Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Notable women

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Novella Jewell Trott

by Mary Grow

As background for this piece on a small selection of women of importance from the central Kennebec Valley, some historical notes might establish a useful timeline.

1) The 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution says: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” It was passed in the House of Representatives on May 21, 1919, by a generous margin, and in the Senate on June 4, 1919, by a vote of 56 to 25, two votes more than the two-thirds majority required for a Constitutional amendment. The necessary 36th state ratification was Tennessee’s on Aug. 18, 1920.

The 89th amendment to the Maine Constitution, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, sex or ancestry, was approved by referendum, by about a five to two margin, on Nov. 5, 1963.

2) According to an online history of the Maine Medical Association (founded in the spring of 1853 after its predecessor, the 1820 Medical Society of Maine, disbanded in 1845), in 1900 Maine had 1,206 physicians registered, of whom 67 were women. In 1982, 1,300 of 1,952 Maine practicing physicians were Association members, including 75 women.

In September 2003, the Maine Medical Association elected its first female president, Dr. Maroulla Gleaton, a Palermo resident and board-certified ophthalmologist practicing in Augusta.

3) Maine’s State Teachers Association was founded in November 1859, in Waterville. It became the Maine Education Association (MEA) in 1867 (and inherited the Teachers Association’s treasury’s assets of $1.26); in 1882 briefly merged with the 1876 Maine Teachers Association (MTA) to form the Maine Pedagogical Society; became MTA for much of the 20th century; and in 1993 became MEA again.

The initial association’s all-male founders are described on the MEA website as “superintendents, principals, college professors and teachers in large towns.” The two-thirds of Maine teachers who were women were not included until 1862. Their dues when admitted were half the men’s dues – proportional to their pay, the website comments.

In 1881, while Nelson Luce, of Vassalboro, was the State Superintendent of Schools, one of his recommendations led to state laws that for the first time allowed women to be school board members and school supervisors. The MTA’s first woman president was Helen Robinson, elected in 1927.

4) The Maine legislature created the Maine State Bar Association on March 6, 1891, to promote the legal profession and propose legal reforms. Wikipedia calls Maine’s a “relatively progressive bar,” having admitted the first recognized black lawyer in the United States, Macon Allen (who practiced briefly in Portland) in 1844. The Bar Association accepted its first woman member, Eva Bean from Old Orchard Beach, in 1911.

Against this background, it is easier to understand the importance of women who succeeded in traditionally male professions and activities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of the employees in the Augusta-based E. C. Allen Publishing Company (see The Town Line, Nov. 12) was Woolwich native and former teacher Novella Jewell Trott (1846-1929). Joining Allen’s firm in 1881, she became an editor within two years, in charge of magazines called Practical Housekeeper and Daughters of America. An online site says she was responsible for all editing work, including reading submissions, choosing and improving material and composing her own articles. By 1894, Trott was an assistant editor for William Howard Gannett.

In 1893, Trott was one of seven women “of national reputation” who represented the Queen Isabella Association’s press department at the World’s Columbian Exposition, in Chicago, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America. A group of professional women organized the association in 1889 to honor Queen Isabella, of Spain, who financed Columbus, by commissioning a statue of her by an association member, sculptor Harriet Hosmer.

Florence Whitehouse

Florence Brooks Whitehouse (1869-1945) was born in Augusta and later lived in Portland. Her mother, Mary Caroline Wadsworth, was related to the family of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow; her father, Samuel Spencer Brooks, was a wealthy shipbuilder and businessman, a hardware store owner with a reputation for integrity.

Educated in Augusta schools and at a private Episcopal finishing school called St. Catherine’s Hall, Whitehouse was unusually independent for her time. Online sources say she skipped college to study fine arts in Boston for several years; visited Europe and the Middle East; and spent the winter of 1892 on a sailing barge on the Nile River with members of the McCormick family (descendants of mid-Westerners Robert and Cyrus McCormick, inventors of the McCormick reaper). While in Egypt, Kingsbury wrote, she was a newspaper correspondent.

On June 21, 1894, Florence Brooks married Robert Treat Whitehouse, also Augusta-born, son of Vassalboro native William Penn Whitehouse, who was an Associate Justice (later Chief Justice) of the Maine Supreme Court. Robert Whitehouse was a Harvard-educated lawyer who wrote several law books early in the 20th century.

The Whitehouses lived in Portland and had three sons, born between 1895 and 1904. An online source describes the marriage as “egalitarian.” Florence Whitehouse wrote two romance novels with Middle Eastern settings, The God of Things: A Novel of Modern Egypt (published in 1902) and The Effendi: A Romance of the Soudan (1904), as well as short stories and plays.

According to an online biography by historian Anne Gass and Loyola University student Robert Pirages, Whitehouse’s activity in Portland’s Civic Club showed her that if women and children were to be treated justly, women needed a greater voice in public affairs.

In 1914, Whitehouse joined the Maine Woman Suffrage Association (MWSA), whose main goal was a state equal rights amendment. She soon became a leading speaker, debater and writer for the group. Gass and Pirages wrote that she had significant family support: her father-in-law had been advocating for women’s suffrage since 1874, and in 1914 her husband helped found and chaired the Men’s Equal Suffrage League.

In 1915, frustrated by state legislators’ inaction, Whitehouse founded and, for five years, chaired the Maine branch of the Congressional Union (CU), a national organization fighting for a federal equal rights amendment. CU was considered a radical group because of its tactics, which included picketing President Woodrow Wilson’s office. Whitehouse joined out-of-state protests; in Maine, not all her fellow suffragists could support CU. In 1917 she resigned from MWSA.

Whitehouse lobbied hard to persuade Maine’s national legislators to approve and state legislators to ratify the 19th amendment. When Governor Carl Milliken called a special session of the Maine legislature on Nov. 4, 1919, to act on ratification, Whitehouse and national suffragist Alice Paul were leaders in bringing about its passage, by a four-vote margin.

The CU became the National Women’s Party in 1916, and Whitehouse remained involved. She was also active in the Portland Chamber of Commerce and increasingly in state and national anti-war movements. Supporting the League of Nations and international disarmament, she chaired international cooperation committees for the Maine League of Women Voters and the Maine Federation of Churches, represented Maine’s Peace commission on the World Unity Council and was a member of the National Council on the Prevention of War.

Whitehouse was chosen a member of the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame in 2008.

Ninetta Runnals

Ninetta May Runnals (1885-1980) was born in Dover-Foxcroft, but earned both her bachelor’s degree and her professional reputation at Colby College in Waterville. Graduating in Colby’s Class of 1908 with a mathematics major, she taught at Foxcroft Academy in Dover-Foxcroft for three years and was Maine Central Institute’s Dean of Girls for another five years.

When Colby trustees decided in 1916 the college needed a dean of women, President Arthur Roberts invited Runnals to apply for the job. Two sources quote from his letter: the invitation was for “the coming year and the rest of your life.”

Runnals refused, because she wanted to complete her master’s degree in mathematics at Columbia University. After she received it in 1920, she told Roberts she would accept his still-open offer, provided that the position included a professorship and that the trustees gave the dean broader responsibilities. Her conditions were approved, and in 1920 she became Colby’s Dean of Women and an Assistant Professor of Mathematics.

Runnals held the deanship for 27 years, with a break (1926-28) to work at Hillsdale College, in Hillsdale, Michigan. In 1923 she became a full professor at Colby, and after 1928 she taught education courses as well as mathematics.

Colby had begun in 1813 as a Baptist institution, but shed its religious affiliation after Maine separated from Massachusetts. The college was originally located on College Avenue, in Waterville. The present Mayflower Hill campus was acquired in 1931.

Students were all men until 1871, when Mary Caffrey Low, of Waterville, became the first and for two years only woman enrolled. She was valedictorian of the Class of 1875, which by then included five female students.

Male and female students were “resegregated” in 1890, Wikipedia says, and when Runnals became Dean of Women the trustees had plans to create a separate women’s college. Knowing the men’s college would get the bulk of resources if the separation occurred, Runnals successfully fought the proposal.

In following years she brought about other changes that improved Colby and especially enhanced women’s education. Her causes included upgrading the women’s physical education program, fighting for equal salaries for women faculty members, leading a 1930s fund drive for the women’s union building on the Mayflower Hill campus (renamed Runnals Union in 1959) and helping plan women’s dormitories in the early 1940s. In 1938, she was the first female faculty member to be honored by the senior class dedicating the college yearbook, the Colby Oracle to her “[i]n hearty appreciation of her enthusiastic participation in and cooperation with the academic, administrative, and social life of Colby.”

Runnals retired on Sept. 1, 1949. She served on the Colby Board of Trustees for six years, and remained active in college business the rest of her life, especially supporting equity for women. Colby awarded her an honorary doctorate in 1929. In 1992 she became a member of the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame.

Runnals was a founder of the Waterville branch of the American Association of University Women. In 1973 a citation from the national AAUW recognized her promotion of women’s education.

Jean Gannett Hawley (1924-1994) became executive vice-president of Guy Gannett Publishing Company in 1953 (see The Town Line, Nov. 12). An online source says it was she who changed the company name to the more inclusive Guy Gannett Communications.

Hawley was educated at Bradford Junior College (since 1971, Bradford College), in Haverhill, Massachusetts, where an online biography says she was a music major and harpist. Another website lists her four honorary doctorates, including a 1959 Doctorate of Humane Letters awarded by Colby College, on whose Board of Trustees she served from 1960 to 1972.

Her online biographer commented that her job overseeing Gannett’s newspaper chain was “made more difficult by the absence of other women in similar positions.” Nonetheless, from her base in Portland she expanded Gannett’s business in television and computers, including adding television stations in other states.

Hawley was chairman of the Gannett Board of Directors from 1959 until her death Sept. 4, 1994. Her niece, Madeleine G. Corson, who had been the board’s vice-chairman since 1990, succeeded to the chairmanship on Sept. 27, 1994.

There is no photo of Jean Gannett Hawley available.

Main sources

Kingsbury, Henry D., ed., Illustrated History of Kennebec County Maine 1625-1892 (1892).

Websites, miscellaneous.

SOLON & BEYOND: More Solon Elementary School news; 4H club holds meeting

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Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percyby Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979

This week I am continuing with more Solon School News:

Last March the students participated in the annual Bookmark Contest in which students designed bookmarks to promote reading. The winners in each class was to receive a certificate and book from the Coolidge Public Library and to have his/her bookmark duplicated and distributed to patrons at the library. Students submitted their bookmarks, and art teacher Mr. Reichenbach chose the winners. An assembly was planned at which Ms. Megan Myers from the library would announce the winners. Then the school shut down due to the coronavirus so we never got to hold that assembly.

This fall they announced the winners and presented each one with his/her certificate and book from the library. Winners were Everly Cox from kindergarten, Hunter Ingersoll from first grade, Sophie Duquette from second grade, Lydia Dixon from third grade, Nevaeh Palmer from fourth grade, and Katelyn DeLeonardis from fifth grade.

Thanks to Ms. Myers and the Coolidge Library for supporting this contest in our school.

Last spring the Solon PTO planned a calendar raffle. Students were given tickets to sell for the month of March, and winners would be drawn every day in April. When the school went to distance learning starting March 16, the raffle was put on hold.

This fall the PTO gave out more tickets to students to sell while also keeping all the tickets that had been sold in the spring. Those were put together, and the drawings were done during the month of October.

The raffle brought in $700, which was amazing for a fundraiser that happened in two parts! Thanks to all of the families and community members who donated items for the raffle and who bought raffle tickets.

The student who sold the most raffle tickets was fifth grader Jayden McKenney. Jayden received a Walmart gift card from the PTO for his efforts.

My many, many Thanks for sharing all this interesting news!

The following email is from Carol Dolan; and she writes, ” I’ve been asked to circulate the following: Just to let you know, the New Portland Library is closed until further notice. Curbside service is available. You can call 628-6561 or send an e-mail to newportlandc@gmail.com and ask for specific books. We will check them out for you and pickup is 9-11am on Tuesday and Thursdays. All books to be returned in the outside drop box.

“Our on-line catalog of all circulation items is at:  http://newportlandmaine.org/town-services/community-library/. Let us know what you would like and we will do all we can to check them out in your name/patron number. Two weeks rentals for all items.

The Solon Pine Tree met on Saturday, November 14, at the Solon Fire Station. In attendance were Cooper and Kaitlin Dellarma, Devyn and Katelyn Deonardis, Lindsay and Charlotte Hamilton, Desmand and Jillian Robinson, Sarah Craig, Isabella Atwood and Autumn Ladd.

The craft project was to make grape vine wreathes. They used Christmas items to decorate them.

The members chose to adopt a family this Christmas and will be providing a Christmas dinner. There will be a swag workshop at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 21, on Zoom. The material will be picked up at the Skowhegan Extension Office on Friday November 20. Five members are interested in going. The December meeting will be collecting items for the animal shelter.

The next meeting will be Saturday, December 12, at 9:30 a.m., at the Solon Fire Station.

It is hard to stay cheerful with all that is going on in our world today, but sometimes there are surprises that can cheer you up! One day this week, Lief and I were sitting on the coach watching the little birds eating from their many feeders when I noticed a BIG bird fly in to help them. I couldn’t think what it could possibly be! Lief was sitting beside me but he hadn’t noticed what was going on, so I poked him and excitedly said, “What is that big bird?” He couldn’t believe that a partridge had stopped in to dine with the little folks! Perhaps he stops in often but we have never seen one out there before. He stayed quite awhile going from branch to branch, but the little guys weren’t too hospitable to the big guy!

And now for Percy’s memoirs to try and cheer you up! They are taken from a little book called, “A Book of Quotations, Good Advice for a Happy Life.” The best way to cheer yourself up is to cheer somebody else up, by Mark Twain. Another one states; ” The heart that loves is always young,” A Greek Proverb. One more: “Give truth, and your gift will be paid in kind, And honor will honor meet; And the smile which is sweet will surely find A smile that is just as sweet,” by Madeline S. Bridges.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Water Stations Keep Kids Safe, Hydrated In School

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Bottle-filling stations in schools, while a good thing in 2019 when this photo was taken, are even more important for health and safety today.

(NAPSI)—If you’ve ever been the parent of a school-aged child, you know the drill. A new school year means a new list of required school supplies. And these days the list is definitely different.

Hoping to prevent the spread of coronavirus this year, most schools sent parents shopping for items such as face masks, hand sanitizers and personal water bottles.

Normally, students can quench their thirst at school water fountains. But there’s nothing normal about this school year. And after the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction recommended schools discontinue the use of shared drinking fountains, many did just that.

But that meant some schools didn’t have a convenient, affordable way to keep students hydrated throughout the day. That’s one of the reasons the Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation decided to offer more water refill stations to schools in need through its Cool Water program. The foundation is the charitable arm of Delta Dental of Wisconsin.

Today, more people understand the importance of adequate water intake to overall health as well as dental health. Drinking enough water can help increase energy levels, decrease headaches, and improve cognitive function. Water, especially when fluoridated, can help reduce cavities and protect tooth enamel by washing away harmful bacteria.

Youth who drink water during the day are also less likely to consume sugary beverages, which can help to reduce excess weight gain and diabetes. Yet over half of U.S.. children and teens are not properly hydrated.

Through its Cool Water program, the Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation provided grants to dozens of Wisconsin schools to help them replace existing drinking fountains with water-bottle filling stations. The program covers the cost of installation and a supply of reusable water bottles for students and staff.

This year, the Foundation paid for water bottle filling stations and their installation—valued at over $100,000—to dozens of schools across the state.

The touchless systems ensure that learners stay well hydrated while helping to prevent the spread of germs. Many schools also have fluoridated water, adding extra protection for teeth.

Almost all water contains some of the naturally occurring mineral fluoride, but the levels are usually too low to prevent tooth decay. That’s why most U.S. communities—and dozens of developed countries worldwide—add very small amounts of fluoride to their public water supplies.

“In optimal amounts, fluoride is proven to be a safe way to make teeth stronger and more resistant to cavities,” says Dr. Greg Theis, DDS, MBA, Dental Director at Delta Dental of Wisconsin.

“In fact, every $1 invested in fluoridation saves $32 in costs to treat dental problems,” he adds. “As a parent and a dentist, I’m pleased to know more of Wisconsin’s students will have the advantage of fluoridated drinking water during the school day, and I’m proud that Delta Dental of Wisconsin can help make an impact.”

Fortins celebrate 65th wedding anniversary

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Anne , 86, left, and Jerry Fortin, 85. (contributed photo)

On October 24, 2020, Anne, 86, Jerry Fortin, 85, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. They received many congratulations and well wishes from friends and relatives as far away as Connor Township, Maine, to Riverside, California, with many in between. The Fortins have three children, Joan Chaffee, of Clinton, Audey Fortin, of South China, and Neal Fortin, of Riverside, California. They also have two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS: Be the best you can be

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Growing your businessby Dan Beaulieu
Business consultant

To grow your business, you have to not only be better than your competition, but you also have to be the best you can be.

No matter what your business is. Whether you are a landscaper, or a plumber, or a contractor, or you own a small business, you have to find ways to not only differentiate yourself from you competition but also be better than anyone else in your field. And yes, be better than you have ever been.

There is an old business term that I have lived by for years which is called continuous improvement. The Japanese have a term for it as well which is “Kaizen.” This is something that needs to be part of all businesses. This is the thing that is going to not only keep your customers loyal to you and your company, but also will make your customers want to brag to their family and friends about how smart they are for doing business with you.

The better way to do things can be different for every business. Well, at least there are some common things that everyone can do to be outstanding. Here are the ten things to make sure you have a good company delivering good products and services.

  • Deliver a great product or service;
  • Consistently deliver a great product or service;
  • Have great communications. Answer your phone. Return phone calls within hours if not minutes;
  • Show up when you say you are going show up;
  • Do what you say you are going to do and more;
  • Be consistent on your pricing;
  • Always be courteous;
  • In these times respect the Covid safety rules;
  • Present well. Clean uniforms, clean establishments, clean trucks, and tools. And leaving the work site clean when you’re finished.
  • Always follow up to make sure the customer was satisfied with your product or service.

But if you want to be a great company there’s more. Let’s assume that you have a good company. Good for you, congratulations. But now you want a great company. What do you do now?

This is where you have to be creative. Here is when you are going to have some fun.

You have to study your customers and decide what you think they will like. You have to be introspective and consider what you like when someone is providing you with a service or product. You have to ask the questions .

What will make my company memorable?”

What extra thing can I do that will get my customers talking about my company?

What can I do that will make my customers, customers for life”

Think about that for a long time. In fact, always be thinking about that. Always be looking out for a better way to do things. Come up with better ways to help your customers.

If you are a landscaper, it can be always offering an extra plant or shrub. If you are a restaurateur, it can be a special trademarked dessert that you surprise your customers with. If you are a plumber, always offer to check out all the faucets in the house to make sure they are running properly once the job you were hired for is done.

You get the picture. Do more, investing in delighting your customers, is the same as investing in your own company. It is the best self-promotion you can do for your company. And yes, the very best way to grow your business.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Turkey was almost national bird

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Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

Benjamin Franklin preferred the turkey as the national bird of the United States, but he never publicly voiced his opposition to the bald eagle.

In a letter to his daughter, Sarah Bache, on January 26, 1783, he wrote how he disapproved of the Society of Cincinnati, which he described as a chivalric order, for having a bald eagle in its crest.

He wrote, “Others object to the bald eagle, as looking too much like a Dindon [turkey]. For my own part I wish the bald eagle had not been chosen the representative of our country. He is a bird of bad moral character. He does not get his living honestly. You may have seen him perched on some dead tree near the river, where, too lazy to fish for himself, he watches the labour of the fishing hawk [osprey]; and when that diligent bird has at length taken a fish, and is bearing it to his nest for the support of his mate and young ones, the bald eagle pursues him and takes it from him.”

The wild turkey, throughout its range, plays a significant role in the cultures of many Native American tribes all over North America. Eastern Native American tribes consumed both the eggs and meat. They provided habitat by burning down portions of forests to create artificial meadows which would attract mating birds, and thus making the hunting of the turkeys much easier.

Of course, clothing and headdress of many chiefs and significant people of the tribe were made from turkey feathers.

Thanksgiving is next week, but do we really know anything about the bird that we cherish at our dinner tables on that day?

There are two species of large birds in the genus Meleagris native to North America. The domestic turkey is the bird most commonly referred to when the term “turkey” is used.

Turkeys have a distinctive fleshy wattle that hangs from the underside of the beak, and a fleshy bulge that hangs from the top of its beak called a snood. As with many species, the female (hen) is smaller than the male (tom or gobbler), and much less colorful. With wingspans of almost six feet, the turkeys are by far the largest birds in the open forests in which they live, and are rarely mistaken for any other species.

When Europeans first encountered turkeys in the Americas they incorrectly identified the birds as a type of guineafowl, also known as a turkey-cock from its importation to Central Europe through Turkey, and the name of that country stuck as the name of the bird. The confusion is also reflected in the scientific name: meleagris is Greek for guinea-fowl.

The name given to a group of turkeys is a rafter, although they are sometimes incorrectly referred to as a gobble or flock.

Several other birds which are sometimes called turkeys are particularly closely related: the Australian brush-turkey and the Australian Bustard. The bird sometimes called a Water Turkey is actually an Anhinga.

While the large domestic turkey is generally unable to fly, the smaller wild turkey can fly extremely well. This is usually enough to perch in the branches of trees, however, it is an ineffective method of transportation. Turkey chicks are unable to fly for the first two weeks after they hatch.

And what about the first Thanksgiving? Many myths.

As the Puritans prepared for winter in 1621, they gathered anything they could find, including Wampanoag supplies.

One day, Samoset, a leader of the Abenaki, and Tisquantum (better known as Squanto) visited the settlers. Squanto was a Wampanoag who had experience with other settlers and knew English. Squanto helped the settlers grow corn and use fish to fertilize their fields. After several meetings, a formal agreement was made between the settlers and the native people and they joined together to protect each other from other tribes in March 1621.

One day that fall, four settlers were sent to hunt for food for a harvest celebration. The Wampanoag heard gunshots and alerted their leader, Massasoit, who thought the English might be preparing for war. Massasoit visited the English settlement with 90 of his men to see if the war rumor was true.

Soon after their visit, the Native Americans realized that the English were only hunting for the harvest celebration. Massasoit sent some of his own men to hunt deer for the feast and for three days, the English and native men, women, and children ate together. The meal consisted of deer, corn, shellfish, and roasted meat, far from today’s traditional Thanksgiving feast. Notice, there was no turkey.

Although prayers and thanks were probably offered at the 1621 harvest gathering, the first recorded religious Thanksgiving Day in Plymouth happened two years later in 1623. On this occasion, the colonists gave thanks to God for rain after a two-month drought.

Much of what most modern Americans eat on Thanksgiving was not available in 1621.

The peace between the Native Americans and settlers lasted for only a generation. The Wampanoag people do not share in the popular reverence for the traditional New England Thanksgiving. For them, the holiday is a reminder of betrayal and bloodshed. Since 1970, many native people have gathered at the statue of Massasoit in Plymouth, Massachusetts, each Thanksgiving Day to remember their ancestors and the strength of the Wampanoag.

One other thing about the turkey. Did you know that it missed by one vote of being our national bird instead of the bald eagle.

Kind of gives you some food for thought, doesn’t it?

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

Which Super Bowl was the only one not designated with Roman numerals?

Answer can be found here.

Roland’s Trivia Question for Thursday, November 19, 2020

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Trivia QuestionsWhich Super Bowl was the only one not designated with Roman numerals?

Answer:

Super Bowl 50, February 7, 2016.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 19, 2020

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CAROL A. MANSON

OAKLAND – Carol Ann (Dudley) Manson, 54, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 27, 2020, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born May 21, 1966, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the daughter of Larry Winston and Shirley Marie (Brasil) Dudley.

She attended Waterville Adult Education and graduated in 1994. On June 20, 1987, she married Clifton Manson, at the Winslow Congregational Church.

Carol had a strong love for her family. She loved gathering her boys together and their friends, so much so that many of them lived with her a time or two. She cherished her time with her grandsons, she was very proud of them.

Carol held various jobs in her lifetime, her most treasured job was being a mother and Mimi, she waitressed, she drove school bus for the Waterville school district for many years and also worked in the healthcare field doing home health.

Carol is survived by her husband of 26 years, Clifton Manson, of Oakland; three sons, Larry Dudley, of Crystal Beach, Florida, Chad Manson and wife Casandra, of Fairfield, Michael Manson and partner Kristin Gauthier, of Leadville, Colorado; brother Ronnie Dudley and fiancée Norma Allen; sister, Tammy Loder and husband Jeramy, of Clinton; two grandsons, Logan and Austin Manson, both of Fairfield; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She held a special place in her heart for Shanon Gilley, Nate Bellavance and her sister-in- law Brenda Dudley as well as many wonderful friends near and far.

A Celebration of Life was held on October 31, 2020, at the United Steelworkers Union Hall, 577 Benton Ave, Winslow, Me.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Carol’s memory to the American Cancer Society.

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

YVETTE G. MICHAUD

WINSLOW – Yvette (Goulette) Michaud, 97, of Winslow, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2020. She was born in Waterville, and was the oldest of four siblings.

During her lifetime she worked for Hathaway Shirt Co., , Cottle’s Supermarket, and Shop and Save, all inWaterville. Her hobbies included bowling, bingo and various arts and crafts. A few of her favorite things to do was going to the coast for lobster at Young’s Lobster Pound and spending time with family.

She was a wonderful woman whose love, feistiness and persistence allowed her to live a long and fulfilling life. She will be remembered as a woman who loved to go-go-go until she could go no more. It was this energy that kept her going for 97 years until she finally tired and could go no more.

She will be missed dearly but never forgotten as she was an inspiration to her family and friends!

Yvette was predeceased by her husband, Bernard, daughter, Elaine (Belcher), son, Russell and brother, James.

She is survived by her son, Edward; grandchildren, Michael Belcher, John (Teresa) Michaud, Laura (James) Landauer and Carrie (John) Parker; including 11 great-grandchildren plus two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Leo (Gerry); sister Jeanette (Robert) Bolduc; and sister-in-law, Betty (James); 13 nieces and nephews.

Due to Covid-19, the services will be private.

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, contributions in her memory can be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

MARGARET V. WICKES

WATERVILLE – Margaret Virginia Wickes, 97, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, following a brief illness. Margaret was born in Tung Hsien, China, in 1923. Her parents, Fanny R. Sweeny and Dr. Dean R. Wickes, were Congregational missionaries.

She attended North China American School through the sixth grade, returning by steamship to the United States in 1935 and attending public schools in Washington D.C., and Maryland.

She attended Swarthmore College and later Syracuse University where she earned a doctorate in anthropology. She held part-time teaching appointments at Syracuse University, in Syracuse, New York, Utica College, in Untica, New York, University of Maine at Augusta, and Colby College, in Waterville, and was secretary of the Museum of Art at Colby College for 18 years, retiring in 1991.

Margaret served as Colby’s representative to the American Association of University Women. She participated for many years in Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area and in 1994 she was chosen their volunteer of the year. She served on the Board of Trustees of the Universalist-Unitarian Church, of Waterville, including terms as secretary and president. She was active in the church choir, the Women’s Alliance, and the Evening Sandwich Program. Even during her final illness, she attended Zoom meetings of the church’s Women’s Group.

Margaret published poetry, short stories, and articles about local artists. She also wrote several novels depicting a young American girl’s early life in China and adjustment to life in the United States. Her hobbies included throwing pottery, sculpting, knitting, and designing-sewing Chinese motif jackets and one-of-a-kind teddy bears. She belonged to a mahjong group, a writer’s group, and a spirituality discussion group. Her cat, Chessie, lived with her for 25 years.

She is survived by her three children, Peter Gibbons, his wife Patricia, of Kennewick, Washington, Alan Gibbons, his wife Katherine, of Delray Beach, Florida, Stephanie McMahan, her husband Richard of Barre, Vermont; eight grandchildren, Julie Cramer, of Tacoma, Washington, Becky Watson, of Redmond, Washington, James Gibbons, of Kent, Washington, Marie Johansing, of Kennewick, Washington, Benjamin Gibbons, of Boise, Idaho, Matthew Gibbons, of Madbury, New Hampshire, Adam Gibbons of Dover, New Hampshire, Michael McMahan, of Waldwick, New Jersey; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Alice Barclay, of Washington, D.C., and Eleanor Waldrop, of Silver Spring, Maryland.

An online memorial service will be held on Dec. 5, 2020, at 2 p.m.; details are available at https://uucwaterville.com.

Memorial donations can be made to the Universalist-Unitarian Church of Waterville, P.O. Box 435, Waterville, ME 04903-0435 or to HospiceVolunteers of Waterville Area, 304 Main St., Waterville, ME 04901.

ANN M. DeROSIA

WATERVILLE – Ann Margaret (Woodard) DeRosia, 68, died peacefully Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at Oak Grove Center, Waterville, following an extensive illness. She was born August 9, 1952, to Russell and Suzanne (Landry) Woodard, in West Stewardstown, New Hampshire.

She grew up in Piermont, New Hampshire.

Ann graduated from Bradford Academy in 1970 and went on to get her associate degree in accounting from Hesser College, in Manchester, New Hampshire. She held various jobs before working for Richard L. Hodges, Inc., in Unity, for over 25 years, and then most recently at Sibley Transportation, in Bangor.

Ann had many interests and hobbies. She was passionate about animals and held her fur babies very close to her heart. She loved to travel, and especially loved planning trips to Disney World to go on with her family and friends. She also loved to quilt and enjoyed her time with her quilting friends at “Scrapbaggers,” a quilting group based in Unity.

She was predeceased by her father, Russell Woodard.

She is survived by her mother, Suzanne (Landry) Woodard, of Piermont, New Hampshire; and her daughters, Carrie Corbeau, of Troy, and Tammy Guertin, of Fairfield; her brother, Michael Woodard, and sisters, Rosemarie (Woodard) Knapp, Frances Woodard, and Pauline (Woodard) Hill.

Due to the Covid pandemic, a gathering of family and friends will be held in the spring of 2021. Date and location will be announced at a later time.

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

The family asks that in lieu of cards and/or flowers, please make in donation in her name to the Waterville Area Humane Society, Waterville, Maine.

PETER J. LEACH II

VASSALBORO – Peter J. Leach II, 51, of Vassalboro, died Thursday, November 5, 2020, at Central Maine Medical Center, in Lewiston, from a heart attack. Peter was born on April 26, 1969, to Peter Leach Sr. and (stepmom) Marianne Leach, of Maryland; Mary and (stepdad) Edwin Emerson, of Augusta.

Peter attended school in Chelsea and Augusta. Peter enjoyed hunting and fishing, camping, woodworking, and spending time with his family and friends. Peter knew everybody no matter where he went. He would give the shirt off his back just to help someone.

Peter worked at Paul’s Pick-A-Part, in Chelsea. In the ’80s he also worked at Mason’s Choice, in Farmingdale, Hunt’s Lumber, in Jefferson, Sather’s Auto Salvage in the late ’80s and Bell’s Auto Salvage and Corbin’s Auto Salvage. Peter also worked in the woods with his father in-law for Rideout’s Logging.

He also would travel doing car crushing with his brother-in-law, Bill Rideout. Peter was a Jack-Of-All-Trades.

He was predeceased by his mother and stepdad; grandparents, Margaret and John Short, Richard Leach Sr., Alice Kinney, a niece, Ashley Rideout and brother in-law Alex Cummings and Grandson Baby Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne Leach of 30 plus years; father Peter Leach Sr. and stepmom, Marianne, of Maryland; special mother; and father-in-law, Ralph and Karolyn Rideout, of Windsor; his daughter Kassandra and spouse James Carter, of Vassalboro, Peter Leach III and spouse Cassandra, of Vassalboro, John Leach and friend Roseleigh Wall, of Gardiner; eight granddaughters, Laylah Leach, Samantha Carter, Brooklyn Leach, Isabella Carter, Abbygail Carter, Lilyana Leach, Ashlynn Carter, Paisley Leach; one grandson, Brently Leach; his stepsisters, Theresa Short, of Waterville, Carrie Barben, of Pennsylvania, Michael Leach, of Maryland, Eddie Emerson, of New York, Patrick Emerson,k of Connecticut; cousin, Bruce Short Jr., of Vienna.

Peter requested no services. Cremation services done by Funeral Alternatives of Augusta.

Celebration of Life was held at the Gardiner Lions Club, in Gardiner, on Sunday, November 15,

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to his spouse.

BYRON L. WRIGLEY

OAKLAND – Byron L. Wrigley Sr. 81, passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2020, following a long illness. Byron was born on April 29, 1939, to the late Karl Wrigley and Erma (Rowe) Wrigley and was a lifelong resident of Oakland.

He graduated from Williams High School and married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen (Cunningham) Wrigley in 1958.

Byron loved anything to do with cars and trucks and worked for well over 50 years as a mechanic. He had a long career with Central Maine Power Co. and started an auto salvage and wrecker business with his sons called BL Wrigley and Sons. He also owned and operated the Oakland Sunoco station during that time.

In 1986, Byron started driving a school bus for the Messalonskee School District and eventually became their lead mechanic. Health issues forced him into retirement, but Byron loved working, so when he recovered, he became a crane operator for his son, Byron Jr.’s business, Central Maine Crane. After a couple of years, he retired again but he soon found that retirement was not for him and he became a truck driver for Hammond Lumber, a job he truly enjoyed.

Byron proudly served on the Oakland Town Council for 16 years. He loved his time of service to his beloved hometown. He was also a founding board member and elder of Kingdom Life Church, in Oakland. He was known and loved by many in the community who knew him as their auto mechanic or their school bus driver, their town councilor or simply as “Grampy.”

Byron loved God, his family, car racing, and the Red Sox. Byron and his wife Kay were blessed with five children, 19 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his daughters, Kimberly Dickson (Jim), Kathryn White (Dan); sons, Byron Jr. (Helen), Karl (Lisa), Jeffery; cousin, Dana Wrigley; brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, and many nieces and nephews.

Byron is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Gerald (Jake) Wrigley, and sister, Rowena Bolduc.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be a celebration of life at a later time, to be determined.

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

WAYNE GRENIER

CLINTON – Wayne Grenier passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 5, 2020, while enjoying one of his favorite pastimes of deer hunting in the Maine woods. Wayne was born in 1947, in Winslow, to parents Leo and Marie Rose Grenier.

Wayne was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to so many who was always quick with a smile or joke to brighten your day. He stayed active and busy until the end and touched so many lives along the way.

He graduated from Winslow High School and then started working as a meat cutter at Cottle’s Supermarket, in Waterville. After that he worked for years at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, and Mobile, Alabama, before returning to Maine to work as a driver for Downeast Energy. Wayne was a proud member of the National Guard for over 20 years and a longtime member of the Clinton Lions Club. Retired life didn’t suit him and he continued to work part-time as a driver for KVCAP and most recently working with family to reopen Bolley’s Hot Dogs, in Waterville.

He had many favorite activities, but was happiest enjoying the outdoors while hunting, fishing and camping. He loved his grandchildren and was like a big kid when playing with them and was their biggest fan at all of their games and activities.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Paula; daughter, Stacie and her husband Jeff, of Falmouth; stepdaughter Kathie Dunphy and her husband Gabe, of Shawmut; stepdaughter Erin and her husband Tom, of Canton; grandchildren, Lucas, Victoria, Gabryen, Leaona, Emma, Lucien, Thea, Charlotte and Chase; and great-grandsons, Wyatt and Bryce; sister, Linda and her husband Dana, of Benton; niece Kim Watson and her husband Mark, of Winslow, with their daughters, Tashia and her partner Nick, and Taylor and her husband Jordan; and niece, Kara Damon and her children, Chase, Madison and Carson, of South Portland.

Following the guidelines set forth by the State of Maine and the CDC, services will be held privately. A small group of immediate family will gather to celebrate his life.

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 to the Clinton Lions club in his name would be greatly appreciated.

MILDRED R. GOOD

WATERVILLE – Mildred R. Good, affectionately known as “Millie,” passed away peacefully at her daughter Donna’s home on Saturday, November 7, 2020. Millie was born on April 23, 1920, in Limestone, to Manzer Sr. and Ellen Doody.

She attended schools in Limestone, married Clarence “Bun” Good, and they eventually settled in Fairfield. Millie worked in Waterville at DeOrsay’s Drug Store and then Dunham’s of Maine. She was Noble Grand and Past Noble Grand at Goodwill Rebekah Lodge #50, of Fairfield, where she had many lasting friendships including special friend Didi Barry. Hobbies included sewing, skiing, and exercising with a wonderful group known as The Golden Girls.

Millie was predeceased by her husband, Clarence; son, Gary F. Good; sister, Alice “Mae” Clifford and husband Kenneth, brother, Jim Doody, and brothers and their wives including Manzer Jr. (June) and Betty, McKinley (Mac) and Gracie, Ruel and Vellie, Perley and Hilda, and Arnold and former wife Judy Doody, and later companion Betty Crommett; also daughter-in-law, Rosemary Good, and brother-in-law, Lou Crenshaw.

Surviving are son, C. Edward “Bunky” Good; daughter, Donna M. Good Paradis and husband Brian; sister, Shirlie Crenshaw; sister-in-law Delores “Dee” Doody; and daughter-in-law, Margareth Good; grandchildren include Dawn Cook, Anne White and Tony, Erin Napela and Chris, Lucas Good and Lindsey, Mike Good and Terri, Andrew Good and Laura, Sally Neal and Barry, and Robbie Good and Jeannie; great-grandchildren include Trever Cook, CJ and Landon Napela, Malia, Emmerson, and Rowan White, Henry Good, Jimmy, Melissa, Allison, Gregory, Brian, Colleen, Bobby, Amanda, Heather, and Robyn Good; and great-great granddaughter, Ella Good; along with many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the springtime.

Condolences may be shared on the Morning Sentinel Obituary site or through Donna’s Facebook page.

Arrangements were made under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan.

KIMBERLY A. POTTLE

CHELSEA – Kimberly Anne Pottle, 54, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at her home, in Chelsea. Kim was born on December 3, 1965, in Waterville, daughter of Roland and Barbara Bouchard.

She attended Waterville schools and later graduated from Penobscot Job Corps Center, in Bangor.

She married Steven A. Pottle on August 1, 1998.

She enjoyed dancing in her younger days. One of her special joys was spending time with her grandson Ayden. She enjoyed long road trips on the motorcycle with her husband, Steve, and spending time with her children Danielle and Dylan, and other family members. Kim and Steve attended Seventh-day Advent church, in Augusta.

She worked as a CNA in a couple nursing homes in the area and later became a certified medical assistant, where she was last employed at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville.

She was predeceased by her mother, Barbara Bouchard and father in-law William Glidden.

She is survived by her husband Steve; daughter Danielle Bishop, of Chelsea; son, Dylan Pottle, of Waterville; grandson Ayden Landry, of Waterville; father Roland Bouchard, of Waterville; brothers, Darren Bouchard, of Waterville, Shane Bouchard and wife Amy, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; sisters, Michele Sucy and husband Scott, of Oakland, and Johna Goodale, of Skowhegan; mother-in-law Lily Glidden, of Waterville; father in-law Lawrence Pottle and wife Audrey, of Benton; sister in-law Laurie Bourgoin and husband Eric, of Waterville; brothers-in-law Wayne Harmon and wife Nicole, of Winslow, Lewis Howard and wife Noreen, of Fairfield; several aunts and uncles, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Service and burial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

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

THOMAS E. WEIBLEN

WINDSOR – Thomas Erwin Weiblen, 78, died peacefully Monday, November 9, 2020, at his home, following a long illness. He was born in North Whitefield on April 11, 1942, a son of the late Erwin C. and Ellen A. (Smith) Weiblen.

Tom attended the Coopers Mills Grammar School and was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, class of 1960, where he was the recipient of the Ira Gilman Award for Excellence in Industrial Arts. He went on to graduate from the Massachusetts Trade Shop School in 1962.

After graduation he started a career which spanned 44 years. His first two years were at Hamilton Standard, a division of United Aircraft, working in the Experimental Jet Engine Fuel Controls Section. He returned to Maine in 1965 to work at Bath Iron Works as a master machinist and a member of the International Association of Aerospace Workers. In 1973 he left Bath Iron Works for a job at Bridge Construction Company, in Windsor. In 1983 he returned to Bath Iron Works where he remained until his retirement in 2006. At each place he worked he was recognized not only as an outstanding machinist but also a problem solver.

In 1964 Tom joined the Maine National Guard and was on active duty from February through August 1964, where he was known as an expert marksman. He left the Guard in 1973.

He was a member of the American Legion, the Whitefield Lions Club, The General Society of Mayflower Descendants, and Windsor snowmobile and four wheeler clubs.

Tom loved the outdoors, even as a child. He spent many hours hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, jet skiing and four wheeling on his property and throughout Maine. After retirement he spent a lot of time taking care of his land using all of his John Deere equipment as well as a Farmall Cub tractor which his family had purchased in 1952.

His favorite holiday was the Fourth of July where you could find him celebrating with family and friends, steaming lobsters, and firing his replica U.S.S Constitution cannon that he made by himself.

He was always very generous and usually had a smile on his face, even when challenged with much adversity. He was always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need or come up with an idea to solve a problem. He was as tough as nails and complained little. He was a man of his word and kept his promises.

Many things brought him joy. Most of all he had a love for life, loved his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren who thought the world of him.

Tom was predeceased by his twin sister, Nancy Ellen Zoltewicz.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary E. (Paul) Weiblen, of Windsor; his son, Shawn A. Weiblen and his daughter-in-law Michelle D. (Drouin) Weiblen and his grandchildren Monica R., Julia P., and Thomas W., of Durham; his brother William A. Weiblen, of Avon, Connecticut; and nieces and nephews Stephanie Zoltewicz, Frederick Zoltewicz, Benjamin Zoltewicz, Craig Zoltewicz, Ann Kandalen and Elizabeth Weiblen and her children Catriana and Jaelle.

There will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. Burial will be at a later date in 2021 at Rest Haven Cemetery, Rte. 32, Windsor.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations in Thomas’ memory be made to: American Parkinson’s Disease Association, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY, 10306.

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

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

WENDY M. JOHNSON

WINSLOW – Wendy Mae Johnson, 60, passed peacefully on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, in Winslow. Wendy was born on September 13, 1960, in Hartford, Connecticut, to her parents Judith Marden and Lawrence Johnson.

Wendy dedicated her career to the health of women through her work at Inland Women’s Health Care, formerly Waterville OB/GYN. She was an avid reader and skillful knitter. Wendy loved the beach, practical jokes and classic rock played loudly, and loved her family and friends most of all.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by many loved ones, including her beloved cousin and good friend Karen Mitchell.

Wendy is survived by her son Eric Nelson, of Fairfield; daughter Sarah Perkins and her husband Benjamin; of Mt Juliet, Tennessee; grandsons Asher and Beckett Perkins; sister Susan Weatherbee, of Wiscasset; brother Shawn Dyer and wife Mary, of Glenburn; nieces Laura Weatherbee, Maegan Nelson, Emily Weaver and nephews Jason Weatherbee, Cameron and Colby Dyer, Travis and Ryan Redman, Matthew, Andrew and Alex Nelson; former husband Michael Nelson; and many other relatives in Maine and Connecticut.

A memorial service and celebration of Wendy’s life will be held at a later date at The Beach House, in Prospect Harbor, which was a very special place to her.

DAVID K. DIXON

CLINTON – David Keith Dixon, 77, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, inside the home he built, in Clinton, following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was born on April 5, 1943, to Lorimer Dixon and Mildred Nason as their sixth and final child.

When Dave was less than two years old, his father died. Nine years younger than his closest sibling, Dave was presented with and accepted responsibilities typically designated for those much older. He served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1964 where he trained and worked as a mechanic. He was stationed in Korea and Panama and would fondly recall details of his escapades long after memories started escaping him.

When Dave returned from the service, he was the envy of a small town when he courted and married Janet Dow. The couple married in 1965 and celebrated their 55th anniversary last month. Dave and Jan moved out of state early in their marriage and lived in Virginia and Florida before returning home. Dave, Jan, and their two eldest children moved into his childhood home with Mildred to care for her. In 1977 a fire claimed the long-time family home which resulted in Dave building their next home. Shortly thereafter, Dave and Jan spent multiple years of any free time they had building a log house nearby which became their family’s home.

The independence developed early on through responsibility and hard work, served Dave well as he provided for his family, and worked endless hours to improve their lives. That same independence led Dave to pursue a career where he answered only to himself and those dependent on him. Dave pedaled auto parts all over Maine until buying the former Tiny Bill’s building on Main St., in Clinton, and converting it in 1992 to DAC Distributors, an auto parts store, which now, with its second owner, is still open for business. Dave operated the business along with his eldest son Randall until 2009. Dave developed his venture into a successful business without doing it at anyone else’s expense. He was honest and refused to profit more than he felt was fair. He gave his customers the benefit of the doubt and was always willing to allow his patrons credit.

Dave recognized what a gift his wife was to him and kissed her goodbye every time he left the house. Despite his fleeting memory he never forgot who she was. He was tenacious, loved a good adventure, dreamt of lakes he hadn’t fished, enjoyed watching car racing, holidays, whoopie pies, bumper cars, watching the birds, and being in the woods. He had an incredible ability to tell stories that would often result in the listener being held hostage until he was done telling it. His favorite place was on the water with a fishing rod in hand and a trout on the hook. He was able to fulfill a dream when he and Jan built their camp on Moosehead Lake where his family would gather every Memorial Day and July 4th.

Dave worked hard until his mind and body failed him. He battled Alzheimer’s Disease for the last decade and never conceded. He fished, cut, and delivered wood and helped out those he loved until the end. He recognized he wasn’t as sharp as he’d once been throughout the majority of his struggle, but Dave’s deterioration still exceeded most’s baseline.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Dixon, and their four children, Randall (Kimberly), Michelle, Douglas, Chad (Tawnya); his six grandchildren, Eric (Danielle) Elizabeth, Katherine, Isaac, Evelyn, and Luke; his two great-grandchildren; his brother, Clifford Dixon, his sisters-in-law, Linda White and Stephanie Dow, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are through Dan and Scott’s Cremation.

For those wishing to make memorial contributions in his memory please consider the Alzheimer’s Association or Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

There will be a graveside service at Greenlawn Cemetery, in Clinton.

RUTH Y. VIENS

WATERVILLE – Ruth Yandow Viens, 94, a resident of Waterville, passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2020, at Woodlands Assisted Living, in Waterville. Ruth was born November 6, 1926, in Colchester, Vermont, the daughter of the late Harvey D. and Alma (Bonnette) Yandow.

Ruth received her degree as a U.S. Cadet Nurse, graduating from Fanny Allen Hospital, Class of 1948, in Colchester, Vermont.

Ruth married her childhood sweetheart, Paul K. Viens on June 27, 1950.

Ruth left her nursing career to create a loving home with Paul and eventually their children. They made their home in Burlington, Vermont, Gouverneur, New York, and moved to Waterville, in 1969. Together they raised their family and built a family business. Her greatest accomplishments have been in the lives of her family and friends. Her generous heart filled her home with love.

Ruth was an avid volunteer involving her children and their activities. She was a member of Waterville Inner Wheel, The Waterville Garden Club, and the Waterville Women’s (Samaritan) Club. Ruth was a communicant at Corpus Christi Parish, taught CCD and served as a Eucharistic Minister at Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville.

Ruth followed her grandchildren in all their pursuits. She was always ready and waiting at her door to go to all school, scout and sporting events and to be called Grammy by all who knew her. Ruth leaves her children and grandchildren with the knowledge that they were truly loved and also how her strength of character, perseverance and deep faith sustained her during difficult times.

Paul predeceased her on September 3, 1982. Ruth was also predeceased by her two brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald R. Yandow, his wife, Lorraine and Kenneth B. Yandow, his wife, Florence, all of Burlington, Vermont; brother-in-law, Robert D. Viens, his wife, Cecile, of Glastonbury, Connecticut; sister-in-law, Eleanor V. Beauregard, Essex Junction, Vermont, and Joachim (Stanley) Viens, his wife, Ellen, of Fort Collins, Colorado.

She is survived by her three children, Kenneth P. (Margaret) Viens, of Waterville, Denise V. (Michael) McGuan, of Waterville, and Gerard A. (Linda) Viens, of Cincinnati, Ohio; six grandchildren, Nicholas A. (Lindsey) Viens, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Daniel P. (Laura Desrochers) Viens, of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, Pamela A. McGuan, of Oakland, Thomas M. (Cassandra) McGuan, of Lewiston, Matthew P. Viens, and Christopher A. Viens, both of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven great-grandchildren, Henry Viens, Elizabeth Viens and William Viens, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Juliet Viens and Simone Viens, of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, Gemma McGuan and Camden McGuan, of Lewiston; brother-in-law, Paul Beauregard, of Northfield, Vermont; and many nieces, nephews and their families.

Due to Covid-19, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated privately for the family at Notre Dame Catholic Church.

Arrangements are under direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home in Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, since all six of her grandchildren attended school there and it has long been a favorite charity of hers, donations may be made to Mount Merici Academy, Attn.: Nikki Brown, 18 Mount Merici Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

PATRICIA P. THOMAS

WATERVILLE – Patricia “Pat” Poulin Cothran Thomas, 94, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2020. She was born August 12, 1926, to Romeo and Eva LaFlamme Poulin.

She attended Notre Dame Parochial School, in Waterville, through the eighth grade, and graduated from Waterville Senior High School, class of 1944. She fondly remembered being a cheerleader for the New England basketball champions. After high school, she worked in downtown Waterville, as a seamstress and bookkeeper for Emery Brown’s and Stevens Men’s Clothing Store. She and her husband also assisted Uncle Tommy at his popular Tony’s Deli. Her favorite job came later, when she worked for Dunham’s Clothing, on Main St., Waterville, in the catalog order department. There she was able to capitalize on her keen sense of style and fashion. One of her many talents!

She had an opportunity to travel throughout the Southeast, settling in Savannah, Georgia. During this period, she met and married Harold Cothran. She loved her life in the south. The entertaining, the clothes, decorating and the belle of the ball status. Her glory days. But she was destined to return to her hometown of Waterville, and reunite with the true love of her life, Bernard Thomas. They were married 47 years, until his passing in 2010. They raised their two girls at the Violette Avenue home. Pat was a fabulous cook, and had a real skill in preparing to cook different ethnic dishes ranging from Mexican to Lebanese. She had a beautiful smile and a lovely singing voice. She was fiercely protective of her family, and loved them intensely. She was an unconventional gal, a one of a kind and believed in “live and let live.”

Her favorite pastime was any and all games of chance…bingo, poker, races, and slots. She and Bernard had many opportunities to visit Las Vegas, where she thoroughly enjoyed every minute.

Patricia and Bernard were lifelong members of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville.

Patricia was predeceased by her husband; her parents; her brothers, Frank and Darrell Poulin and sister, Lee Poulin Barnes, brothers and sisters-in-law, Shirley and Thomas Thomas, John and Marietta Thomas, Joseph Thomas, Louie Thomas, Ann Thomas, Julia Thomas, Nimni Thomas Noel and Charles Noel, Mary Thomas Smus and Joseph Smus, Frances Thomas Joseph and William Joseph; her nephew, Scott Thomas and her niece, Lisa Poulin Palmer.

She is survived by her daughters, Michelle Cothran and Nicole Thomas, of Waterville; her sisters-in-law, Barbara Poulin, of Winslow, and Nancy Poulin, of Greenfield, Massachusetts; her brother and sister in-law, Wayne and Charlotte Thomas, of Sarasota, Florida; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In following with the Maine CDC COVID-19 regulations, a private graveside service will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph Maronia Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville, ME 04901, or a charity of your choice.

LINDA T. COLLIER

FAIRFIELD – Linda T. (Bourque) Collier, 73, passed away November 12, 2020, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born July 26, 1947, in Waterville, the daughter of Albert and Irene (Cloutier) Bourque.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1966 and was employed for many years as a laundry technician at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville. On June 29, 1972, she married Timothy Collier at the Methodist Church, in Oakland. Linda loved country music, knitting, crocheting, and taking long car rides.

Linda is survived by her sister, Joanne Ratte, of Vassalboro; nephew, Scott Bureau, of Fairfield; two nieces, Dee-Dee Bureau, of Fairfield, Heather Gerow, of Clinton; and many more nieces and nephews, too many to name.

She was predeceased by her husband, Timothy Collier; parents, Albert and Irene (Cloutier) Bourque; brother, George Bourque; and sister-in-law, Katherine Boucher.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

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

China planners to visit site of proposed medical marijuana dispensary

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by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members heard an application for a trailer-based medical marijuana dispensary at their Nov. 10 Zoom meeting, and scheduled a site visit and a public hearing prior to taking action.

Giovanni DelVecchio, of Augusta, said he is arranging to park his 18-foot-long converted travel trailer in front of the former restaurant building at 857 Route 3, next door to S & T Motors, and use it as a medical marijuana dispensary.

DelVecchio said his plan is “a toe in the water.” If the business succeeds enough to justify expansion, he intends to renovate and move into the former restaurant building.

The trailer will accommodate up to three people at a time, DelVecchio and Codes Officer Bill Butler agreed. Butler said the proposed use is not in the watershed of either China Lake or Three Mile Pond. A right-of-way across the property will need to remain unblocked. If customers are to enter the trailer, he would like more information about the water supply and waste-water disposal plans.

By unanimous votes, planning board members found that DelVecchio’s application is complete; scheduled a site visit to the trailer at its current location on Riverside Drive, in Augusta, for 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21; and scheduled a public hearing at their next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday evening, Nov. 24. Due to coronavirus restrictions, the hearing will almost certainly be by Zoom.

According to a Nov. 12 Associated Press report, DelVecchio, owner of Weed on Wheels Maine, made a similar application to the Augusta Planning Board in October. Augusta officials replied with a moratorium on most retail sales from vehicles. A public hearing to discuss a permanent ban is scheduled as part of the Dec. 8 Augusta Planning Board meeting.

In other business at the Nov. 10 China meeting, planning board members elected Randall Downer chairman and re-elected Toni Wall co-chairman.

Butler reported on recent activities, including permits issued, inspections and investigations of violations of local ordinances. One of his newer duties, he said, is to make sure town businesses are obeying coronavirus-related restrictions. Businesses that do not conform in a reasonable time are referred to state authorities who can impose fines and if necessary order a business closed.

Butler is retiring at the end of the month. He said he has offered to remain available to assist his successor with issues left unfinished as his tenure ends.

Before adjourning, board members unanimously voted to formally and publicly thank former chairman Tom Miragliuolo for his service to the town. Miragliuolo did not seek another term on the board at the Nov. 3 local election, and when he received the largest number of write-in ballots declined to serve.

There are currently two vacant planning board positions, representing the two southern districts in town.

Vassalboro board approves one of two marijuana-related projects

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by Mary Grow

Vassalboro Planning Board members approved one of three applications on their Nov. 10 agenda, in the course of a four-hour meeting under often-frustrating conditions.

To accommodate the expected audience, which numbered more than two dozen at one point, board members held the meeting in St. Bridget’s Center, in North Vassalboro. The attractive former church is large enough to allow for social distancing, but with distancing, masks and difficult acoustics in the high-ceilinged room, audience members repeatedly had to ask board members what they were discussing.

The evening’s agenda called for two public hearings, on two separate applications from Leo Barnett for buildings in which to have marijuana-growing operations at two locations; review of each application; and review of Jeremy Soucy’s application for a used-car business. After the hearings and Barnett’s first application took more than two and a half hours, Soucy agreed to the board’s postponing his application to the December meeting.

The first hearing was on Barnett’s application to build two more marijuana growing buildings and a small storage building on his property on Old Meadow Lane, which runs east off Riverside Drive (Route 201) a little north of the Cushnoc Road intersection. There were few comments.

The second hearing was on Barnett’s application to build two marijuana growing buildings and a small storage building on Andrew Barnett’s property at the east end of Sherwood Lane, which also runs east off Riverside Drive, north of the Burleigh Road intersection. A dozen residents of the Sherwood Lane subdivision expressed objections, some bringing pages of prepared material.

Their major concerns were that the quiet residential area would see increased traffic, unwelcome odors, increased drainage problems and perhaps attempted theft or other crimes. They raised legal questions about the right-of-way by which Barnett accesses his property and about state and local marijuana laws and ordinances, and questioned the accuracy of the map that was a required part of the application.

After board Chairman Virginia Brackett closed the second hearing, board members determined that Barnett’s Old Meadow Lane application was complete. They then approved it on a 3-1 vote, with board member Douglas Phillips opposed.

Phillips said he believed the application needed to be clarified to separate construction of the buildings from proposed use of the buildings. He did not find adequate information to act on the proposed use.

In response to comments from near-by resident Candy Manocchio and volunteer fire department member Michael Vashon, board members attached two conditions to the permit. Barnett is to make sure there is access for emergency vehicles to the existing buildings and to the new ones; and if there are odor complaints, he is to install appropriate odor-control measures.

Discussion of whether the Sherwood Lane application was complete took almost an hour, with questions (and calls of “We can’t hear you!”) from the audience. At the end of the review, a motion to find the application complete failed to get a second, and a motion to find it incomplete failed on a 2-2 tie. The reason board members gave for incompleteness was that the map was not drawn to scale and was therefore inadequate.

By then Barnett had pointed out that Vassalboro’s ordinance says the planning board is first to find that an application is complete and, after that decision, is to schedule a public hearing on the application, if board members think a hearing is needed. Since the evening’s proceedings had reversed the process, he said a decision on whether the application was complete would be contrary to the ordinance.

Board members adjourned with the understanding they will entertain a new application for Barnett’s Sherwood Lane project, with a map that meets their requirements, at their December 1 meeting.