Donald Breton, left, and Lisa Breton, right, presenting a $5,000 check from Robert and Gail Migliorni, owners of American Precision Services, to Cindy Ferland, center, director of the Vassalboro Food Pantry Station. Friends of the Vassalboro Food Pantry Station exceeded the goal of $2,000 by donating a total of $3,585, for a grand total raised of $8,585. (Photo courtesy of Donald Breton)
Olde Vassalboro Mill owner Ray Breton with Spiderman, left, and Batman, right, during the Sci-Fi Festival on Feb. 6. (photo by Mark Huard)
A great day of chasing the winter blues at the Sci-Fi Festival, even mill manager Samantha Lessard got in on the fun. (photo by Mark Huard)
To the editor:My name is Tim Theriault, and I am currently the House Republican for District #79, which is comprised of Albion, Benton, China and Unity Plantation. With the new redistricting that occurred, China, Windsor, Palermo, Somerville and Hibberts Gore are now House District #62. It’s been a pleasure serving the good citizens of his district, but I will be termed out this year, and I want to leave it in good hands. That is why my endorsement for my vacating seat for House Representative of District #62 is for Jennifer Tuminaro.
I have known Jen and her family for many years. Her husband, Michael, and I worked together when he was with the Sheriff’s Office and I was with the China Fire Department. Since then, I have had the opportunity to spend many hours talking to Jennifer and have encouraged her to seek this position. I know she will represent the district well.
Jennifer embodies all of the ideals that make up a good representative. She is a hard-working, resourceful, driven leader who supports those around her. She grew up in the New York area but moved to Maine over 20 years ago, to seek a better quality of life for her and her family. Her first language is Spanish, as her parents immigrated to America in the ‘70s. She loves Maine, and she’s looking to keep it the great state that it is currently.
Jennifer has a master of business administration degree from the University of Maine and currently works for the CDC as a finance manager. She and her husband manage two small businesses in town, a private investigations firm, BlackRock Investigations and Consulting, and a guide service, Maine Upland Guide Service. With her business experience and her passion for education, I know that she will represent and lead our community well.
A resident of China for over 20 years, Jen has volunteered at China Primary School teaching Spanish to our youngsters, has coached soccer in the China Rec program for years, and has substituted at Erskine Academy.
I wholeheartedly support Jennifer Tuminaro for the House seat of District #62. I hope you will, too.
Tim Theriault
China
Front row, from left to right, Jacob Blais, Willow Mudie, Scarlotte Mudie, Elizabeth Blais, and Tom Carey. Back, Fr. John Skehan, Anthony Fortin, Ian Martin, Connor Poirier and Tristan Morton. (contributed photo)
Augusta Scouts from Scout Troops #631 and #603 joined with Cub Scout Packs #684 and #603 at St. Mary’s Church, in Augusta, on February 6, as part of the annual celebration of Scout Sunday.
Scouts joined parish leaders in distributing bulletins to parishioners, assisting with the offering, altar service, and recited both the Scout Oath and Law for the assembled congregation. Fr. John Skehan officiated and made the Scouts feel very welcome.
“Not every family attends the same church, but every Scout is taught to respect the religious freedom we enjoy in the United States. Our Scouts, today – on Scout Sunday, participated in this Catholic Mass and through this experience learned to appreciate the Catholic Faith,” said Scout leader Jeff Morton. “St. Mary’s Church and Father John opened their doors and hearts to our scouts. We were welcomed, allowed to participate, and learned so that our scouts can better understand their community and its religious culture.
Diversity, and tolerance are fostered through understanding and respect – this is what Scouting teaches.” According to District Chairman Joe Shelton, the BSA asks its members to affirm a belief in God. That doesn’t mean the Boy Scouts of America tells its members which religion to practice. Scouting provides youth members with opportunities to deepen their personal faith through programs such as the Scout Sunday event, leadership positions in their troop such as chaplain, and the religious emblems program. Scouts have a “Duty to God” and the Scout Law’s 12th and final point is that a “Scout is Reverent.” Lord Robert Baden Powell, founder of the worldwide Scouting movement, said in 1908, “No man is much good unless he believes in God and obeys His laws. So every Scout should have a religion.”
Julie, holding the male cardinal she nursed back from an injury.
by Roland D. HalleeThis week, I’m going to give up my space to one of our regular contributors, Gary Kennedy, who has a heart-warming story to tell about he and his wife’s encounter with an injured male cardinal:
“Everyone knows that February has evolved from the fourteenth being Valentine’s Day to a week of love and its wonderful array of display hearts, candy, cards and flowers. I am considered old now but I have very vivid memories of exchanging Valentines cards with the heart throbs in my elementary classes. Of course, Mrs. Anthony who resides with God now had to receive a card, also. She was a wonderful teacher in my third and fourth grades.
“I was a naughty boy a lot of the time and had to be punished but I often wonder who was hurt more by the punishment, Mrs. Anthony or me. I firmly believe it was Mrs. Anthony. I remember she was beautiful and I was eight or nine years old. I have always said she was the turning point in my life. She was a wonderful teacher and a beautiful person. God bless those who teach us along the way. For the most part school is our second home for many years and those who guide us from one step to another are the major point in the direction of our lives. I will always love and miss Mrs. Anthony and many others who left their mark on my life and gave it meaning and direction. The love of our parents, pastor and friends are so very important as well.
“Maine is very fortunate to have the best of everything. God gave us a wonderful environment full of wondrous living things of which to enjoy. We might not be a rich state monetarily speaking but we raise some very wonderful people. I always say, “It’s a matter of the heart and perception”. I thank our creator every morning when my eyes open realizing I am still here to enjoy another day of the wonderful life around me.”
Whoops, I think Gary got a little off subject there. Here is what the heartwarming story is about:
“Yesterday Julie and I visited a dear friend, Les, to share some veteran information and to seek some advice. It’s always a joy to drive to Gardiner and visit a friend! After we left Gardiner, saying goodbye to our friends, Les, Brenda and, of course, Grammy Frannie, we proceeded to Augusta. As we were passing through Hallowell and our favorite seafood store, my wife Julie spotted something that was bright red standing aimlessly on the center line of the roadway. At a second glance my wife shouted “honey turn around there is a bird in the middle of the road.” I hit my brakes and turned around, and sure enough there stood a beautiful male cardinal. He was a little wobbly but remained steadfast to the center line.
“I placed my truck in the center of the road and turned on my hazard lights. Julie jumped out and picked up the bird, which was dazed and bleeding in his right eye. Julie grabbed a tissue and gently applied pressure to the area.
“We had a line of traffic behind but when they saw Julie they understood that she was attending to a problem. The bird seemed confused but didn’t resist Julie’s loving touch and care. It was like it understood.
“We drove directly home, aborting our original plans. Julie prepared a box with windows, made a bed with a soft towel and prepared some peanut butter and sunflower seeds along with water. We placed the box in our bow window overlooking our numerous bird feeders. Julie felt that visual affect would be helpful to the well being of the injured bird. The bird ate some and rested through the night. This morning he indicated he would like to try flying home. We took the box outside and Julie picked up the bird from the box. The bird gave her a gentle bite and then took to flight. The bird voiced something, which Julie recorded. Julie believes it was “good bye and thank you.” Julie being a sensitive person had shed a few tears and thanked God for allowing the beautiful red cardinal to live.”
It’s a remarkable story in that a small bird like a cardinal can be injured, in the middle of a road, and survive that, without considering the care and nursing Julie gave him, to send him on his way.
Name the four NFL teams to never appear in a Super Bowl.
Name the four NFL teams to never appear in a Super Bowl.
Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, Cleveland Browns.
WATERVILLE – Reginald A. Ferran, 40, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 22, 2022, from an accident at his home, in Waterville. He was born, in Waterville, on February 15,1981, to Reggie and Judy Ferran.
Being raised in Winslow until the age of eight and then moving to China, he had attended both Winslow and China Elementary and then graduating from Waterville High School.
Reggie worked at J&S oil gas station as a teenager, then moving on to being a subcontractor for a small Satellite Company, in Winslow. Working endless jobs to find his life career, Uncle Bo Ferran stepped in and hired him to work for Granite Corp., of Oakland, where he trained to become an HVAC technician. He was considered a “Mastermind” as an HVAC technician.
In 2008, Reggie became a daddy to his first child; a daughter, Delana Teresa and then in 2010, he had a son, Layne Albert.
The one thing “Coona” loved more than his career was being a dad to his babies. He had many plans for both of his children and their future. He was so proud of his accomplishments, buying his first house in 2011. He enjoyed the simple life; gardening in his back yard, camping, hiking and just taking rides, to view the scenery around China Lake.
He had a purpose in this world, and it was to touch the lives of anyone who met him. Even though, he also had that sarcastic way about him, if he made fun of you and totally insulted you, it was because he truly liked you. A total boundary stepper, but he did it all in good fun, and would laugh at his own jokes, which in turn, you couldn’t help but laugh, too, even if you didn’t understand the joke.
Reggie was predeceased by his parents, Reggie and Judy Ferran; his paternal grandparents, Albert and Theresa Ferran; and uncles, Charles Coolbroth, Michael Herring and Jerry Herring.
He is survived by his two children, Delana and Layne Ferran; his two sisters, Danette Hotham, of China, and Jaimie Thomas, of Augusta; three nieces, Britany Pelletier, of Sidney, Hannah Whitaker, of Augusta, Alicia Hotham, of China; two nephews, Anthony Hotham, of Windsor, and Kaleb Thomas, of Augusta; two great-nephews, Levi Hotham and baby Jax Pelletier; and a “stepdad” Craig Taylor.
A celebration of the life of Reggie “Coona” Ferran will take place on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, from 2 – 6 p.m. The buffet will be set up at 4 p.m., where the family will take that time to give anyone who would like to tell stories of their experiences with Reggie, that opportunity. The cash bar will be open downstairs and can be paid for and then brought up to the event hall, but no outside liquor of any kind is permitted. If you have a favorite band T-shirt, please wear it, as he was a Rock/metal enthusiast.
WATERVILLE – Robert J. Derosby, 82, passed away at his home on Friday, January 28, 2022. He was born on January 11, 1940, in Waterville, to Roland and Aurelie Levasseur Derosby, along with brothers David and Armand Derosby.
Known to his family and friends as Bob, he joined the Marines at the age of 21, rising to the ranks of master sergeant. He served two tours in Vietnam before marrying his wife, Selwa Jurdak, while stationed in Paris Island, South Carolina. Upon returning to Maine in 1971, Bob was a Marine Corps recruiter in Aroostook County and then later in Waterville, where he formally retired from the military in December 1981.
Bob Derosby went on to open Valor Enterprise, Inc., a small business that provided the government and military with various items, such as clocks, plaques, coins, and trophies. Finally, after 25 years, Bob retired due to ill health, though he couldn’t sit still. So he came out of retirement to work for Northeast Labs, in Winslow, finally retiring for good at the age of 80.
Bob was quick-witted, good-natured, and made all those around him feel welcome and loved. He was the first in line to do anything for anyone, never accepting payment or praise. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends in his later years, driving (though he probably shouldn’t have), and buying coffees with way too much cream.
He is survived by his wife and partner of almost 55 years, Sally; his four children, Craig, Stacy, Alan, and Keith, and their respective partners; and his eight grandchildren, Nicholas, Zoe, Isabel, Lucas, Juliana, Sofia, Keene, and Emilia.
A celebration of Bob’s life is planned for Saturday, February 19, at 10 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, Front St., in Waterville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, in Waterville.
WATERVILLE – Wallace Rene Emerson, 90, of Waterville, passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022. He was born in Fairfield on March 26, 1931, the son of Albion I. and Alfreda M. (Rainey) Emerson.
On March 4, 1983, Wallace married Jane Burgess, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Waterville. He was a member of Corpus Christie Parish, Waterville
While growing up he worked with his second cousins at the Bushey Farm on the Ten Lots Road, Oakland. After graduating high school, Wallace worked as a machine operator for Hollingsworth and Whitney Paper Company, in Winslow. At the age of 18, Wallace entered the U.S. Air Force for a two-year enlistment. Upon his discharge from the Air Force, Wallace returned to Hollingworth and Whitney Paper Company and worked through ownership changes of Scott Paper Co. and retired from Kimberly Clark Paper Company. After retiring, Wallace volunteered at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Seton Campus, for over 10 years.
Wallace and Jane loved to travel aboard the Amtrak trains throughout Canada. They took the Canadian railways to the Canadian Rockies. He loved to golf and exercised three times a week.
He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Gerald A. and Richard E. Emerson; niece, Patricia Emerson.
Wallace is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jane B. Emerson; several nieces and nephews; and great-niece and great-nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial and burial in Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville, will be held in the spring.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com
OAKLAND – Blynn Leroy Estes Jr., 58, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 31, 2022, at home, following a battle with cancer. He was born in Waterville November 28, 1963, the eldest son of Elaine Bickford Perry and Blynn Estes Sr.
He attended schools in Nashua, New Hampshire, and graduated in 1981.
Blynn spent most of his working career in the construction field. He worked for 30 years with Sheridan Construction, in Fairfield, followed by a short stint at Newman Construction, then several years at Ganneston Construction, after which he found a position at Unity College as grounds and custodial manager until he could no longer work.
Blynn was a member of the United Bikers of Maine. He loved his children and grandchildren and his favorite thing to do was spend time with them.
He also enjoyed riding his Harley listening to his vast music collection, getting new tattoos, going to numerous concerts with his kids and playing his guitars. He was also a New England Patriots and Boston Bruins fan.
Blynn loved to collect comic books, guitars, drums, records, CDs, movies and books.
Blynn was predeceased by step-parents Joseph Perry, of Oakland, and Marianne Estes, of New Hampshire, his paternal grandparents Pearl and Leroy Estes, of Oakland, and maternal grandparents, Leople and Linton Bickford, of Oakland.
He is survived by his parents, Elaine (Bickford) Perry, of Oakland, and Blynn Estes Sr., of New Hampshire; his four children, daughter Jasmine Estes and her fiancé Christopher Merrow, of Sidney, and three sons, Logan Estes and his wife Felicia, of Wilton, Randy Frappier and Gage Estes, of Oakland; grandchildren, Ayden Estes, Tory Estes, Elijah Estes, Malachi Estes, Freya Estes-Knowles and Ivy-Lynn Estes; brothers, Chad Estes and his wife Michelle, of Clinton, Kevin Estes and his wife Gretchen, of Missouri, and sister Karen Estes, of Winslow; and many nieces and nephews, including his special nephew Michael Estes, of Clinton.
A celebration of life was held February 12, at the Trafton Road event room, 255 Trafton Road, in Waterville.
Cremation arrangements are by Mid Maine Cremation Services 453-6006.
WATERVILLE – Marjorie “Margie” L. (Lashus) Harrington, 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born April 16, 1929, in Winslow, the daughter of Robert and Hazel (Taylor) Lashus.
Margie was a 1946 graduate of Winslow High School and president of her senior class. She married William Harrington on May 24, 1947, and together they raised five children. Margie worked at Keyes Fibre Company, in Waterville, for 30 years, retiring in 1991. She made many good friends along life’s journey.
She is survived by her children, Gail Agee, Robert Harrington, Kathy Cote, Kellie and David Mingus; her four grandsons; one granddaughter; and two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by husband, William Harrington; son, Michael Harrington; sons-in-law, John Agee and John Cote; sisters, Jean Gagnon and Patricia Marsh.
At Margie’s request, there will be no visitation hours or funeral service. A graveside service will be held in the spring 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.
UNITY – Lynwood Gerald Alexander, 80, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022, at Woodlands Memory Care, in Lewiston. Lynwood was born in Freedom, the son of the late Arthur and Helen (Gerald) Alexander, on November 20, 1941.
Lynwood married his wife, Marie (Kenney) Alexander, on June 3, 1961. Lynwood and Marie lived in Unity for most of their lives. His favorite past times were playing tricks on his grandkids and vice versa, going on long drives through the countryside, fishing, visiting yard sales, antique cars, Saturday morning breakfast with his sister and her husband, and most of all, spending time with his wife.
Lynwood is survived by his wife, Marie; his sons Chris (Wendy), of Brushton, New York, Craig (Laurie), of Hamden, and Paul, of Clinton; his grandchildren Ashley (Owen) Vaughan, of Brushton, New York, Benjamin (Lydia) Alexander, of Sidney, Sarah (Will) Cote, of Pittsfield, and Stacey Jo (Mike) Cianchette, of Pittsfield; his great-grandchildren Hoyt and Abilene Vaughan, of Brushton, New York, Charlie and Clayton Alexander, of Sidney, Logon and Taylor Cote, of Pittsfield; his siblings Judy (Jerry) Trundy, of Waterville, and Brenda (Roger) Drew, of Unity, his sister-in-law, Colleen Alexander, of Garrison, North Dakota; his brother-in-law, James (Joan) Kenney, of Homosassa, Florida; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and great-nieces, and nephews.
Lynwood was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Helen Alexander; and his brother, Arthur Alexander Jr.
A memorial service will be announced later.
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.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
WINSLOW – Edmond Joseph Roy, 90, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022, in Augusta. He passed just 64 days after his wife of 71 years, Priscilla Roy, had passed. Edmond was born in Waterville on August 5, 1931, son of the late Peter and Amanda Roy. He grew up in Waterville.
Edmond worked for Pratt & Whitney, the Carpenters Union, Hollingsworth & Whitney Paper Co., in Winslow, and Huhtamaki (formerly Keyes Fibre Co.), in Waterville, where he worked for 30 years in the machine shop. He retired in 1992.
Edmond loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, who loved to fly-fish. He even tied his own flies and made his own fly rods. He took a lot of pride in doing that. His favorite place to fish was at Moosehead Lake. He also loved to go hunting with his sons. Edmond and Priscilla would rent a camp on Moosehead once a year when they were younger.
He enjoyed watching sports on TV, particularly the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots. He also enjoyed watching his sons play hockey. In Edmond’s later years, he liked to watch his grandsons play hockey. Edmond and Priscilla loved playing cards with family and friends. Every fall they drove throughout Maine and New Hampshire to enjoy foliage.
Edmond is survived by his son Stephen Roy and daughter-in-law Marta; his daughter Mary Ann Wise and son-in-law Bill; his son Paul Roy; his son Michael Roy and daughter-in-law Cindy; seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren; his sister Gloria Bernier; and many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial for both Edmond and Priscilla will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, Maine 04901.
Burial will be held in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville, 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.
FAIRFIELD – Maurice J. Bard, 78, of Fairfield, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022, at home, following a courageous ten-year battle with Leukemia. Maurice was born on August 22, 1943, in Fort Kent, son of Alcide and Cecile (Robichaud) Bard, one of 12 children.
He attended Waterville schools and graduated from Waterville High School in 1962. Maurice married the love of his life, Barbara (Rowe) Bard in August 1963. They went on to raise five children.
As a teenager Maurice worked at the Jefferson Hotel, in Waterville, starting as a prep cook and then as a cook on the Chinese side of the restaurant for a short time. He then landed a job at Waterville Auto Painters prepping vehicles; when that closed, he moved on to David Mathieu Co., in Waterville, training to be an auto body technician. In the Spring of 1966, Maurice went to work for Keyes Fibre Co., in Waterville. In August 1967, Maurice decided to pursue his own business opening Maurice’s Auto Body Shop, in Fairfield. Later his wife Barbara joined him in the business as a bookkeeper and office manager.
Maurice served on the school board at SAD #49 from 1976 to 1982. He also served several years on the advisory committee for Mid-Maine Technical Center. He also was chairman of the maintenance committee at Lake Henry Estates, in Florida.
After 31 years in the business Maurice and Barbara, in September 1998, retired turning the business over to their son, Michael, which is now Maurice and Son Auto Body. Maurice and Barbara then spent their winters at Lake Henry Estates, in Haines City, Florida, for 20 years where they enjoyed bus trips to Branson, Missouri, and a cruise to St. Martin, St. Lucia, and St. Kit.
Maurice was known for his love to help others. He enjoyed auto body, but carpentry/woodworking was his passion. He spent many hours working on projects for family and friends. Maurice will be remembered for his kind heart and willingness to help others.
He also enjoyed working with his dear friend, Gary Hammond, operating heavy equipment and earthwork projects just for fun.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alcide and Cecile Bard; his brothers, Bertrand Bard and Rosaire “Shoe” Bard; his daughter, Mary Bard; and his in-laws, Oscar, and Rita Rowe.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 58 years; his children, Marcia and husband Jeff Hubert, Melissa and husband Richard Boissonneault, Matthew and wife Corrine Bard, and Michael and wife Michelle Bard; his grandchildren, Cameron and wife Brittney Smith, Dylan and wife Desiree Smith, Derrick Smith, Bradley and wife Jessica Hubert, Benjamin and wife Jordon Hubert, Brittany Hubert and fiancé Garret Burns, Amber Bard and fiancé Steve Thompson, Trevor Boissonneault, Tyler, Teya, and Trey Bard, Marissa Barnett, and Emily and husband Nick St. Amand; his great-grandchildren, Alexandra and Bennett Hubert, Keegan Church, Aviana Boissonneault, Brayden and Colton Thompson, Aria Barnett, and Lily and Blake St. Armand; his siblings, Rosalind Joseph, Leland Bard, Bernett Harvey, Ronald Bard, Peter Bard, Lorraine Belliveau, Valier Bard, Claudette Rancourt, and Elaine LaChance; his sister in-law, Jill Bard; and many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, Maine.
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.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Maine General HACCC, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903, or Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area, 304 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901, or Interfaith Food Pantry, 23 Lawrence Avenue, Fairfield, ME 04937.
WATERVILLE – Jeanne N. (Levasseur) Rodrigue, 81, died peacefully at Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville, on Saturday, February 5, 2022. She was born to Edmund Levasseur and Antoinette Roy Levasseur on January 19, 1941, in Winslow.
Jeanne graduated from Winslow High School in 1959. She married Albert Rodrigue Jr., on July 23, 1960, and spent most of her life as a homemaker.
She was an avid bowler, loved playing volleyball with family, and could hit a softball a very long distance. Jeanne was famous for her whoopie pies and molasses cookies and the numerous wedding cakes she made for family members. She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, walking with friends, and continued to lunch monthly with high school girlfriends until recently.
She loved attending her childrens’ and grandchildrens’ musical and sporting events, where she was never at a loss for words. She could be counted on by all of her grandchildren to bring cupcakes and ice cream cups into their classrooms on their birthdays and made countless tourtiere pies for school fundraisers. She was always willing to help anyone, especially older relatives and friends, in any way she could.
Jeanne was predeceased by her parents, brothers Edmund (Donald), Conrad, Phillip, Michael, and James, sister, Marie Levasseur, sister, Lucille Gagnon and brother-in-law Gerald Gagnon, sister, Anne Merrill and brother-in-law Charles Merrill, brother- and sister-in-law Gerard and Nancy Rodrigue.
Jeanne is survived by her husband of 61 years; son, David Rodrigue and wife Susan, of Winslow, son, Daniel Rodrigue and wife Liz, of Cornville; daughter, Donna Campbell and husband Mark, of Anson and Winslow, son, Dean Rodrigue and fiancée Angel Cyr, of Millinocket; grandchildren Corey, Victoria, Abigail, Sarah, Treva, Shelby, Jessica, Grace, and Trista; and great-grandchildren Evan, Xavier, Jase, and Peyton; her sisters June Day, of Clinton, and Claire Paron, of Orlando, Florida; brother, Paul Levasseur and sister-in-law Sue, of Albion, and sisters-in-law Theresa Rodrigue, of Waterville, Ginger Levasseur, of Auburn, Lorraine Levasseur, of Sidney; brothers- and sisters-in-law John and Bernadette Rodrigue, of Benton, and James and Barbara Rodrigue, of Waterville.
Arrangements are under the care of Aabel Cremation Service.
Pursuant to Jeanne’s wishes, there will be no service or visiting hours.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeanne’s memory to Northern Lights Continuing Care – Lakewood, 220 Kennedy Memorial Dr., Waterville, ME 04901.
VASSALBORO – Roy Augustus Brackett, of Vassalboro, died at home on Saturday, February 5, 2022.
Roy was a master electrician who retired from Colby College, in Waterville. In his retirement he enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and the lovely home he and Ruth shared. In later years he took up wood carving and often had a project in progress in his shop or on the kitchen table.
He could also often be found volunteering with the Vassalboro Historical Society or attending meetings at the Masonic Lodge, particularly if there was a potluck supper involved.
Roy is survived by Ruth Brackett, his wife of 66 years; son, Don Brackett; and grandsons Rurik Brackett and Ian Brackett.
According to his wishes, there will be no funeral, instead, Roy’s family encourages friends and relatives to enjoy a walk in the woods or a visit to the seashore with someone they love.
PALERMO – George A. Moore Sr. 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at GlenRidge Nursing Home. He was born April 17, 1937, in Augusta, the son of Lloyd and Olive (Baker) Moore.
George attended Winthrop High School and started his career at Inmot Mill, of Winthrop, Buzzells Construction, and retired from Winthrop Public works after 30 years (1971-2001) as the road commissioner.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, LeeAnn (Moore) Smith.
Surviving are his sons Stanley Moore and wife Carol, of Augusta, Doug Goucher and wife Melissa, of Winthrop, George Moore Jr. and wife Penny, of Winthrop, Rodney Moore and wife Donna, of Jefferson; daughters Donna (Moore) Pelotte and husband Emile, of Florida, Brenda (Moore) Cyr and husband Bob, of Virginia, Kelly Moore, of Rockland, and Cindy Weymouth and husband Bernard, of Winthrop; 20 grandchildren, Ben, Matt, Jason, Justin, Brian, Shaun, Jeffrey, Jonna, Kory, Monique, Chandler, Heather, Sara, Charlie, Justine, Cassie, Nick, Darcy, Roy, Darren; and 32 great-grandchildren with two additional on the way; his sister, Patricia (Moore) McDivett and spouse Rick.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, February 12, at the American Legion, Post 40, 117 Bowdoin St., Winthrop.
Those who wish to remember George in a special way may make gifts in his honor to Alzheimer’s Association – Fight Alzheimer’s and Dementia – alz.org.
SIDNEY – James Frederick Dudley, 72, of Sidney, passed away Sunday, February 6, 2022, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. Jimmy was born in Augusta on January 27, 1950, the youngest son of Robert Alton and Beulah May (Woodward) Dudley.
Always his father’s shadow on the family farm in North Augusta, he moved with his mother and brother to Plymouth, New Hampshire, as a teenager after his father suddenly passed away. It was there he fell in love with Barbara at the age of 15. He graduated from Plymouth High School in 1968 as a varsity basketball and baseball athlete. After graduation he attended New Hampshire Vocational-Technical College, continuing his baseball career, and earning an AAS in Internal Combustion Engines.
Shortly after college, he married Barbara and moved back to Maine to build their house and raise their family together. You’d often catch Jimmy patiently teaching pragmatic lessons to his children and grandchildren, shooting hoops, tending to his giant vegetable garden, ice fishing out back, riding his snowmobile, working on someone’s logging equipment in the garage he built, or watching his beloved Boston Celtics.
He imparted his quiet wisdom, fierce independence, and dry sense of humor to his family.Jimmy worked as a heavy equipment mechanic for Bridge Construction Company, in Windsor, welder at Bath Iron Works, and diesel technician at the Maine Department of Transportation, in Augusta, before retiring.
A persistent farmer at heart and an avid outdoorsman, Jimmy enjoyed hunting and fishing which he passed on to his children, grandchildren and other extended family and friends.
A member of both the Waterville and Kennebec Valley Beagle clubs, his life-long passion was raising beagles. As a leader in both clubs and the beagling community at large, he was a well-respected handler and judge in AKC field trials. He was very proud the day his beagle Taboo became an AKC National Field Champion.
During the Ice Storm of 1998 he and his co-workers at Maine DOT worked 18-hour days for weeks, tirelessly repairing utility and plow trucks to help get power back on to Maine homes and businesses, all while also not having power at home for 18 days.
He used the proceeds from that work to purchase a piece of land and built a camp with help from family and friends on Graham Lake, in Mariaville, using lumber he cut from the trees grown on the family farm. He enjoyed his time at “Camp O.T.”: fishing out front from shore or in his boat, target shooting, picking berries, ATVing, playing cribbage, marking his grandchildren’s heights, and spending memorable time with family.
He was predeceased by his wife Barbara of 51 years, his parents, his brother Robert (Bobby) Alton Dudley, Jr., of Sidney, and sister Jane Louise (Dudley) Patterson, of Chelsea.
Jimmy is survived by his children Christy Lajoie (James), of Dayton, and Eric Dudley (Sarah), of Gorham; grandchildren Alyssa and Ian Lajoie and Aidan and Grace Dudley; his stepbrother Paul Nelson (Jacqui), of Waltham, Massachusetts; several cousins, nieces and nephews, in-laws.
A private family graveside service will be held at the Cottle Cemetery, across from the old family farm in North Augusta this spring.
Arrangements are entrusted with Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care One Church Street, Augusta, Maine.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home website: http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, please send charitable donations to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation to further research toward a cure: http://www.support.pkdcure.org/fundraiser/3708265.
FAIRFIELD – Dr. Richard R. Dole, 90, passed away on Saturday, February 12, 2022, following a difficult journey with dementia. Richard was born in Niobe, New York.
As the son of a farmer, he developed a deep reverence for the soil, crops, and the wonder of all living things. He was also a teacher’s son and had a passion for academics. As valedictorian of his high school class, he attended Houghton College and medical school at the State University of New York, in Syracuse.
He served as a captain and flight surgeon in the United States Air Force. In 1964, he opened a private practice in Waterville, becoming Medical Director of the Respiratory Therapy Department at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville. His career culminated in 1996 after serving as a pulmonologist at Togus VA hospital, in Augusta, for 10 years. He was loved by his patients and coworkers for his compassionate nature.
Richard was a kind and gentle soul. He was curious about the natural world. He loved birds, the cosmos, and cultivating the earth to grow wildflowers and vegetables. Once the peepers started peeping, he would be outside, tilling and planting, or puttering in the barn until after dark. He was a hardworking man but also knew the value of rest, he particularly enjoyed sunny winter afternoon naps. He was an avid reader, lover of music and home-cooked food, especially pie!
Richard was also a man of deep faith. He was a committed member of the Fairfield United Methodist Church. He found solace in reading the Bible and other religious texts about the Mystery that awaits us all. He wrote an essay about his faith a few years back, “… I hold no fear of facing the fate of all people and anticipate the “crossing over” as life’s greatest adventure.”
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Maureen Dole; his four children, Lisa Skinner, of West Palm Beach, Florida, Sharon Hamilton, of San Anselmo, California, David Dole, of Winslow, and Jonathan Dole, of Petaluma, California; and two “bonus” children, Jennifer Daigle, of Portland, and Jessica Daigle, of Sea Cliff, New York; as well as 12 grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents Ralph and Winifred Dole; and his brother, Roland Dole.
A Celebration of Life service was held on Wednesday, February 16, at Fairfield United Methodist Church.
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.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Fairfield United Methodist Church, 37 Skowhegan Rd., Fairfield, ME 04937.
WINSLOW – Dianne Willette, 80, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022, in Augusta, following a long illness. She was born on May 30, 1941, in Massachusetts to Raymond and Rachel (Snow) Howe.
Dianne, better known as “Nana”, enjoyed spending time with family. She could be found on most summer days sitting at the family pond. Dianne’s most cherished time was Christmas Eve at her home. She just loved having everyone “crammed in”. Although these parties became smaller, this past Christmas she specifically requested, “Christmas Eve at Nanas!”, thankfully, Dianne’s wish was fulfilled. At any time when you popped in to visit, she was watching cooking shows, reading, or as she always would say, “not sleeping”.
Her truly happiest moments were spending her time with her grand- and great-grandchildren. They all loved spending time and building forever memories with Nana.
Dianne “Nana” will forever be loved and kept close within our hearts.
Dianne was predeceased by her parents, her brothers, Eddie and John Howe, sisters Nancy Quirion, Florence (Babe) Perry, and Claire Thomas, and her grandson, Dylan Willette.
Dianne is survived by her husband, Norris Willette; five children, Michael Willette and wife Melissa, of Winslow, Jeffrey Willette and wife Rhonda, of Winslow, Timothy Willette and wife Barbara, of Winslow, Danny Willette and Tisha Butler, of Winslow, and Kathy Hopkins and husband Rusty, of Florida; grandchildren, Rebecca, Jordan, Kyle, Katrina, Whitney, Caleb, Jennifer, Jason, Spencer, Tyler, and Camden. great-grandchildren, Brody, Caspar, Addisyn, Abby-Gayle, Lynkin, Piper and Hazel; her twin brother Raymond Howe Jr. and her sister Debbie Albert (Howe) and husband Keith; many in-laws, nieces, nephews.
Services are yet to be decided.
ZEPHYRHILLS, Florida – Richard “Dick” Albert Rodrigue, 92, of Zephyrhills, Florida, formerly of Oakland, passed away on Wednesday, February 9, 2022.
During his earlier years, Dick enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling and golf; in his later years, he enjoyed playing shuffleboard and bocce ball and never lost his passion for golf as he still played.
He is survived by his wife of almost 73 years, Joan LaCroix Rodrigue; two daughters and sons-in-law, Betty and David Latham, Sandra and John Palmer; four grandchildren, Mariah Eno Griffith, Wade Eno, Erica Palmer and Shane Palmer; great-grandchildren, Tyler Harris, Jacob Harris, Eloise Eno and Alexis Palmer; as well as his great-great-grandchild, Easton Harris; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Mary Jane Castilloux Rodrigue and Albert Rodrigue; and his two sisters, Jeanine Albert and Rita Shotten.
Graveside services will be held in Maine in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shady Oaks Sunshine Committee, c/o Shady Oaks Owners’ Association, 3651 Castle Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33540.
by Mary GrowAt their Feb. 8 meeting, China Transfer Station Committee members continued discussion of out-of-town disposal options and possible changes at the local disposal facility (see The Town Line, Jan. 20, p. 3). They again reached no conclusions.
After years of sending trash to the Penobscot Energy Recovery Corporation (PERC) incinerator, China and more than 100 other Maine towns and cities joined the proposed trash-to-energy facility at Hampden. One component of the deal was creation of the Municipal Review Committee (MRC), which represents member towns.
The facility has been closed since May 2020, and attempts to reopen it or to find a buyer who would reopen it have failed. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood described MRC’s executive director, Michael Carroll, and committee members as “super-frustrated.”
Hapgood said an executive-session MRC meeting is scheduled for the week of Feb. 14, after which there might be additional information.
Mark Davis, acting chairman of the China committee, is also super-frustrated. He wants China to get out of the project, and suggested hiring another attorney to find a legal way if town attorney Amanda Meader doesn’t have time to explore options.
With the Hampden plant not operating, some towns’ waste is going again to PERC and some is being landfilled. Davis is indignant that China’s trash is landfilled. His preferred option is an incinerator at the China transfer station.
Palermo representative Robert Kurek said the multi-town project was a sound idea, and members signed up because PERC was about to raise its fees. But the Hampden facility was too ambitious.
Hapgood reminded Davis that legal advice costs money.
Committee members returned to discussion of other topics from their previous meeting.
There is no information from contractors on building a cover for the crusher box.
Hagood had not analyzed results of her just-completed survey of residents and therefore was not ready to make a recommendation on new transfer station hours.
China select board members are in favor of replacing the current radio frequency identification (RFID) tags with stickers. Kurek is unenthusiastic. There is no consensus among committee members on whether there should be a charge for stickers and if there is, how much it should be.
Kurek again explained how the contract between China and Palermo sets requirements for changing the price Palermo residents pay for their special trash bags. He planned to repeat the explanation for China select board members at their Feb. 14 meeting.
Hapgood said select board members are open to the idea of adding a guard shack at the transfer station entrance. They assigned the proposal to board member and contractor Blane Casey.
The next Transfer Station Committee meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 8.
An article in the Dec. 30, 2021, Mt. Desert Islander newspaper said that the technology planned for the closed Hampden plant is being used successfully in similar-sized plants in Massachusetts and Utah.
The process separates saleable recyclables from mixed waste and uses the mixed waste to produce biogas, described as “a renewable energy byproduct.”
The article further said that MRC Executive Director Michael Carroll said some towns’ waste must be landfilled because the PERC incinerator at Orrington is not big enough to accommodate all of MRC’s member towns.
by Mary GrowAt their Feb. 14 meeting, China selectmen dealt with three issues before continuing review of the proposed 2022-23 budget.
Lacking complete information on a few budget items, they scheduled a special meeting for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21, despite the town office being closed that day for the Presidents’ Day holiday.
The longest pre-budget discussion was with Palermo select board chairman Robert Kurek, about the price Palermo residents pay for trash bags under the contract that lets them use China’s transfer station.
The contract sets four parameters affecting changes in bag costs: the cost of living, transportation and disposal costs, state mandates (which so far have been irrelevant) and the price China pays to buy the bags. It requires China officials to give Palermo six months’ notice of any increase.
Kurek has developed formulas for translating words into dollars. For example, he defines the cost of living increase as the change between Dec. 31, 2016 (the day before the contract came into force), and Aug. 31, 2021 (when China officials proposed upping Palermo residents’ price).
Kurek asked China select board members to appoint someone to review his formula with him and make sure it is acceptable. They appointed Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood.
Hapgood reminded them that the long-discussed revised charge is scheduled to take effect April 1. “Give me some direction,” she asked select board members.
The second issue was improved security cameras at the transfer station to make it easy to identify people who enter when the facility is closed. Hapgood presented a figure of $3,194.99, of which $1,750 is on hand as a carry-forward from last year.
She recommended taking the remaining $1,444.99 from the transfer station budget. Select board members unanimously approved the total.
The third issue was the planning board’s request to put proposed amendments to Chapters 2 and 11 of the Land Use Ordinance on the warrant for the June 14 town business meeting.
After discussion of the relationship between the two elected boards, select board members voted unanimously to present the amendments to voters.
The planning board is working on a new Chapter 8, which would set rules for future solar developments. Hapgood said that document is not yet in final form.
Information on the proposed changes is on the town website, china.govoffice.com, the manager said. In reply to resident Scott Pierz’s question about whether the planning board held a public hearing during development of the amendments, she reminded the audience that discussions were in the spring of 2021 and said she would look for a record of a hearing.
Budget discussion took more than an hour. Board members accepted Hapgood’s recommendations, which are based on requests from heads of town departments and the current year’s budget adjusted for expected changes, on most items.
The only split vote was on the proposal to reduce the amount for 2022-23 road paving from Hapgood’s recommended $600,000 to Road Foreman Shawn Reed’s requested $560,000.
Everyone who spoke expects paving to be more expensive this summer than last; the question is how much more. Hapgood recommended the higher appropriation because of the uncertainty. If prices are lower than she anticipates, roads skipped in past years could get resurfaced, she said.
Board members Wayne Chadwick and Blane Casey made and seconded the motion for $560,000, and were supported by Janet Preston. Chairman Ronald Breton and member Jeanne Marquis were opposed.
After the Feb. 21 special budget meeting, the next regular China select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 28.
by Mary GrowVassalboro select board members held their second budget discussion on Feb. 10, taking another two and a half hours to review expenditure requests for the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2022.
Major decisions were postponed for more consideration, and the decisions select board members did make are subjected to reconsideration as the budget develops. A still-pending decision that will affect several budget lines is what percentage pay raise to recommend voters give town employees.
Late in 2021 board members authorized Town Manager Mary Sabins to contract for a regional salary survey. Until they have the results, which Sabins expects soon, they are waiting to see what 2022-23 pay level seems appropriate.
The Feb. 10 special meeting began with a presentation by Holly Weidner, chairman of the Vassalboro Conservation Commission (VCC), with comments by Scott Pierz, executive director of the China Region Lakes Alliance (CRLA). The first draft of the 2022-23 budget has a request for $11,500 for the CRLA.
In past years, voters approved $7,500, until at the 2021 town meeting they added $398 (from another organization they decided not to fund) for a total of $7,898 for the current fiscal year.
Weidner explained that for $7,500, Vassalboro had a share of the CRLA’s Courtesy Boat Inspection (CBI) program: inspectors checked boats to make sure no fragments of invasive weeds were being imported. Inspectors were stationed at all three Vassalboro landings, protecting China Lake, Webber Pond and Three Mile Pond, she said.
If Vassalboro increased its appropriation, Weidner expected the VCC would work with CRLA and lake associations to add four more water quality protection projects on Webber and Three Mile ponds: Best Management Practices advice to landowners; a survey of gravel roads to see where road run-off impacts water quality; a demonstration project for the state-wide LakeSmart program; and monitoring and when necessary clearing Seaward Mills Stream to ensure alewife passage into Three Mile Pond.
Weidner’s letter to select board members estimated the four projects would cost a total of $3,000. She requested another $1,000 as Vassalboro’s share of the additional administrative costs.
When they reached the “Requests” section of the draft budget, selectmen recommended $9,000 for the CRLA.
They also endorsed Sabins’ recommendation to ask voters for $1,500 for the Vassalboro snowmobile club despite lack of a written request.
Other decisions made at the Feb. 10 meeting included:
Numerous other budget items were discussed without decisions. As of Feb. 10, select board members were leaning toward two new proposals: per-hour stipends, instead of mileage reimbursement, for members of Vassalboro First Responders (treating them the same as volunteer firefighters); and an undetermined amount to begin development of a new park on town-acquired land between Route 32 and Outlet Stream, north of East Vassalboro.
Sabins said a state grant might be available for the park; but, she said, the one she investigated requires any park it funds to remain a park forever, and she would prefer not to limit future officials and voters.
Selectmen and audience members suggested different names for the park to honor the town manager, whose idea it is to use the streamside lot for fishing and other recreation.
Continued budget discussion is on the agenda for the regular Vassalboro select board meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at the town office.
The selectmen’s budget recommendations will go to the budget committee, which will begin meeting March 3. Disagreements between the two boards are often resolved before the warrant (list of articles) for the annual town meeting is approved; if not, town meeting voters make the final decisions.
Vassalboro’s 2022 town meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 6. Local elections will be held Tuesday, June 14.
Other Feb. 17 agenda items include an update from codes officer Page on the former church on Priest Hill Road, in North Vassalboro, deemed a dangerous building and scheduled for demolition if owner Chad Caron does not correct the situation; and discussion of the 10-Year China Lake Watershed-Based Management Plan with China Lake Association President Stephen Greene.
For background on the Priest Hill Road building, see The Town Line, Jan. 13, p. 2. For background on the China Lake management plan, see the issues of Dec. 9, 2021, p. 1, and Dec. 23, 2021, p. 2.