RALPH L. DuLAC

WATERVILLE – Ralph Lawrence DuLac, 75, passed away on Monday, March 29, 2021, at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. Ralph was the son of Raymond DuLac and Faith “Pooler” DuLac, both deceased.

He graduated from Waterville High school with the class of 1965.

Ralph’s busy life included working in many aspects, starting with the Lakewood Theatre, in Madison, in the summer months working in the kitchen. As well as working at Pine Ridge Municipal Golf Course and Levine’s Department Store, both in Waterville. Ralph managed Bill’s Truck Stop, in Shawmut, where he was known for his tasty fish chowder.

Upon moving to Connecticut, he worked at Pratt & Whitney as a tool and dye machinist. Ralph eventually returned to Maine where he worked at Bill’s Oil, in Winslow. He then started his own business called Clean Burn as well as owning the Valvoline Xpress-Lube and car wash on the Armory Road, in Waterville. All while still owning and maintaining DuLac Apartments.

Ralph was active in both the Elks Club Lodge #905, in Waterville, and Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, in Waterville. Spending time in Florida he was an active member of the Moose Club and had a booth at the local flea market.

He spent 18 winters in Zephyrhills, Florida, with his companion Sandra Michaud sharing activities with many close friends. Ralph and Sandra also enjoyed spending Sunday breakfasts with a close group of friends here in Maine.

Ralph was predeceased by his brother David DuLac.

He is survived by his children Lisa Silva, of Connecticut, Eric DuLac, of Maine, and Tiffanie DuLac, of Massachusetts; grandchildren Jake Rummel, Lacey Silva and Austin Silva, and his brothers Douglas and Wayne DuLac.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday July 3, 2021, at 10 a.m., at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.

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

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

LAWRENCE G. PEACE

WATERVILLE – Lawrence G. Peace, 67, of Waterville, passed away Saturday, April 3, 2021, at home. He was born in Waterville on April 21, 1953, the son of Gordon and Margaret (Carey) Peace.

Larry was in the Marines where he was a demolitions expert. He was a chef at a Mexican restaurant, T-Woodys. He loved racing, wrestling, Westerns and his grandsons.

He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers.

He is survived by his daughter, Jamie Maheu, of Benton; his best friend and roommate, Fred Gervais; two grandsons, Allen Libby and James Howard-Millett; three sisters, Jeanann, Judy, Charline; and brother, Bruce; and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements were entrusted to Dan and Scott’s Cremation.

A celebration for Larry will be at a later date.

JOHN R. BOIVIN

ALBION –John Robert Boivin, 58, passed away on Thursday, April 15, 2021. John was born September 18, 1962, in Man­chester, New Hamp­shire, to Paul and Edna (Gurney) Boivin.

He was the one of seven siblings. Although some of his childhood years were spent in New Hampshire, at a young age the family moved to Clinton.

John attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and through hard work and dedication was able to acquire the credits needed to graduate as a junior at the age of 17, and joined the United States Air Force soon thereafter. In his four years serving John took great pride serving overseas, loading and working on aircrafts, and even getting a chance to work on Air Force One.

After leaving the military and in his early 20s, John married the former Jaqueline M. Giroux, of Vassalboro. Together in their 15 years of marriage they raised two sons Jake and Jaron, and one daughter Jestil. Other than his family John took great pride in his plumbing and heating company in which he started from scratch in 1986 and continued for 45 years. John’s passion for being a father really showed when he and second wife Michelle Cote adopted a newborn baby, Mathew Hunter Boivin.

During his prime John was an avid waterskier and loved spending time on his boat, however, later in life John was at his happiest and had a passion for just being in the woods, whether he was sitting in a tree stand during hunting season, cutting firewood on an early summer morning, or sitting next to a fire at his camp in Corinna.

He will forever be remembered for his hard work ethic and dedication to finish everything he started. He often accomplished tasks by himself that would normally require the help of many. He mostly looked forward to Sunday dinners at his home in Albion with his girlfriend Kylie Turner, children Jake, Jaron, Jestil, Mathew, and grandchildren Juliet, Wesley, Kaden, Avery, and Landon.

He had a very strong connection and relationship with his grandchildren and often expressed how he loved nothing more than being a “Pep” and feeling the love they gave him. Usually at Sunday dinners you could expect that John would have a joke or two to tell.

Johns’ legacy will continue to live on through his mother Edna; his four children Jake, Jaron, Jestil, and Matt; his five grandchildren Juliet, Wesley, Kaden, Avery, and Landon; his siblings Lana, Ricky, Ruthy, and Brian; his partner of many years Kylie; his longtime friend Ryan, and his customers of many years.

Gone from this world, but forever in our hearts.

BESSIE L. HILLMAN

CLINTON – Bessie L. Hillman, 94, of Clinton, passed away on Thursday, April 15, 2021. She was born December 3, 1926, daughter of the late Vernon and Gracie J. (Smith) Larrabee, of Jackson.

Her schooling was in Brooks and Freedom, and she graduated from Freedom Academy.

Bessie worked as a secretary in the court system in Belfast, at Harris Bakery, in Waterville, and was a dedicated housewife to her family.

She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, sewing, taking rides around Maine while siteseeing. She loved to cook for her family and spend time having baked bean suppers and celebrating her son’s birthdays every year. Bessie enjoyed all the years she spent with the Rebekahs, in Clinton. She also had a passion of playing the piano.

Bessie met Ellon Hillman, in 1946. They were married on February 2, 1947, in Clinton. Together they raised three children: Dale Hillman, of Clinton, Douglas Hillman, of Clinton, and preceded in death, Beverly Hillman, of the United States Air Force.

Bessie is survived by Dale Hillman and wife Rita, of Clinton; granddaughter, Tina Hillman; step-grandchildren, Harvey, Linda. Tammy, and John; Douglas Hillman and wife Elsie, all of Clinton; granddaughter, Sheila Woodman, of Canaan; grandson, Douglas Hillman II and wife Bridget, of Clinton; great-grandson, Douglas Hillman III; and great-granddaughter, Hannah Hillman, of Clinton; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by Ellon B. Hillman, June 30, 2002; and Beverly J. Hillman, July 5, 1979.

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

The family has entrusted Lawry Brothers Funeral Home of Fairfield with the arrangements. A private family burial will be at a later date.

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

MARGARET C. DUPLESSIE

WATERVILLE – Margaret C. (Roy) Duplessie, 79, of Winslow, passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2021. Margaret was born on April 30, 1941, a daughter of Alfred and Helen Roy.

She graduated from Winslow High School and remained an active alumni member.

Margaret enjoyed crafting, reading and road trips. She took great pleasure in gifting her crafts to family, friends and even strangers she encountered. She had a bag packed and was ready for road trips at a moment’s notice. Throughout her life, she enjoyed roller skating and spending time with her sisters crafting and playing cards.

She was a communicant of Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church, of Winslow.

She is survived by children Cynthia Davis, of Oakland, Steven Duplessie, of Waterville, and Patricia Manning, of Buxton; sisters Theresa Veilleux, of Waterville, and Yvonne Carrier, of Winslow; five grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her sisters, Agnes Latanowich, of Florida, and Mary Jane Furmanik, of Waterville; her brother, John Roy and her half-brother, Paul Roy, of Vassalboro.

Visiting hours will be held next Friday, April 30, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, in Waterville. A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, May 1, at 9 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., in Winslow. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street in Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

MELANIE VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Melanie Veilleux, affectionately known as “Chickie”, Chick, or Mum to those who loved her most, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at her home in Waterville on Saturday morning, April 17, 2021. Melanie was born in Waterville, the youngest daughter of the late Kaiser Veilleux and Betty Veilleux (Andrews).

She was a graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1981.

Melanie has a large loving family, two sons Blake Gerald, and Alex Gerald; two cherished grandsons, Elliot Gerald, and Jack Gerald; her brother, Steve Veilleux and her and sisters, Kim Denis, Jayne Woods, and Gail Ann Berry.

Melanie and Gail Ann were especially close throughout Melanie’s life, and they were committed to being there for one another in all of life’s chapters. Not just “two peas in a pod”, but a true blessing to one another, the kind of loving relationship and everlasting bond all siblings should have, right to the end.

Melanie was artistic and creative showcasing her talents by designing beautiful floral arrangements, center pieces, handmade wreaths and bows, as an employee for local greenhouses. She also embellished the decor of her sister’s homes with her creativity. Melanie always seemed at home in the greenhouse, or garden tending flowers, and making everything beautifully perfect, one of her many talents.

Melanie loved animals, enjoyed taking care of horses, feeding blue jays, and had an undeniable soft spot for her dogs through the years, and, of course, always loved her family.

Melanie’s passing was sudden and was unforeseen by everyone who loved and cared for her. The memories are those of a young, beautiful, creative and charismatic woman, so full of life. That is who Melanie was, a bright spot in the life of everyone she touched. A loving mother, grandmother, sister to many, aunt, cousin and friend, who will forever be missed by all.

A graveside service was held at on Saturday, April 24, at the Pine Grove Cemetery, on Grove Street, in Waterville, where she was laid to rest in peace next to her mother and father.

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.

ELAINE R. SALLEY

FAIRFIELD – Elaine R. Salley, 66, passed away at her home in Fairfield on Saturday, April 17, 2021, following a courageous battle with cancer and a debilitating lung disease. Elaine was born on February 3, 1955, to Richard and Alice Morrell.

Elaine married Bruce H. Berdeen Sr. at a young age and together they had a son Bruce H. Berdeen Jr. Elaine later married Richard Salley on December 24, 1992, and they remained inseparable until his death in 2005.

Elaine graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, in 1990, and immediately began working at Weeks and Hutchings, LLC, law firm, where she worked for many, many years. After the closure of Weeks and Hutchings, she worked part time for Ferris, Gurney and Grant law firm. Elaine loved her work life and those that she worked with.

Elaine had a passion for quilting, needlepoint and crosswords. She will be forever remembered for her big heart, her candid personality and her sense of humor.

Elaine is survived by her only son, Bruce H. Berdeen, Jr.; sisters Betty Wing and husband Ernest, Judy Howard and husband Gerald; brother Wayne Morrell; and brother-in-law David Akers.

Elaine was predeceased by her sisters Diane Pooler, Donna Batey and Nancy Akers, as well as brothers John and Bruce Morrell.

At Elaine’s request, there will be no services. A graveside remembrance will be announced at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Elaine’s memory to the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04901.

LAURICE L. FRENCH

SOMERVILLE – Laurice Lee French, 72, passed away peacefully at the Gosnell Hospice House, Scarborough, On Saturday, April 17, 2021, following a brief illness. Laurice was born in Vassalboro on March 10, 1949, the son of Lawrence French and Doris (McDaniel) French.

After attending Windsor School and Erskine Academy, in South China, he worked in the construction field, drove dump truck, but mostly worked, running his own business, Laurice French Logging.

He loved anything to do with the outdoors, hunting, gardening, fishing, and working in the woods. He enjoyed watching his chickadees, hummingbirds and of course, deer. He was a master at cribbage and gained many friendships through online gaming.

He spent time in other parts of the country, visiting Maryland, Alaska, Florida, Montana, Arizona, Canada, Washington and Mexico.

He was predeceased by his parents; Lawrence and Doris French; sister, Dolores Witham; half-sister Virginia Brann, and husband Cecile, and brother-in-law Nick Parrett, step-sister, Patricia Jones; and step-brother, Richmond Brann.

He is survived by his sister Patricia Parrett, of Clinton, Maryland; partner Linda Ellis, of Old Orchard Beach; half-brother Steven French and wife Jane, of Palermo; daughters Dawn French, of Waterville and Bonnie French Doolan, of Belfast; three step-brothers: David Brann and wife Molly, of Homer Arkansas, Robert Brann and wife Priscilla, of Windsor, Timothy Brann and wife Sue, of Poulsbo, Washington; step-son Ryan Leeman, of Palermo; nephews, nieces, cousins, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

There will be a public memorial service held on May 2, at 2 p.m., on Laurice’s wood lot, Colomy Lane, off the Colby Road, Somerville. All those attending are asked to wear a face mask and practice social distancing.

Donations in memory of Laurice may be made to the American Lung Association of Maine, 122 State Street, Augusta, ME 04330.

JUDITH A. BABB

CHELSEA – Judith Ann Babb, 67, of Chelsea, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 17, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born in Gardiner on March 28, 1954, the daughter of Harold and Maxine (Shea) Hamlin.

She was predeceased by her parents; and two siblings.

Judith is survived by her husband of 47 years, Lawrence Babb; daughter Vikki Black and her husband Rick; her grandson Cole Black; son Michael Babb and his wife Tamamie, all of Chelsea.

Arrangements are entrusted with 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.

REGINALD J. GAGNON

BELGRADE – Reginald Joseph Gagnon, 88, passed away on Sunday, April 18, 2021, at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, following a long illness.

Reggie was born in Winslow, schooled in Waterville, and after working a short time at the old Hollingswoth and Whitney Paper Mill (later Scott Paper Co.), in Winslow, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Reggie went to many interesting places during his military career; none more interesting than Korea and Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Saigon, Vietnam, during the Tet Offense in 1968.

Reggie retired from the USAF in 1973. He accepted a job with Keyes Fibre (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, which he remained at for 17 years. He also was in the police department in Winslow for ten years (1973-83). He also worked at Scott Paper Co. before transferring to Sappi Fine Papers, in Hinckley, where he retired for good. Reggie loved to hunt, bowl, play cribbage and go to the off track.

Reggie was predeceased by his wife Angelina; his parents Gideon and Anna Gagnon; sister Madeleine DeRaps, brothers Harvey and Raymond and twin brother Donald.

Reggie is survived by his children, Regina Gagnon, of West Gardiner, Gary Gagnon, of Mechanic Falls, Donna Leo and husband Corey, of Smithfield, and Brian Calahan and wife Leese, of Winslow; stepdaughter Ricia Cain and husband Jason; his stepson Zakari Whittier and partner Amy, of Waterville; 10 grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and friends.

There will be a private memorial for the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street Waterville, ME 04901. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Reggie’s name to: the Parkinson’s Foundation at parkinson.org.

BRUCE BEGIN

FAIRFIELD – Bruce Begin, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, following a long battle with Multiple System Atrophy (a.k.a Parkinson’s PLUS). Bruce was born in Winslow to parents Omer Jr. and Yvette and was the fourth child of seven children.

Bruce worked at Hammond Tractor (formerly known as W.S. Pillsbury), in Fairfield, for 42 years and was appreciated and respected by his employers as well as his co-workers of which many were also dear friends. In addition he never turned down an opportunity to help a farmer in need.

Bruce, will be fondly remembered for his love of classic country music, a meticulously organized garage, fantastic hair, and eating his favorite snack, popcorn, while watching TV. He was a hard worker who felt that anything worth doing was worth doing well. He was also known for his meticulously mowed lawn as well as his mowing technique. Most of his free time he could be found refurbishing John Deere lawn tractors to their ‘like new’ condition which was a favorite pastime.

At the end of the day, when all of his work and chores were done, he enjoyed sitting outside enjoying a cold one with his good friends and neighbors.

He deeply loved his family, even though he would grumble when they would call to sing him happy birthday. He loved playing with his granddaughters and making them laugh. Kate will remember the way he used to leave surprises for her to find around the house well into adulthood, taught her to throw a football, shoot a basketball and drive a car. As well as the way he cheered her on whether it be on the basketball court or at a dance recital. He was always her number one fan.

He will be remembered for his unequivocal sense of humor and for lending a helping hand whenever needed.While one of the symptoms of MSA was dementia, which was not kind to him, it did afford him such luxuries as ‘starring’ in several Hallmark movies, playing with the Patriots during a game as well as coaching Tom Brady.

He will be deeply missed, however, his memory will live on through those who love him.

Bruce is survived by his daughter Katie, son-in-law Everett; granddaughters Madi and Evelyn; his mother Yvette; and his siblings, sisters Diane (Alan) and JoAnn (Ron), brothers Dave (Jen), Ken (Sue), Mike (Hope), and Jeff, sisters-in-law Jeannine (Bob), Jackie, Marie and Sue; 16 nieces and nephews.

Bruce was predeceased by his father Omer Jr.; paternal grandparents Omer Sr. and Cora, maternal grandparents Francis and Alma; brother-in-law Gil.

At Bruce’s request a private family ‘Celebration of Life’ will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the:Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Coalition https://support.multiplesystematrophy.org/give/310191/#!/donation/checkout.

HILDA F. SEELEY

BENTON – Hilda Fish Seeley, 90, of Benton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday April 20, 2021, following a lengthy illness. She was born in Benton Falls on November 27, 1930, daughter of George and Lura (Dickey) Fish. She attended Winslow schools and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1947.

In 1972, she returned to school at the Maine School of Nursing and received her nursing license in 1973 and continued her career until she retired in 1993.

On September 10, 1948, she married Roland A. Seeley, of Benton, and they shared 72-plus happy years before her passing.
She enjoyed crocheting and knitting, donating hundreds of pairs of mittens to the Benton and Clinton elementary schools.

One of her greatest joys and blessings in her life was the love of her family. She enjoyed time spent with her children, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This time was all very precious to her. Her husband gave her, her very first and only airplane ride in a piper cub.

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

As she declined in health, a very special granddaughter, Nikki, took on a lot of household duties when she came to visit and was always busy doing something whether it be dusting, vacuuming, cleaning or doing laundry. Her Nana and Gramp, as well as the four kids, are deeply grateful that she took on this responsibility and want her to know just how much it meant to all of them.

She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, George E. Fish, of Hampton, New Hampshire, two sisters, Vernett F. Smith, of Portland, and Gail M. Quirion, of Exeter, New Hampshire.

Survivors include her husband; her four children, Susanne Dyer and husband Robert, of Benton, Calvin Seeley and wife Beckie, of Winslow, Keith Seeley and wife Terri, of Camden, Delaware, and Ralph Seeley and wife Jane, of Benton; eight grandchildren, Kevin, Kelly, Kasey Dyer, Craig Seeley, Nathan Seeley, Kayla Holleger, Nikki Violette and Katie Seeley; 10 great-grandchildren, Alli, Kaden, Haylee, Lillyanne, Jake, Maddy, Tucker, Gracelyn, Kurtis and Makenna; plus numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the Falls Cemetery in Benton at a later date.

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., in Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the following organizations Benton Falls Congregational Church, in Benton, c/o Donella Sheehan, 274 Bellsqueeze Rd., Benton, ME 04901, or Northern Light Hospice, 50 Foden Rd., South Portland, ME 04106.

MARY DIONNE

WATERVILLE – Mary Dionne, 86, passed away peacefully, following a short illness, on Monday, March 29, 2021. Mary was born on November 11, 1934, in Waterville, the daughter of Olive (Vashon) Plourde and Leo Plourde.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1952 and attended Notre Dame Catholic Church.

Mary worked in various textile mills. She also worked at LaVerdiere’s Warehouse, in Winslow, and Colby College, in Waterville. At Colby she was a dining hall attendant where students and friends knew her as “Miss Mary.” Mary was a hard worker, loving mother, wife, and mémère.

She enjoyed going to the coast, attending county fairs, and going to bingo and seeing friends. Mary was an accomplished knitter and cook.

Mary was predeceased by the love of her life, Donald Dionne, in 2016.

She is survived by her two sons, Ronald and Emily Dionne, of Brunswick, Richard Dionne, of Warren Vista, California; four grandchildren Erron Dionne and companion Anthony Jacques, of Vassalboro, Michelle Dionne and companion Rachel Tranata, of Oakland, California, Tracy Dionne and companion Mark Sheets, of Lewiston, Amy Dionne and companion Zack Everett, of Brownfield; five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, June 16, at the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville, Maine 04901.

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

In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Humane Society WatervilleArea, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901.

JOHN K. RYAN JR.

FAIRFIELD – John Kimball Ryan Jr., 72, passed away, Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born March 19, 1949, in Putnam, Connecticut, the son of John Kimball Sr. and Jennie Dorothy (Govina) Ryan.

He graduated from Putnam High School in Connecticut, class of 1968, then continued his education and graduated from Havard Ellis Technical School in 1970. On July 23, 1977, he married Lana Beaulieu, in Waterville.

He was employed as an aircraft mechanic, owned, trained, and drove his own harness racing horses. He was burned out of business in 1980, then worked over 20 years at Huhtamaki, in Waterville. He enjoyed working on cars and participating in car shows with his 1966 MG.

John is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lana (Beaulieu) Ryan, of Fairfield; daughter, Stacey Sangillo, of Moodus, Connecticut; two granddaughters, Hailey Sangillo and Sophia Sangillo, both of Moodus, Connecticut; two brothers, Thomas Ryan, of Dade City, Florida, Jake Ryan, of Peoria, Arizona; several in-laws; several nieces and nephews.

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 & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in John’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

PATRICIA A. HOYT

BENTON – Patricia Ann (Grard) Hoyt, 81, passed away on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Patty was born on an island in the Kennebec, in Fairfield, on May 22, 1939.

Henry William Grard and Verna Mildred (Reid) raised her in Fairfield where she attended school, graduating from Lawrence High School, class of 1957. She was raised as a happy Baptist with her three younger sisters.

Following high school, Pat was a waitress at a Winslow eatery where she met her future husband. She raised four children with him. She was a cook for SAD #49 in later years, but mostly she was mom, or grammy, even great-grammy; always loved.

There were many afghans knitted, she crocheted; if a needle was involved, she could do it. She sewed her families’ clothes, made clothes for her daughters, and enjoyed quilting with Nana Grard. She always made sure her children were happy.

It wasn’t always easy as military life took them from Maine to Morocco, California, Boston, Mississippi, and Maryland. In her old age she was content to try and solve all the world’s crossword puzzles.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Edward E. Hoyt II; her youngest daughter, Verna Alta Gregoire; her youngest sister, Nancy Hall (Winslow); her brothers-in-law, Gerry Routhier (Shawmut), Raymond Hoyt (Boston, Massachusetts), and David Hoyt (Rochester, New Hampshire); her sisters-in-law, Ruth Hoyt, Eileen Kaskeski, and Barbara Comeau (all from Boston, Massachusetts).

She is survived by her children, Edward Hoyt, of Benton, Theresa Hoyt, of Oakland, and Patricia Doughty and her husband, Jerry, of Winchester, New Hampshire; her grandchildren, Edward and his wife, Ashley, of Fairfield, Natasha Hoyt, of Oakland, Michael Doughty and his wife, Dr. Joy Doughty, of Virginia, Tommy Doughty, of New Hampshire, and Annie Gregoire, of Augusta; one great-grandchild, Henry, of Fairfield; and her sisters, Butch Routhier, of Waterville, and Bev Hamlin and her husband, Tim, of Vassalboro.

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.

PAULINE L. FOSTER

WINDSOR – Pauline Lillian Foster, 89, of Windsor, passed away Thursday April 1, 2021, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a brief Illness. She was born on March 26, 1932, in Stonington, and was raised by her grandparents, Lillian and Harry Colby.

She had two siblings, Donald Fifield and Patricia Clements. She married Lester Arnold Nickerson May 22, 1948, in Belfast, and they had two children, Tom and Sheila. She graduated with a GED from Belfast High School in 1964.

She married Stanley Eben Foster Jr. on February 20, 1965. They had three daughters, Karen, Estella and Kathy. She owned and operated Foster’s Dairy Farm, in Palermo, with her husband, Stanley, for many years.

Pauline “Polly” was a very kind hearted, generous person, amazing mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved trips to Stonington to visit with friends and, of course, the seafood. She loved quilting with her friend, Diane. She knitted hats and mittens and donated them to Palermo Consolidated School. She loved cooking and making gifts for her family at Christmas.

She was predeceased by her grandparents, Lillian and Harry Colby; husband, Lester A. Nickerson; granddaughter, Jayme Lynn Nickerson; husband, Stanley E. Foster Jr.; son-in-law, Stuart Libby; aunt, Vera Stoddard; sister, Patricia Clements, brother, Donald Fifield.

She is survived by son, Thomas Nickerson and wife Debra, of Palermo; daughters, Sheila McCarty and husband Michael, of Palermo, Karen Libby, of Windsor, Estella Morris, of Palermo, and husband John, of Belfast, Kathy Tesseo and husband Michael, of Palermo; grandchildren, Jennifer Nickerson, Jody Gray, Paula Doucette, Maygen Hardy, Alia Coombs, Molly Libby, Benjamin Bragg, Hannah Bragg, Kayla Tesseo, Becky Tesseo and Michael Tesseo; many great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law.

There will be no funeral services. A family graveside service at a later date.

Friends are invited to share their thoughts, condolences and fond memories online at http://www.plummerfh.com.

To honor Polly, please consider a donation to the Windsor Volunteer Fire and Rescue,. 671 South Belfast Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

LORNA R. RAYMOND

WINSLOW – Lorna R. (McCaslin) Raymond, 68, passed away at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in Boston, on Thursday, April 1, 2021, following a long battle with heart disease. Lorna was born in Waterville on January 20, 1953, to her parents William (Bill) and Lucille McCaslin Tilton, of Winslow. Lorna attended Winslow High School, and later retired from the C N Brown Co., in Winslow, as a manager, in 2017 following 20 years of service. She had a beautiful, loving spirit that welcomed her family and friends to celebrate love, laughing, and delicious food for holidays and gatherings, at her home on Pattee Pond, in Winslow.

When she was not entertaining, she was crocheting, making salads. As well as trying new and exciting soups, that she shared weekly with her family. She loved taking vacations with her daughter and granddaughter to Disney World, New York, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania. Not excluding her trips to Las Vegas and Foxwoods, where she liked to test her odds at the slots and Bingo. To all that knew her Lorna was an avid Online Farmville player.

Lorna developed breast cancer in 2019, and was successful in beating the disease. However, she developed a heart issue shortly after and fought valiantly to overcome the effects of heart disease. She fought for 16 months before losing the battle to heart disease. Lorna’s determination, and will to fight to overcome the disease amazed her doctors. That will was evident in November 2020 when the Northern Light Inland Hospital ER, in Waterville, staff fought with her to save her life. As a result, Lorna was able to live for five more months.

Lorna was predeceased by her father, William.

She is survived by her mother, Lucille McCaslin; her husband Ronald Raymond; daughter, Heather Metten; son, Adam Conary; and granddaughter, Katarina Metten, all of Winslow; her siblings, Darryl McCaslin and his wife Ann, of Maryland, Derek McCaslin and his wife Jean, of Winslow, and Dwight McCaslin, of Skowhegan; her stepchildren; Trisha Rossignol and her husband Joe and their children, Joey and Veronica Rossignol, of Winslow, Rhonda Raymond and her children Peter and Adriana, all of Winslow; several nieces and nephews, and her mother-in-law, Theresa Raymond, of Massachusetts.

Funeral arrangements are by Casper Funeral and Cremation Services of Boston.

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

For those wishing to donate to a worthy cause on behalf of Lorna you can do so by donating to the Waterville Elks Lodge 905, Veterans Committee, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, ME 04901.

ALAN M. FRANKEL

WATERVILLE – Alan M. Frankel, 82, of Waterville, passed away at home on Saturday, April 3, 2021. Alan was born in New York, New York, on February 2, 1939, the son of the late Sidney and Priscilla (Cowan) Frankel.

He graduated from Fieldston High School, in New York, and also Colby College, in Waterville. He had long standing relationships with many of his classmates from high school. He came to Maine to attend summer camps when he was younger; that’s when his fondness of Maine began.

Alan loved his camp; it was his passion. He was a prankster with a great sense of humor. He enjoyed baseball (always a diehard Yankees fan), football, and traveling. Alan also loved fine dining.

He was extremely good with numbers, names, and phone numbers. Alan was a great soul and always drew people close to him.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife of 25 years, Joan Turner Frankel; his stepmother, Clara Halprin; and his granddaughter, Sara Frankel.

Alan will be sadly missed by his son, David Frankel; his second wife and caregiver, Gisele Veilleux.

A celebration of Alan’s 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 and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

ANNETTE F. ROSSIGNOL

WATERVILLE – Annette Fortin Rossignol, 74, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021. Annette was born August 18, 1946, in Augusta, daughter of the late Marie Rose (Pare) Fortin and Henry Fortin.

There she grew up with her two older brothers and two younger sisters. She attended St. Augustine School and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta.

Annette was married to Everett Rossignol for several years and they raised their two children in Oakland. She worked as a medical and legal secretary and was employed by the U.S. Postal Service and L.L. Bean before retiring. She practiced her Catholic faith for many years. She enjoyed road trips to the coast, going to the movies and spending time with family and friends. She was generous and full of love and compassion.

She was predeceased by her brother, Ron Fortin and sister-in-law Jean, sister, Dianne Gallant, brother-in-law Jay McCann; and niece Michelle Gallant.

She is survived by her son, Michael Rossignol and his wife Lisa; daughter, Monique Rossignol and her husband Peter Gladziszewski; four grandchildren, Jeremiah Pomerleau, Laura Cole, Emma and Amy Gladziszewski; four great-grandchildren, Liam, Alister and Elle Cole, and Layton Pomerleau; several nephews and nieces; and many cousins; her brother, Ken Fortin; sister, Gloria McCann; brother-in-law Larry Murphy.

A celebration of life was held at Faith Church, 250 Kennedy Memorial Drive, in Waterville, on Saturday, April 10.

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.

WILSON H. SHORES

CLINTON – Wilson Hervey Shores, 92, passed away Monday, April 5, 2021, at his home, in Clinton. Wilson was born in Benton on December 4, 1928, to James Edward Shores and Florence May German Shores.

Wilson graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1947. While in high school, Wilson was active in the Future Farmers of America and participated in the showing of cattle, for which he received several first-place awards. After graduating from high school, Wilson worked on his family farm for several years.

On April 22, 1950, Wilson married the love of his life, Martha Mae Rowe. Wilson and Martha were married for 70 years. Several weeks after their marriage, the couple purchased the dairy farm owned by Wilson’s grandfather, in Benton. Wilson made his living on that dairy farm for 28 years, during which time he owned up to 100 youngstock and milking cows, while also raising seven children with his wife.

After retiring from farming in 1978, Wilson was employed by S.A.D. #49 as a bus driver and as a custodian. He also worked as a truck driver for several years at his cousin Merton Richard’s business. In 1981 the couple moved to Clinton, where they had built the new home Martha had always dreamed of on a 200-acre parcel of land overlooking the Sebasticook River.

Wilson was active in both the farming community and his local communities. He was a member of the Benton Grange for 78 years and the Maine Farm Bureau. He served as a member of the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Committee for 20 years. He also served as both a First Selectman and a Second Selectman in Benton for several years. In addition, he was at one time the president of the Clinton Lions Club and the president of the Clinton Senior Citizens organization.

Wilson and Martha spent many years wintering in Davenport, Florida, where they made many new friends. They enjoyed traveling to many other states, including California, New York, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Washington, D.C., with their oldest daughter and her husband, and together they traveled to Ohio to visit one of their twin daughters. They were also fortunate enough to have the opportunity to travel abroad to England, Scotland, Germany and France.

Wilson had the unique ability to dowse for water using an apple tree branch. He met many interesting people as he traveled throughout the state to use this gift to locate the best site on a piece of property for a well.

Wilson was very proud of his several large vegetable gardens and supplying his family, friends and neighbors with the fruits of his labor. He and Martha also enjoyed taking leisurely drives to different parts of Maine and spent many hours each summer picking different kinds of berries and enjoying their bounty.

Wilson is survived by his wife, Martha; his brother, Stanley Shores and his wife Esther; daughter, Sally Tuttle and her husband Mervin Jr.; sons, George Shores and his wife Ann, Steven Shores; daughters, Bonnie Williams and her husband Michael, , Darlene Shores Lynch and her husband Scott, Charlene Shores-Lynn and her husband Ron; and son-in-law, Ronnie Harris and his partner Judith Pelotte; 11 grandchildren, Mervin Tuttle III and his wife Jeanne, Derek Veilleux and his wife Jude, Ronnie Harris, Andrew Harris and his wife Melanie, Keven Shores and his wife April, Jeffrey Williams and his wife Christina, Keenan, Kelsie and Braeden Lynch, and Lauryn and Abby Lynn; and his eight great-grandchildren:, Aiden and Andrew Tuttle, Hailey Williams, Gabriel Estrada, Hayden McLeod, Ashley Shores, and Alex and Ellie Mae Harris; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Wilson was predeceased by his parents, James and Florence Shores; sisters, Mabel Colson and Irene Murch; his brothers, James Jr., Leland, Doug and Lendell; his daughter, Terry Shores Harris; and his granddaughter, Cheryl Tuttle.

A graveside celebration of Wilson’s life will be held on Saturday, May 15, at 2 p.m., at the Brown Cemetery, on the Albion Road, in Benton.

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 can be made to the Benton Grange #458, c/o Mary Ann Colson, 8 East Benton Rd., Benton, ME 04901 or to a charity of your choice.

DOROTHY D. QUIMBY

WATERVILLE – Dorothy “Dot” Dunlap (Webb) Quimby, 91, passed away on Monday, April 5, 2021, at Woodlands Senior Living, in Waterville. Dot was born on September 1, 1929, in Portland, to Philip Raymond and Genevieve (Dunlap) Webb.

She and her family moved to Ocean Park in 1937, where Dot attended Old Orchard Beach High School and graduated Valedictorian of the class of 1947. She went on to graduate Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Bates College, in Lewiston, where she served as class secretary from 1953 until her death.

After college, she and some of her classmates traveled through Europe for a few months. When she returned home, she married her college sweetheart, Lawrence H. Quimby. They lived in Newcastle with their first son Peter, while Larry taught at Lincoln Academy. In 1956, they moved to Unity, where they welcomed their second son Richard. Larry taught at Unity High School and eventually at Mt. View High School. Mr. Quimby passed away in 1989.

Dot received her master’s in library sciences from the University of Maine in 1967. She served as Unity College’s first librarian from 1965 to her retirement in 2001 as Professor Emeritus. Her proudest moment in her career was when the library at Unity College was named the “Dorothy Webb Quimby Library” in her honor. Dot was a faculty adviser to hundreds of Unity students over her career and became known affectionately as the “Mother of the Alumni”. She edited the college alumni newsletter for many years as her way to keep in touch with “her kids” and she always enjoyed handing out seedling trees to graduates.

Dot was very active in community affairs. Over the years she served as town treasurer, on the Unity Budget Committee, as chairman of the Unity Scholarship Committee, as an active member of the Unity Historical Society, and a member of Unity United Church, where she sang in the choir for many years. Dot served on the Board of Future RSU #3. She also enjoyed being a part of the “The Noel Club”, “The Walkie Talkie’s”, “The Unity College Old Retireds”, “The Breakfast Bunch”, and the Unity United Church’s Methodist Women’s Group.

Dot is survived by her sons, and his wife Pegi (Langeluttig) Quimby, of Unity, and her son, Richard W. Quimby, of Montville; her sister, Marilyn Marshall (Webb) Mayhew, of Orrville, Ohio; five grandchildren, Michael Rumney, of Knox, and Aurora Rumney, of Belfast, Kaitlin and her husband Zachary St. Jean, of Sabattus, Samantha Quimby and her partner Steven Clark, of Dixmont, and Elizabeth Quimby, of Biddeford; seven great-grandchildren, Eliana, Olivia, Charlotte, Madison, Michael, Morganne and Atlas; nephew, George Philip Mayhew, of Orrville, Ohio; and two nieces, Dana (Mayhew) Garner, of Simpsonville, Kentucky, and Jennifer (Mayhew) Carlson, of Parker, Colorado.

Visiting hours will be on Saturday, April 24, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Star In The West Masonic Hall, 327 Main Street, Unity. A Celebration of Dot’s life will begin at 4 p.m. with Pastor Don Banton officiating.

At Dot’s request, her burial service will be private. Arrangements are through Riposta Funeral Home, in Belfast.

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

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Unity United Church, Depot Street, Unity, ME, in Dot’s memory.

FRANCIS M. RAMSEY III

FAIRFIELD – Francis M. Ramsey III, 74, passed away on Wednesday, April 7, 2021, in Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor from a chronic illness. Francis was born September 6, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, son of the late Francis M. Ramsey II and Florence (Kirschner) Ramsey.

He was the husband of Doreen A. (Maher) Ramsey with whom he shared 37 years of marriage. He and Doreen have resided in Fairfield for the past 16 years. He previously resided in Queens, New York. He was a graduate of Richmond Hill High School and attended Queens County College.

He worked for the telephone company as a repairman for 37 years until his retirement.

Francis was a gun collector, an avid reader and enjoyed cooking. He treasured the time he spent with his loving family.

In addition to his wife Doreen, Francis is survived by two daughters, Samantha Marie Ramsey and Jennifer Lynn Ramsey, both of Fairfield; his brother-in-law, Thomas Dixon, of Benton; and his nephew, Thomas Dixon and his wife Echo, of Westbrook.

In addition to his parents, Francis is predeceased by his sister, Mary Ann Dixon.

In honoring with Francis wishes, services will be private.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 East Duarte Rd., Duarte, California 91010.

SISTER NOREEN

WATERVILLE – Sister Noreen, 86, of the community of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament passed away at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville, on the morning of Wednesday, April 7, 2021, following five days in the hospital. Sister was born in Detroit Michigan, on June 6, 1934, the youngest of six children of Frances and Edward Thome.

She entered the Congregation of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, in Waterville, where she made her first vows on May 24, 1956. She served both in Waterville and in Pueblo, Colorado.

From her birth and throughout her life sister was afflicted by various trials and illnesses which she bore patiently to the edification of all. She was born with defective eyesight and pursued her many interests nonetheless. Before entering the convent in Waterville she worked at the Chancery Offices of the Archdiocese of Detroit. In community she served in many different capacities with generosity and gift of self in spite of her physical limits. She was known for her thoughtfulness of others always seeking how to bring them joy.

She was predeceased by her parents; and siblings. She is mourned by her religious community and her numerous nieces and nephews throughout the country. She was particularly close to her niece, Rosemary Lark, of Chevy Chase, Maryland.

A memorial service will be held later this year for her many friends and acquaintances.

Arrangments are under the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, ME 04901. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com

ELWOOD LOVEJOY JR.

BENTON – Elwood “Keith” Lovejoy Jr., 63, of Benton, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 9, 2021, following several years of declining health. Elwood was born on April 2, 1958, in Waterville. He was the son of Elwood and Gloria Lovejoy Sr. of Gardiner.

If you asked a hundred people who Elwood was, they’d all give you a different story: A hard worker; A one-armed superhero; An avid coin collector; A good friend; Most importantly, he was a loving son, brother, husband, dad and grandfather who enjoyed spending time outdoors puttering and gardening.

He grew up locally, attending Gardiner Area High School, graduating in 1976.

Shortly after graduation and an honorable discharge from the Navy, he married the love of his life, Elaine.

He was a jack-of-all-trades, working in a variety of capacities over the years. Together, they raised three children. In addition to his children, he was the proud grandfather of 13 – expecting the arrival of his first great-grandchild later this month.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Elaine; his two daughters, Jessica (Lovejoy) Doody, of West Gardiner, and her husband Scott, and Jennifer (Lovejoy) Morris, of Madison, and her fiancé Don, as well as his son, Nicholas Lovejoy, of Waterville, and his wife Kari; his mother, Gloria Lovejoy, of Gardiner; and two sisters, Lisa Cody and her husband Rick, of Litchfield, and Kris Barron and her husband Steve, of Gardiner, and their respective families.

He was preceded in death by his father.

A celebration of his life was held on Wednesday, April 14, at Family Worship Center, in Augusta.

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

HAROLYN K. CLIFFORD

WATERVILLE – Harolyn Kenneth “Stub” Clifford, 97, passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2021. Harolyn was born on July 5, 1923, in Benton, the son of Harold E. and Marguerite (Stinchfield) Clifford.

He was the husband of Marjorie (Varney) Clifford, with whom he shared 74 years of marriage.

He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1942.

Harolyn was in the Army Air Corps while serving in World War II and achieved the rank of TEC4 as a radio repairman. He served in Hawaii and Iwo Jima.

He worked for Central Maine Power Company for 43 years, retiring in 1989 as the superintendent of the Northern Division, Department of Meters.

He enjoyed many outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, golfing, and gardening. He also enjoyed bowling, woodworking, genealogy, and spending time with family.

He was a Mason at Waterville Lodge #33 AF & AM, a 32nd degree Scottish Rite, Valley of Augusta, and a Shriner, Kora Temple. He received his 55-year pin in 2007.

In addition to his wife, Marjorie, Harolyn is survived by his daughter, Linda Livingston and her husband Robert, of Harpswell; daughter, Mary Clifford, of Methuen, Massachusetts; son, David Clifford and his wife Gisele, of Vassalboro; daughter, Beth Clifford, of Benton; his brothers, Roger Clifford, of Benton, Allen Clifford and his wife Goldie, of Canaan; his grandchildren, Kristi, David, Christopher, Devin, Dillon, Nathan, Stephanie, and Jenna; and his great-grandchildren, Victoria, Bailey, Tabitha, Belle, Kyle, Conor, and Spencer; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Clifford is predeceased by his parents; his daughter, Laurie Jean Clifford; and four siblings, Marion Liberty, George Clifford, John Clifford, and Ellen Holt.

Burial will be at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville, in the spring.

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

ln lieu of flowers, donations in Harolyn’s memory may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association, JDRF, 200 Vessey St., 28th floor, New York, New York, 10281 or the Shriners Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02112.

CLARENCE BOUDREAU

WATERVILLE – Clarence “Ray” Boudreau, 93, of Waterville, passed away Saturday, March 13, 2021, in Bangor. He was born to Anastasia “Sadie” Glendenning and Vilbon Boudreau.

Ray worked in shipping and receiving for McLellan’s Department Store, custodian at Thomas College, and custodian at St. Joseph Maronite Church, all in Waterville.

Ray was a kind man who loved to tease others and enjoyed others teasing him. He was a one of a kind man who was a real “character”.

Ray was predeceased by his parents; brother, James and brother, Gerry.

Surviving are his wife Jeannette (LePage) Boudreau; stepchildren, Vickie and Pete LaCroix, Richard and Belinda Collman, Bob and Sharon Collman; grandchildren; plus many nieces and nephews.

There will be a Mass at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, on Saturday, April 10, at 10 a.m. There will be a celebration of life after Mass at 12 Halde St., in Waterville.

Interment will take place at a later date.

MADELINE R. PARMENTER

WHITEFIELD – Madeline R. Parmenter, 92, passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2021. She was born in Augusta, in 1929, to the late Ernest Doyon and Rose (Pomerleau) Doyon.

Madeline spent decades working at Statler Tissue Paper Co., and Augusta News, both in Augusta.

Upon retiring, she enjoyed cross country trips with her husband and friends where they all shared wonderful views, many experiences and lots of laughs. Madeline spent time at their camp on Square Lake, in Aroostook County, where, for 40-plus years enjoyed family, friends and fun. Fishing, hunting, story telling, pulling pranks, and playing poker were always the necessities of a fantastic time at camp.

Madeline enjoyed knitting, crocheting and was known for her beautiful knitted kitchen hand towels.

Mrs. Parmenter was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Mervyn Parmenter; and her sisters, Lucille Gerine Small and Dolores Irene Weeks.

She is survived by Marlene Richards and her husband Jon, of Windsor; a sister-in-law, Irene Parmenter of Charleston, South Carolina; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no public visiting hours.

A committal service will be held in the spring in new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, where she will join her husband, Meryvn.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Route 32, Windsor. Condolences, photos and stories may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

Donations may be made to the Amy Buxton Pet Pantry, South Parish Congregational Church, 9 Church St., Augusta, ME 04330.

MARY JEAN SHOREY

WATERVILLE – Mary Jean (Potter) Shorey, 86, passed away Tuesday, March 23, 2021, at Woodlands Center, in Waterville. She was born June 9, 1934, in Conway, New Hampshire, the daughter of Philip and Lottie (Irish) Potter.

She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, reading and gardening.

Mary is survived by two daughters, Chrystal Hassen and husband Doug, of Waterville, and Janet Shorey, of Waterville; many grand- and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, John Potter and wife Janet, Robert Potter and wife Susie, David Potter and wife Evelyn, Richard Potter and Harry Potter. There will be no visitation hours or funeral service.

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 Mary’s memory to Somerset Humane Society, P.O. Box 453, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

DAVID I. IFILL SR.

LANCASTER, S.C. – David I. Ifill Sr., 79, of Lancaster, South Carolina, and formerly of Vassalboro, passed away on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Atrium Medical Center in Monroe, North Carolina. He was born in Waterville on September 12, 1941, the son of Llewellyn and Kathleen (Brown) Ifill.

He was educated in Vassalboro schools and graduated from Winslow High School in 1960. He also attended Mississippi State University.

David worked in the Local #320 Union as a millwright throughout the northeast and he also worked at Maine Central Railroad, owned several small businesses in metal fabrication and constructed many large steel support systems in shopping malls, department stores and in many different industrial applications. In the mid-1990s he worked for Valmet, of Finland, and traveled to Spain, Colombia, Canada and Sweden, where he further developed many skills in the paper industry. In 2004 he and his son formed HeadboxHelp LLC to serve many paper corporations across America in the work he loved.

David enjoyed playing and watching college and pro-football on TV. He also enjoyed hunting as a young man and belonged to the Big Bucks of Maine Club. He enjoyed collecting antiques, cannons, coins, knives, swords, old pictures and paintings. He also liked taking pictures on family vacations and while traveling for his work.

He built his own home in Vassalboro and was very skilled in horticulture. He also was known for being able to fix anything and was a very talented man. He would help anyone in need and was very generous to all who knew him. Later in life he especially enjoyed taking his granddaughter, Emily, everywhere and doing special things with her.

He was predeceased by his parents; and three brothers, James, Robert and Richard.

David is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jacqueline (Boucher) Ifill; a daughter, Michelle L. Ifill of Rock Hill, South Carolina; a son, David I. Ifill Jr. of Lancaster, South Carolina; a granddaughter, Emily Megan Ifill, of Lancaster, South Carolina; a brother-in-law, Lou Boucher, of New Harbor; and several nieces and nephews.

McCray Funeral Home is serving the family.

CHARLIE MEANS III

CHELSEA – Charlie “Chuck” Means III, age 63, passed away on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Chuck was born in Waterville on August 16, 1957, to Charlie A. Means Jr. and Dorothy (Rawley) Means.

He grew up in Winslow and graduated from Winslow High School in 1976. He graduated from Casco Bay College in 1980 with a degree in computer science, and started working for the state of Maine as a computer operator. Chuck retired as a senior systems analyst after 22 years of service.

Despite a debilitating medical condition, Chuck lived life to the fullest over the years, doing the things that he enjoyed – playing guitar, riding motorcycles, bulldozing with his John Deere tractor, camping, and going boating and fishing. He particularly enjoyed boat trips down the Kennebec River and riding the waves on the ocean and riding his jet ski on Damariscotta Lake, where he and his family were later able to own a camp.

He was always upbeat and joking, and had the gift of cheering up others. Chuck took great pride in his work and learned to do mechanical, electrical, and plumbing jobs, house renovating and woodworking.

More than anything, Chuck was a devoted husband and father. Though he couldn’t get to church in later years, his life philosophy was “God first, family second and work third”. He was married to his wife Tina for 33 years, and they were thrilled when their daughter, CariAnn, came into their lives.

Even when CariAnn became an adult, Chuck continued to call her his “Little Princess.” He loved his dogs and they always vied for his attention, so much that he was nicknamed the “Dogfather” by his family.

Chuck was predeceased by his mother and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife; his daughter, of Chelsea; his father Charlie Means Jr., of Waterville; his sister Cheryl McInnis and her husband Dana, of Winslow; nephews Craig McInnis and his wife Jennifer and children, of Waterville, and Christopher McInnis and his wife Rachel and children, of Winslow; his uncle Richard Rawley, of Windsor; his uncle David Rawley and his wife Marie, of Waldoboro; and several cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 108 Maple Street, Farmingdale, Maine.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donatoins be made to the: Bread of Life Ministries, 159 Water St., Augusta, ME 04330, or any humane society.

JAMES L. WINTERS

OAKLAND – James I. Winters, 69, of Oakland, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 26, 2021. He was born in Waterville on August 3, 1951, the son of the late Irving and Mary (Richardson) Winters.

James attended Williams High School, in Oakland. On November 8, 1969, he married his high school sweetheart, the former Anita Begin. The couple shared nearly 51 years together.

James was a very hard-working man. He was employed with several businesses over the years including Cottle’s Grocery Store, Joseph Motor Company, both in Waterville, a car care products company, worked for Sonny Breton, at Madison Superette, worked for Paul Langette, at Fairfield Masonry, Guardian Building Products, and finally was a driver for Motor Supply Co.

His passion was riding motorcycles. He and Anita enjoyed many riding adventures together. He loved meeting his friends at Dunkin’ Donuts before going on their rides. He was a member of United Bikers of Maine. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting, fishing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

James is survived by his wife, Anita Winters; his son, Sean Winters, of Oakland; his brother, Richard Winters and his wife Terry, of Abbott; his nieces, Niya and Xenia Winters and their families.

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.

RICHARD F. HARRIS

WEST PARK, Fla. – Richard Frank Harris, 89, of Hollywood, Florida, and Waterville passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Richard was born in Melbourne, Arkansas, on November 7, 1931, to Robert Frank Harris and Audie Maye Landers.

He enlisted in the United States Navy and it was during his station in Brooklyn, New York, that he met his future wife, Marion Jane Fitzgerald. Both Marion and her twin sister, Marie, were serving in the Navy Reserve as WAVES. Richard and Marion married in 1958, in Waterville. Due to military service they traveled early in their marriage and were stationed in Rota, Spain, and Oakland, California. Richard retired from the Navy after 20 years of service and they settled in Waterville where they raised their four children, Robert, Audie, Wanda and William.

After retirement from the Navy, Richard became a private personal care attendant providing compassionate and therapeutic care. After his second retirement, Richard and Marion split their time between Florida and Maine where they enjoyed Square Dancing and playing bridge. They made several trips to Arkansas for family reunions. Richard was a communicant of Sacred Heart and Notre Dame Catholic churches, in Waterville, and a member of American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War.

Richard and son, William, provided compassionate care to Marion after she suffered a stroke in 2010 and she was able to stay at home until her death. Richard truly died of a broken heart, five months after Marion’s passing. They celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. Richard was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Survivors include his children Robert, Audie (Jeff Pomerleau), Wanda Lewis and William; grandchildren, Joseph Lewis (Sarah) and Eliot and Nolan Pomerleau; his sister-in-law, Marie Varney (son Charles) and brother-in-law, Robert Fitzgerald.

He was predeceased by his wife, Marion Jane.

BARBARA A. COWAN

WATERVILLE – Barbara Ann Cowan (Gagnon), 83, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Barbara was born in Waterville in 1937.

She attended St. Johnthe Baptist School, in Winslow, and Mt. Merici Academy, in Waterville, graduating in 1955. She met the love of her life, Darryl Cowan, at the Waterville Morning Sentinel, where she worked for over 30 years as a talented typist, eventually advancing to become the secretary for the general manager.

In 1962, Barbara and Darryl married and began an old-fashioned storybook life together raising six children, whom they cherished. Their deep and enduring love for each other lasted for over 50 years, remaining undiminished after Darryl passed away in 2013.

Barbara enjoyed the simple things in life and made sure that the house was always filled with music, food, love and respect. A loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her greatest pride was providing for her family and seeing them flourish. Together, Barbara and Darryl instilled the values of honesty, hard work, independence and respect for all into the roots of the family tree. She was a devout Catholic and active member of Sacred Heart and Notre Dame parishes, both in Waterville.

As a young child, Barbara lived with her paternal grandfather, Vede, her paternal grandmother, Bella, her father, Reggie, her aunts, and her dog, Beauty. Barbara’s mother Florette died during childbirth, and Barbara forever longed to meet her in the next life. A deeply spiritual person, Barbara’s faith filled her with the peace that she would be reunited in the Kingdom of God with the special people in her life.

Barbara is survived by her six children, Kelly, Kevin, Keith, Karl, Kenneth, and Kristopher; her eight grandchildren, Savannah, Madeline, Anna, Emily, Michael, Morgan, Samuel, and Eleanor; her two great-grandchildren, Meg and Sonny; and her brother, Roger Gagnon.

She was predeceased by her father, Reggie and mother, Florette; her brother, Robert; her stepmother, Gabrielle; and her great-grandson, Henry.

She will be deeply missed. With a demeanor that was contagious to all who were close to her, Barbie Ann will remain forever in our hearts as someone dearly loved by her family and the many acquaintances she had in her lifetime.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Tuesday, June 29, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Burial for Barbara and Darryl will be held after the Mass, at 1 p.m., in the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta.

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, please consider a donation to Mt Merici Academy in her memory. They can be made at MountMerici.org or Mount Merici Academy, 18 Mount Merici Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

WARREN N. BERNATCHEZ

WINSLOW – Warren Napoleon Bernatchez, 79, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, February 27, 2021. He was born June 25, 1941, in Waterville, the son of Napoleon “Paul” Bernatchez and Kathrean “Kay” Rumery Bernatchez.

Warren was a hard-working man. His workplaces included Lipman Hatchery, Fred’s Drive-In, cutting and delivering firewood, and 43 years with Thompson Service Station and Thompson Volkswagen, in Waterville. After a short retirement, not being one to sit still, he went back to work for O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, in Winslow.

He enjoyed being on the go. He loved road trips with Carol to the coast, visiting lighthouses, state parks and other scenic sites in Maine, snowmobiling, four wheeling, boating, motorcycles, working with his John Deere tractor, BBQs, family gatherings and spending time with friends. Recently, he noted that he had been in almost every “square” on the Maine DeLorme map, had seen almost every lighthouse, and was looking forward to seeing these places with Carol.

He was a member of the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, in Waterville, and the Waterville Elks Lodge #905.

Warren was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Roger, Eddie and Raymond; uncle, Gerald Rumery, aunts, Encie Hobbs and Ardis Shorey; and a great-nephew, Ryan Quirion Guthrie.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carol Bartlett Bernatchez; sons, Gregory and partner Terrie, Gary, Glenn and wife Mary; daughters, Laurie Bogard and husband Brian, and Rachel Bernatchez; grandchildren, Zach Bernatchez and fiancée Tiffany, Samantha Bernatchez, Alexa Holmes and husband Orlando, Ashley Bernatchez and fiancé PJ, Paige Brown and husband Keron, Adam Bernatchez and partner Mariena, Austin, Alana and Christopher Bogard, Karleigh Marcoux, and Nick Carter and wife Bridgette; great-grandchildren, Aubrey, Colten, Emric, Cara and two baby boys due in April; sisters, June Quirion and husband Roland, Paula Carey and husband John, and Kathy Bernatchez, brother, Cleon “Bob” Bernatchez, sisters-in-law, Karen Bernatchez (Roger) and Christine Bernatchez (Eddie); aunt, Doris Rumery; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service and gathering will be planned for this summer.

Arrangements are by Mid Maine Cremation Services 207-453-6006.

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

ARTHUR J. PLOURDE

WINSLOW – Arthur Joseph Plourde, 90, passed away of natural causes on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. He was born in Waterville on April 9, 1930, the son of the late Chester and Alberta Martin Plourde.

He married his wife, Jacqueline LaChance Plourde, on August 1, 1953.

Artie, as he was known by his friends, was educated in Winslow and graduated from Winslow High School in 1948. He worked at Keyes Fibre/Hutamaki, in Waterville, for 36 years, retiring in 1992. Following his retirement, Artie and Jackie traveled and spent many winters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Arthur enjoyed hunting and fishing with friends and family. He was an avid card player and was always up for a friendly, but serious game of cribbage.

Arthur leaves behind Jacqueline, his loving wife of 67 years, who cared for him until the very end; his sons, Daniel and his wife Mariann, of Waterville, James and his wife Diane, of Winslow, Peter and his wife Laurie, of Ebeemee Twp., Stephen and his wife Katie, of Exeter, New Hampshire, and Ronald and his wife Joni, of Sidney; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Bob and his wife Rita, and Larry and his wife Noella; and his sister, Jeannine Breton; many cousins, nieces, nephews.

Arthur was predeceased by his sisters, Germain Ferland and Jane Gallant, and his brother, Richard Plourde.

There will be no visiting hours. A celebration of Arthur’s life and burial will be held at a later date in the spring.

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.

ANGEL J. FISETTE

WINDSOR – Angel J. Fisette 53, passed away peacefully Thursday March 4, 2021, following complications from a stroke.

Angel started his life’s journey on the island of Guam in 1967 before moving to the States in 1969. As the oldest sibling in a Navy family, Angel would spend most of his adolescence growing up in Topsham. Angel enjoyed hunting and camping with his family and attended local schools where he discovered his love for football.

After high school Angel found his career at Bath Iron Works, where he would hold a multitude of positions over the next 34 years including welding, and fabricating ships for the nation’s military.

In 2007 Angel would find the love of his life, Deborah Foss, and would ultimately settle down in Windsor.

In his adult years, Angel would be best known for his love of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, his masterful art of Guamanian barbequing, and spending time with the people that he loved. From his annual vacation to Old Orchard Beach to his numerous trips to white sands and blue waters, he could usually be found where the fun was. He was coined by his loved ones as a “gentle giant” and remembered for his loud bark of laugher, his huge smile, and his even bigger heart.

Perhaps his strongest attribute was his resilient bond with all of the children. Whether it was riding on the Funtown Carousel or telling descriptive stories of broken bones from his times as a bouncer, he always kept a smile on their faces as they paid close attention to “The Man, The Myth, The Legend.”

In addition to Deborah Foss, Angel is survived by his parents, John and Rita Fisette, of Topsham; grandchildren, Zachary T. Fisette, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Cody and Shelby Emerson, of West Bath, Aidan and Nadia Fisette, of Bowdoinham, Brookelyn and Bailee Finley, of China, Mathew and Christopher Gilson, of Poland, Jackson Roberts and Waylon Lovely, of Gardiner; his brother, John Fisette and his wife Rachel, of Bowdoinham; his sisters, Gina Emerson and her husband Jeff, of West Bath, Fawn and Ryan Finley, of China, Tonya and Jon Gilson, of Poland, Sarah Roberts and Zach Lovely, of Gardiner; and many nieces and nephews; a very large extended family that stretches across the States and on the Island of Guam.

A walk-through visitation for Angel will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 20, at Daigle Funeral Home, 819 High Street, Bath.

Condolences may be made online at http://www.Daigle funeralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Angel’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis,TN 38105, or st.jude.org.

CLAIRE LAVIGNE

VASSALBORO – Claire (Brochu) Lavigne, 84, of Riverside Drive, Vassalboro, left this world peacefully on March 4, 2021. Claire was the daughter of Rose and Dorilas Brochu, of Cony Road, Augusta.

Claire was a hard worker, a self-taught seamstress, who never backed down from a challenge and found innovative ways to meet her families’ needs. She enjoyed outdoor sports with her family, including hunting and fishing. She also enjoyed her gardens and her camp on Webber Pond, and spending time with her family and friends.

She worked at the Lockwood-Dutchess Textile Mill, in Waterville, was a self- employed seamstress and worked on the family chicken farm, raising chickens for Lipman Poultry, in Winslow. She also received her C.N.A. certificate later in life and worked as a C.N.A. at Maine Veterans’ Home, in Augusta, and Mount Saint Joseph Nursing Home, in Waterville.

As an aside, she passionately hated the color green!

Claire is survived by her three sons, Denis Wood and his wife Barbara, Lionel Dubord, and Clayton Dubord and his wife Michelle, all of Vassalboro. She also left behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband Raymond Dubord and brothers Norman Brochu, Robert Brochu, Oneil Brochu, Gerald Brochu, and Rene Brochu; and by a sister Jeanette Clowes.

She leaves behind her husband Normand Lavigne; her siblings, Paul Brochu and his wife Donna, Raymond Brochu and his wife Barbara, Rachel (Brochu) Siviski, Patricia (Brochu) Tanner and her husband Ben, and Richard Brochu.

A celebration of her life will be held later this summer.

GREGORY J. BICKFORD

WATERVILLE – Gregory Jon Bickford, 63, from Greenbush and Waterville, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 5, 2021. He was born to Mahlon and Darlene (White) Bickford on May 15, 1957, in Mildenhall, England.

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. He served in the U.S. Navy for four years as a jet mechanic, and following his Naval service, graduated from Central Maine Vocational-Technical Institute, in Auburn, with a degree in machine tool, and later attended University of Maine at Orono. He worked as a millwright at James River Paper Mill, in Old Town, from 1984 until the mill closed. He worked at BAC and finished his career as a machinist at General Electric, in Bangor.

He loved spending time with his family, playing games and telling his inexhaustible supply of stories. He could captivate a crowd with his humor and enthusiasm that kept even the old stories new with fresh embellishment at each telling. Greg loved to “tweak” all things which to him meant taking something perfectly good and make it perfectly ‘best’. He was an avid reader and thinker on all subjects. He loved his loyal friend Todd the cat who stayed by his side until the end.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda (Marin) Bickford; his mother, Darlene; his daughter, Allison; daughter-in-law Becky Deschaine; grandchildren, Haddie and Eli; his siblings, Jodi Dean, Gracie Gillis, Carlton (Grace) Bickford and Ruthie Bickford; his friend that was like a brother, Jimmy (Debbie) Grant; numerous in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins.

He was predeceased by his father, Mahlon.

Arrangements are being handled by Riposta Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

EUGENE P. BOULETTE

WATERVILLE – Eugene “Gene” Paul Boulette, 82, passed away on Saturday March 6, 2021, in his home, in Waterville. He was born December 18, 1938, to Violette and Joseph Sheehan, and Fred Boulette. After serving in the United States Navy, Gene married Mary Paradis in 1960, and raised their three children in Waterville. Until the very end of his life, Gene filled the world with messages of love and gratitude, especially for the love of his life, Mary.

For the last three decades of his life, Gene lived with the name he chose for himself, “Pappy”, a title reserved not just for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, but friends, neighbors, and all those who had the pleasure to know him. And for those whose lives he touched, Pappy, standing little more than five feet tall, loomed larger than life.

He moved to the shores of McGrath Pond, in Oakland, and built his own log home; fixed anything with wheels; and whittled, worked, or built anything he or his grandchildren could imagine – motorcycles, firetrucks, make-believe weapons, hundred-foot waterslides, even a Batmobile.

For his grandchildren especially, Pappy became the hero of every bedtime story, the source of a thousand adventures, and a model of humility, generosity, and love. Through countless small gestures he reminded us all of our loveliness and the loveliness of life.

Gene is survived by his wife, Mary; three children, Jamie Boulette (Melissa), of Arrowsic, Brigitte Massey and her husband Scott, of Waterville, and Peter Boulette (Aaron), of Waterville; seven grandchildren, Michael Boulette (Tyler Davis), Arielle Boulette (Nick Black), John Massey (Katie Woodworth), Katy Deblois (Nick), Lauren McCabe (John), Adan Lawlor, and Zachary London; and eight great-grandchildren, Harriet Davis-Boulette, Frances Davis-Boulette, Neely Davis-Boulette, Liam Black, Quincy Black, Oliver Woodworth, Madeleine Massey, and Jack Massey.

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.

ARNOLD W. GRARD

WATERVILLE – Arnold Wilson Grard, 85, of Fairfield, died Saturday, March 6, 2021. He was born in Fairfield on December 9, 1935, the son of George William Sr. and Maude (Bowden) Grard.

Arnold grew up in Fairfield and was a 1954 graduate of Lawrence High School, where he excelled at football and baseball. He married the former Virginia May Roundy on August 3, 1957, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage.

Arnold was no stranger to hard work, retiring from Keyes Fibre Company (Huhtamaki), in Waterville, in 1998, after a 44-year career.

Arnold was a jokester and loved making people laugh. He was an avid sports fan and loved his New York Giants. Arnold’s greatest joy was cheering (coaching from the sidelines) for his grandchildren at sporting events and spending summers camping and fishing in the north woods of Maine with his family and friends.

Arnold was a fixture on the sidelines at Lawrence Bulldog football, basketball, and baseball games. He found great enjoyment for many years volunteering as a coach for the Fairfield PAL Youth Football league, where he made a difference in the lives of many kids in the community.

In addition to his wife Virginia, Arnold is survived by his children, Janet Grard, James Grard; his grandchildren, Brandon Ludden, Evan Grard and Jordan Grard; his great-grandchild, Dillon Ludden; his sisters, Dorothy Trahan, Lorraine Buker, and Linda Rogers; and his brother, Rick Grard.

He was predeceased by his brothers, George Grard Jr., Hervey Grard, and sister Marion Fann.

In honoring Arnold’s wishes there will be a graveside service in Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, in the Spring.

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

CHARLES F. CLARK

SOUTH CHINA – Charles F. “Charley” Clark passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Monday, March 8, 2021. Charley was born on May 21, 1953 in Waterville, the son of Evelyn (Waltz) Clark and Francis Mavor Clark

Charley’s life was devoted to steadfast service to his family and community. He was devoted to his wife for 45 years. He was committed to his career and long-time co-workers and customers at Ware-Butler, Inc., in Waterville, where he worked for 35 years. He was dedicated to public service through his work on the Town of China Planning Board and School Board where he served as board chairman for 20 years, and also as a board member of Sunset Home, in Waterville.

He was a member of the A. F. & A. M. Lodge #45 as well as the Anah Shrine Temple. Finally, Charley found service, comfort, and healing among the countless Friends of Bill W., who he knew for more than 38 years.

He is survived by his wife Susan (Rand) Clark, of South China; son Matthew E. Clark and his wife Jessica, of Vassalboro; his grandson Keegan Clark, also of Vassalboro; his brother, Robert Clark, of Bangor,; sisters, Judy (Clark) Fortin and her husband Dennis, of Manchester, and Lynne (Clark) Estes and her husband Michael, of Hermon; his brother Paul Clark and partner Kathy Wallace, of Albion; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sister-in-law, Patricia Clark; and his special auntie, Helen Waltz.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, March 20, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor.

A Masonic Service will immediately follow the visitation.

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

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Old Dogs New Digs, P.O. Box 244, Cumberland, ME 04021.

CHARLES L. BROWN

WHITEFIELD – Charles L. Brown, 85, of Whitefield, died peacefully Monday, March 8, 2021, at the Gosnell Hospice House, in Scarborough. He was born in Mexico, Maine, on October 3, 1935, the son of Alfred and Nona (Fogg) Brown.

Charles was employed by Hudson Pulp and Paper, and then Statler Tissue, in Augusta, until they closed. He then went to work as a van drive for the Dresden school system for a few years and then fully retired.

He was predeceased by his parents; great- granddaughter, Evelyn Rose; seven brothers, Neil, Darrell, George, Austin, Gerald, Donald, Alton Brown, and sister, Norma Brown.

Charles is survived by three sons, Craig and Richard Brown, David Brown and wife Lois; daughter Shari Bowden and husband Bradley; sister Arlen Geddes; six grandchildren, Trisha, Robbie, Deanna, Tobey, Heather, and Travis; seven great-grandchildren, Tyler, Alexis, Thomas, Nolan, Skyler, Zane, and Lily; and several nieces and nephews.

At his request there will be no service and burial will take place at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta

Arrangements are entrusted through Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., 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.

BETTY J. O’KEEFE

NORTH VASSALBORO – Betty J. O’Keefe, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. She was born on August 12, 1929, in Auburn, the daughter of the late Jesse Ormond Philbrick and Lillian Grace Furbush Lovejoy.

She attended Buckfield Elementary School and Augusta schools. Betty married Donald O’Keefe, of North Vassalboro, and the couple enjoyed many wonderful years together until his passing in 2019.

Betty worked various jobs in Augusta. Once she was married she worked at Volmer’s Nursing Home, in East Vassalboro, and then devoted her life as a homemaker.

Betty’s passion in life was music and dancing. She danced with an instructor from Arthur Murray Dance Studios, from Boston. He picked her out as she was dancing with a friend and doing her special dance steps that he took notice. He then asked her to dance with him to show him her dance steps that she called the “Augusta Hop”. He told her that he was going to take it back to the dance studio in Boston. He invited her to stop in if she was in Boston for an audition. That was a memory she cherished.

She was predeceased by three sisters, June Brewer, Nancy Meager, and Shirley Johnson, and her brother, Robert “Bobbie” Philbrick.

Betty will be sadly missed by her son, Tommy O’Keefe, of North Vassalboro; her daughter, Jeannie O’Keefe, of North Vassalboro; her grandson, Ryan O’Keefe, of North Vassalboro; her sister, Carol Scalora, of Kensington, Connecticut; her half-brother, John Lovejoy, of New Hartford, Connecticut; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be announced at a later date in the spring.

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.

RODNEY R. SPEAR

SIDNEY – Rodney R. Spear, 41, of Sidney, died peacefully the morning of Wednesday, March 10, 2021. He was born in Augusta, February 18, 1980, the son of Mark Spear and Beth Chapman (Kelley).

Rodney was a graduate from Monmouth Academy class of 2000. Rodney went on to proudly serve two tours in the Coast Guard from 2000 to 2004 as well as 2006 to 2010, reaching the rank of Gunners Mate Second Class.

Whatever Rodney did, he excelled. Rodney loved water sports and he was an athletic water skier who could cut across the boat’s wake with incredible speed and grace. On a snowmobile, he was a daredevil who got every ounce of speed out of his sled and would jump snowbanks like a snow-cross racer. Whether on the water or on the snow, a day with Rodney was a day filled with adventure and fun.

Wherever Rodney’s adventures took him, he established and continued amazing friendships, brotherhoods and sisterhoods that have lasted a lifetime. Rodney’s continuous love for all things outside, being on the water and especially things that go fast and make noise led him to work in a few local boat shops before climbing the ladder fast at Bath Iron Works.

After taking cancer full on in 2017, he remained steadfast at his job for another year, even though his body had other ideas. Rodney never let a challenge stop him when it came to work, having fun, living life and loving people. So he decided to live his dream and become a first time small business owner and started RentMe Recreation, where he got to play on the water and continue to work hard at having fun while, still enjoying the time he had with his family and friends. Rodney always made moments count and he wanted to share that as much as possible with everyone, especially his son Oliver.

Rodney is survived by his fiancée, Jillian Tilton; his son, Oliver Spear; his stepsons, Thomas and Cooper LaPlante; his father, Mark Spear and his fiancée Susan Brochu, of Readfield; his mother, Beth Kelley and her husband Alan, of West Gardiner; his sister Brooke Quirion and her husband Jesse, of West Gardiner; stepsister Tori Ladd and her husband Jason, of Readfield; his grandparents, Richard and Kathleen Chapman, of West Gardiner; and his aunts, uncles; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery Niches. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St. Augusta.

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

ARVILLE FANN

ALBION – Arville “Larry” Fann, also called “Reb”, 88, passed away in Waterville on March 11, 2021. He was born August 28, 1932 to William and Edna (Walker) Fann.

He was raised in and around Elkville, Marion, and DuQuion, Illinois. At the age of 17 he joined the Army, serving in Germany, then in Korea in the Infantry, 2nd Army. He was wounded and received a Purple Heart in November 1952. Stateside, he was stationed in New York City and on a “pass” he came to Maine, met the love of his life, and married the former Marion B. Grard, of Shawmut, in 1954, moving to Maine following his discharge.

He was predeceased by her in 1996. In 1999 he married Alice (Schools) Weaver, and they have enjoyed many happy years traveling together and sharing time with their children and grandchildren.

Larry loved hunting, fishing, the outdoors and dancing. He loved wood crafting and gardening, but his greatest passion was his love of life and people, especially his family.

He is survived by his wife, Alice; his children, Larry Wayne Fann, of Albion, Michael S. Fann and his wife Roseanne, of North Dakota, and his daughter, Angela Weaver and her husband Michael L. Weaver, of Louisiana, and Allen Weaver Jr. and his wife Kim, of Belfast; his grandchildren, Stephen, Christopher and his wife Iris, Michael Allen, and his granddaughter, Ashlee; one great-grandchild, Caellum; several siblings of Illinois; and extended family members.

He was predeceased by his son and dear friend, David Fann in 2015; and infant grandchildren.

A funeral service, with military honors, was held at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, on Tuesday, March 16.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.ripostafh.com

Those who wish may make donations to American Legion Post #2, 7 Legion Drive, Augusta, ME 04330.

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.