006 Rufus’ beloved Rusty was lost to cancer, but not before she played matchmaker and connected Rufus with her best friend of 40-plus years, Martha Ehrlich. Martha and Rufus were married in 2007, in a ceremony overlooking China Lake. Rufus’ family had expanded again to include Martha’s children, Miles Ehrlich, Erich Ehrlich and Cara Crawford and a new home base in beautiful Ada, Oklahoma. Rufus’ final years were spent in peace and happiness with Martha at his side until his final sunset.

Rufus will be remembered for his bone-dry wit, his competitive spirit (be it on the squash court, croquet pitch or backgammon board), his fondness for a certain whisky, a roaring fire, frequently hideous pants, but above all, his love of family and the legacy of a life very well lived.

Rufus is survived by his wife of 13 years Martha L. Ehrlich; his sister Mary Lee Hargadon, of Brunswick; his first wife Joan R. Jones, of Bedminster, New Jersey; and his six children, Jennifer R. Jones, of Florham Park, New Jersey, Elizabeth A. Jones, of White Salmon, Washington, Margaret J. Carpenter, of Falls Church, Virginia, Peter R. Jones, of Acton, Massachusetts, Stephen M. Jones, of Victoria, Texas, and Kenneth C. Jones, of Kenmore, Washington; five stepchildren, 15 grandchildren and one great-grandson; six nieces and nephews. Quite a legacy, especially considering he was the child of parents that believed in the idea of low population growth.

Rufus was preceded in death by his second wife Ellen ‘Rusty’ Jones, and his youngest son Daniel T. Jones.

Rufus will be laid to rest in Maine in a private ceremony later this year.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to be made to Wilmington Friends School or the China Lake Association.

SR. DOROTHY BUJOLD

WATERVILLE – Sister Dorothy Bujold, 94, formerly known as Sister Rita Marie, died on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Mount Saint Joseph. in Waterville. She was born on February 11, 1926, in Waterville, the daughter of Leonard and Evelyne (Guite) Bujold.

Dorothy joined the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Lyon in 1946, in South Berwick. From 1949 to 1969 she ministered with youth, teaching successively at the Academy of Saint Joseph, in South Berwick, and at the parochial schools of Saint Michael, in South Berwick, Holy Family, in Lewiston, and St. John Regional School, in Winslow.

From 1969 to 1989 Sister Dorothy was mainly at the service of religious life. She was elected to the General Leadership of her Congregation in 1969 and lived in Lyon, France, until 1977. She was then missioned to Rome where for eight years she worked at the International Union of Superiors General. In 1985, upon her return to Maine, she served for four years as Vicar for Religious in the Diocese of Portland.

In 1989, her Congregation made an appeal for Africa. Sister Dorothy answered that call and was missioned to West Africa at the age of 63. For 12 years she shared her life with the African people whom she loved, in the countries of Senegal, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso.

During her last years of active ministry, at the age of 75, she was missioned to St. Peter’s Church, Bingham, to provide parish outreach to the people in the area. In May 2016, she moved to Mount Saint Joseph, in Waterville.

Sister Dorothy is survived by four sisters, Adrienne Desveaux, of Wells, Noella Pelletier and husband Charlie, of Winslow, Fern Bard and husband Bud, of Winslow, Sister Rita Bujold, CSJ, of Lyon, France, her two brothers, Leo Bujold and wife Olivette, of Skowhegan, and Harvey Bujold and Karen Nagle, of Bonita Springs, Florida; many nephews, nieces; grandnephews, and grandnieces.

She was predeceased by her sister Paula and husband Jim Veilleux; her brother-in-law Ted Desveaux, and her sister-in-law Rita Bujold.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on January 20, with burial at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations, which will be sent in Sr. Dorothy’s memory, to our sisters in Africa, may be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph, 80 Garland Rd., Winslow, ME 04901.

THERESA L. TIBBETTS

FAIRFIELD — Theresa L. (Hebert) Tibbetts, 53, of Fairfield, died unexpectedly on Saturday, January 16, 2021. Theresa was born in Portland on August 6, 1967. Two years later her (adopted) mother moved them to Franklin, New Hampshire.

In 1992 she moved to Oakland to be with her (now) ex-husband, Douglas Hebert Sr. After they divorced, she loved the area and decided to stay here.

She was a homemaker for most of her adult life and she really enjoyed doing canvas projects. She loved animals, especially her (predeceased) cats, Chumley, Bobo and Callie. She had a big heart and would help those in need when she could. One of her proudest moments was returning to Night School and getting her diploma from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 1996.

She was predeceased by her mother, Elsie Tibbetts, of Franklin, New Hampshire., and her companion, Roland Landry, of Fairfield.

Theresa leaves behind her daughter, Alycia Ganjoo and her husband Arjun, from New Hampshire; her son, Douglas Hebert Jr. and his girlfriend Tabby Costa, of Oakland; two granddaughters, Jocelyn Hebert, of Waterville, and Ariella Hebert, of Oakland; her ex-husband, Douglas Hebert Sr.; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be no visiting hours or service at this time.

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.

MARIE GAGNON

WATERVILLE – Marie Gagnon died peacefully at Mount Saint Joseph’s, in Waterville, on Saturday, January 16, 2021. She was born and educated in New Jersey.

In New York she became a registered nurse, and then lived most of her life in Waterville and Winslow. She was employed for many years by Thayer Hospital – Mid Maine Medical Center before acquiring the new name of MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville.

Marie was predeceased by Henry Gagnon, her husband of 39 years; her son, Henry Gagnon Jr.; and several sisters and brothers.

Survivors are her daughter-in-law, Susan; her grandson, Matthew and his wife Nicole, granddaughters, Rachel and Melanie; great-grandson, Fox; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow, ME 04901 or the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, 101 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

WILLIAM B. LUNT

WINSLOW – William B. Lunt, 90, of Roderick Road, died Sunday, January 17, 2021, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, Waterville, following a brief illness. Bill was born in Freeport on April 24, 1930, the son of Chester L Lunt and Rosamond (Rowe) Lunt.

Bill served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a lifetime member of the Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, in Waterville.

He graduated from Freeport High School, received a bachelor’s degree in education from University of Maine, Gorham, completed a graduate study in physical education at Springfield College, in Springfield, Massachusetts, received a master’s degree in education with focus on school administration from University of Maine Orono, and a CAGS from Boston University.

Bill was a teacher, principal, and school administrator. He was often, in his early teaching years, a basketball coach along with his teaching responsibilities.

Bill was an avid champion candlepin bowler, tennis player, ping pong player and loved horseshoes. In fact, he attended and received multiple Senior Olympic medals for ping pong (table tennis) and horseshoes. He was a painter and accomplished sketch artist. He also published a Down East humor book in the 1970s that had some of his sketches.

He always said he married his best friend and college classmate, Ruth H. (Coombs), who preceded him in death.

Surviving are two daughters, Diana Brown Collins and Debra J. Van Valkenburg, both of Winslow; four grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

There are no planned visiting hours. Graveside services for family only.

Burial with military honors will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta. No public services or memorial will be scheduled.

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

CHARLOTTE M. BASSETT

WATERVILLE – Charlotte May Bassett, 96, passed away on Sunday, January 17, 2021, after losing her long battle against cancer. She was born at home, in South Portland, July 9, 1924, to her parents, Peter A.G. and Irene V. (Hall) Bruns. She was the second born of their five children.

The youngest, sister Hazel Thomas, of Weeks Mills, is the only surviving sibling.

In 1936 Charlotte graduated from South Portland High School where among many other activities she was a trombone player in the marching band.

Charlotte was married, briefly, to Malcom McAllister, bearing one son, Leland R. McAllister. Leland preceded her in death January 1, 2020, from undiagnosed sudden heart failure.

Her second, and life-long marriage was to John C. Bassett, of Calais. Together they had two sons, Donald J. and Peter H. Bassett.

Charlotte loved life, family, dark chocolate, coffee, reading, people who enjoyed having fun, playing cards and games (notorious for winning), sewing, crafts, gardening, and travel. She tolerated pets. She had a great love of nature, deeply loved family and embraced children, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her great-great-grandchildren.

Charlotte and John spent much of their married life traveling. His job took them from Maine to Pennsylvania, (five years), to Indiana, (10 years), and Puerto Rico (two years) before permanently returning to Maine. John died of cancer in 1986.

Charlotte lived for over 20 years thereafter at Cotton Mill Apartments, in Hallowell, becoming the longest residing resident. She relished the many friends she made there as well as her panoramic views of the ever-changing Kennebec River flowing just outside.

A graveside celebration of life is being planned for the spring at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Memorial donations in Charlotte’s memory can be made to Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, Attn. Development Office, 15 Strawberry Ave., Lewiston, ME 04240.

JOAN GOTTARDI

WATERVILLE – Joan “Jo” Gottardi, 88, a Waterville native, passed peacefully son Monday, January 18, 2021. Jo was born on July 29, 1932, to George (Rahen) Elias and Sadie (Mitchell) Elias.

The oldest of three children, Jo served as the leader, taking on her role as the eldest child to her two brothers Donnie and Bobby.

On November 7, 1954, she married the love of her life, then-Capt. Carl E. Gottardi, at St. Joseph Maronite Church, in Waterville, with full military honors. After their marriage, Jo and Carl, spent time abroad in Germany while Carl served with the 3rd Armored Division. During their time in Germany, they traveled throughout Europe where Jo thrived as a military wife, relishing the complexities of entertaining military officers and wives. Carl was a highly decorated military officer and Jo proudly supported him, the United States Army, and her role as a military wife. Her dedication to her country would bring her to many destinations across the globe.

Upon returning to the United States, Jo and her family lived for periods of time in Fort Williams and Portland, Springfield, Long Meadow, and Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and Port Charlotte, Florida. Upon returning to Maine, she and Carl lived in Skowhegan before finally Jo settled back in her hometown of Waterville.

When asked what the key to a long, happy life is, Jo recently responded: “A wonderful family.” Her family would agree that Jo’s presence and can-do attitude made life that much sweeter. Jo was always willing to help family, no matter the situation, and always did so with grace and sophistication.

In her leisure time, Jo enjoyed both social activities and more introspective time. She loved to golf, play cards, and participated in bowling clubs – all of which she partook with a vigor and competitive nature which those who were not close to her would find surprising. A resilient widow for 21 years, Jo filled all hours of the day. Whether sitting quietly watching the ducks at home or volunteering with the Rosary Sodality, St. Joseph’s Christmas Bazaar overseeing the bake sale table, the Maine Children’s Home, or at the Taste of Waterville.

She was an avid cook and feeding people brought her visible joy. Upon entering her home you could often smell fresh Zataar in her kitchen and leave with her filling your arms with bags of Fatayers to enjoy later. As her granddaughters and great-granddaughters showed interest, she passed on many of her mouth-watering recipes and cooking secrets and specifically enjoyed time in the kitchen with her granddaughter Nikki, who carries on her Sitto’s legacy of feeding family with delicious Lebanese food. For those lucky enough to have tasted Jo’s creations at the Taste of Waterville, they know that Jo added love to all her cooking.

Always proper, but never a pushover; independent, while compassionate and generous; Jo lived her life with a grace that will be remembered fondly. Her family and closest friends recall vividly the sounds of her footsteps as she entered their homes carrying platters of food, a smile, and words of wisdom.

Her presence; her laughter; and her general benevolence will be missed in this physical world.

Jo was predeceased by her younger brothers, Donnie Elias and Bobby Elias; her husband, LTC (Ret.) Carl E. Gottardi; and her son-in-law, Darrell Mitchell.

Jo is survived by her children, Donna-Jo (Gottardi) Mitchell and Carl Gottardi II; grandchildren Major Eric Mitchell and his wife Kate Mitchell, Tim Mitchell and his wife Bridgette Mitchell, Nicole (Mitchell) Libby and her husband Lance Libby, and Nina Rose Mitchell; great-grandchildren Ava and Lydia Libby and Ryder and Brady Mitchell; as well as cousins including Larry Mitchell, Carlene Kemp, and Sandy Morin.

A service will take place later in the year at the Maine Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Augusta.

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 https://www.gallantfh.com/.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Joseph Maronite Church endowment fund, 3 Appleton St.,Waterville, ME 04901.

CARL J. STENHOLM

CHINA – Carl John Stenholn, 95, passed away from natural causes at home in China, on Thursday, January 21, 2021. He was born April 3, 1925, in Hempstead, New York.

He drifted away just as he wished in the north bedroom of our family house in China, where he felt the most at home in this world. During the months prior to his leaving, he’d wake up eager to see the sunrise over the lake and say “another great day in China, Maine,” even on days when you could barely see the sun through the clouds. We hope we don’t forget his last lesson of optimism.

Carl had a wonderfully full life seeing a good measure of history in his 95 years and much of the globe firsthand. He graduated from Hempstead High School, in Hempstead, New York; and directly enlisted in the U.S. Navy to fight for his country in World War II.

Carl saw heavy action in the Pacific Ocean aboard the destroyer USS Hyman DD-732, newly-tooled from Bath Iron Works, in Maine. His ship was sent with so many others to be part of the complex offensive to strategically overtake the islands close to mainland Japan. On D-Day February 19, 1945, the USS Hyman was positioned close to the shore of the Island of Iwo Jima. Standing dead in the water, their ship’s guns bombarded the shores clearing the way for the Marines fighting yard by yard on the rough, unsheltered terrain. By February 22, 1945, all but the western side of Iwo Jima had been silenced and the Marines were anxious to take Mount Suribachi that night. The Hyman was ‘volunteered’ to provide searchlight illumination for the Marines’ climb, knowing it would make the vessel an easy target. Through the night, the Hyman’s 5-inch and 40 caliber guns were carefully coordinated over ship-to-shore radio providing accurate coverage for the Marines. At 0700, February 23, the Hyman was ordered to hold fire and the Marines would take the remainder of the hill by small armaments. Carl, a very young man at the time, and his crew mates didn’t realize they would be witnesses to history. At 1020, a US flag was raised by a small band of Marines indicating that Suribachi was ours. This event was the iconic flag raising of Iwo Jima.

After his military service, Carl graduated with a BS in mechanical engineering from the University of Maine at Orono. Upon graduation, he was hired on with Allis-Chalmers (currently part of Siemens) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, working on large industrial-sized turbines as a field engineer. During a long career spanning almost four decades, he traveled worldwide to Mexico, India, South Africa, South America and the Middle East. Each trip, he would come back with stories that would encourage our curiosity about different cultures around the world.

Carl has traveled on to his grand final destination. Our hearts would be breaking, but we know he now has an angel’s view of the world he loved so much.

Carl was predeceased by his wife, Marie Alice Stenholm (Stein); his son and wife, Carl Adam and Kuniko (Greene) Stenholm; his sister and her husband, Dororthy and Bernard Rusiecki; and his parents, Anna Doe and Carl Johan Stenholm.

He is survived by his daughter Jeanne Marie Stenholm Marquis; granddaughter Megan Marie Marquis; grandson Nicholas Ian Marquis; and his nephew, John Rusiecki.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 21, 2021

DAVID R. CAIRNIE

CLINTON – David Robert Cairnie, 80, of Clinton, formerly of Fairfield, passed away at Togus Veterans Hospital, in Augusta, on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, following a short illness. Dave was born in Waterville, the first child of the late Ethel (Taylor) and William David Cairnie, on January 25, 1940.

He attended Lawrence High School, where he was president of his class, involved in Key Club, and excelled in athletics. After graduating, Dave enlisted in the U.S. Army, married the former Evelyn West, and was stationed all over the world with his family. He completed two tours in Vietnam, and received the bronze star for heroic service.

After Dave’s retirement from the military, the couple worked together for over 20 years at MSAD #49. Dave shared his love of sports with Maine youth by officiating baseball, softball, and football games for more than 40 years. He was a Mason, and acted as president of the MSAD #49 Association.

As busy as he was, Dave was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, golfing, fishing, and an occasional Wiffle ball game with his children and grandchildren. His family and friends will miss his wonderful sense of humor.

Dave will be sadly missed by his wife of 58 years, Evelyn, of Clinton; brothers Ray and his wife Alice, of Benton, Paul and his wife Angie, of Winslow; brother-in-law Dennis West, of Benton; three children, David Cairnie II and wife Pamela, of Fairfield, Peg Paradis and husband Rick, of Fairfield, and Donna Cairnie, of Clinton; six grandchildren, Aaron, Sunora, Chauncy, Winter, West, and Bodhi; and several nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service in the spring of 2021, followed by a gathering for friends and family.

Condolences may be sent to the Cairnie family at P. O. Box 493, Clinton, ME 04927.

RAYMOND ROSSIGNOL

WINSLOW – Raymond Rossignol, 94, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, January 1, 2021. Raymond was born at home in Winslow on May 3, 1926, the son of Patrick and Beatrice (Ferland) Rossignol.

Ray attended Winslow schools and was a World War II veteran. On October 2, 1948, he married the former Therese Roy, of Winslow, and they were married for 70 years.

He worked at Scott Paper Co., (Rossy) in Winslow, for 41 years, then drove a school bus for 22 years. He finally retired at the age of 80.

His hobbies were rabbit hunting, camping at Happy Horse Campground, for 28 years, and fishing.

Ray belonged to the Winslow Senior Citizen Association Committee for 11 years. He loved playing cards and doing day trips for the elderly.

He was predeceased by his parents; wife Therese, brother Robert, two sisters Noella and Gloria.

Raymond is survived by a sister-in-law Jacqueline (Roy) Bourque; three daughters Elaine (Ramerio), of Spain, Christine, of New Mexico, Claudette (Jerry), of Winslow; three sons, Arthur (Debbie), of Skowhegan, George (Barb), of Cornville, and Anthony (Donna), of Winslow; many cousins, nieces, nephews; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 23, at 10 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, 23 Monument St., Winslow.

The burial will be Tuesday, January 26, at 10 a.m., at VA Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Donations can be made to the Travis Mills Foundation, 747 Western Ave., Augusta, ME 04330.

PHRONIE A. HAMMOND

BELGRADE/WATERVILLE – Phronie Arline (Guptill) Hammond, 97, a native and long-time resident, of Belgrade, passed peacefully at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville, on Thursday, January 7, 2021. Phronie was born on the Guptill Farm in Belgrade on November 27, 1923, the daughter of the late Rosselle Nat and Maude Susan (Yeaton) Guptill.

She graduated from Belgrade High School in 1942 and married her husband, Reginald Thompson Hammond, on February 13, 1943, in Gardiner. Reggie and Phronie enjoyed 61 years of marriage until his passing on April 2, 2004.

As a dedicated homemaker, wife, mother, and grandmother, she and Reggie raised their two daughters, Cheryl and Jan, and grandson Randy at their home in Belgrade Depot.

Through the years, Phronie was active as a volunteer with several community organizations. Whether it was donating her time and energy with Girl Scouting, serving on the Board of the Belgrade Regional Health Center during its formative years, as an active member of the KVM Club, or as an ever-willing volunteer at countless public suppers in Belgrade, Phronie always gave back to the local community which she loved and valued.

Be it touring California, Baltimore, Washington D.C., or the Canadian Maritimes with her husband, Phronie had a keen interest in the world and enjoyed the life experiences that travel afforded her. At the age of 81, she embraced the opportunity to travel to Europe. In visiting the Netherlands and Switzerland, she experienced both the beauty of the Dutch tulip fields in full bloom and the snows of the Alps. But she could not be more content to simply visit locales throughout her beloved State of Maine.

After living in Belgrade for 87 years, Phronie moved to Granite Hill Estates, in Hallowell, in April 2010, where she became an active member of the Granite Hill community, serving on the Welcome, Library, and Garden Committees. She enjoyed her daily walks, swimming in the pool, and exercise classes. In 2014 she moved to the Granite Hills’ Martha Ballard Assisted Living facility for increased care. Due to a second hip-break in December 2017, Phronie relocated to Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville.

Some of her fondest memories would be fishing for hours on Rangeley or Moosehead Lake, perch fishing on Great Pond, tending her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, and those moments of simply surrounding herself with family at the dining table. She was a wonderful, classic Maine cook and well known for her cookies and pies. Her grandchildren were particularly fond of her whoopie pies and chocolate chip cookies.

She had a positive outlook on life and always considered herself fortunate for the life she led, the husband she married, the loving family which surrounded her, and the countless friends who enriched her life.

She is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Susan Hammond, of Baltimore, Maryland, and Janice Elaine Porter and husband Eric, of Oakland; three grandsons, Peter John Perry, of Auburn, Randall Alan Hammond and husband Andrew Thomas, of Westport, Connecticut, and Justin Eric Porter and wife Sarah Kilbourne, of Richmond, Virginia; two granddaughters, Monica Jo Bordick and husband Michael, of Baltimore, Maryland, and Chelsi Kate Boiardi and husband Michael ,of Cumberland, Rhode Island; 10 great-grandchildren, Chandler, Dylan, Casey, Dawson, Wyatt, and Colton Bordick; Anson and Ella Perry; and Cameron and Julian Boiardi; sister Verna and husband Clifton “Skip” Hammond; sister-in-law, Janet Austin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by seven older brothers and sisters, Hazel (Guptill) Mills, in 1976, Robert Guptill, in 1982, Vivian Guptill, in 1910, Dorothy (Guptill) Dolloff, in 1979, Orville Guptill, in 2002, Lillian (Guptill) Bickford, in 1974, and Althea Guptill, in 1925.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Belgrade.

Arrangements are by Wheeler Funeral Home, of Oakland.

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

Arrangements are by Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 26 Church St., Oakland.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial donations to the Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association, P.O. Box 404, Belgrade, ME 04917.

LINDA K. COTTER

CONCORD, Mass. – Linda Kester Cotter, 83, died peacefully at home on Friday, January 8, 2021. Linda was born on September 19, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of Harold E. and Rose Rothstein Kester, and grew up in Brooklyn with her younger sister, Marjorie.

An unusually capable student, Linda graduated at the age of 16 from James Madison High School and went on to Wellesley College, where she was President of Forum and in 1956 served as Massachusetts statewide Chair of the Students for (Adlai) Stevenson Presidential Campaign. During the campaign she enlisted William “Bill” Cotter, president of the Harvard Young Democrats to recruit student volunteers. As Bill was fond of saying, Linda was his boss. They became friends and later, began dating. She graduated with honors from Wellesley in 1958.

Linda and Bill were married in 1959 at the Kester family home on Long Island and moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts, to pursue their graduate studies. Linda earned her master’s in teaching at the Harvard School of Education while Bill finished at Harvard Law School.

Linda taught elementary school in Lexington, Massachusetts, New York City, and Kaduna, Nigeria, and English at the University of the Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. She worked for David Rockefeller on Latin American issues, at the Ford Foundation, as the executive director of the Ellis Phillips Foundation and later helped launch the Women’s Rights program at the Geneva-based Oak Foundation.

After her family moved to Waterville for Bill’s position as president of Colby College, she was a much loved and admired “First Lady” from 1979 to 2000 and served Colby in many capacities, including establishing programs to help students secure internships.

While Linda achieved much professionally, she was first a full and equal partner for Bill and a mother. Her three children were the center of her world, and that expanded to excelling as a grandmother when her two granddaughters came along. She adored them, and they, her.

She loved her beautiful flower gardens, reading books and two daily newspapers, and a good cup of tea. She was outspoken against racial and gender discrimination. She was a founder of the Mid-Maine Global Forum as well as two women’s support groups in Florida and Massachusetts, and served on many nonprofit boards.

Linda was small in stature but incredibly strong. She survived a serious form of cancer in the 1940s and other medical challenges over the years. She lived her last two years enduring the arduous course of thrice weekly dialysis treatments.

In her final days of life, as friends and family members shared their love and appreciation for Linda, they noted how kind, brilliant, caring, gracious, and elegant she was. She made countless people feel respected, appreciated, and cared-for. Most of all, her family.

Linda was predeceased by her daughter, Deborah Anne; and her parents.

She leaves behind her husband of 61 years, Bill; her son, David and his partner, Jessica LaRue, of San Diego, California; daughter Elizabeth and husband Michael Schlax, of Yarmouth; and her granddaughters, Elena and Jillian Schlax; her sister, Marjorie Smith, of Durham New Hampshire; and the Smith, Zamore and Cotter families and countless other relatives and friends.

Linda will be laid to rest next to her daughter in Concord, Massachusetts.

An online memorial gathering will be held in the coming months.

To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence in her online guestbook, please visit http://www.DeeFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the Linda K. Cotter Internship Fund, at Colby College, or a charity of your choice.

GERALD A. MANLEY

SIDNEY – Gerald A. Manley, 67, passed away suddenly, at home, on Saturday, January 9, 2021. Gerald was born July 21, 1953, in Augusta, the son of the late George and Doris (Monroe) Manley.

He was the husband of Gail Y. (Knight) Manley, with whom he shared 50 years of marriage in March.

He was a resident of Sidney for most of his life, and a graduate of Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

Gerald worked at Hammond Lumber Co., in Belgrade, as the saw mill foreman for over 39 years until his retirement in 2020.

Gerald was a hard working man and treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. He also enjoyed being outside fishing, hunting and gardening.

In addition to his wife Gail, Gerald is survived by his son Travis Manley and his wife Mary, of Sidney; his daughters Heidi Landry and her husband Chris, of Sidney, and Marisa Manley, of Saco; his brother George Manley, of Sidney; his sisters Peggy Smith, of Sidney, Nancy Thorne, of Sidney, Linda Martin, of Sidney, and Sharon Maxim, of Augusta; grandchildren Gage, Isaac, Kristin, Jenna, Emma, Rylee and Isaiah; and his great-grandchildren Luke and Abigail; his mother-in-law Clarice Redlevske, of Skowhegan; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In honoring with Gerald’s wishes there will be a Celebration of his life at a date and time to be announced.

Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St. Augusta, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

RUTH ANN DeROSBY

WATERVILLE – Ruth Ann (Pratt) DeRosby, 94, passed away on Monday, January 11, 2021, at Mount Saint Joseph Nursing Home, in Waterville. She was born June 19, 1926, in Randolph, the daughter of Charles B. and Margaret B. (Griffin) Pratt.

She graduated from Gardiner High School in 1945. She was a member of the Catholic Church. Ruth especially enjoyed spending time with her family and going out to eat, especially at Governor’s and Ming Lee, both on Waterville. She was a great cook and welcomed many into her home and no one ever left hungry, especially after having her famous homemade french fries. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and friend.

Ruth is survived by daughters, Jill Labbe, of Waterville, and friend Jeff Hall, of Oakland, Jan Hachey and husband Thomas, of Oakland, Jane Pottle and husband David, of Albion; sons, John DeRosby and wife Elaine, of Burnham, and Thomas DeRosby, of Waterville; grandchildren, Christopher Labbe, Leslie Main, Katie Burnham, Amy Pottle, Michael Hachey, Lauren Hachey, Jenny Reynolds, John DeRosby, Shannon DeRosby, William DeRosby, Michael DeRosby; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband John; son James DeRosby, daughter and son-in-law Ann and Lester Giguere; brother James (Bud) Pratt; sisters Mary Bowman and JoPratt; sister-in-law Juanita Lessard and husband Edmund.

A graveside service 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.

HAROLD WHITAKER

SOUTH CHINA – Harold Whitaker, 61, of Kidder Road, died Saturday, January 9, 2021, at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born on May 7, 1959, in the car on the way to the hospital. He is the youngest son of Arthur R. Whitaker Sr., and Lucy B. (Moody) Whitaker.

He attended China Elementary School and Erskine Academy, in South China. Harold worked at the Elk’s Lodge Janitorial Services, Lipman Poultry, and retired after more than 22 years with the Augusta Sanitary District. He was interested in WWF Wrestling, NHRA, and riding his Cub Cadet. He could be found working side-by-side with his brothers David and Mike.

Survivors include his wife Cathy (Coleman) Whitaker of 27 years; his brothers Willard, Meldon, David and Mike Whitaker; sisters Belva MacComb, Marie Vigue, Elaine Brochu, Muriel Michaud, Mary Shaw, Jean Mason, Irene Poulin, Betty Burnham and Brenda McCamish.

He was predeceased by his parents; sisters Susie Potter, Eltheia Girard, Wilma Whitaker and Vera Whitaker; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins.

There will be no funeral services at this time due to Covid-19. There will be a celebration of his life held at a later date, possibly late summer barbecue, depending on Covid guidelines.

Those who desire may donate in his memory to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-7023, https://www.diabetes.org or: Dialysis Clinic, Inc., 205 Ridge Rd., Fairfield, ME 04937, https://www.dciinc.org/waterville/.

JOYCE M. TAYLOR

FAIRFIELD – Joyce M. Slaney Taylor, 91, passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. She was born in Fairfield on October 5, 1929, the daughter of the late Scott E. and Harriet G. (Lanpher) Blackstone.

Joyce was educated in Fairfield schools. She was also a lifelong member of the Fairfield First Baptist Church where she served as a Deaconess. She ministered to many and was a living testimony to her faith, not only to her church family but her family as well. She truly enjoyed hosting weekly Bible studies with close friends, which she continued up until recently.

Joyce had many hobbies such as reading, doing puzzles and especially enjoyed crocheting and knitting; making several special afghans and other items for her loved ones. In her younger years, she enjoyed spending summers at camp with family where she taught many of her grandchildren to swim. One of her biggest passions was cooking for family and friends. She was a wonderful cook and shared countless meals with not only family but friends and those in need. Out of all her loves, perhaps the greatest was time spent with her family, in particular, the visits with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she cherished immensely.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her first husband, Harold K. Slaney, her second husband, Raymond S. Taylor; her infant daughter, Mary Slaney, her sons, Scott H. Slaney and Kevin B. Slaney; her sisters, Evelyn Morse and Beverly Buck, her brother, Earl Carr; and her daughter-in-law, Lorraine C. Slaney.

She is survived by her children, Patrick Michael Slaney and his wife Linda, of Fairfield; her daughter-in-law, Colleen Slaney of Fairfield, Kelly J. Slaney and his wife Susan, of Philadelphia, New York, Danny H. Slaney and his wife Lisa Roy, of Fairfield and Tammy J. Slaney Pullen and her husband Lee, of China; her grandchildren, Christopher Slaney and his wife Renee, Joshua Slaney and his wife Nicole, Jaime Wade and her husband Charlie, Bryan Slaney and his wife Amy, Amanda Slaney, Eric Slaney and his wife Meghan, Brandon Slaney, Danielle Quimby and her husband Brett, Briana Rawson and Kevin Hageman, Taylor Slaney and Ashley Maratta; her great-grandchildren, Cullen Slaney, Bay Slaney, Brayden Mitchell, Cooper Slaney, Jack Slaney, Ebony Watts, Blaine Watts, Jacob Ricketson, Eric Slaney, Damien Slaney, Ella Quimby, Emmy Quimby; and her numerous nieces and nephews.

Due to the Covid pandemic a graveside service at Maplewood Cemetery and a celebration of her life will be held in Fairfield at a date to be determined.

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.

Donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to the Fairfield First Baptist Church or Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry.
Fairfield First

CHARLOTTE M. BASSETT

WATERVILLE— Charlotte May Bassett, 96, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2021, following her long battle against cancer. She was born at home, built by her father, in South Portland, July 9, 1924, to Peter A.G. and Irene V. (Hall) Bruns, of South Portland.

She was the second born of their six children. The youngest, sister Hazel Thomas, of Weeks Mills, is the only surviving sibling.

In 1936 Charlotte graduated from South Portland High School where among many other activities she was a trombone player in their marching band.

Charlotte was married, briefly, to Malcom McAllister, bearing one son, Leland R. McAllister. Leland preceded her in death January 1, 2020, from undiagnosed sudden heart failure.

Her second, and life-long marriage was to John C. Bassett, of Calais. Together they had two sons, Donald J. and Peter H. Bassett.

Charlotte loved life, dark chocolate, coffee, reading, family, people who enjoyed having fun, sewing and doing crafts, gardening, and sightseeing. She tolerated pets.

She deeply loved and embraced children, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her great-great-grandchildren.

Charlotte spent much of her married life traveling. Her husband’s job, as a fire prevention pipe-fitter had the family moving from Maine to Pennsylvania, for five years, then to Indiana, for ten years, being manager of a new pipe fitting pre-assembly plant he designed. There he designed, built, and patented a revolutionary pipe and fitting torque machine; recognized as enabling the savings of countless millions of dollars annually in fire prevention for commercial buildings worldwide. Upon semi-retirement Charlotte and John returned to Maine, and soon thereafter worked in Puerto Rico for two years as well as Cape Cod, before permanently returning to live in Maine. John died from cancer in 1986.

Charlotte lived for over 20 years thereafter at Cotton Mill Apartments, in Hallowell, becoming the longest residing resident. She relished the many friends she made there as well as her panoramic view of the ever-changing Kennebec River.

A memorial gathering will be scheduled in the near future pending the lifting of Covid-19 precautions.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

ALBERT BROCHU

WINSLOW – Albert Brochu, 90, passed away at his home. Albert was born in Winslow on January 21, 1930, the son of Louis and Alice (Duquette) Brochu.

Albert en­joyed collecting coins and stamps. He enjoyed being outside working in his garden, fishing, and hunting. Albert was a part of the Knights of Columbus obtaining the Fourth Degree. He was also a member of the Sacred Heart League, Bourque Legion American Legion Post #5, in Waterville. Albert also enjoyed square dancing with his wife, Geraldine.

Albert was predeceased by his wife, Geraldine; his parents; his daughter, Janet Brochu; brothers, Lucien Brochu, Earl Brochu, and Henry Brochu; and sisters, Beatrice Albert and Sylvia Gerard; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Friday January 22, 2021, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people allowed into the service will be limited. Attendees will be required to wear a mask and social distancing will be practiced.

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.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 14, 2021

DAVID HUARD

FAIRFIELD – David Huard, 73, passed away very peacefully on Wednesday, November 18, 2020, following many years suffering from illnesses. David was born in Waterville on July 29, 1947, the son of Laurier and Camille (Pooler) Huard, both deceased.

David grew up in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School.

After high school, David entered the United States Marine Corp and proudly served his country from 1968 – 1972, attaining the rank of corporal. After being discharged from the service, he settled in Lowell, Massachusetts. While there he worked as a commercial bus driver and wore many different hats. After five years in Massachusetts, decided Maine was for him and returned home.

Dave worked many jobs, including C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, Central Security, Waterville Boys and Girls Club as a youth counselor, serving many young boys leading them on the right path. Many young youths were blessed to have Dave in their lives.

Dave was also nominated for the Jeffersons award.

While sitting outside during a break at C.F. Hathaway, Dave was noticed by Kipp production manager for the movie, Empire Falls. He asked Dave if he was interested in being head security during filming, and Dave, of course, said yes. Dave was bodyguard, head security for Paul Newman, Helen Hunt, Bill Fichtner, Ed Harris, Aiden Quinn, Estelle Parsons, Robin Wright Penn, Dennis Farina and many more. This was the highlight of Dave’s career and after the film, Dave retired.

While working at C.F. Hathaway, he met his wife, Shirley. They were married in 2007 and had 20 good years together.

Dave’s hobbies included drawing, fishing and woodworking. Dave loved being with his family and friends. Dave was a great “D” to his grandchildren and spent many hours coloring and drawing with them.

Dave is survived by his wife, Shirley, who took great care of him during his illness; his son, Jason and partner Nikki, of Oakland; step-children, Angela Boynton and her two children, Wyatt and Elizabeth; and Nick Shaw and his wife Megan, of Clinton; two brothers, Danny Huard and his partner Bonnie, of Oakland, Dale Huard and his wife Heidi, of Waterville; sister, Debbie Haymin, of Waterville; and half-brother Brian Warren, of Vermont; several nieces and nephews.

A military service is planned sometime in the spring, family and friends will be notified.

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

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

RANDY QUIRION

WATERVILLE – Randy Quirion, 49, passed away on Saturday, December 19, 2020. He was born in Waterville November 18, 1971, son to Sharon M. McKechnie (Rockwell) and Raymond E. Quirion.

He attended school in Waterville. He was employed at Pool Tech, in Winslow. His hobbies included collecting movies and eagle photos and statues. He was an avid cycler and was seen riding all across town.

He was predeceased by his father, Raymond E. Quirion; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Colby Rockwell, grandfather, Alfred Quirion Sr.; and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his mother, Sharon M. McKechnie and stepfather, Lester G. McKechnie, of Waterville; a brother, Ronnie J. Quirion, of Hinckley; an aunt, Mary Lou and uncle, Phillip Rockwell, of Oakland, an aunt, Carolyn Bartley and husband Don, of Missouri; a niece, Shelby Quirion, of Mercer; as well as several cousins.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

DR. NELSON MADORE

EAST FALMOUTH, Mass. – The Honorable Dr. Nelson Madore, 77, passed away at his home in East Falmouth, Massachusetts, on Christmas Eve, Dec­ember 24, 2020. He was born June 7, 1943, to Adrien and Odile (Deschaine) Madore, in Winterville.

Nelson grew up surrounded by love from his parents, four brothers, three sisters and extended family. His early years in Aroostook County were full of cherished memories he spoke of often throughout his life. Nelson would go on to be educated in Eagle Lake and graduate from Fort Kent Community High School in 1961.

Nelson entered the U.S. Army in 1962 proudly serving his country as a Green Beret, Paratrooper, and member of the 101st Airborne Division, and would continue as a staunch supporter of the U.S. military and its efforts to honor and protect the United States.

After earning a B.S. and M.A. at the University of Maine Orono, Nelson taught French in Milo, and for 40 years as professor of history, government, and management at Thomas College, in Waterville.

Nelson proudly served Waterville’s Ward 7 as school board member and chairman. This would be encouragement for a book he would co-edit, Voyages: A Maine Franco-American Reader. Nelson served Waterville constituents for five years as mayor.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, Adrien and Odile; brothers, Ervin, Reynold, Gilman, and Clayton.

He is survived by his wife, Paula (Franzen) Madore, currently of East Falmouth, Massachusetts; daughter Ginny Madore, of East Falmouth, Massachusetts, daughter Maren Madore and son-in-law Eric Reddy, of Lynn, Massachusetts; sisters Verna Madore, Greta Madore and Maureen LeClair, of Albion, Mae (Madore) and brother-in-law Richard Landesman, of Milford, New Hampshire; sister-in-law Mary Madore, of Corrales, New Mexico; several cousins, godsons, and a host of extended Madore, Deschaine, and Franzen family members.

A more complete version of Nelson Madore’s life can be viewed at https://www.ccgfuneralhome.com.

A proper celebration of life will be held at a later time in Summer 2021 so all people who loved Nelson can safely be together to share personal anecdotes and celebrate this incredible man.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dr. Nelson Madore Scholarship Endowment at Thomas College; Alpha Gamma Delta Leadership Scholarship Endowment at Thomas College. http://www.thomas.edu. Please click the“Give” link; and Alzheimer’s Association at Alz.org, Nelson Madore memorial page.

THERESA M. POULIN

WATERVILLE – Theresa Marie Poulin Caron Cote, 95, passed away on Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, 2020, at Country Manor Nursing Home, where she resided for the past six years with dementia. She was born in Waterville on October 7, 1925, the daughter of Joseph Philias Poulin and Emelia Shank Poulin Brillard.

She lived in Waterville all her life. She was married to Herbert Caron for 37-and-a-half years until his death in 1982.Together they made fishing tackle and sold live bait from their home on Water St. She later met and married Fred (Babe) Cote.

Theresa worked at Lockwood Dutchess Cotton Mill, in Waterville, at the age of 16. Also worked at Woolworth store, C. F. Hathaway Shirt factory, both in Waterville, sewing pockets on men’s shirts. Her last employment was at the Central Maine Power coffee shop until they closed the coffee shop.

She enjoyed doing all kinds of crafts especially making dolls and dressing them, knitting, crocheting, rug braiding, quilting, oil painting and many other things. She especially loved sewing clothes for her six grandsons when they were small and also their kids. Even though she did not see them often, she enjoyed her stepchildren and grandkids.

She was predeceased by her parents, and husbands Herbert Caron and Fred Cote.

She leaves behind daughter, Linda and husband Robert, of Waterville; son, Alan and wife Nancy, of Windsor; grandchildren and numerous great-grandkids.

There will not be visitation. Burial will take place in the spring.

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

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

LORI ANN ROY

VASSALBORO – Lori Ann Roy, 54, of Vassalboro, passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2020, in the comfort of her home. Lori was born December 10, 1966, in Augusta.

She graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1984. She gave birth to her son Jeb Charette in 1989.

Lori was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy; Werdnig-Hoffmans, during her younger years and was appreciative for the care and treatment she received through the Children’s Hospital, in Boston, her lung specialist at Chest Medical Associates, in South Portland; Dr. Edmund Sears and Dr. Jennifer Diehl, at Elmwood Primary.

Lori enjoyed traveling with her best friend going to places like Eagle Lake, walks in the woods, the beach, mountains, and zoos. She loved animals and cared for many over the years. She enjoyed music, playing Scrabble, going out to eat and spending time with her friends (Jonathan and Kayleigh Farrell, Johnny Banner, Zack and Nick) along with her estranged family when they made time. She completed her bucket list with assistance of her best friend who never let her wheelchair hinder her from living.

Memorial donations can be made in her name to the Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215.

EVONNE G. BARTER

WATERVILLE – Evonne Giselle Barter, 51, died unexpectedly at MaineGeneral Medical Center Wednesday, December 30, 2020. She was born in Augusta, on June 10, 1969, the daughter of Carroll Charles Crocker and Elizabeth Mary (Struck) Crocker.

She graduated from Winthrop High School then attended University of Maine – Augusta, where she earned her associates and bachelor’s degree in social science with magna cum laude.

She loved gardening, crafting and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved cooking meals for the family get-togethers as well as the people in need within her community.

She is survived by her two daughters, Ashley L. (Costa) Boynton and her husband Dan and Amber L. Reed; five grandchildren, Tytus and Gavin Whittaker, Gwendolyn Wildman and Saryna and Willow Boynton.

She is predeceased by her parents Carroll and Elizabeth Crocker, and her sister, Billie Jo Fortier; her great-aunt Laurie Choate, Vicky Simonds, David and Ricky Struck.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the spring/summertime.

Arrangements are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

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

PHILIP B. KING

OAKLAND – Philip Bennie King, 90, passed away Thursday, December 31, 2020, at his home in Oakland. He was born April 25, 1930, in Kingfield, the son of Joseph Ralph and Thelma (Sylvester) King.

He graduated from Stratton High School in 1947. On September 21, 1951, he married Millideen Ireland at the United Baptist Church, in Oakland. He was employed as a grader-operator, one of the best in the state of Maine and foreman at a number of businesses throughout his lifetime including Foster Manufacturing from 1947-1948, roadwork in New Jersey in 1949, A.P. Wyman from 1950 to 1964 and Warren Brothers/Tilcon from 1964 to 1995. He was a member of the United Baptist Church, in Oakland, and enjoyed square dancing, camping, woodworking, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends.

Philip is survived by his wife of 69 years, Millideen (Ireland) King, of Oakland; daughter, Kathy K. Boulette, of Waterville; son, Jeremy R. King and wife Susan, of Anderson, South Carolina; grandchildren, Janna B. Gilpatrick and husband Jared, of Dallas, North Carolina, Jaime R. Boulette, of Augusta, Ireland D. King and William King, both of Anderson, South Carolina, great-grandchildren Kaeya Cassiani and Jace Gilpatrick, both of Dallas, North Carolina; three step-grandchildren, Megan Desmars, of Raleigh, North Carolina, Scott Tripamer, of Los Angeles, California, and David Tripamer, of Portland, Oregon; along with many special nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; grandson, Nathan Boulette; two sisters, Margaret King and Ruth Cox; two brothers, Parkman Tyner and Donald Tyner; son-in-law, Richard Boulette; one brother-in-law; and two sisters-in-law.

A graveside service 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 ,Maine, 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Philip’s memory to a charity of their choice.

LOIS P. EMERSON

WATERVILLE – Lois P. Emerson, 93, died on Thursday, December 31, 2020, in Waterville. Lois was born on May 23, 1927, in Prentiss, a daughter of the late Jesse and Dora (Chubbuck) Merrill Sr.

She waitressed for quite a few years at the former Shorette’s Diner, in Newport, and retired after 25 years of employment from the Edwards Company, in Pittsfield.

Lois liked being a homemaker and enjoyed gardening, canning and knitting mittens for those she loved. She was a polite, kind woman who enjoyed living and had a good sense of humor. She attended the Calvary Baptist Church, in Pittsfield, for many years, enjoyed being a part of the Pittsfield Garden Club and had volunteered countless hours at the town’s food pantry.

She is survived by her children, Sharon Mayers, of Rhode Island, Bruce Hughes, of Gorham, Sonia Hughes, of Damariscotta, Ginger Chandler and husband John, of Pittston, and Robin Hughes, of Waldoboro; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; siblings, Eunice Lindsay, of Lincoln, and Shirley Cottrell, of Oren, Utah; sister-in-law, Lucinda Merrill, of Oren, Utah; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, William Emerson; son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Kathleen Hughes Jr; and siblings, Haley Merrill, Clinton Merrill, Leta Downs, Elnora Merrill and Jesse Merrill Jr; and brother-in-law, Russell Cottrell.

A graveside service will be held in the spring of 2021 at the Thompson Cemetery, in Prentiss.

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

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

VIVAN A. FRENCH

SOUTH CHINA -Vivan A. “Buddy” French, 84, of Tobey Road, died Friday, January 1, 2021, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long Term Care, at Glenridge Drive, in Augusta, following a brief illness. He was born in China, on August 9, 1936, the son of Roy F. French and Evelyn (York) French.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed by R.C. Moore Trucking, for himself, and many others

He was predeceased by his three sons: Randall, Lawrence Sr., and Keith Sr.; a grandson, Chad, and a brother Percy.

Surviving is his wife, Vernie (Haskell) French, of South China; a daughter, Amy Irish, of Vassalboro; two sons, Roy French and Steven French, both of South China; four brothers, Leslie French, of China, Ivan French and Ronald French, both of Windsor, and Robert French, of Fairfield; three sisters, Ruth Stuart, of China, and Vera McDaniel and Shirley Marston, both of Oakland; 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no public visiting hours planned. A graveside service will be held in the spring at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, South China.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Road, Winsor. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

RAYMOND E. LIBOLD

WATERVILLE – Raymond Eugene Libold, 85, passed unexpectedly at his residence on Friday, January 1, 2021. Ray was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on September 19, 1935, the son of Edward Libold and Ruth Updike.

He grew up and graduated from school in Tyrone, Pennsylvania.

He held many positions over the years, the ones he was most proud of were his military service for the United States Air Force where he retired as a MSGT on January 31, 1976, with 22 years of service, his employment with Cianbro Corporation, in Pittsfield, and also worked for a computer wiring company, in Massachusetts.

His favorite pastimes were traveling with Althea, attending multiple gospel concerts, bowling, golfing and playing cards/pool with all his friends at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, in Waterville.

Ray is survived by his wife of 66 years, Althea Mary (Smith) Libold; sons Robert Libold, of Virginia, and Bryan Libold and wife Mary, daughter, Arlene (Libold) Jones and son, Steven Libold and fiancée Patty Paradis, all of Waterville; seven grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren; sister Sharon Turnbaugh, of Pennsylvania;

A private graveyard service and burial will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., 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 the deceased name to Waterville Elks Lodge #905 Veteran Committee, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, ME 04901.

DANIEL E. FARRINGTON

SIDNEY – Daniel E. Farrington, 56, of Sidney, died Sunday, January3, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Augusta, December 19, 1964, the son of Donald E. Sr. and Carolyn (Morgan) Farrington.

He grew up in Litchfield, graduating from Oak Hill High School where he played on the football team. After high school, Dan served in the U.S.Air Force as a military policeman. Most of his career, Dan worked in asbestos abatement.

Daniel enjoyed horses, watching football, taking his daughters fishing and attending country fairs.

Dan was predeceased by his father; maternal and paternal grandparents and his uncles, Ike Farrington and Roland L. Gay II

He is survived by his mother, Carolyn Gile and her husband, Hermon, of Sidney; daughters, Chelsea and Cheyenne Farrington; his brother, Donald E. Farrington Jr., of East Machias; his granddaughter, Aubree Jayne and his nephew, Tyler Donald Farrington.

Funeral services will be held privately.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

THERESA D. BEAULIEU

AUBURN – Theresa Diane Beaulieu, 92, of Auburn, passed away on Wednesday evening January 6, 2021, from age related difficulties, while holding the hand of her son Donald. Sadly, she also died of a broken heart from not being able to be with her family and friends during the last months of her life due to the pandemic.

Theresa loved her family, both immediate and extended, as well as friends and people in general. She loved talking and socializing with everyone she met, especially if they were talkers.

Her life was filled with joys as well as challenges and she met all of them with both common sense and courage.

One of her mottos was, “When you get up in the morning it is your choice whether or not it is going to be a good day.”

A true lover of learning and education, she was an avid reader and writer. She filled stacks of journals with her daily activities, thoughts and opinions.

Forced by her family’s needs to leave school after the eighth grade (she said she cried for a week when she was told she would have to do this) she went on to proudly earn her GED at the age of 49. She then entered the work force for the first time, working at Sears, in Lewiston, for the next 25 years.

Theresa loved nothing more than sitting in her rocking chair in the living room of her small house and holding court with whoever happen to be there, whether it was one person or a roomful.

Unfortunately, for a woman as social and people-loving as Theresa, her last months and weeks in complete lockdown at her nursing home took its toll. Not being able to see her family was probably the hardest way for her to spend her last days here on earth.
Hers was a life well lived…a life where no joy went unappreciated, no challenge went unmet and overcome.

This is a woman who left an indelible impression on everyone she met. And one who will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was predeceased by Reginald “Pete”, her husband of over 60 years; a grandson Benjamin; her sisters Loretta Meservier Arsenault, Lucienne Meservier Giasson, Rita Meservier Bazinet and brother Armand, and her “favorite” son in law Gilbert Smith.

She is survived by her children: Daniel and wife Deborah, of Waterville, Donald and partner Edward Libby, of Litchfield, Denise Beaulieu Smith, of Poland, and David and Janet Beaulieu, of Auburn; grandchildren, Nicole Rioux, of Sabattus, Adrianne Rioux Tapley and spouse Ken, of Lewiston, Rebekah Beaulieu and spouse Patrick Ford, of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Cindi Beaulieu, of Westbrook, Damon Beaulieu and spouse Kouko, of Providence, Rhode Island, Bethany Beaulieu, of Minot, Heather Beaulieu, of Auburn; great-grandchildren, Taelor Jordan, of Boston, Massachusetts, Justin Harding, of Poland, and Evan Libby, of Lewiston; siblings, sister Claudette Meservier Caron, of Lewiston, brother Lionel and spouse Janine, of Auburn, and sister Jeanine Meservier St. Pierre and spouse Claude “Pete”, of Lewiston, and sister in law Diane Meservier; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

A formal funeral, memorial service and reception to celebrate Theresa’s life will be held later in the year when things are safer.

Online condolences may be left for Theresa’s family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

Services have been entrusted to The Fortin Group/Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation and monument services, 217 Turner St., Auburn, ME, telephone 207-783-8545.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 7, 2020

DIANA J. LEE

PALERMO – Diana J. (Briggs) Lee, 79, of Palermo, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 20, 2020, due to Babesiosis, a rare infection caused by a tick bite. Diana was born in Freedom on December 23, 1940, the daughter of Carolyn and Clyde Briggs.

She graduated from Unifree High School. She worked briefly at Field and Quimby Insurance agency, in Belfast, before beginning her business career managing and supporting Ronald H. Lee Trucking.

Diana loved family adventures. Some of these experiences included cross country and downhill skiing at Sugarloaf where they owned a ski home for many years and numerous ski trips out west to Colorado and Lake Tahoe. She loved the planning and fun of her more than 25 years of annual “sister trips” that included Kennebec River whitewater rafting, lobster boating to view the Machias Seal Island puffins, hiking Mt. Katahdin (twice), exploring Maine Islands (Peaks, Islesboro, Monhegan, Isle-Au-Haut, Swans, etc.) and discovering remote parts of Maine.

Diana enjoyed reading and taking care of her dogs, cats, and the birds. She was known for her devotion to family, community, and the church. She was involved in Cub Scouts, Lions Club, Lawrence High School Football Boosters, and the Lovejoy Health Center. She hosted Erthan for several summers through the Fresh Air Fund and Vincent from France in an exchange program.

Diana spent a great deal of time cooking and helping with church events and especially loved being part of the “Journey to Bethlehem” production at the Palermo Christian Church. She made the best pies, cookies, and homemade strawberry jam. She was a loving, caring, giving person and a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be deeply missed. Although our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life well lived.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ronald H. Lee, her sisters Virginia, of Saco, Barbara, of Unity, Sharon and husband Bill, of Harpswell, Cheryl and husband Tom, of South Berwick, her sister-in-law Audrey, of Vassalboro; her 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, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother Robert.

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

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.

In lieu of flowers, plant or buy flowers this spring and enjoy their beauty in Diana’s memory.

RANDY J. MATHIEU

FAIRFIELD – Randy J. Mathieu, 43, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 20, 2020, at the home of Gary Warren (uncle), in Fairfield. He was the son of Gary Mathieu and the late Barbara A. Mathieu. Randy was born January 21, 1977, in Waterville.

He grew up in Winslow and attended Winslow schools. He graduated from Winslow High School class of 1995. He attended the University of Maine in Orono. He loved baseball and the Red Sox. He was a member of the 1993 Winslow state championship football team.

Randy lived in San Marcos, Texas, for a few years then moved back to Maine. He then worked various jobs with the disabled until now.

He is survived by his dad Gary L. Mathieu; step-mom Jeanne; brothers Michael, of Portland, Tennessee, Todd (wife Ashley); stepbrothers, Stefan and Darin Kervin; nieces Emery, Cassidy and Isaiah, all of Waterville; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was predeceased by his mother, Barbara A. Mathieu; grandparents Jeanette and Eugene Warren, Roland and Blanche Mathieu; and uncle Robert (Hobby) Mathieu.

A private graveside service will be held in the spring at St. Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, in Waterville.

MARGARET U. MacMUNN

WINDSOR – Margaret Urquhart MacMunn 91, passed away at her home, in Windsor, on Wednesday, December 23, 2020. She was born on December 20, 1929, in Lynn, Massachusett, to Andrew and Margaret Parker Urquhart.

Rita, as she liked to be called, belonged to the Rebekah’s and Eastern Star when she resided in Saugus, Massachusetts, for many years before moving to Washington, Maine, in 1976. She then enjoyed belonging to the Ladies’ Guild and the Grange. Lately she has belonged to the Senior’s Club, in Coopers Mills. She loved making crafts and helping out in all the events they had.

She was most happy with her family and friends gathered around her kitchen table, eating, having coffee, or playing games.

Survivors are her sisters, Marjorie (twin) O’Blenes, of Salisbury, Massachusetts, and Ann Higgins, of Palermo; son, Alan and Jeanette, of Washington; grandsons, Christopher and wife Jennifer, of Jensen Beach, Florida, and Jim and Heather, of Waltham, Massachusetts; granddaughter, Angelika and husband Jordan Freeman, of Windsor; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by a brother, Andrew Urquhart; husband Benjamin MacMunn; son Steven; and grandson Craig.

A private memorial will be scheduled at a later date.

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

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

AFTON B. GOVE

WATERVILLE – Afton “Bud” Berry Gove, 92, formerly of Winthrop and one of the old boys from Monmouth Academy, passed away on Friday, December 25, 2020, following a period of declining health. He was born on September 8, 1928, in Monmouth, to George Leon and Grace Berry Gove.

The attending physician at his birth was Dr. Russell, of Leeds. Bud survived the six man football team at the Academy, working on the town road crew, running the territory with his chum Arna Blaisdell and traveling to work at Limestone Air Base on his Harley ’74.

He was a family man who married Pauline Richardson, of North Monmouth, on July 2, 1949. They raised three children at the place on Hoyt Brook on the Old Lewiston Road, in Winthrop.

Bud served a 39-year hitch with Central Maine Power Company, Stations Department, retiring in 1990. When he was a younger man, he had worked at the textile mill in North Monmouth.

Weekends in the fall were spent picking apples with his father-in-law Jesse Richardson on the farm in North Monmouth. He and Pauline took many trips in their retirement, going to Michigan, Nashville, Florida, Charleston, South Carolina, and the Jack Daniels Distillery, twice.

He was predeceased by his wife Pauline; and two daughters, Audrey Gove and Jerilyn Heath.

He is survived by a son Alan Gove and his wife Nancy; grandchildren Lindsay Heath Beesley and her family, Jesse Gove and family, Meghan Gove and family, Nicholas Gove and family, Brett LaPlante and wife Tracy, and Ryal Leon Gove.

His memory will live on with Grace Gove at the family camp on Parker Pond.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Glenside Cemetery, in Winthrop.

Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop where condolences to the family may be shared on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Those wishing may make memorial contributions to Kennebec Land Trust, P.O. Box 261,Winthrop, ME 04364, in memory of Afton and Pauline Gove.

NICHOLAS ROHRMAN

WATERVILLE- Nicholas “Nick” Rohrman, 83, passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2020, from COVID-19, in Saco. He was born to Leroy Nicholas and Mary Ethel (O’Callaghan) Rohrman on April 25, 1937, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Following a brief period of study at St. Meinrad’s Seminary, Nick graduated from Broad Ripple High School and then matriculated at Butler University where he was an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and ROTC. Upon graduation he and his wife, the former Carol Ann Cunningham, moved to Burns, Oregon, for his career in the U.S. Air Force. While there they welcomed their first daughter, Lisa. After completing his military service, Nick earned his master’s degree from Miami University, and his Ph.D. in psycholinguistics from Indiana University. He began a nearly 40-year career in academia at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. From there he and his family moved to Tallahassee, Florida, for a position at Florida State University, welcoming their second daughter, Melinda. His last, and longest position was as chairman (1977-1987) and professor of psychology (1977-2005) at Colby College, in Waterville.

Nick enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, biking and gardening, and a wide variety of hobbies, most notably as an avid reader and bagpiper. He was a member of the Masons (Siloam Lodge #92) and the Shriners and was a member of the Kora Shrine Highlanders Pipe Band for a number of years.

He was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Carol, May 1, 2009, and his brother, Martin Joseph, of Indianapolis, Indiana, May 15, 2020.

He is survived by his sister Rita Owens, of Puyallup, Washington; his daughter, Lisa Bearce and her husband, Jim and their son, William; his daughter, Melinda Burgess and her husband Stephen and their daughters, Gwendolyn and Emily.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date; in the meantime, family and friends are asked to raise a glass in his memory.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, http://www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, PO Box 4777, New York, New York 10163-4777.

PHILLIP J. HAMLIN

SIDNEY – Phillip J. Hamlin, 67, died on Saturday, December 26, 2020. He was the husband to Katherine L. (McLellan) with whom he shared 48-and-a-half years of marriage.Phil was born in Thorndike on August 14, 1953, the son of the late Edmund and Barbara (Chapin) Hamlin.

Phil was a cabinet-maker, sawyer and self taught man of all trades.

Phil’s dreams and goals included trying to make a better life for his boys and grand babies, assisting anyone who needed a hand and to see the magnificent Redwood Trees. The latter was accomplished in 2017 on a 71-day trip across country. His joy and excitement was evident in the pictures taken.

In addition to his wife, Katherine, Phil is survived by his sons, Daniel and Domanick, of Sidney, his siblings, Robert and his wife Tina, of Bangor, Virginia, of New York, Judie, of Windham, Joan, of Sanford, David, of New York, Richard and his wife Jeanette, of Gray, Edmund, of Connecticut, Priscilla, of Glenburn and Harry and his wife Monique, of Windham; his grandchildren Jordan, Emily and Lucas, his in-laws whom he considered his siblings, Cookie and Floyd, Clifton and Constance, Frank and Tina of Sidney, Germaine, of Florida, Chandra, of Augusta, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins.

At this time no gathering will be held, but hopefully an outdoor celebration of life can be held later in the summer of 2021.

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

In lieu of flowers donations in Phil’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Assoc., 80 Elm St., Portland, Maine 04101.

HELEN L. BELANGER

WINSLOW – Helen Laflamme Belanger, 98, of Winslow, passed away on Monday, December 28, 2020. Helen was born in Waterville, in July 1922. She was the daughter of Leda (Poulliot) and Eugene Laflamme. She attended Immaculate Heart of Mary School, in Fairfield, and graduated from Lawrence High School, class of 1940. In 1951, she was married to her husband, Victor H. Belanger, of Winslow.

Before raising her family, she worked at Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, where she was the secretary to the president of the company. While raising her family, and once they were all in school, she returned to secretarial work at the Winslow High School Guidance Department where she worked for 19 years, retiring in 1985.

Helen was a longtime active member of St. John the Baptist / Corpus Christi Parish. She served as a St. John school board member for six years, a Eucharistic Minister, and worked on the church fair for many years. Her strong faith was a guiding influence throughout her life.

She was an avid reader and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, rug braiding, and playing cards. She knitted many pairs of mittens, sweaters, and countless hats for her children and grandchildren. She volunteered at the Boy’s Club, with Literacy Volunteers, and at the St. John school library. She had enjoyed many winters in Florida with great friends, Florence Fortin, Pauline, Susan, and her sisters, Rachel and Theresa.

Family was very important; some of her fondest memories are the many family gatherings at the camp at Pattee Pond, in Winslow. Beginning with gatherings with her family, her sisters and brothers and their families, and later, watching from her Adirondack chair at the top of the hill as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren learned to fish from the dock, and swim to the float.

Helen was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Victor, in 1986, her oldest son, Stephen, in 1978, and her sisters, Monica (Smedberg), Rachel (Michaud), Theresa (Clark), Blanche (Iadarola), Bernadette and Simone (Religious Sisters of Mercy).

She is survived by her son Peter and his wife Mary, of Bowdoinham; daughter Ann (Thomas) and her husband Jeff, of Fayetteville, New York; son John and his wife Julie, of Albion; and son Thomas and his wife Julie, of Waterville; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Gemma (Theberge), Blandine (Alvey), and brothers, Claude and Dan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Monday, January 4, 2020, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow. Burial will be in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville.

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic the service will be limited with social distancing mask are required to be worn.

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. Her family would like to thank Northern Light Home Care and Hospice and her brother, Dan, who brought her Holy Communion regularly, which meant so much to her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s name to Corpus Christi Parish, 70 Pleasant Street, Waterville, Maine 04901.

FLORENCE M. HUNT

FARIFIELD – Florence Mary Cole Hunt, 86, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at MaineGeneral Long-Term Care Glenridge, Augusta, following a long courageous battle with cancer and dementia.

Florence was born in Waterville on January 26, 1934, the daughter of James Sr. and Aldena Lebrun of Waterville. Florence grew up in Waterville and she was one of 12 children.

Flo had an open heart, a feisty personality and even bigger colorful language that always kept her caregivers on their toes.

After leaving school, she had many jobs most notably Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, and Mt. Saint Joseph, in Waterville, where she retired in 1994 as a CNA.

She married Raymond Joseph Cole Sr. on November 21, 1953, going on to have four children, Sharon, Sandra, Susan and Raymond Jr. After the passing of her first spouse she found love again with Stanley Hunt Jr. and they wed September 19,1994.

After retiring in 1994, Florence spent her time taking her grandchildren shopping and to fairs, playing bingo, watching her soap operas, game shows, knitting and loved watching Whoopie Goldberg movies. Flo also liked music and her favorite was Shirley Temple! She was a night owl, you could always find her awake until 3 a.m. still watching TV and eating her sweets. She loved to dance and it’s how she met her second husband Stanley.

Florence was predeceased by her first husband Raymond Cole who passed away January 10, 1980, her second husband Stanley Hunt who passed away May 11, 2015; parents James Sr. and Aldena Lebrun; sisters Lorraine Owens and Betty Szarek, brothers Charles Lebrun, John Lebrun Sr., David Lebrun and James Lebrun Jr.

She is survived by her daughters Sharon Gervais, of Gardiner, Sandra Bickford and son-in-law Peter O’Clair, of Fairfield, Susan Irving, of Oakland, and son Raymond Cole Jr., of Fairfield; grandchildren, Daniel Simard, of Fairfield, Jamie Shuemaker, of Gardiner, Melissa Noonan Richards, of Benton, Benjamin Irving, of Clinton, Mallory Irving, of North Carolina, Jeremy Turner; 11 great-grandchildren.

There will be no funeral services per Flo’s request. Burial services will take place later in 2021.

MARY JANE CLICHE

WINSLOW – Mary Jane (Morneau) Cliche, 78, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at Oconee Memorial Hospital, in Seneca, South Carolina. Mary Jane was born November 23, 1942, in Winslow, the daughter of Phillip and Sadie (Bolduc) Morneau.

Mary Jane was a retired registered nurse with more than 30 years of service. She attended local schools, Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, and graduated from Winslow High School in 1961.

After high school, she worked for Cottle’s stores, in Waterville. She was married for over 58 years to the love of her life, Carl E. Cliche, of Winslow. They subsequently moved to various locations in the US following Carl’s career with General Electric and Westinghouse while she pursued and grew her nursing career.

She obtained her registered nursing degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. During her nursing career, Mary Jane worked the ER, the ICU for decades. In the later years, she performed occupational nursing in a nuclear environment at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site, in Aiken, South Carlina, until her retirement in 1966.

Mary Jane enjoyed so very much watching the growth of her three children Carl Jr., Kimberly and Timothy, and subsequently the maturing of her four granddaughters, Abbie, Halley, Heather and Hayden. She also particularly enjoyed sewing doll clothes to dress their dolls. That became a hobby in retirement which she used as a means of supporting many charitable activities.

Another of her passions was hosting holiday events for the family over the years.

Throughout the years Mary Jane showed her heart by doing volunteer work at many children centers in the areas that she lived. During retirement, it was always seeking out a family or an organization that had a special need.

Mary Jane was predeceased by her father, Phillip Morneau, mother, Sadie Morneau; sister, Jackie Hallee, brother, Lawrence; and son, Timothy Phillip Cliche (Wilmington, North Carolina).

She is survived by her husband Carl E. Cliche, of Clemson, South Carolina; her son, Carl E. Cliche Jr. and family, of Gainesville, Georgia; and Kimberly Lee and family, of Guyton, Georgia; by several siblings, Bobby Morneau and family, of North Vassalboro, Roger Morneau and family, of Belgrade, Reggie Morneau and family, of South China, Carmen Giroux and family, of North Vassalboro, Paul Morneau and family, of Winslow, and Theresa Thibodeau and family, of Marydell, Delaware; along with many cousins.

Services will be determined at a later time.

Arrangements are by Sandifer Funeral Home, Westminster, South Carolina.

Condolences may be expressed online by visiting http://www.sandiferfuneralhome.com. Any contributions should be made to your local Muscular Dystropy Association.

LARRY B. CHOATE

WINDSOR – Larry B. Choate, 76, a lifelong resident of Windsor, passed peacefully at the Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn, after battling a long-term illness for several years.

Larry was born in Gardiner on November 5, 1944, the son of the late Mavis T. and Donald T. Choate.

Larry graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1962 and then went to Gates Business College, in Augusta. He continued his educational pursuit at the West Palm Beach School of Business, in Florida, where he lived for a bit after college, but his heart was always in Maine.

He returned to Maine and for many years proudly served as legislative assistant for the Maine State Legislature.

Larry had several passions in life: family history, painting, refinishing antique furniture and his greatest love, Moody Pond.

In 1997, Larry built his forever home on the shores of Moody Pond, in Windsor. He worked tirelessly on keeping the grounds of his property and the general area in park-like condition. Visitors would marvel at his hand made stonewalls, gardens and sculptures.

Larry will be deeply missed for his creativity, unique sense of humor and ability to entertain a group of friends and family at special events.

Larry leaves behind his sister, Carol A. Chapman and her husband Steve Chapman, of Sidney; brother David Choate, of Windsor, cousin Kathy Paradis, of Yarmouth; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service and banquet in honor of Larry will be held in the spring of 2021.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry’s name to the Windsor Historical Society, c/o Windsor Fair, 82 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.