HealthReach welcomes podiatrist, Dr. Daniel J. Keane

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This September, HealthReach staff in Albion, Belgrade, Coopers Mills, and Richmond welcome Dr. Daniel J. Keane, Podiatrist, to their team.

Dr. Keane earned his doctorate degree in Podiatric Medicine from the William Scholl College of Podiatric Surgery, in North Chicago, Illinois. He has a wealth of experience in the field of podiatry, including experience in rearfoot, forefoot, and ankle surgery; podiatric medicine; and wound treatment.

Dr. Keane shares, “In my many years of practice, I have always strived to treat patients as if they were family: providing the highest level of care with both respect and dignity. As a member of the HealthReach Community Health Centers family, I will continue to provide the best care possible. Patient relationships have always been a cornerstone of my practice, and I provide individualized patient care based on each patient’s needs. It is a rewarding and meaningful experience to join the team at HealthReach and to contribute to this community-based system of affordable and high-quality healthcare.”

Dr. Keane joins the existing mission-driven, values-focused care teams at the Belgrade Regional Health Center, Lovejoy Health Center (of Albion), Sheepscot Valley Health Center (of Coopers Mills/Whitefield), and Richmond Area Health Center. Clinicians offer medical and behavioral health services for patients of all ages and from all walks of life.

Sam Voter named to St. Lawrence University’s Spring 2023 dean’s list

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Sam Voter, from Cornville, has been named to St. Lawrence University’s dean’s list for achieving academic excellence during the Spring 2023 semester., in Canton, New York.

Voter is a member of the Class of 2025 and is majoring in digital media and film. Voter attended Skowhegan Area High School.

VETERANS CORNER: Don’t think you qualify for VA benefits? Check again

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by Gary Kennedy

I become more and more surprised at how many Veterans in their 80’ and 90s who believe they aren’t qualified to use the V.A. system. I have hooked up with two such vets recently and many over time. The two veterans that I refer to were convinced by the system more than 50 years ago that they were not qualified for V.A. benefits. One I have worked with for a few months and not only was able to get him into the system but he is now in receipt of 90 percent disability. I am sure that will be a hundred soon. The other veteran I am just beginning with. However, I am sure he will do OK as well. When I am referred to veterans such as these I am heartbroken. Think of all the time they gave and when they gave it. They have gone all their lives struggling to get by and all the time this wasn’t necessary.

First contact with the V.A. system is where this life affecting belief has its origin. This is/has been mostly because of lack of training of the employees, “especially those of first contact”. This in my opinion is the first most important person a veteran will make contact with. This could be a front desk clerk to a Veteran Service Officer (VSO). They should not be addressing veteran issues they are not familiar with. This can and does affect the remainder of this veteran’s life. If he or she relies upon what they have been told at this point, then people like me will end up assisting a veteran in need 50 years later. That is sad as there is no way to get that time back, even if I am successful. The veteran may receive medical aid and even lots of money, but what is the quality of life at this point. It only takes a five minute conversation to effectively destroy one of America’s finest. I have seen, many heart breakers.

So, all that being said what do we do? A vet has a couple of choices. 1) He or she can visit a service officer; there are Veterans of Foreign Wars (V.F.W.), Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.), American Legion (A.L.) and other state and federal government agencies dealing with specialty disabilities located at Togus. Also, you can visit my personal favorite, V.B.A. which has career trained specialists who can help with any situation. In my opinion they are the best of the best. I don’t say this to demean the other service organizations but they are career Veterans Service Officers (V.S.O’s) who are forever in training to keep up with all the current legislation which they impart to the other service agencies. They are infact the in-house advocates for all veterans and programs. For the first four that I mentioned you would dial 623-8411 and when you get the computer generated person, push “0” and you will get a live person. When you do, just ask to be connected to whichever agency you are interested in. For V.B.A.’s direct line, you will dial 207-621-6938, state your purpose here and you will be directed accordingly. If you are a walk-in the outside door continues to remain locked. You will need to take the long walk.

By following this instruction you will receive all the information and help you seek and someone like me will not be waiting to correct the path you have been mislead to follow. You were here for your country so your country should always be here for you.

In closing I should mention a couple of things. The first is it appears that construction may have begun in earnest as Williams Construction Co. seems to have some iron workers laying rerod for columns and footings for the Community Living Center. Perhaps they will be pouring concrete for the new building soon. We are all anxiously awaiting.

The other issue I get asked about a lot is; can any veteran gain access to dental care? The answer is no; you need to be a 100 percent disabled veteran for access to this benefit, or you need to have a service connected disability. Currently 92 percent of veterans are not eligible for dental care. However, like everything at V.A. there are exceptions to most rules. So, that being said, call and ask if you might be on exception. I wish I could say all vets are eligible as Dr. Jeff Walawender and crew are second to none when it comes to knowledge and care of our vets at V.A. It’s a friendly professional atmosphere staffed by the crafts finest. Dr. Walawender, DDS, graduated from University at Buffalo, New York, and completed his residency at the Togus VA. After years of experience he has become the Dental Chief of Staff. He also sits on several boards, community dental and also North East Delta Dental. We are/fortunate to have such talent at Togus.

See you next time. Stay safe, God bless and have a great summer.

Central Maine Eagles seeks players

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The Central Maine Eagles football team that plays out of China at the rec fields, is seeking players. The JV team which host kids from sixth to eighth grades needs more players. Numbers usually increase during the start of school, but the team has its first game coming up in three weeks and they are a few players short. They also offer it for pre K to second grade in flag football, and also has a high school team. The would like to add more teams if we can get players in other age groups. For more information, contact Steven Hamel at stevenhamel1993@gmail.com.

PHOTO: Group earns new martial arts ranks

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Earning new ranks are, from left to right, Lane Irish, of Corrina, green belt; Brody Robbins, of Skowhegan, green belt; Lucia Lacroix, of Skowhegan, second level brown belt; Carlie Bertrand, of Troy, second level brown belt; Izzy Citro, of Waterville, first level brown belt. (photo by Mark Huard)

OPINIONS: No more property tax stabilization program

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COMMUNITY COMMENTARY

by Katrina Smith
State Represenative
District #62
China, Palermo, Somerville & Windsor

What can our Seniors do now?

The popular state tax assistance for seniors entitled the “Property Tax Stabilization Program”, which allowed those over the age of 65 to freeze their property taxes, has been eliminated during this past legislative session. (A vote for the budget was a vote for this program to be eliminated. Personally, I voted against the budget for this and other reasons.) Many seniors are asking, “What now?” The good news is that several State of Maine programs have been expanded that will hopefully assist our Seniors with their finances.

The first program to be expanded is the Property Tax Fairness Credit. The property tax fairness credit provides that Eligible Maine taxpayers may receive a portion of the property tax or rent paid during the tax year on the Maine individual income tax return whether they owe Maine income tax or not. If the credit exceeds the amount of your individual income tax due for the tax year, the excess amount of credit will be refunded to you. The program increased the credit from $1,500 to $2,000 for individuals 65 or older. To take advantage of this program you need to file a ME1040 and a Property Tax Fairness tax form.

The second program is the Deferred Collection of Homestead Property Taxes. The State Property Tax Deferral Program is a loan program that can cover the annual property tax bills of Maine people who are ages 65 and older or are permanently disabled and who cannot afford to pay them on their own. The loan program allows Maine’s most vulnerable community members to age in place and ensures that property taxes are still delivered to municipalities, requiring repayment of the loan once the property is sold or becomes part of an estate. The program was updated to double the income threshold to $80,000 a year and also the liquid asset threshold limit to $100,000 for individuals and $200,000 for couples. There are a few other guidelines for this program, but to see if you qualify you must file an application with your local municipal assessor between January 1 and April 1.

I hope this information is useful to our Seniors and helps them to afford to live out their golden years by relieving some of the stress involved with property taxes. I am happy to help direct anyone to other resources and can be reached at katrina.smith@legislature.maine.gov.

WINSLOW: CMP rep explains need to upgrade transmission lines

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by Jonathan Strieff

More than 30 residents gathered at the Winslow Public Library to attend the monthly town council meeting on Monday, August 14. After a roll call vote and approval of the minutes from the July meeting, the first order of business was to award the 2023 Spirit of America award to Wallace “Wally” LaFountain. LaFountain served as a teacher at Winslow High School throughout the 1950s and ‘60s before going to work for the Department of Education, in Augusta.

He was the longtime head coach of the Winslow High School football team and started the school’s wrestling program. He was a 1940s “all-decade” football star and received a bronze star for serving overseas during World War II. His receipt of the Spirit of America award was met with a standing ovation by all present.

Next, representative Ben Shepherd from Central Maine Power Co. addressed the council with a 10-minute presentation concerning the need to upgrade and possibly reroute a 23-mile long section of transmission lines running between Winslow and Augusta. Built in 1920, Section One, as this particular stretch of transmission line is called, connects two substations and provides service for more than 77,000 CMP customers in Winslow, Benton, Vassalboro, and Augusta.

A 2016 assessment identified numerous issues with the aging infrastructure, including insufficient working clearances for linemen, broken and otherwise compromised conductors and insulators, the lack of a static wire to protect the system from lightning strikes and more than 90 of the 632 utility poles along the route failing a basic visual inspection. After submitting to a Nonwire Alternative review with the Public Utilities Commission in 2019, the PUC certified the project to rebuild Section One out of public necessity in July 2022 and granted final approval to the project last month.

CMP has an additional environmental survey to complete by the end of the year and to decide if the rebuilt transmission line will follow the current route or a slightly shorter route along another existing right of way. Construction is expected to start in January 2025 and be in service by the end of that year.

The board unanimously voted to add Peter Newkirk to the planning board.

Following the Town Manager’s monthly report about several new municipal hirings and ongoing infrastructure projects, Second District councilor Dale Maclean, proposed an item not on the agenda to direct the town manager to launch an investigation into allegations that Third District council member Jerry Quirion violated Maine’s Open Meeting laws by discussing municipal business with a quorum of council members outside of official public meetings. The resolution passed with six in favor and one abstention.

During public comment, many residents expressed anger that commenting on the town’s Facebook page had been disabled. The post in question related to the appointment of police chief, Lenny McDaid, to a new role as Director of Public Safety, now including the fire department as well. Town manager Erica LaCroix explained the decision to remove the public comments from the website came on advice from counsel, when the comments crossed the line to defamation.

Several amendments to the town’s medical marijuana ordinances to also allow for the cultivation and sale of adult use recreational marijuana received second readings and were approved unanimously. Also approved unanimously was an authorization agreement with the city of Waterville for emergency service dispatch, as Waterville was recently recertified as Public Saftey Access Point or PSAP dispatch.

New business receiving first votes included renewing the town contract with the Humane Society Waterville Area for animal services and the appropriation of excess revenues to cover budget overruns, largely due to an increase in overtime pay to the fire department.

The restructuring of the fire and police departments under the shared Public Safety department was expected to save the town money, but so far this has not been the case. Another public saftey budget overage resulted from budgeting money to hire new personnel, and for the necessary equipment to outfit them.

One item of new business passed without a second reading was the appropriation of $16,940 to board up the windows of the old Winslow Junior High School.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Call in the night turns out to be red fox

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Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

One evening, earlier this summer, we heard something mysterious. It was after dark, and from a distance, we heard a wailing, lamenting siren-like shriek. Everyone around was wondering what was making that noise. At first we thought it was a small, yiping dog. But it continued almost uninterrupted.

Then, someone mentioned they had seen some red foxes around.

That was it. The sound we heard was that of a red fox. It is common to hear those kinds of cry during the foxes’ breeding season, and thought to be emitted by a vixen’s (female fox) summoning males. Foxes generally greet each other with high pitched whines, particularly submissive animals. During an aggressive encounter they will emit a throaty, rattling sound.

An adult red fox has been identified with 12 different sounds while kits may produce eight.

The red fox, Vulpes vulpes, is the largest of the true foxes and the most abundant wild member of the species. It is listed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Besides its large size, red foxes are different from other species because of their ability to adapt quickly to new environments. There are 45 different subspecies of foxes.

The red foxes have a long history of interacting with humans, having been extensively hunted as a pest and furbearer for many centuries. Because of its widespread range and large population, the red fox is one of the most important furbearing animals harvested for the fur trade. Too small to pose a threat to humans, it has successfully colonized many suburban areas.

Urban red foxes are most active at dusk and dawn, doing most of their hunting and scavenging at these times. Despite their search for usable food, foxes tend to eat anything humans eat.

These foxes can cause problems for local folks. Foxes have been known to steal chickens, invade rubbish cans and raise havoc in gardens. In our case, we heard that a nearby neighbor, who kept chickens, had many disappear in a relatively short period of time. They will also prey on domestic rabbits and guinea pigs if they are allowed to run in the open. Urban foxes have been known to encounter cats and may feed alongside of them. In confrontations, cats usually have the upper hand, although foxes have been known to attack cats, not so much for food but rather as a competitor for food.

Red foxes are not readily prone to be infested with fleas.

Red foxes live in family groups, sharing a common territory. They may leave their families once they reach adulthood if the chances of winning a territory of their own are high. Otherwise, they will stay with their parents, postponing their own reproduction.

Red foxes have binocular vision, but their sight reacts mainly to movement. Their hearing though, is their strength, being able to hear a squeaking mouse at about 330 feet. Their sense of smell is good, but weaker than that of a domestic dog.

Being the largest of the Vulpes genus, on average, an adult male will measure 14-20 inches high at the shoulders, 18-35 inches in body length, and the tails measuring 12-22 inches. Their weight range is 5 – 31 pounds, with vixens weighing 15 – 20 percent less.

Red foxes are often mentioned in folklore and mythology of human cultures. In Greek mythology, the Teumessian fox or Cadmean vixen, was a gigantic fox that was destined to never be caught. According to Celtic mythology, witches were thought to take the shape of foxes to steal butter from their neighbors. In later European folklore, the figure of Reynard the Fox symbolizes trickery and deceit.

The red fox originated from smaller-sized ancestors from Eurasia shortly after the Wisconsin glaciation, which took place approximately 85,000 to 11,000 years ago. It was the most recent major advance of the North American ice sheet complex.

At camp, the red foxes have been sighted many times, but they tend to keep their distance, and have not been seen in close proximity of our shelters. Perhaps it’s because there are so many dogs present.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

Who was the last major league pitcher to win 30 or more games in one season?

Answer
Denny McLain, of the Detroit Tigers, in 1968, went 31-6, with a 1.96 ERA.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, August 17, 2023

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THERESA N. SCHOLZ

VASSALBORO – Theresa N. “T.T.” Scholz, 81, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.

A memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, August 11, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Northern Ave., Augusta. Burial and committal prayers followed at Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Rd., Augusta.

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

The family requests that donations in Theresa’s memory be made to: Alfond Center for Cancer Care, c/o MaineGeneral Office of Philanthropy,PO Box 82, Waterville, ME, 049012.

JOHN M. MANSFIELD

STARKS – John M. Mansfield, 50, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. John was born on October 10, 1972, in Waterville, the son of Steven and Bethany Mansfield.

From his early days at Winslow High School, where he graduated in 1991, to his favorite jobs at Shaw’s, in Waterville, and Elanco, in Winslow, John was known for his adventurous spirit and his infectious sense of humor.

His love for martial arts, ATV and motorcycling, gun smithing and reloading, target shooting with gun and bow, and hiking, were testaments to his courageous soul. But the greatest testament to his character was his ability to bring joy and laughter into the lives of his family and friends. John was the light and laughter in any gathering, his funny anecdotes and loving nature always left a lasting impression.

John is survived by his son, Jacob Mansfield; his father, Steven Mansfield and mother, Bethany Mansfield; his grandfather, Norman Trahan; his sister, Jennifer Cote and her husband Mark; his nephew, Ben Violette; his aunt, Marcia Mansfield; his uncle, Thomas Bailey and his wife, Mary; along with six cousins and their families.

Share your favorite memories, stories, and photos of John on the “Memories of John Mansfield” Facebook page, as a celebration of his vibrant life.

Graveside services at the Cemetery Street Cemetery in North Vassalboro – date, and time to be announced.

REGINA J. ST. THOMAS

FAIRFIELD – Regina Jane St. Thomas, 67, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born in Waterville, July 31, 1955, the daughter of Louise M. (Caron) Howard and Roland E. Gurney.

She attended Lawrence High School and graduated with the class of 1974, in Fairfield.

Regina was a laborer at the woolen mill before moving on to a career as a therapeutic foster parent. Her love for children was shown in the way she fostered a handful of kids over the years, adopting her son Mathieu shortly before retiring. She also raised her nephew Kevin Hebert since the age of 5, and helped to raise her great-niece Tila-Rae Irish.

Regina was a true free spirit inside and out. An avid animal lover and blue collar worker, she enjoyed living at various farm houses over the years, jokingly referring to her home as Critter Acres. She often raised anything from cats and dogs to cows, chickens, goats, etc. Horses were her true passion, she lived by the motto: “Horses Free Me”. In spirit she is reunited with her first horse Cochise. She also enjoyed watching her nephew, Kevin play baseball and her granddaughter, Eva-Shataya play basketball. She shared a close bond with her cousin Sheila Allen who would often take her out to dinner, including Governor’s Restaurant every year for her birthday.

She was predeceased in death by her parents, Roland Gurney and Louise Howard and Aunt Theresa Caron.

She is survived by her daughter Brandi Brisk and son-in-law Bob Brisk; son Mathieu Regan St. Thomas; granddaughter Vinisha Jane Levasseur; and grandson-in- law, Casey Levasseur, Eva-Shataya Brisk and David Mawhinney and her great-grandson Oliver Mawhinney. Oliver was born on July 17, 2023 and Regina happily held him shortly before she passed. She was all smiles as she called him her little cowboy and gifted him with a plush horse named Scout; and her sisters, Rolena Irish, Linda Von Oesen, Melissa Howard, Mary Williamson and Cindy Pease; and brother Gerald Howard;

Regina will be laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, on Saturday, September 9, at 11 a.m. Celebration of life services to follow at 14 Faith’s Way, in Fairfield. She will be buried alongside her parents and cousins Diann Prince and Roseann Myron.

Her son Mathieu has “in memory of” cards for anyone who would like to remember Regina. Requests can be made to 207-344-5579 for a card. Please send a text with your full name and mailing address.

Cremation arrangements are by Dan & Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services – Skowhegan, 207-474-0000.

LINDA M. SPENCER

PHOENIX, Arizona – Linda Marie Spencer (Clarke), 69, of Waterville, passed away following a battle with multiple medical complications on Friday, July 28, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. Linda was born in Waterville to Dorothy and Albert Thiboutot, on February 20, 1954.

Linda graduated from Waterville High School in 1972 and later graduated from Mid-State College with her associates degree.

Linda married Christopher Spencer on September 8, 1990, and remained in Maine until moving to Alaska in 2007 to fulfill their dreams. During her time in Maine, Linda served many years as a secretary at local businesses with her longest time being at Dead River Company, in Waterville.

After their move, Linda and Chris were able to travel in their RV, make new friends across the country, and experience new places like they had always dreamed. This resulted in their final stop in Waddell, Arizona, where they became part of the “family” at the White Tank Regional Park where they lived and worked as volunteers.

No matter where Linda lived, she brought fun, love and laughter to all. Everyone around her knew they could go to her for help with anything. She was described as the “joy” of any group always bringing positivity and laughter to those around her.

Linda enjoyed many adventures throughout her life including building a new home with her husband Chris, traveling, kayaking, cooking and, of course, camping where she was happiest sitting around a campfire with others. Let’s not forget Linda’s favorite, LOBSTAH, which she would eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner if given the chance!

Linda was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Sawlivich, who passed in December 2008 and her father, Albert J. Thiboutot who passed in 1988.

Linda is survived by her husband, Christopher Spencer, of Maine; daughters, Nicole Clarke and husband Michael Foley, of Rockland, Lisa Spencer-Williamson and husband Jim Williamson, of Sidney, Sarah Spencer and husband Aaron Sechler, of Homer, Alaska; granddaughters, Seraphim, of Maine, and Matilda and grandsons Noah and Evan, of Alaska; two great-grandchildren; and other extended family on both her side and her husbands in Maine.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date in Maine.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 676910, Dallas, TX 75267-6910.

GEORGIA M. TRASK

OAKLAND – Georgia Mae (Elwell) Trask, 76, of Oakland, passed away at her home on Saturday, July 29, 2023, following an undiagnosed illness. Georgia was born in Brooks, on October 7, 1946, to George and Bertha (Curtis) Elwell.

She grew up with an appreciation for music and learned to play the piano after watching her sister, Ann. When she was older, she danced at the Blue Goose and performed there as a singer.

She raised two families 20 years apart. She worked for an employment agency, as a special-ed tech, and as a sales clerk at a local JJ Nissen store. She retired and spent the next 11 years caring for her ailing husband, Ronald. No one was better cared for than him.

She enjoyed going yard saling, quilting, stamp collecting, scrapbooking, crosswords, reading, playing the piano, caring for her plants, and conversing and visiting with family and friends. She loved Red Sox baseball, chocolate milk with a ham Italian sandwich, and always had to finish a meal with something sweet.

She was predeceased by her parents, brother Edward, sisters Ellen Parent and Ann Ward, and most recently, by her husband Ronald, whom she had been married to for 40 years.

She is survived by her daughters Rebecca Dostie and her husband Christopher, Dee Haun and her husband Rick, and Dacia Rancourt and her husband Christopher; sons, Randall Trask and his wife Pauline, and Scott Nesbit and partner Lisa; grandson Myles Rancourt and his wife Lizzy; granddaughters, Casey Collins and her husband TJ and Brook York; great-grandchildren, Allie and Ella Collins, Carter York, and Hudson Rancourt; sibling Avis Bradford; nieces Wendy Ward and Penny Hathaway.

A celebration of life will be held in Oakland, on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Please call 207-680-0616 for more details.

KELLY J. SPAULDING

FAIRFIELD – Kelly Jean Spaulding, of Fairfield, passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a prolonged illness. Born October 3, 1970, in Waterville, Kelly was the daughter of Loyal Spaulding and the late Marilyn (Quimby) Spaulding.

Kelly graduated from Waterville High School in 1989 where she excelled in sports, especially soccer and basketball. Summers were spent at one of her favorite spots, her family’s camps on Messalonskee Lake, in Belgrade, swimming and fishing and spending precious time with family and friends. Kelly’s love of animals, particularly her dogs, was well known, as were her artistic talent and creativity.

Soon after graduating high school, Kelly moved to Portland where she worked as a bartender and chef in many different locations, including The Underground and Somewhere Else, two popular local establishments. She also trained and worked as an Esthetician, in Portland and Waterville.

Kelly will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, green eyes and large smile, complete with dimples. Her favorite saying, ‘Eight is Great’ will continue to be shared in her memory by all who love her.

Along with her mother, Kelly was also predeceased by her brother, Scott Spaulding, and many other family members who were waiting to welcome her home.

She is survived by her brothers, Terry Spaulding and his wife, Susan, of Las Vegas, Nevada, David Spaulding and his wife, Kelly, of Waterville; and her sister, Lisa (Spaulding) Dugal and her husband, Will, of Winslow; along with many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled by her family and a graveside service will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery, in Madison, on Saturday, September 9, at 1 p.m.

IRENE H. DEARDEN

WATERVILLE – Irene H. (Baginski) Dearden, 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023. Irene was born April 10, 1932, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Joseph and Katherine (Sierzega) Baginski.

She was the youngest of five children. Irene graduated cum laude and salutatorian in 1953 from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a BS in food technology and mathematics. She was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority and a recipient of the Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi awards.

After graduation Irene worked as a food chemist at the First National stores, in Somerville, Massachusetts, then married Donald A. Dearden on April 24,1954, and relocated to Maine. She enjoyed being a “stay at home mom” and worked part-time at Seton Hospital, in Waterville, and Rosenthal Investments until the sudden death of her husband.

Irene returned to school and obtained her Maine teaching certification K-12 from the University of Maine and later her master’s in education from the University of Maine at Orono. Irene taught mathematics for 27 years at Lawrence Junior High, in Fairfield, with a fantastic group of teachers but more importantly, friends. Upon retirement, she continued her love for education by substituting for many more years.

Irene was a member of the Waterville Woman’s Club, The Contemporary Club, Parents Without Partners, various bridge groups and taught Sunday school at Sacred Heart Parish, in Waterville. She was a member of the NEA, MEA, Kennebec Retired Teachers Association, and the Red Hats.

Being an avid sports enthusiast, she enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s various sports. She was a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins along with any other sport on television which she enjoyed conversing about with others.

Not only was she a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother but her talents in the kitchen created the most delicious meals. Her greatest joys were having family together for holidays and going to the beach each summer. Irene enjoyed “Thursday coffee” with her teaching colleagues and going to the casino with her children and friends.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband Donald in 1970, and her son Donnie in 2007.

She is survived by her son, David (Anette) Dearden; daughters, Kathy Simmons (Terry Martelle), Judy Morgan (Clyde Moody), Sue (Chris) Girouard, and Nancy (Dondi) Best; grandchildren Katie (Colin) Wetherill, Chris Morgan, Michael (Celia) Morgan, Suzanne (Gary) Parrill, Lauren (Jake) Verhey, Sarah Girouard, Katherine Dearden, Isaak Dearden, Julia Dearden, Nick Best, and Malory Best; great-grandchildren Brinley and Bennett Wetherill, Crusoe and Finn Morgan, Zachary Parrill, and Everett and Will Morgan; numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a funeral Mass at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 62 Walnut Street, Suite 5 Wellesley, MA 02481 (JDRF.org).

GERALDINE H. TIMMINS

WATERVILLE – Geraldine Hart Timmins, 95, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023, 20 days before celebrating her 96th birthday. Geri, also known as Deannie, was born August 24, 1927, the daughter of Herbert “Hart The Tailor” and Honorine Hart.

Brought up on a farm on the West River Road, she graduated from Waterville High School in 1945.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the happiest when surrounded by her family and was generous, kind, patient, loving, and always had a positive attitude.

Geri enjoyed gardening, knitting, sewing, and good times at Lake Moxie, especially with her husband, Robert “Tiger” Timmins.

She was predeceased by her husband Robert, who passed away in 2011, after 63 years of marriage. Also, her twin brother Gerald Hart and her sisters Gloria Hart-Gravel, Muriel Guite, and Bernadette Williams.

Surviving are son Robert E. Timmins and daughter Ardra (husband Robert) Poulin; four grandchildren, Eli, Heath, Emily, and Mary; great-grandchildren Julia, Jack, Griffin, Ella, Palmer, Hannah, Jewel, and Jesse; sisters Harriet Freeman, Suzanne Beane, Roberta Goodhue, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Wednesday, August 16, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to MaineGeneral Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, Maine 04903-0828.

JULIE A. KNOEDLER

FAIRFIELD – Julie Ann (Baker) Knoedler, 41, passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023. She had just celebrated her 10th wedding anniversary. Julie was born on May 28, 1982, in Manchester, New Hamp­shire.

She grew up in Sandown, New Hampshire, until moving to Waterville in 1989. Julie attended Canaan Christian School, in Canaan, Temple Academy, in Waterville, and Riverview Memorial School, in Norridgewock. She graduated from Waterville High School in 2001. Julie attended Kennebec Valley Baptist Church, in Waterville.

Julie was an animal lover her whole life. Her pets were a huge blessing to her. She also enjoyed feeding the wild animals that would come into her back yard, especially the wild raccoons that she could feed by hand. She loved children, doing various crafts and was a very giving person.

Julie is now reunited with her mother, Pamela Baker, who passed away February 16, 2019.

She will be sadly missed by her husband, Scott Knoedler; father Dennis Baker and step-mother Carol Baker; brother David Baker; and Aunt Peggy and Uncle Kenneth Baker.

Visiting hours will take place at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, on Friday, August 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. – noon, with the funeral service beginning at noon. Burial will take place following the services at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield.

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

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the First Choice Pregnancy Center, 295 KMD Suite 2, Waterville ME.

COL. NATHAN R. BERKLEY

LORTON, Virginia – Colonel (Ret.) Nathan R. Berkley, 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, in his Lorton, Virginia. “Nate” was born on June 20, 1935, in Waterville, to Frank Berkley and Adrienne Clukey Berkley and grew up with sisters Frances (Carter) and Paula (Talbot).

Nathan graduated from Waterville High School, (’53) where he met his high school sweetheart, Patricia “Pat” Tully. He earned a business economics degree at the University of Maine at Orono, and later earned his master’s degree of education and counseling at the College of William and Mary, in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Nate and Pat married in 1957 and he began his nearly 30-year U.S. Army career shortly thereafter. His career included over 20 domestic and overseas assignments and three deployments, and he earned many commendations and awards in his military career.

People mattered most to Nate, and he was as an excellent role model in his integrity, kindness, and his willingness to help and guide others forward. Loving support, a good laugh, and a hug were part of every conversation with Nate.

Nate is survived by his wife Pat; sister, Paula; daughter, Janice Baker (Brad), son, Ken (s/o Priscilla), daughter, Donna Fairbanks (Mike 2020), son, Tom (Debbie), daughter, Pamela Kipps (Bob); 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; nephew, Tim Bureau (Lisa) and sons; as well as many other nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 21, at Fairfax United Methodist Church, in Fairfax, Virginia (10300 Stratford Ave., Fairfax, Virginia), at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at the church. A formal burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery will be held for family at a future date.

LOIS LaBELLE

ROME – Lois LaBelle, 96, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. Born July 13, 1927, in Anson, Lois was the first-born child and only daughter of Paris Leroy and Martha Ellen (Dudley) Mosher.

At the age of two, young Lois and her family would move back to the family farm on Mosher Hill, in Rome. It was in this farmhouse, passed down from several generations of the Mosher family, that Lois and her brother would be raised. Lois cherished every memory of her childhood growing up and “raising Cain” on the farm with her younger brother “Bud.” As a girl, Lois would work on the family farm and waitress at Jamaica Point Camps.

She would begin her formal education in a one-room schoolhouse in Rome; in 1945, she graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland. Looking to expand her future, Lois furthered her education at Thomas College, in Waterville, living with her Aunt Louise during her time there. In 1946, she graduated from the school’s business program. For a short while, Lois went to work as an assistant to James Boyle, of Waterville.

Soon after she finished her formal schooling, a young man began courting her. Just back from the Navy serving in the Second World War, Richard “Dick” H. LaBelle found the love of his life. On November 25, 1950, the Rev. George Wolf would marry Richard and Lois, in Fairfield. Lois and Dick would settle with their young and growing family on their panoramic Jamaica Point farm. Lois could look just north and see her childhood homestead, then south to see the beauty of Great Pond.

In 1969, Lois would join her husband in founding Dick LaBelle’s Plumbing. While “Dad” went off to plumb each day, Lois would remain back in the home to keep the business finances and maintain a watchful eye on her five young children. She would also spend a tremendous amount of time devoted to keeping the farm.

Lois was born and raised in a Christian family and she lived every day well-grounded in the Lord. She would see every moment as an opportunity to witness about her faith and show the power of God’s love. Lois strived to be a faithful testimony to all those she was around. For over 45 years, Lois attended the Rome Baptist Church. It was at this small church in Rome Hollow that Lois would follow in her mother’s faithful footsteps as a Sunday School teacher to share God’s Word with young children.

In 1991, Lois and Dick found a new home church in North Belgrade Baptist Church. Pastor Terry and Jackie Tiner would guide the church and become dear friends of the family. In their later years, North Belgrade Baptist Church would become Lakes Christian Fellowship, and the new leadership, Pastor George and Barbara Finnemore would play a most important role in shepherding Lois through her final years and days.

Lois loved the family farm and she loved Jamaica Point. In the winter, you would enter her kitchen and be overcome by the aroma of a fresh-baked treat just out of the oven. She would always keep an eye on the stove, ensuring there was always a fresh stick of wood ready to keep the great heat churning. There were countless conversations to be had around the kitchen table with so many friends and family. Each spring, Lois would begin the process of cleaning the yard, preparing for the summer guests to pass by. Once a week throughout the summer, one would find that Lois had traded in her signature skirts and heels for a pair of dungarees and a ball cap; she spent countless hours riding her Wheel Horse tractor, manicuring the vast lawn surrounding the farmhouse. As the garden came to fruition, “Gram” would can an assortment of vegetables, relishes, and pickles to fill the pantry.

Lois is survived by her husband of 72 years, Richard “Dick” Hamlin LaBelle; five children, all of Jamaica Point, Rome, Susan LaBelle, Cynthia and husband Gary Wilkie, Sandra LaBelle, Sara LaBelle, and Alan and wife Lynn (Buzzell) LaBelle; eight grandchildren, Joshua Desrosiers and wife Kahlie, Dr. Jessica Desrosiers and husband Ramel Dennis, Andrew Wilkie and wife Molly, Chapin LaBelle and wife Rebekah, Paige Collier, Alyssa and husband Ryan Bell, Richard LaBelle, and Chena and husband Jacob Bean; great-grandchildren, Jessica Dennis, Elsie Bell, Ander Bell, River Wilkie, Aiden Desrosiers, Nevaeh Dennis, Peri Wilkie, Emilyn Desrosiers, Adaline Bean, Quinn LaBelle, and Warren Bean.

Lois was predeceased by her parents; her great-grandson, Isaiah Hamlin Dennis; and her brother, Alton “Bud” Mosher and his wife, Alice.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, Aug. 18, 3 to 6 p.m., at Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., in Oakland. A funeral will be held on Saturday, August 19, at 10 a.m., at Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, 744 Augusta Rd., in Belgrade. Interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery, Wooster Hill Road, in Rome.

Donations in Lois’ memory may be made to: Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, P.O. Box 342, Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918; or Town of Rome, Rome Rescue, 8 Mercer Rd., Rome, ME 04963.

ARMAND L. FRAPPIER

AUGUSTA- Armand L. Frappier, 80, was born on September 2, 1942, in Lewiston, the son of Lena (Lebel) Frappier and Alphonse Frappier Sr.

Armand grew up in Water­ville and went to the Waterville school system where he later quit high school in order to work to help out the family. In 1970 he married Connie Libby and they had two sons.

He enjoyed family gatherings, playing cards, bowling, and camping with family. Armand worked for a short time at Lipman Poultry in 1963, and then started work in 1965 for Waterville Public Works, where he retired in 2004.

Armand was predeceased by his parents, Lena and Alphonse Frappier Sr.; his sblings, Alphonse Jr. (Pat), of Winslow, Francis (Dawn), of Belgrade, George (Marge), of Waterville, Raymond, of Waterville, Robert, of Norridgewock, Donald Lebel, of Farmington, Antonio, of Fairfield, and his sister Lucille (Larry) Carver, of Tennessee.

He is survived by his wife Connie; his sons, Armand John and wife Melinda, and Richard Lee Frappier; his five grandchildren, Courtney, Kenneth, Rebecca, Dawson Pelotte, Mason Mcdonald; two brothers Maurice (Glennis) Frappier, of Waterville, and Nelson (Norma) Frappier, of Clinton; five sisters, Annette Hughes, of Waterville, Diane Rich, of Fairfield, Darlene (Donald) Tompkins, of Waterville, Elizabeth Lachance, of Waterville, and Elaine Young, of Waterville.

A graveside service will be Thursday, August 17, at 10 a.m., at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, please visit their webpage to share your condolences with Armand’s family.

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR
DAVID R. KING

WATERVILLE – Funeral services were held for David R. King, on Saturday, August 12, at 9 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Waterville, Maine. Burial at St. Francis cemetery in Waterville will occur directly following the funeral Mass.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR ERNEST K. DeCOSTA

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 1 – 4 p.m., for Ernest K. DeCosta, who passed away on December 6, 2022. It will be held at the Malcolm Glidden American Legion Post #163, on Veterans Way, off Turner Ridge Road, in Palermo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

China nomination papers available for November election

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by Mary Grow

China’s municipal elections for members of the select board, planning board and budget committee will be held Tuesday, Nov. 7. Nomination papers are now available at the town office; Friday, Sept. 8, is the deadline for returning signed papers to be on the local ballot.

Select board members are elected from the town at large. Some positions on the planning board and budget committee are filled by district. A map of China’s four districts is on the website china.govoffice.com, under the Planning Board subheading under the main heading Officials, Boards & Committees.

Positions to be filled this year are:

  • On the select board, two seats. Members whose terms end this year are board chairman Wayne Chadwick and Jeanne Marquis.
  • On the planning board, three seats: District One (northwestern China; Michael Brown is the incumbent); District Three (southeastern China; the incumbent, Walter Bennett, resigned this month and will not seek re-election); and alternate at large, elected from anywhere in town (Natale Tripodi is the incumbent).
  • On the budget committee, three seats: District One (northwestern China; Kevin Maroon is the incumbent); District Three (southeastern China; Michael Sullivan is the incumbent); and the chairman, elected from anywhere in town (Thomas Rumpf is the incumbent).

In addition to the positions for which candidates are needed for the Nov. 7 election, town officials are looking for volunteers to be appointed to fill vacant positions on the planning board and budget committee.

The District Four (southwestern China) planning board position has been vacant all year; an appointee would serve until the November 2024 local election. Because of Bennett’s resignation, the District Three seat is empty; that appointee’s term would run until Nov. 7, and he or she could run for election to a full two-year term, until November 2025.

Budget committee secretary Trishea Story resigned after this spring’s pre-town meeting deliberations. This position can be filled by a resident of any part of the town; an appointee would be expected to serve until the November 2024 election.