OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 24, 2025

WALTER E. PEARL

OAKLAND – Walter Edward Pearl, 74, died at his home on Sunday, March 16, 2025, following several years of failing health.

Born in Waterville, June 2, 1950, he was the son of Walter E. Pearl Sr. and Thelma Hussey Pearl.

Ed spent his childhood in Winslow and was a member of the Winslow High School class of 1969. He was known for his sense of humor, quick wit, mischief-making and love of music. He was a vocalist in a local band, The Imposters, and a percussionist in the high school band. It was also during this time that Ed became an Eagle Scout.

Following high school he worked for several local businesses, including his father’s Crown Inc., where he learned auto mechanics, and the K2 Ski Company, in Winslow, where he was a member of the demo team and tuned skis for world cup ski racers. He was often seen skiing the slopes of Sugarloaf. After marrying Susan Wells and moving to the Clearwater, Florida, area, where they lived for nearly a decade, Ed returned to Maine, divorced and fulfilled his dream of living at the lake.

He settled in Oakland and established a successful painting business, Pearl Painting, from which he retired after nearly 25 years. For many years he was em­ployed part time by New England Country Music Festivals as an assistant concert promoter and stage manager.

Ed took great pride in his home, making many improvements and establishing beautiful gardens, commenting often on how much he loved living there. A man of many interests, he enjoyed woodworking, furniture restoration, fishing, boating, photography, loon and eagle watching and listening to his large collection of vinyl record albums and CDs. Ed enjoyed telling a great story (often embellished), reminiscing with friends and family and hosting gatherings.

Heading out on the lake in his Stingray was always an adventure.

He graciously volunteered his time, talent, and expertise to many local organizations in the Waterville-Oakland area including the Town of Oakland’s Waterfront Park gazebo construction project and the Messalonskee Lake Association. For many years he was a dedicated and valued volunteer at the Humane Society Waterville Area where he spent countless hours assisting in any way he could. The many cats that he adopted were, indeed, very lucky felines!

Ed is survived by his sister Mary McNeil and her husband George, of Steep Fall;, his niece Caitlin McNeil Lincoln, husband Joshua and daughter Nina, of Brunswick; his nephew Christian Milneil, wife Jessica and daughters Mona and Maxine, of Portland; several cousins.

An opportunity to share memories of Ed with family and friends is planned for the summer.

Memorial donations in Ed’s name may be sent to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville ME 04901.

GARY A. BUSSELL

WINSLOW – Gary Alan Bussell, 64, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Gary was born in Hartland to Raymond E. and Loretta (Berube) Bussell, in November 1960.

Gary continued to live most of his life in Somerset County working at various jobs. In August 2003, he married Roxanne Williams. They had several years of happiness until her death in May 2021. After that, due to declining health, he resided at Halldale Manor’s assisted living facility, in Farmingdale.

To his dying day, Gary was proud of his 30 years of sobriety. He often spoke of his “Higher Power” helping him maintain that sobriety. During those years, he chaired many AA meetings and helped several others through tough times. His hobbies included playing/teaching cribbage to whoever he could talk into a game of it, fishing, old western movies, and coloring and card games on his iPad.

Gary will be remembered for his natural instincts for caregiving, his kindness to others and a wonderful sense of humor. His caring attributes endeared him to many staff members and residents while living at Halldale Manor.

He is survived by his children, Mallory (Elliott) Newton, Brandy and Felicia Boutilier; siblings Elizabeth French, Lewis (Karla) Bussell, Randy Robinson, Harland (Debbie) Bussell, Karen Golden, and Donna Sullivan; also, six grandchildren; two uncles; several cousins; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was predeceased by his spouse, Roxanne; his parents Raymond and Lorretta Bussell; and his sister, Pauline Avery.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 8, at 2 p.m., at the Elks Lodge, 21 Silver St., Skowhegan. Light snacks will be provided. The family desires no flowers.

Please visit Gary’s memorial page https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/gary-bussell where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

ALICE R. KING-STARKE

WINSLOW – Alice Marie Regina (Bizier) King-Starke passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, following a courageous fight with pancreatic cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, May 2, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. A burial will be held after the Mass in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove St., Waterville. To read Alice’s full obituary please visit http://www.gallantfh.com.

CHRISTINE N. GAY

AUGUSTA – Christine (Duplessis) (Newell) Gay, 98, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care at Glenridge. She was born in Augusta, May 20, 1926, the daughter of Zepherin and Irene (Desruisseux) Duplessis, .

Christine was educated in the Augusta schools before becoming employed at Taylor Shoe and Hallowell Shoe where she worked for 29 years. She finished out her career with the State of Maine Bureau of Public Improvements in 1988.

Christine met and married Harvard (Hardy) and they shared 61 years of marriage before his passing in 2024. They enjoyed snowmobiling, motorcycling, camping and traveling throughout the country, their most memorable trip being a road trip to Alaska and back.

Christine enjoyed hosting holiday and family gatherings and was a wonderful cook. Many enjoyed her recipes. For years Christine had a very large garden and canned her harvest that would last throughout much of the year.

Christine was predeceased by her husband Hardy, her parents, son Peter Newell, sister Rita Valliere, brothers George, Richard and Donald Duplessis, sisters-in-law, Lilly and Diana Duplessis, niece Rachel Bumford, stepdaughter Melody Gay and stepson Edward Gay.

Survivors include her grandson, Jeffrey Newell; stepson Harvard Gay, Jr.; stepdaughter Melinda Simon (Pete); sisters-in-law Priscilla Duplessis, Kay, Hilda and Jeanette Gay; brother-in-law Charles Freeman; along with several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will be a family graveside service at the Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mid-Maine Cremation Services, Waterville.

HAROLD J. POIRIER

WATERVILLE – Harold Joseph Poirier passed on Monday, April 14, 2025. He was was born to Flora Young Poirier and Emile Poirier.

His greatest joy in his life was his family and friends. Harold was an avid gardener and loved golfing.

He was the youngest plant manager in the history of C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville. He was the plant manager in Calais, Dover Foxcroft, and Waterville.

Harold was predeceased by his parents; and his brothers Richard and Paul Poirier and his sister, Jeannette Hall.

Harold is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Marianne; his son, Mark and his wife Laudith Poirier; his stepdaughter, Lisa and husband Richard Pomerleau; his granddaughters, Jessica and husband Mike Bailey and their son Lucas and daughter Katie, Jordyn and husband Jake Crosby, Nyki Poirier; and grandsons Byron Sears and daughter Gracelyn; granddaughter, Laura and husband Anthony Cole and children Liam, Alister, and Elle; grandson, Miah and wife Brittany Pomerleau and son, Layton; many aunts, uncles and cousins from Québec, Canada; nieces and nephews in Maine.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church, located at 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolence and memory shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Harold to a charity of your choice.

JUDITH A. MAYO

CHINA – Judith A. Mayo, 85, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at her home in China. Judy was born on December 27, 1939, a daughter of Donald and Elsa (Becker) Gordon.

Judy grew up in Weeks Mills and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. On October 5, 1957, she married John Gibson Mayo and the two settled in China where Judy was an exemplary homemaker.

Judy was a talented craftswomen and created many pieces for her family and friends through her skill of knitting, crocheting, sewing, cross stitching, quilting, and rug braiding. She was constantly working on a project that involved the work of her hands and her experience often yielded sound advice to those working on their own projects. In her retirement years, many winters were enjoyed in Yuma, Arizona, alongside her husband, John.

Judy will be remembered as an honest and independent woman and as a devoted matriarch who loved her family dearly.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her husband of 67 years, John G. Mayo.

Judy is survived by her children, Monte Mayo and his partner, Karin Sullivan, Mia-Jo Nguyen and her husband Ninh, and Mira-Su Thurston and her husband, Michael; grandchildren, Samantha Hayes, Alexander Thompson and his wife Alyssa, and Koriana Thompson; great-grandchildren, Anastasia Thompson and Aubriella Thompson.

No services are being held at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to: Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Judy’s name may be made to Weeks Mills Fire Department, 778 Dirigo Rd., China, ME 04358.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 17, 2025

TINA L. EMERY

CORNVILLE – Tina Louise Emery passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Tina was known for her peaceful, caring, easy-going nature, and her great sense of humor. Her loving presence was a source of comfort to many, and wherever there was a peace sign, you could be sure Tina was behind it. She loved cooking, fishing, attending concerts, enjoying the outdoors, and a large hot coffee with eight sugars (stirred), but most of all, she cherished spending time with her family, friends, and beloved animals.

Tina graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College in 1998 as a registered nurse. Throughout her career, she wore many hats in the nursing field, but her true passion was working in the operating room and providing compassionate care to her patients.

Tina is survived by her husband of 16 years, Richard Emery of Cornville; her children, Todd Labelle and wife Grace, Tori Dyer, Alyssa Worster and husband Robert, and Richard W. Emery and fiancée Kimberly Fiske; half-brother Sean Jewell; her grandsons, Miles and Colby.

A family gathering to celebrate Tina’s life will be held later this spring. Details will be shared with friends and family.

JAMES E. THIBODEAU

WATERVILLE – James E. Thibodeau, 83, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Woodlands Senior Living, in Waterville. Jimmy was born in Waterville on December 23, 1941, the son of Arthur and Eva (St. Armand) Thibodeau.

He was a graduate of Waterville High School, class of 1960. After high school Jimmy attended Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, graduating class of 1964.

Jimmy spent several years shipping all over the world with the Merchant Marines. He spent his free time hunting, skiing, and attending local sporting events. Many hours were spent fishing, which was Jimmy’s true passion along with tying flies. He helped establish the Kennebec Valley Trouts Unlimited. After retiring, he became a flyfishing guide in Maine and Montana.

He was predeceased by both his parents; his sister Carmen, and his brothers Robert, Richard, and John.

Jimmy is survived by his brother, Bernard with his wife Patty, of Waterville; as well as many nieces, and nephews.

At Jimmy’s request, there will be no visitation or service, as the family will celebrate his life in a private ceremony.

Please visit Jimmy’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/jimmy-thibodeau-mar-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

CAROLYN J. DOW

CHINA – Carolyn J. Dow, 94, of China, passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. Born on February 1, 1931, in China, to the late Thomas and Marie (Bumps) James, she graduated in 1948 from Erskine Academy, in South China, and later Thomas College, in Waterville.

Having married Roy M. Dow Jr., of Vassalboro, in 1950, they enjoyed 65 years of marriage before his passing in May 2016. She and her husband built the China General Store and operated it for 12 years. They enjoyed many years traveling to northern Maine for fishing and hunting along with spending summers in Pemaquid boating and camping with friends.

Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, her in-laws Roy M. Dow Sr., and Natalie (Monk) Dow, her grandson Jonathan White, and her son-in-law Gene Pierce.

Surviving are her children, Laura Pierce, of China, Susan White and husband Carrol ,of China, James Dow and wife Crystal, of China, Jane Glidden and husband Rodny, of Palermo, and Roberta Dionne and husband Scott, of China; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; her sister Linda Lawrence and husband Robert, of Clinton; niece Gretchen Knowlton; and nephews Ray and Roy Lawrence.

Arrangements are under the care of Direct Cremation of Maine. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the China Village Cemetery Extension, 148 Neck Road, China.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Lakewood Continuing Care Activities Program, 220 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901.

RANDOLPH G. NADEAU

SKOWHEGAN – Randolph G. “Randy” Nadeau, was born May 3, 1963, to Byron Randolph Nadeau and Muriel (Withee) Nadeau. Randolph graduated from Madison Memorial High School in 1981. Randy enlisted in the U.S. Army.

After the Army Randy went on to get his CDL license and worked as a truck driver. He cared deeply for his friends and family.

Services took place on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Daystar Chapel, at 574 Lakewood Road, Madison. A full obituary can be read and messages left on http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

WARREN LIBURT

JEFFERSON – Warren Liburt, 95, of Jefferson, passed away in his sleep on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. He was born March 8, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, was raised in Huntington, New York, the son of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Liburt.

Warren was a top academic student at Huntington High School and a star tennis player. He graduated from Columbia University in 1950 where he was a key player on the varsity tennis team. Graduating from Columbia University Law school in 1953, he completed a year’s long clerkship with the Surrogate Judge of Suffolk County, with whom he had interned during law school. He subsequently enlisted in the United States Army; after completing basic training he served with distinction in the Judge Advocate General Corps.

After being discharged from the Army, Warren established a private practice, embracing a good deal of pro bono work and participating in Rotary and the Young Republicans.

Warren left private practice and in 1981 moved to Maine where he worked for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services for 38 years, retiring in 2019. In retirement he enjoyed reading, watching old movies, spoiling the cats, and sitting on a rock along the coast watching the tide change.

He is survived by his wife Ann; daughter Ellen; son Joseph; and brother Burke.

There will be a graveside service this summer in Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To share a condolence or memory with the Liburt family, visit Warren’s Book of Memories at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com.

LAURA M. GRAY

WINDSOR– Laura May (Fowle) Gray, 87, of Windsor, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 12, 2025, while in the care of Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. Laura was born in Whitefield on May 8, 1937, to Clyde Scott Fowle and Hazel Blanche (Prescott) Fowle. She was the youngest of three girls.

Laura went to high school at Erskine Academy, in South China, and graduated with the class of 1955. A schoolmate passed her a note from Richard (Dick) Hunter Gray, a senior – who was an excellent first baseman and drove a ‘42 Ford. This was the start of a life-long love. The two were married on November 3, 1956, and honeymooned at Niagara Falls right before Dick entered the military on November 15.

When Dick was drafted to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, there wasn’t anything that was going to stop Laura from joining him.  They lived there for 18 months and this is where their son Richard (Rick) was born. When Laura and Dick returned to Maine they decided to build their home in Windsor. Soon after, their second son Timothy (Tim) was born.

Laura started a career in service to the town of Windsor in 1963, and remained dedicated to this work for more than 30 years. During her tenure, she held the titles of town clerk, registrar of voters, treasurer, and tax collector.  Laura and Dick were so dedicated to the town of Windsor that they built a room onto their home that housed the town office for 25 years, up until its move in 1989.

Laura had many passions: her flower garden, puzzles, watching Red Sox games, and bowling.

Her ideal vacation was camping at Cathedral Pines Campground with her children and grandchildren.  She was involved with Boy Scout Troop #609 and was well known for sewing patches and merit badges for many of the area youth.  She earned a lifetime achievement award for her work with the Erskine Alumni association, Spirit of America Award for her service to the town, and just as prominently displayed a Johnny Damon Red Sox plaque labeled the world’s greatest grandma.

Laura was very close with her family. She shared a special bond with her two sisters, she loved being a mother and grandmother, and she was a dedicated daughter who helped care for her mother as she aged. She believed in the importance of doing a good turn daily, and could be depended upon by many. As they say, one good turn deserves another, and Laura was able to rely on her son Rick and daughter-in-law Debbie (who lived nearby) to be her primary caregivers as she herself aged. Her son Tim and daughter-in-law Liz were keenly aware of the safety related issues connected with elder independence and consistently helped with problem solving, and advocating for Laura’s best interests.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Richard H. Gray Sr., who passed away on August 8, 2019; and her son, Richard H. Gray Jr.

Laura is survived by her son, Timothy(Tim) Gray and his wife Elizabeth (Liz), of Jefferson; daughter-in-law, Deborah Gray, of Windsor; her sisters, Christine Glidden and her husband, Richard, of Waldoboro, and Virginia Jewett, of Gardiner; her grandchildren Zachary Gray and his wife Rebecca, of Wiscasset, Mackenzie Gray, of Windsor, Benjamin Gray and his wife Brooke, of Livermore Falls, Spencer Gray, of Falmouth, Skyler Gray and his wife Beth, of Norway, and Timothy(Tim) Gray Jr., of Augusta; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may visit from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 19, at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.  Followed by a reception at North Windsor Baptist Church, 955 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.  Burial and committal prayers will be held in Rest Haven Cemetery, Windsor, at a later date.

DAVID D. DESCHAINE

WATERVILLE – David D. Deschaine, 71, passed away on Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Waterville. He was born in Waterville on July 31, 1953, a son of Rene and Anne (Martin) Deschaine.

He attended Waterville High School.

Over the years, he worked at Cottle’s Supermarket, in Waterville, then for Waterville Public Works (over 30 years), where for several years he was known as the ‘Snowplow Guy with a Cigar’. He would be seen driving around town in his prized GMC Pickup truck.

He garnered a reputation for repairing lawnmowers, snowblowers and was known to be puttering around his garage. He was an avid fisherman, and hunted often.

He is survived by his sister Rose Paulette; brother Martin Deschaine and wife Jane; sister-in-law Diane Dechaine; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

David was predeceased by his parents; his brother Rene ‘Roland’ Dechaine, his sister Geraldine MacArthur, his brother Rodney Deschaine and his brother-in-law Gene Paulette.

Arrangements will be made for a future gathering.

You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting David’s guestbook at https://vrlfuneralhome.com/.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Winslow Community Cupboard Food Pantry.

Services

NORMAN L. LEEMAN

PALERMO – Norman L. Leeman, 77, passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 26, at 11 a.m., at the Palermo Christian Church, 322 Branch Mills Rd., Palermo, ME 04354.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

JANET F. MITCHELL

WATERVILLE – Janet F. Mitchell, 93, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 16, 2024, in her family home of 67 years. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m., on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Lorimer Chapel, Colby College, 4000 Mayflower Hill Drive, Waterville, Maine 04901. A reception will be held after the Celebration of Life. To read Janet’s full obituary please visit http://www.gallantfh.com.

 

 

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 10, 2025

SUNNY BROWN

WATERVILLE – Sunny Brown passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025.

Sunny taught primary ages in school for 35 years, seven years in Gardiner, and 28 years at Vassalboro Community School. Sunny appreciated her many colleagues. The relationships with her students and parents meant the world to Sunny.

Sunny had great relationships at her swim classes at the Waterville AYCC. She had close friends, who she called her “cancer posse,” who accompanied her to her treatments and kept her in good spirits during her cancer journey.

Sunny will be remembered by all, as a resilient beacon of light for those of us to follow. Not only a teacher of academics, but she was a teacher of life and an unwavering support system. She was a space for safety and understanding, but she also had a great sense of humor to carry the room. The community has lost a pillar, but we shall continue with gratitude and grace for her presence.

Sunny leaves behind her son, Jesse; daughter, Amy; her ex-husband, and their father, Peter; many nieces and nephews.

Sunny’s Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 19, from 1 – 4 p.m., in the recreation room, at the Harold Alfond Center, YMCA Boys & Girls Club, located on North Street, in Waterville. This event is open to the public and we are encouraging a potluck.”

EDWARD KERVIN

WATERVILLE – Edward “Ed” Kervin, 72, of Waterville, passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Ed was born on March 14, 1953, in Waterville, to parents John and Marie (King) Kervin.

On March 29, 1980, he married the love of his life, Sandra. Together, they raised two sons, Jarod and Adam, and two daughters, Lori and Ariel.

After graduating high school, Ed proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1971-1974. He worked at Waterville Osteopathic Hospital, Service Merchandise, and Sam’s Club, both in Augusta, before eventually retiring as a general manager from Dollar Tree. In 2015, he moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, with Sandra and Ariel.

Ed had a passion for his family, work, music, trivia and coaching soccer and baseball. He shared a love of the Dallas Cowboys, his favorite team, with his two sons. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, friends and his cats.

Ed is preceded in death by his son, Jarod; his parents John and Marie Kervin; James and Jacqueline Lajoie; his grandson, Mason; and his two brothers, William and Thomas.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his son Adam and wife Amanda; his daughters Lori and Ariel; his grandchildren, Ariel, Abigail, Ava, Amelia, Alexander and Aspen; his sister, Kathy; many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 24, at 11 a.m, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by a committal at St Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, Waterville.

LILA C. WATSON

CLINTON – Lila C. Watson passed away unexpectedly and peacefully, Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

She was a preverbal whirlwind going nonstop until the time of her illness. She traveled the country, cruised the Caribbean, toured Europe, the Panama Canal, and visited the tulips of Holland. She was an active member order of the Eastern Star holding many positions over the years and making lifelong friends along the way. The Clinton evening extension and the Brown Memorial Methodist Church were also near and dear to her heart.

In 1961, Lila married David Lee Watson and set down roots in the town of Clinton. There they raised two children in a beautiful home on Pleasant Street. David worked full time and ran a business after hours so Lila could stay home. Anyone who knew her (who didn’t?) knew she rivaled Martha Stewart with her home making abilities, could cook circles around Emeril Lagasse, and out bake Julia Childes on any given day. Gossip spread like wildfire around town when Lila and the ladies of town got to talking. Modern day Facebook pales in comparison.

Lila was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, David Watson; her father, Sherwin and mother, Margarett Crosby; sister, Janet Price, brother, James Crosby, sister-in-law, Trudy Crosby; and nephew, Steven Crosby.

Lila is survived by daughter, Laurie Dale and husband David; son, David “Skip” Watson II and wife Lorriann; grandchildren Devon, Jonathan, Lauren and Matt; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Bently Crosby; sister CaroleAnn Johnston; and many nieces and nephews.

Lila’s funeral will be held on Saturday April 12, at 10 a.m., at the Brown Memorial Methodist Church, in Clinton. Refreshments and time to reflect will follow in the dining area of the church. A graveside service at Green Lawn Rest Cemetery will take place on June 9, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Brown Memorial Methodist Church, P.O. Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927 or Fireside Chapter #103, c/o Sandy Leclaire, 644 Bangor Rd., Benton, ME 04901.

ROBERT BOSSIE

CLINTON – Robert “Bob” Bossie, 86, a longtime resident of Clinton, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville.

Bob was born on February 18, 1939, in Bingham, and was one of eight children born to Wallace and Estelle (Lagasse) Bossie.

Bob graduated from Bingham High School in 1958 and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, proudly serving his country for a period of four years with overseas assignments in France and Germany for a period of three years. During his off-duty time he traveled extensively throughout Europe. He completed his service in September 1962 and was honorably discharged.

Bob married his high school sweetheart Mary (Wing) Bossie, on August 17, 1963, who later raised two sons Shannon and Nathan Bossie.

Bob attended Husson College, in Bangor, and later worked for C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, inWaterville, beginning as a management trainee at the Waterville plant and later as superintendent of stitching at the Calais plant.

Bob was hired as office manager to the newly-formed Maine-Cascade Iron Works, in Clinton, and was employed there for a period of 23 years.

In January 1993. Bob was employed as the office manager at Marden, Dubord, Bernier & Stevens Law firm, in Waterville, until his retirement in April 2006. Bob often spoke of his many fond memories there.

Bob participated in many community and civic organizations and was a school board member of S.A.D. #49 representing Clinton and serving on many committees over a six-year period.

Bob was a member of the Clinton Lions Club (over 50 years) and served on the board of directors a number of years and also its president for the 1976/77 year.

Bob was a Trustee of the Greenlawn Rest Cemetery Association and served as its treasurer for the period 2004-20II.

He also served as a member of the Clinton Republican Town Committee, in Clinton, the Parish Council of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, in Fairfield, and also the Knights of Columbus Council #11303, in Fairfield.

Bob was predeceased by his wife Mary after 57 years of marriage. He was also predeceased by his parents Wallace and Estelle Bossie, his brothers Roland, Roger, Wallace (Jr.), James, and his sisters Betty Goody and Pauline (Paula) McIver.

He is survived by his sons Shannon and his wife Donna, of Abingdon, Virginia, and grandson Joshua and his wife Ashley, and great-grandsons Jack Oliver Bossie and Arlo Issac Bossie, of Orange, Connecticut; Nathan and his wife Christina and grandson Zachary Bossie, of Vernon, Connecticut; brother Don and partner Kerry O‘Connor, of Las Vegas, Nevada; sister in-law Rachel Bossie, of Turner; and his brother in-law Ron Goody, of Adrian, Michigan; sisters-in-law Marie and husband Douglas Cutchin, of Nashua, New Hampshire, and Lois Smith, of Houston, Texas; many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit from 4 – 6 p.m., on Friday, April 25, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville

A private burial service will be held at a later date.

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

LYNN M. SENIOR

WHITEFIELD – Lynn M. (DeRamo) Senior, 63, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025. She was the devoted wife of Robert H. Senior, whom she met on New Year’s Eve in 1979. They married in November 1984 and spent 45 years together, raising their two sons, Christopher and Thomas.

Lynn was born on March 15, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Nicholas and Diana (Mannino) DeRamo. She grew up in Ozone Park, Queens, and graduated from John Adams High School. In 1980, she pursued her passion for helping others by attending Queensborough College, earning a degree in nursing. Inspired by her mother’s volunteer work with children with disabilities, Lynn knew from an early age that she wanted to dedicate her life to caring for others.

Her nursing career began in 1982 at the New York Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.) hospital. In 1995, Lynn and her family moved to Windsor, where she continued her service at the V.A. Togus hospital. She took immense pride in her 35-year career within the V.A. hospital system before retiring in 2017.

Lynn had a radiant and welcoming personality, effortlessly forming lifelong friendships from New York to Maine. In 1997, she and her family settled in Whitefield where she became deeply involved in the community. She was a dedicated parishioner at St. Denis Catholic Church, a proud Cub Scout Den Mother, and a spirited chaperone for her children’s school trips to New York. Whether helping a friend, lending a hand at church, or organizing an adventure, Lynn always gave her time and energy with an open heart.

Of all her accomplishments, the one she cherished most was the family she built with her husband, Robert. She found her greatest joy in being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Nothing made her happier than having her family gathered around her table, sharing a meal, a tradition deeply rooted in her Italian heritage. She adored reading to her grandchildren, singing with them, and watching them play outdoors. She also had a deep love for the arts, enjoying theatre, concerts, and shows, always eager to share these experiences with family and friends.

Lynn lived life with laughter, warmth, and an unstoppable spirit. Even in the face of illness, she remained steadfast in her desire to embrace every moment.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Lynn is survived by her two sons, Christopher Senior and his girlfriend, Krystal Hisler, and Thomas Senior and his wife, Kateri Seniorgrandchildren Thomas Roe, Dominic Trahan, Chloe Lane, Karlee Senior, and Everlee Senior.

Visiting hours will be held at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, on Friday, April 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Denis Church, 298 Grand Army Rd., Whitefield, on Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1 Church St., in Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Lynn Senior may be made to MaineGeneral’s Comfort Care at Glenridge https://give.mainegeneral.org/WaystoGiveMemorialandTribute or mailed to MaineGeneral’s Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903.

NORMAN C. COLFORD

OAKLAND – Norman C. Colford, 92, of Oakland, died Friday, March 28, 2025, at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, following a brief illness. Born in Winslow on August 16, 1932, he was a son of Arthur and Louise (Labbe) Colford.

Norman was educated and lived in Fairfield during his adolescent years before moving to Oakland. He worked at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, his entire career as a paper machine supervisor. He was a member of Waterville Country Club for several years and a member of the Waterville Elks Club #905, for 30 years.

He is survived by his children, a daughter Jane, and a son Duane; as well the mother of his children, Jeannette (Rossignol) Colford; siblings, sister Adeline Veilleux, of Waterville, and brother Carroll Colford and his wife Fern, of Fairfield; several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will take place at 9 a.m., on May 7, 2025, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

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.

PAMELA M. PRESBY

PARSONSFIELD – Pamela M. Presby, 56, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Northern Light Mercy Hospital. She was born July 16, 1968, in Biddeford, the daughter of David and Rose Marie Presby.

Pammy attended local schools and graduated from Bonny Eagle High School.

She worked for over 27 years at Northern Light Mercy Hospital, beginning in housekeeping and later becoming a sterile technician.

Pammy enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, live music, the color pink and spending time with family. The love of her life was Scott, and she cherished every moment spent with him and her loved one.

Pammy had a love for life that was contagious. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. She had a wonderful sense of humor, always ready with a joke or a witty remark. Her heart was as big as her spirit, and she was a loyal caring friend who could always be counted on in times of need. One of Pammy’s greatest joys in life was being an aunt. She made each one of her nieces and nephews feel special and loved, and made it a priority to be there for every milestone.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Jenna Marie, her parents, and her brother Dana.

She is survived by her partner of six years, Scott Snow, of Parsonsfield; two brothers, David Presby and wife Michelle, of China, and Robert Presby and wife Jessica, of Buxton; a sister, Bethany Kavanagh and husband Derek, of Millville, New Jersey; as well has her nieces, Lauren, Morgan, Annalise and Skyler; nephews Kyle, Nicholas, Dylan, Aidan, Matthew and Landen.

DANIEL C. PRATT

CLINTON – Daniel C. Pratt, 86, passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, where he resided the past 16 months. Dan was born in Waterville on December 31, 1938, to Earl and Bernice (Dow) Pratt, of Clinton. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1956. Dan briefly attended the University of Maine in Orono but chose to return home to marry the love of his life, Marianne (Barrett) Pratt, on August 16, 1958.

In his younger years, Dan volunteered for the Clinton Fire Department and was employed at Ski-Land Woolen Mill, in Clinton. But when the chance came to work outdoors, he jumped. Dan worked as a forest fire watchman, fire ranger, insect ranger, and eventually retired as an Entomologist.

Dan was a faithful member of Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton, and served as a youth leader with Marianne when their daughter, Gretchen, was a teen. He was also a Lay Speaker, delivering more than a few sermons and narrations of Easter and Christmas Cantatas over the years. He was always complimented on his speaking voice.

Dan was a Past Master of Sebasticook Lodge #146 AF & AM, as well as Fireside Chapter #103 O.E.S., in Clinton. To list all of his other Masonic affiliations and accomplishments over 52 years would be futile. Something would be left out or mis-stated. Ultimately, he would have had none of them without his Lodge.

Dan enjoyed hunting, fishing, and Maine history. He loved traveling and saw much of the United States, including Alaska, as well as visits to Paris and Germany, especially Oktoberfest, in Munich, Germany. His two favorite places were anywhere with his family and Lily Bay.

Dan was predeceased by his parents; his wife of nearly 50 years, Marianne, a brother-in-law, Kenneth Mellan, and sister-in-law, Edna Barrett.

He is survived by his daughter, Gretchen and her husband Scott Malloch, of Carmel; his sister, Ruth Ann Mellan, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother-in-law, Laurence Barrett and companion of 14 years, Suzanne Jenkins, of West Virginia; a large extended family, genealogical and fraternal.

There will be visiting hours Saturday, Saturday, April 5, beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Masonic Service, at 10:30 a.m., and a regular service at 11 a.m. Light refreshments will follow in the Fellowship Hall. All will occur at Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton,

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dan’s memory to the Bangor Dyslexia Learning Center, 294 Union Street, Suite 3 Bangor, ME 04401 or to the Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927.

RICHARD M. HAMLIN

MADISON – Richard Mark Hamlin, 67, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, March 30, 2025, at home. He was born on July 12, 1967, in San Pablo, California.

His first loves were hunting and fishing, only surpassed by his love for his daughter Ciera, who was his pride and joy, fishing partner, and “bestest buddy”. A man of many passions over the years, from his long-haired rock-n-roll drumming days, to being an ardent fan of the Bruins and Patriots, Rich could often be found perfecting his skill as a barbeque pit master spending hours tending to his smoker. He had an enthusiasm for family, food, and the company of good friends.

Rich graduated from Spaulding High School, Rochester, New Hampshire, in 1985, and worked at Northeast Container, in Dover, New Hampshire, before moving to Maine. Rich moved to Maine in 1989 with his first wife, Amanda J. Drew, and his daughter Ciera Rae was born in 2000.

He attended Eastern Maine Community College, in Bangor, earning his applied science degree in Building Construction Technology in 2006. Rich furthered his passion for the outdoors, becoming a Maine Guide in 2016. He was a building contractor and partner in FFI Construction before moving to New Balance, where he met his future wife, Angela Mason. Their home away from home was a family camp on Sebec Lake, where they were married in 2023. More recently, Rich had been working at Sappi Paper Mill, in Hinckley, since 2021.

He was predeceased by his father Dwight R. Hamlin, mother Sandra E. Hamlin (Bowden), grandson Garth Lee Dunphy.

He is survived by his wife Angela Hamlin (Mason); daughters Ciera Rae and partner Alex Lee, Brittney Dunphy and husband Gabe; son Devon Watt and partner Jazmine Murray; brother Jeffery S. Hamlin and wife Sharon; sister Kimberly M. Dimon and husband Charlie; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

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

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to Somerset Humane Society, 123 Middle Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

PASTOR
WILLIAM J. BELLAIRE

CLINTON – Pastor William J. Bellaire, 85, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, in Augusta.

William “Bill” was born on March 24, 1940, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Bunde) Bellaire.

While in school, Bill found he had an aptitude for mechanical skills, studying tool and die machine work. After graduating from Whitmer High School, in Toledo, Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Boston from 1959 – 1963, using his skills as a machine repairman. This later led to a job in the tool and die industry.

While in the Navy, Bill heard the faithful witness of God’s love and salvation. In 1962, while in port at Barcelona, Spain, Bill believed and accepted Christ as his Savior. Shortly after, the Lord called him to become a full time minister. While in port on the East Coast, Bill attended Tremont Temple Baptist Church, in Boston, and participated in outreach ministries where he met his wife Jan.

While working as a machinist in Toledo, Ohio, Bill began his ministerial studies at Toledo Bible College earning two bachelor’s degrees, one in Theology, and one in Religious Education. Bill later finished his Master of Ministry degree at Northland Baptist Bible College. Bill began serving the Lord as an interim pastor in 1969 and later served as full time minister/pastor for many years in Ohio, Michigan and Maine. After retiring from pastoral ministry, he became a member of the Burnham Baptist Church in Maine.

Bill loved most any sport, especially baseball and ice hockey, where he played goalie. He volunteered to coach soccer and basketball at the small Christian school where his children attended. Bill was an avid sportsman, enjoying the outdoors, taking his children boating, fishing, and creating many special memories at a family camp in Lincolnville, Maine. Ice fishing, bow hunting, and deep sea fishing were other ways he enjoyed sharing time with his sons.

Bill will also be remembered for his friendly conversation and terrific sense of humor. His ability to relate stories and to tell jokes made him popular with the staff at the nursing home.

Bill was predeceased by his daughter, Susan Bellaire Fultz; sister, Jean Mettler and husband Jim, and brother, Richard and wife Betty.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janice; his sons, Mark and his wife Erin, and son Jacob; Stephen and his wife Ruth; his son-in-law Larry Fultz; and many loved nephews and nieces.

A funeral will be held on May 17, 2025, with the time and location to be determined. A committal will follow at Green Lawn Rest Cemetery, in Clinton, with military honors being presented for his service to our country.

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

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

DEAN DAVIS

BENTON – Dean Davis, 80, of Benton, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Veterans Administration Hospital, in Togus Springs, following a prolonged battle with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. He was born on May 27, 1944, in Shawmut, to Harry and Gladys Davis.

Dean served in the 82nd Airborne Division and was awarded the Purple Heart in the Dominican Republic. He later worked as a general contractor and retired from the Sappi Paper Mill, in Hinckley.

Dean was the second youngest of 10 children, a devoted son to his mother, and a loving brother to his siblings. He married his first wife Susan and raised four children.

Throughout his eight decades, Dean’s ambitions evolved, but he consistently cherished time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, enjoyed playing cards, and spent winters in Florida. A dedicated supporter of the Clinton Baptist Church, Dean served whenever possible and was a valued friend to the pastor and church members.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra and her children William, Amy, Wendy and grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Dean’s daughters Tammy Rideout and her husband Charlie, Sheri Davis and her wife Tami, and Melanie Monk and her husband Brian, his son, Dean and his wife Justine; grandchildren Joshua, Thomas, Brittany, Cassandra, and Catherine; great-grandchildren Emma, Liam, Easton, Deandre, and Amarianna; sister, June; and brother, Billy.

Dean experienced profound sorrow at the untimely passing of his granddaughter Kate-Lynn in 2022.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 9, at Clinton Baptist Church.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Clinton Baptist Church’s missionary fund, as Dean deeply valued the commitment and dedication of the missionaries supported by the church.

CHESTER A. NUTTING

CLINTON – Chester Albert Nutting Jr., 94, of Clinton, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Maine Veterans Homes, Scarborough.

Chester or Chet, as he was known to his family and friends, was born September 13,1930, in Skowhegan, the son of Chester Albert Nutting Sr. and Gladys (Lowther) Nutting of Skowhegan.

Chet was predeceased by wife Priscilla; sister Mary Louise, and daughter-in-law Heather, wife of Mark.

Chester graduated from Skowhegan High School, received his bachelor’s degree from the Farmington State Teachers College, Farmington, and later achieved a master’s degree in education. Chester served in the U.S. Army from 1954 – 1956.He then began his career in education as a teacher at Stearns High School, in Millinocket. He went on to become a principal in North Turner, Superintendent for SAD #39, in Buckfield, and returned to being a principal at Carl B. Lord school, in Vassalboro, until his retirement.

Chester was married to Priscilla Elizabeth (Cousins), at the First Congregational Church, in East Millinocket on August 15, 1953. They were married 68 years until Priscilla’s death in September 2021. An avid book collector, Chester also played tennis well into his 70s, enjoyed gardening, and playing cards with family and friends.

He is survived by children James (Michelle), John, Mark, Neal, Chester, William (Patty), Diana (Alice), Daniel (Jody); 14 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; brother, Robert (Wendy); 12 nieces and nephews; . There will be no public service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Maine Veterans’ Homes.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville.

Online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

KENNETH V. TOWER

WHITEFIELD – Kenneth Vernon Tower, 78, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. He was born on August 5, 1946, in Gardiner.

Known for his spirited nature and love for the outdoors, he left an impression on all who met, knew, and loved him.

Kenneth showed his resilience in the face of countless challenges in his life. He began working full time as a teenager as a salesman for Progressive Distributors before going into road construction where he was a foreman and superintendent for several central Maine companies. Throughout his long career, he was known for his commitment and dedication, going years without missing work, finally retiring fully in 2020.

Kenneth was passionate about his hobbies, which included hunting, fishing, golf, reading, traveling with his family, and following the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots. He was a member for many decades of the Benevolent Order of the Elks, in Gardine, and a long-time member of Sheepscot Links golf community.

Growing up in Randolph and Gardiner, Kenneth won many awards in high school football and track and field, graduating from Gardiner Area High School in 1964. Kenneth was a humble man of faith, actively participating in prayer groups and Bible studies with the Lighthouse Baptist Church and lived, in Whitefield, serving his family and faith, the two things that mattered most to him.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his mother Beverly and her husband Anthony (Sonny) Grazioso.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years Mary Tower; his children Stacey and (Pam) Tower, of Vassalboro, Tera and (David) Pare, of Augusta, James and (Virginia) Dixon, of Augusta, Melissa and (Patrick) Weiner, of Davenport, Florida, and Nicole Swift, of Portland; his grandchildren Megan Tower, Amanda Tower, Nathan and (Hailee) Tower, Allison and (William) Schultz; sister Lori Grazioso; sister-in-law Sue and (Andre) Cote; nieces Stephanie and (Ben) Guild, Heather and (Paul) Cavanaugh and nephew Michael Cote.

A funeral service was held in Kenneth’s honor on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the Lighthouse Baptist Church, 108 Maple Street, Farmingdale. A private family burial will be held in the spring.

We kindly request everyone to leave memories and upload photos to Kenneth’s memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com offering comfort and solace to those who loved him.

Others Departed

JACQUELINE M. GERRISH

OAKLAND / PALERMO – Jacqueline Margaret Gerrish, 79, passed away February 11, 2025, following a lengthy illness, at Mt. Joseph’s Rehab Facility, in Waterville. Jackie was born in Portland to Charles “Frank” and Margaret (Sargent) Gerrish.

She received her education in Hartford, Connecticut. As a high school student, she volunteered at the Oak Hill School for the blind and deaf. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in public service. Jackie continued her education at the University of Connecticut, and after graduation, she took a permanent position at the Oak Hill School for the Blind and Deaf.

In the 1970s, Jackie moved to Palermo to live with her father after her mother’s passing. She took a position for the Community Justice Project and in 1977 she became a certified social worker for the State of Maine working with adults with disabilities. Jackie loved her work and was dedicated to making a difference in her client’s lives. She retired from her position after 33 years of service.

Jackie loved nature and was an avid gardener. For several summers, along with her dear friend, Kathy Poulin Guzman, they hosted a garden party in her beautiful gardens, which was enjoyed by friends and family. Jackie loved animals and each of her furry friends were treated like a valuable family member. She also had a deep closeness with the children in her life, spending countless hours enjoying their company.

She was predeceased by both her parents; brothers Ralph, Timothy, and Frank Gerrish, and sisters Francina Gerrish Haskell and Madeline Gerrish Bartol.

Jackie leaves behind many cousins; nieces, nephews; and friends.

There will be a celebration of Jackie’s life at the Sheepscot Lake Fish and Game Association located on Route 3, in Palermo, on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m.

Jackie’s ashes will be placed at the family plot at the Oakfield Cemetery, in Oakfield, this summer.

Please visit Jackie’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/jacqueline-gerrish-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jackie’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville,ME 04901.

Services

GERALD GRENIER

WATERVILLE – There will be a Celebration of Life for Jerry (Gerald) Grenier on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m., at Pine Tree Camp Dining Hall, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome. We will be gathering to share some of our dearest memories and stories, to laugh, to cry and remember a wonderful person who is deeply missed.

JACQUELINE R. POLLIS

MADISON – A graveside service for Jacqueline R. Pollis, will be Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10 a.m., at the Forest Hill Cem­e­tery, in Madison. A celebration of life reception will follow at the VFW, in Madison. Please come and share memories and stories of her with us.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 3, 2025

RHONDA K. TRACEY

SKOWHEGAN – Rhonda Kay Tracey, 64, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the Andwell Hospice House. Rhonda was born on March 6, 1961, in Waterville, daughter to Nada (Webber) and Harry Grant.

She grew up in Canaan with her siblings, Ronald Grant, Randy Grant, and Raye Lynn (Grant) Wentworth.

Rhonda graduated from Skowhegan Area High School in 1979 after which she held secretarial jobs at local businesses in Skowhegan including Dr. Vermette, Redington-Fairview Family Practice, American Glass, and The Morning Sentinel.

She was predeceased by her dad Harry Grant and brother Ricky Grant.

Rhonda is survived by her husband Eric “Rick” Tracey; children and stepchildren Keith Burns with his wife Miranda (Tracey), Kris (Burns) Gotsmanov with her husband Sasha, Tyler Tracey with his wife Sarah, and Tim Tracey with his wife Nichole Tracey; grandchildren Alexis and Maci Burns, Landen Stafford, Gavin Tracey, Beckett, Sutton, and Elliette Gotsmanov, Cynthia, Doug, Claire, George, Eric, and Bernadette Tracey; nieces and nephews Katie Kendrick, Dana Tessier, and Dylan Wentworth.

There will be a Celebration of Life to honor her on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Pace Union Hall, Rte. 201, in Skowhegan, from 2 – 5 p.m., all are invited.

Please visit Rhonda’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/rhonda-tracy where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

DONALD R. WILSON JR.

WINDSOR- Donald Robert Wilson, Jr. (DJ), 42, of Windsor, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from a heart attack. DJ was born in Augusta, on November 16, 1982. He was the son of Donald and Mary Wilson, also of Windsor.

DJ was homes chooled and became a jack of all trades as he grew up. He began working at Augusta Upholstery when he was 16 and worked there for over 20 years. His boss, Bob Gove was a special friend and mentor. He most recently worked with his nephew in the carpentry business.

Throughout his life, DJ learned new skills easily. He enjoyed auto body work and had his own sandblaster, portable sawmill and skidder. He loved raising chickens and kept many friends and family members stocked with eggs.

In addition to his father, DJ leaves behind his sisters, Anita Smith (Troy), Karen Wing (Allen) and Laurie Wilson; nieces, Amber, Bethany and Ashley; his nephews Justin and Bradley; several great-nieces and -nephews. He was predeceased by his mother.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Fellowship Baptist Church, 237 Eastern Avenue, Augusta, Maine at 11a.m.

JESSE T. AKERS JR.

NORTH VASSALBORO – Jesse T. Akers Jr., 77, of North Vassalboro, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, following a long struggle with mesothelioma, and kidney disease. He was born September 25, 1947.

He enjoyed fly-fishing and camping.

He is survived by his wife, Laurel; his son Michael Akers and wife Charlene; and grandson Matthew Akers, of Orono.

He was predeceased by son Ricky Akers, brothers David, Raymond and Robert and one sister Susan. Marden, of Vassalboro.

Arrangements will be made in May 2025.

NOEL C. VIGUE

WATERVILLE – Noel “Clem” Vigue, 98, of Waterville, died on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the Veterans home, in Augusta. He was born on Christmas day in 1926, the son of Rose M. (Poulin) and Gideon B. Veilleux.

He was a proud Navy man, leaving high school and home at the young age of 17 years old to serve in World War II, where he was stationed in Guam. While he was stationed in Guam, he told family that he wanted to donate $1,000 to Saint John Catholic School, in Winslow, if he returned from the service unhurt. He upheld that commitment for years. On his return he finished his high school diploma at Waterville High School.

Shortly after, he met his wife Joan Crabtree. They went on to have their family of four children, Darrell Vigue, Duane Vigue, Kerry Vigue and Heidi Vigue (Gilbert). He was employed by Maine Central Railroad and later Keyes Fibre Company, both in Waterville. He served on the City Council, in Waterville. He was also a Commander of the Forrest J. Pare VFW Post #1275, in Waterville, as well as the Commander of the Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, American Legion, in Waterville.

He was an avid ball player as well as a hockey player in his younger days and enjoyed his beloved Red Sox and Notre Dame teams. He also enjoyed his Canadian hockey teams. He was an umpire for many years in the area.

Noel gave of himself in many ways. When he met his second wife Theresa, they enjoyed helping their community and volunteered at the soup kitchen, in Waterville, together. Once a week, he would pick up food deliveries. He was known for always helping someone out. Noel’s highlight in life was spending his vacations at Moosehead Lake with family and friends. He had many fishing stories. He also was known as an avid card player; particularly, cribbage, hearts and spades. It was always a playful celebration if you came away with a win against him.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by his wife Theresa, sisters Ursula Veilleux, and Marcelle Veilleux, brothers Lawrence Veilleux, Norman Vigue, and Raymond Vigue; son Kerry Vigue; Joan Vigue, stepsons Patrick Parker and Steven Parker.

He is survived by his daughter Heidi Gilbert and husband Mark, of Mount Vernon; sons Duane Vigue and wife Terry, of Gouldsboro, Darrell Vigue and wife Kit, of Hong Kong; stepdaughters Sue and husband Steve Dubois, of Winslow, Gail Parker Labbe and husband Tim Labbe, of Rome, Brenda Parker, of Winslow; six grandchildren, Adam Vigue, Aaron Vigue, Brett Vigue, Ethan Gilbert, Jordan Gilbert, Sydney Gilbert; one great-granddaughter Sophie Vigue; sister Dolores Hutchison, of Waterville; sister-in-law Adeline Veilleux, of Waterville; and many nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, on March 28, 2025. A celebration of life luncheon followed the Mass, at Saint John School, in Winslow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Waterville Food Bank, 61 Pleasant St., Waterville, ME 04901.

WILLIAM M. LOIKO

VASSALBORO – William M. “Skip” Loiko,76, died Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the VA Hospital, at Togus Hospice unit, Togus Springs. He was born in Augusta on June 19, 1948, a son of the late John J. and Stella (Swiek) Loiko.

Skip was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, and was a communicant of St. Michael Parish. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. Skip was an owner/operator of Fort Western Tire Company, in Augusta, for many years.

He was predeceased by a son, Adam J. Loiko, and two brothers, John and Richard Loiko.

Skip is survived by his wife of 51 years, Patricia R. (Godbout) Loiko, of Vassalboro; a daughter, Melyssa L. Plath and her husband Will, of Clifton, Virginia; a son, Ben W. Loiko and his wife Libby, of Vassalboro; a brother, Frank Loiko and his wife Jill, of Belgrade; seven grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours. A graveside service with military honors will be held on June 27, at noon, at the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

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

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

The family requests that donations in Skip’s memory be made to The Fisher House Foundation, 12300 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852 or to the charity of one’s own choice.

ROBERT HOULE

WINSLOW – Robert “Bob” Houle, 93, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, from complications from a fall. He was born in Waterville, April 7, 1931, the son of Laurier J. Houle and Claire Duquette.

He went to Waterville schools and graduated from Waterville High School in 1949. Always a hard worker, he set pins at the local bowling alley while in grade school and during high school work at Sterns’ Department Store,, in Waterville. He served in the U.S. Air Force from October 3, 1950, to his retirement June 30, 1971. While in the Air Force he was stationed in Wethersfield England, Dow AF Base, in Bangor, Luke AF Base, Glendale, Arizona, and Cannon AF Base, Clovis, New Mexico, before retiring back to Maine settling in Winslow. He served two tours of Vietnam. He retired as a Master Sergeant working most of his career on jet fuel systems. He was very proud of his job keeping the military aircraft in top shape, especially the F-111 fighter jets.

On his first tour away from the U.S., in England, in 1952, Bob met his beautiful wife of 70 years, Heather M. Pavitt. They were married in Chelmsford, England, on January 29, 1955. After his Air Force retirement, he joined the staff of Houle’s Plumbing and Heating, in Waterville, serving as service manager, and later president of the board of directors of ANCO before retiring after 26 years of service.

Bob was a lifetime member of the VFW, the American Legion and Waterville Elks #905.

Heather and Bob lived in Winslow from 1972 until moving to East Pond, in Oakland, in 1986. They enjoyed lake life with their family and friends until moving back to Winslow in 2008. Bob loved to fish, play a little golf and making trips to the casino. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and would do anything for his family. friends and neighbors.

Bob is survived by his wife Heather, of Winslow; daughters, Sharon Houle, of Waterville, Paula Sirois, of Thomaston; sister, Rita Pooler, of Winslow; brother, Paul Houle and his wife Charlene, of Oakland; granddaughter, Karrie Ouellette, her husband Jim and their daughters Natalie and Claire; grandsons, Matt, his daughter Ramona and his partner, Sarah, and Jeff Sirois, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; plus several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

A committal Service will be held at noon on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the committal shelter of the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Highway, Augusta

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

In of lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901, or The Travis Mills Foundation, 647 Castle Island Rd., Mt. Vernon, ME 04352.

DARRYL NADEAU

SIDNEY – Darryl Nadeau, 63, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025, due to natural causes. Darryl was born on August 26, 1961.

He married his wife Nikole Nadeau 10 years ago, however they shared 20 years together before getting married. Darryl and Nikole were able to travel to many countries and create memories over the years including some trips with family and friends.

Darryl joined the Army National Guard for six years. He also worked as a machinist for many years before becoming an instructor at Capital Area Technical Center (CATC), in Augusta, teaching machine tool and welding. He enjoyed teaching and those he worked with very much.

He joined the Waterville Elks Lodge #905 nine years ago, became a trustee and in most recent years volunteered as the Maine State Accident Prevention & Insurance Risk Program representative. As Elk members of the Waterville #905 lodge, Darryl and Nikole became great friends with many other members and cherish those friendships.

Darryl was predeceased by his parents Gerard and Cecile Nadeau, sister Coleen, and his father-in-law Roland Raymond.

He is survived by his wife Nikole Nadeau; his siblings (and spouses), Gerard (Jane) Nadeau, Peter (Venita) Nadeau, Lee Nadeau, Joyce (Tedd) Fisher and Alan (Paula) Nadeau; his mother-in-law Judy Raymond; sisters/brother-in-law (and spouses) Nancy (Caleb) Keune, Naomi (Lance) Raymond, Natalie (Chris) Brann, Sam (Tiffany) Raymond; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Darryl’s name may be made to, Waterville Elks Lodge #905, memo: Backpack Program, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, ME 04901.

DEVIN A. DOUGLASS

CLINTON – Devin Alex Douglass, 29, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Devin was born in Waterville on June 27, 1995, to William and Tonya (Dodge) Douglass.

Devin graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 2014, and then went to work for the family business and Castine Energy. Devin’s caring spirit and generous heart could be felt by anyone with whom he came in contact. He had a special gift of not only seeing the good in people, but bringing out the best in them as well.

Devin was an avid lover of the outdoors; he spent much of his time fishing and escaping to Eustis. He especially liked growing up on a dead-end road. His favorite moments were spending time with family and his son. Observing Devin become a father was one of the most incredible things as his love for his son had no limits. Everything he did was for him. His love for the family brought out the happy free spirit that defined him. Devin also had a love of music which was an expression of his emotions and individuality. His love for outdoors and music were only surpassed by the love he had for those he called family.

The relationship he had with his mother was like no other. They shared an unbreakable bond. Devin was a wonderful brother and uncle. Always making sure he spent quality time with his siblings, who he looked up to more than anything. He always made time for nieces and nephews and was especially close to his niece, Alyssa, who was more like a sibling to him.

Devin was selfless and put others first. He was fun loving, outgoing and vivacious. He was an example to so many and a shining light to all who knew him. When you think of Devin, celebrate the good memories you have of him. Remember that life is fragile and short and should be lived to the fullest. He will be missed more than any words could express. He will be forever in our hearts ‘til we meet again.

Devin was predeceased by his father, William Douglass; grandparents Dana Dodge, Della (Martin) Douglass and William Walter Douglass, and his Papa Ron Roy.

Devin is survived by his mother, Tonya Douglass-Smith and stepfather Dale Smith; his son, Emmett Douglass and Emmett’s mom, Savannah Dustin; his wife, Kaela Douglass; his brother, William Douglass Jr.; his sister, Christine Douglass and partner Coby Foss; his grandmother, Karen Theriault and her companion Steve Dodge; aunts and uncles Daniel and Lori Bolduc, Janice and Marshal “Skip” Douglass, Dana Dodge and fiancée Jessica Pooler, Danielle and Tyrone Sullivan, Heather and Adam Poulin, Michael and Courtney Gamblin; Nana Sheryl Dodge; nieces, nephews; cousins; and so many other countless extended family members.

The service took place on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers.

Services are in the care of Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

JAMES A. BOURQUE

WATERVILLE – James Arthur Bourque, 91, passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from dementia, at Lakewood Nursing Home, in Waterville. He was born in Waterville on April 7, 1933, the son of Arthur and Germaine Bourque.

James married Joan Boudreau in 1955. Together they raised five children in Benton, Cynthia Bourque Simonds (David), Shari Kam, Victoria Finch (Mike), Steve Bourque (Sarah), and Gary Bourque (Tonya). He had nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Germaine Bourque; his brother, David Bourque; his son-in-law, Raymond Kam; and his infant son, James Bourque Jr.

James was in the United States Coast Guard for four years. He worked at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, for 35 years. There, he created a computer room for big machines, and he was very proud of that. He retired when the mill closed.

They spent 25 winters in Zephyrhills, Florida, and enjoyed many happy years in Betmar Park, meeting many wonderful people along the way. James started the computer club in the park where he taught weekly classes of 85 people, and he loved every minute of it! He would ride his bike to the houses that needed help.

James loved golfing and got three holes-in-one in his lifetime. He also loved woodworking and building. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus for many years, as well as the MacCrillis-Rousseau Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #8835, in Winslow, as a lifetime member.

`Visiting hours will take place from 3 – 6 p.m, on Tuesday, June 3 at Veilleux-Redington Funeral home, in Waterville.

Mass will take place at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

Services are under the care of Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine.

JESSICA A. STUART

CHINA – Jessica Ann (Levesque) Stuart, 46, passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, following a long battle with a terminal illness. She was born on July 28, 1978 to Roger Levesque and Connie (Quimby) Levesque, in China.

She attended China schools and Winslow High School. In her younger years she enjoyed dance, piano, and most of grade school she participated in softball.

She is survived by her parents Roger Levesque and partner Donna Makowski and Connie Roy and husband Gerard Roy; a brother Jarrod Levesque and partner Magen Malloy, and nephews, Nicholas Levesque and Nathaniel Levesque; and a sister Holly Wing and partner Christopher Malloy, and nephew Joseph Wing Junior and nieces Taylor Cram and Alyssa Gerry; stepbrother Jeffrey Roy and wife Rhonda and their two children Cameron and Natalie Roy; ex-husband Will Stuart and stepdaughter Ashley Stuart; aunts and uncles Maurice and Bonnie Labbe, Ronald and Mitch Quimby, Larry and Lorna Thomas, Dennis and Barbara Levesque, Ronnie Levesque, Peter and Alnetta Levesque, William and Kathy Levesque, Madelyn Morgan, Darrell and Diane Levesque, Arthur and Elizabeth Levesque, Steve and Jean Levesque, Kingsford and Mary Aidoo, Aunt Beatrice, and many cousins.

She was predeceased by her “sonshine” Gentry Stuart in 2024, grandparents William and Marilynn Levesque and Donald and Patricia Quimby, uncles Donald Quimby and Daniel Morgan and aunts Betty Levesque and Lorrain Cox, and cousin Misti Murray.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be sent to the China Rescue Department, P.O. Box 6035, China Village, ME 04926.

RACHEL A. MATTHEWS

Rachel Ann Matthews, 84, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Born on January 23, 1941, Rachel lived a life filled with kindness, warmth, and an unwavering love for those around her.

She was proud to have served as a religious education instructor for the Catholic Church until her retirement in 2004. Through her dedication and faith, she touched the lives of many, guiding generations in their spiritual journey with wisdom, compassion, and a deep commitment to her faith.

Rachel is survived by her husband, Charles Matthews Sr.; her children, Charles Matthews Jr. and his wife Cathy, Lisa Fortier and her husband Daniel, and Joseph Matthews and his wife Mamie; grandchildren Nick Conner, Melissa Fortier, Nate Nadeau and his significant other Lexie Glidden, Matthew Fortier, Ethan Matthews and his significant other Kristen Dexter, Samantha Matthews, Leighton Matthews, Mackenzie Matthews, and Caleb Matthews; great-grandchildren, Marshall, Sawyer, Myles, and Chloe; sister, Camilla Hachey, as well as countless other family members, including nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, Cornelius J. Begin and Bernadette (Drouin) Begin, her brother Cornelius J. Begin Jr., affectionately known as Buster, and her sister Jean Tozier.

Rachel will be remembered for her gentle spirit, wisdom, and the deep care she showed for her family, friends, and faith community. She created a home filled with love, laughter, and treasured moments that will be carried forward for generations.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

HAROLD L. HENDERSON

PORTLAND – Harold Henderson, 94, formerly of Albion, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, following a long illness. He was born on September 2, 1930, at his grandmother’s farm in Equality, Illinois. He was the son of Catherine May Henderson and Byron Harold Henderson.

Hal grew up in Alton, Illinois. He attended Alton schools and worked at the Libby Glassworks and then at Standard Oil. During this time he attended night school for seven years earning a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University.
He then went to work for the Illinois Bureau of Rehabilitation and earned a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University. Hal enrolled at the University of Iowa earning a Ph.D. at the age of 40. Hal taught Rehabilitation Counseling in the graduate program at Bowling Green State University, in Bowling Green, Ohio. He finished his teaching career as the Director of the Rehabilitation Counseling program. Hal was a licensed psychologist and was in private practice in both Ohio and Maine for many years.

He is survived by his wife Rachel, of Portland, and his children David, of North Baltimore, Ohio, Nancy Euler (Roger), of Bowling Green Ohio, and Mark (Carol), of Weston, Ohio; grandchildren Erin, Evan, Jessica, and Katy; great-grandchildren Natalie, Campbell, Benjamin, Cecelia, and Kasen; brother, Bob Henderson, of Columbus, Georgia.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Phyllis Kennedy, and his grandson Michael.

In lieu of flowers donations in Hal’s name may be made to Project Feed (projectfeed.org) 202 Woodford, Portland, Me 04103.

Please visit www.conroytullywalker.com to leave condolences for the Henderson Family and to sign Hal’s online guest book.

Others Departed

ARLENE E. FITZGERALD

MELBOURNE, Florida – Arlene E. Fitzgerald Cox, 92, passed away in Melbourne, Florida, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. She was the daughter of Lloyd and Hazel Esancy Fitzgerald, of South China, both deceased.

She graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1950. On April 19, 1957, she married Kenneth R. Cox, from Middletown, New  York, and they enjoyed 54 years together and settled in Melbourne, Florida.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Shirley Fitzgerald, of South China; three of her five children, Steven Cox, of Sanford, Wayne Cox, of Oxford, and Darlene Taylor and husband, Jerry, of Melbourne, Florida; her sons Leslie H. Cox, of Melbourne, Florida, and Kenneth Cox Jr, of Pine Bush, New York; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Leslie Cox and Felicia Smith-Cox resided with and helped her for over two years.

Arlene requested that there be no funeral service.

Donations at Arlene’s request may be made in her memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Erskine Academy, 309 Windsor Rd., South China, ME 04358.

OBITUARIES for March 27, 2025

JOSEPH LAROUCHE

FAIRFIELD – Joseph Larouche, 77, of Fairfield, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, following a courageous battle with kidney disease. He was born on September 19, 1947, in Montreal, Canada.

Joseph was a proud Vietnam War veteran, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and earning a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Commendation Medal for Valor.

He was a devoted husband to Mildred “Millie” Larouche for 56 years and a father to Michelle Donald (Rick), Tara Goodwin (James), and Kristian Larouche (Julie). His eight grandchildren, Evan, Camden, Payton, Trey, Paige, Tyler, Macie, and Kristian were his greatest joy.
Joseph worked as a route salesman for Harris Baking Co., then as a supervisor at Statler Tissue, and later at Formtek-Maine and Togus VA Medical Center before retiring. He was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2002 and received a transplant in 2006, giving him many more years with family and friends. He had a deep love for his close friends and cherished the time spent with them.

He is survived by his siblings Daniel, Donald, John (Joyce), Linda Mayo (Roland), Cindy Laney (Bill), Vicki York (Randy), Becky Poulin (John), and Robert; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Gloria and Marcel Larouche, and his brother, James “Jimmy” Larouche.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 1 p.m., at Shawmut Chapel, Shawmut, officiated by Steve Donahue, with a reception to follow at the Fairfield VFW. His committal service will take place on May 15, 2025, at noon at the Veterans Memorial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MaineHealth Transplant Program, 43 Baxter Blvd. Portland, ME 04101.

RENE J. DECHAINE

WATERVILLE – Rene Joseph “Roland” Dechaine, 85, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Waterville. Roland was born on December 16, 1939.

Roland was known for his easygoing and level-headed personality, often referred to as the animal whisperer for his exceptional love and care for animals. He was a dedicated caregiver, not only to his family but also to his numerous pets of all stripes, colors, and species.

He graduated from Waterville High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, from Thomas College, in Waterville. Roland proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1957-1960, followed by four years in the National Guard. He also contributed his accounting expertise to Pine State Trading for over eight years. His professional life was marked by his entrepreneurship, having owned and operated Winslow Convenience for 16 years.

Roland was a devout member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow, where he actively participated in the community. His hobbies included being a board member for New Dimensions Credit Union, in Waterville, involvement in the Knights of Columbus, spending time at his camp, in Smithfield, on North Pond, boating, and traveling worldwide. However, his greatest joy was spending time with his family and his beloved pets.

Roland is survived by his spouse of 62 years, Diane Dechaine; children, Rene Dechaine and his wife Sidni, Michelle Emery and her husband Bubba, and Bruce Dechaine and his wife Celeste; grandchildren Christopher and his wife Danielle, Tyler and his wife Devon, Brianna, Ryan and his wife Alison, Stephanie and her husband Brad, Danielle and her boyfriend Matthew, and Cassie along with her husband Stefan; five great-grandchildren, Diamond, Daniel, Jaxson, Aria, and Kennedi; siblings Rose Paulette, David Deschaine, and Marty Deschaine and his wife Jane, along with his in-laws Pat and Bob Perry, and in-laws Jan and Kevin Dyer as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, and last but not least his favorite daughter Sunshine.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Rene and Anne, his sister Geraldine MacArthur, and brothers, Rodney Deschaine, and his in-laws, Richard Bernier, Peter Bernier, and Stephen Bernier.

A funeral Mass was held at St. John Church, in Winslow, on Thursday, March 20. Burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Pine Tree Society, St. Johns Parish, or The Waterville Area Soup Kitchen.

GERALDINE SIDMORE

WATERVILLE – Geraldine Sidmore, 71, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

She was born June 27, 1953, in Waterville, to Alcide Gorneau and Doris (Soucy) Gorneau. She was a Waterville High School graduate.

She was a beautiful soul who knew many struggles with her health, but this did not stop her from making others laugh with her bright and positive personality. We would say she was the light in any room. Everyone loved “Jean” and we were blessed to call her family and friend, she will be deeply missed. She was also known as the original card lady, for those who received cards for birthdays, illness, encouragement, and many other celebrations, knew how special it was to receive one of her cards.

Last year, when she found her health precarious she decided to have her own celebration of life in September 2024. She wanted to celebrate with family and friends while she was with all of us as she loved a great party! Many family and friends traveled to Maine from near and far to pay tribute to her. For those of us that attended, it was a very special time for all, and we will hold it dear to our hearts.

She worked for many years in the restaurant industry including, Webber’s Steak House, in Fairfield, Silver Street Tavern, and The Manor, in Waterville, and Nashua, New Hampshire. She ended her career at Hannaford, in Manchester, New Hampshire, before she retired.

She is survived by her siblings, Julianna Lyon, of Waterville, Raynold and his wife Elizabeth, of Standish, Louise Pooler and her husband Michael, of Belgrade; sisters-in-law Theresa Gorneau, of Vassalboro, and Sally Briggs and her husband Paul of Millsboro, Delaware; nephews and nieces, Catherine, Melissa, Aaron, Jason, Jeremy, Jennifer, Christopher, Ben, Ethan, Amanda and Roseanna; and many great-nephews and great-nieces.

She was predeceased by both parents; husband and the love of her life, David; siblings Reid, Roger, Richard, Robert, Gerald, Michael and Louis; nephew, Steven; her father and mother-in-law, Merrill and Betty.

A service will be held at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 2539 Riverside Dr., Vassalboro, on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Maine Children’s Home.

RICHARD BACKOFEN

SOUTH CHINA – Richard Backofen, 77, of South China, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025, at his home, (41 years to the day he met his wife), following a battle with cancer. He was born on May 24, 1947, in Rockville, Connecticut, son of Charles and Hazel Backofen.

He was a sheet metal mechanic (tin knocker) for most of his career, installing furnaces and ductwork, having his own business for the last 25 years, before retiring.

He spent many happy years with his wife, camping with relatives and meeting many friends. They moved to Maine 10 years ago after building their dream home in South China.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Charlie, sister Beverly and several nephews and niece Robin.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter Jennifer Backofen; son Nicholas Backofen; sister Carol (Gene) Gauvin; brother Robert (Beverly) Backofen; step-son Fred Dodge; and five grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held in the spring.

He has left his house and taken his home with him.

GERALD TRUNDY

WATERVILLE – Gerald “Jerry” Erlon Trundy, 84, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, following a long illness. Jerry was born in Lewiston on July 18, 1940, the second of six children, to Wendell and Geneva (Hatch) Trundy of West Minot.

His childhood was shaped by his close family and community. His parents spent time with Jerry and his siblings enjoying the outdoors, hunting, fishing and gardening, passing along their tremendous work ethic, devotion to family, and their love of sharing special family gatherings for the holidays, family reunions, and other special occasions.

Jerry attended Edward Little High School, in Auburn, graduating in 1959. He attended University of Maine in Orono, earning a bachelor’s degree in forestry in 1963. He began his career working for Pennsylvania Department of Forest and Waters, and Maine Forest Service. In 1967, he went on to become a forestry teacher at Unity College, and at University of Maine’s summer forestry school. He enjoyed his work teaching and his fellow colleagues whom he worked closely with during the college’s early building years. In 1967 Jerry settled in Unity with first wife, Joan, and they had three children Jonathan, Jill and Jenny.

In 1976, Jerry met his second wife, Judy, and they were married in 1988. They lived together for many years at their home on Quaker Hill, in Unity. They spent their early years working together in raising their blended family of six children. Jerry was like a father to Judy’s children Scott, Tami and Todd. It was during these years Jerry developed a passion for cooking and enjoyed preparing and serving comforting meals to his family. He was interested in trying and sharing new recipes. And he and Judy enjoyed hosting holiday gatherings with their children and extended family. In 1978 he and Judy started a small residential group home. Together they worked over the years with great care and compassion, operating their home for 41 years until their retirement in 2019. They were devoted to their residents, considering each resident a part of their family.

Jerry was a devout member of the Quaker Hill Christian Church. Jerry and Judy loved their church family and were devoted to their faith in God. Jerry also held a Bible study group at home. In recent days, Jerry continued to reassure his family that ‘God had a plan.’

Jerry had many interests. He was a golf enthusiast, going on trips with his steadfast group of golfing buddies at golf courses across the state. He enjoyed tending to his vegetable garden and canning or freezing his harvest at summer’s end. He was a faithful follower of local sports teams, including the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Celtics. He and Judy also enjoyed going to visit their time-share in Island Falls. Jerry thought the world of his family. With a growing family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, every birthday and special occasion was remembered with a special greeting card with a hand-written note inside. He also had a routine of keeping his children ‘from away’ up to date with the latest happenings with his informative and interesting hand-written letters.

In their retirement, he and Judy enjoyed a new phase of their lives together. They loved spending time with one another and with their Seton Village community of friends with whom they especially enjoyed going with on planned local trips and to the dances in Harland.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 37 years, Judy, whom he cared for all throughout their time together; and his children, son Jonathan and wife Rita of San Diego, California; daughters Jill and husband Peter, of Wayne, Jenny and husband Jeff, of Mt. Airy, Maryland; stepdaughter Tami and husband Gene, of Unity; stepsons Scott and wife Celine, of Windam, and Todd and wife Maryann, of Richmond; by the mother of his children, Joan Myrick (Sawyer) and her husband Joe, of Unity; and his siblings, Barbara Durgin, of Lewiston, David and wife Betsy, of Gray, Walter and wife Rachel, of Hebron, Gregory and wife Donna, of Bryant Pond, and James and wife Gail, of Hebron; 18 grandchildren, Kristi Williams and husband Brian, of Cypress, Texas, Karissa Trundy and partner David, of San Diego, California, Korinna Clark and husband Tanis, of Houston, Texas, Kayla Trundy and fiancé Dustin, of San Diego, California, Antoinette Buendia, of San Diego, California, Megan Stevenson and husband Taylor, of Wayne, Sydney Dood and partner Nathaniel, of Orono, Emily Carr ,of Hagerstown, Maryland, Lorraine Carr, of Mt. Airy, Maryland, Robert Myrick and partner Caroline, of Gray, Katie Cidre and husband Kevin, of Windham, Amy Joseph and husband Chad, of Oakland, Kevin Paquet and wife Jen, of Burnham; and step-grandchildren, Sheena Ellison and husband Ray, of Caribou, Diane Pinkham and husband Paul, of Richmond, Teagan Myrick, of Richmond, Samuel Jelley, of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Caleb Jelley, of West Hartford, Connecticut; 19 great-grandchildren, Ethan, Dominic, Kayla, Katelyn, Jaxon, Grayson, Tanison, Arlo, Wren, Isla, Sawyer, Piper, Deklan, Alexis, Lainey, Walker, Josie, Kimberly and Christopher.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother-in-law Winslow Durgin; and grandson, Michael Myrick.

Condolences, photos and remembrances to the family may be shared at http://www.Ripostafh.com.

A celebration of life for all to join together to share stories and remember Jerry will be held in the summer.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 20, 2025

MARK S. KIERSTEAD

WATERVILLE – Mark Stuart Kierstead, 80, of Waterville, died on Thursday, February 27, 2025, following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born in Peabody, Massachusetts, on December 8, 1944, during World War II. He was the single child of Emily Beatrice (Kelley) Kierstead and William Fowlie Kierstead

Mark was raised by his grandfather Horton “Hank” W. Kierstead, a University of Maine-educated engineer. As a boy, Mark would canoe up Messalonskee Stream and then camp in his backyard, coming in only for supplies. In those days, children weren’t seen until dinner. Mark thrived in Waterville – he attended Coburn Classical Institute, played sports, and became fluent in French. His parents and a family friend arranged a charter flight to Europe in the 1950s for the Sugarloaf Ski Club, which enabled the whole family to ski in the Alps, including young Mark. He graduated with honors from Coburn in 1963 and was admitted to Amherst College.

At Amherst, he majored in political science and was awarded his degree magna cum laude. He was named to Phi Beta Kappa for high academic achievements and served as vice president of Kappa Theta social fraternity. He served for two years as an assistant to the noted historian Henry Steele Commager, who relied on Mark’s translation of Medieval French documents (and practical Maine skills). He married his high school sweetheart, Janet Scott, in Colby College’s Lorimer Chapel, and was admitted to Yale Law School. He and Janet lived in a rented house by the ocean where Mark practiced sailing his own small boat. Mark drove a cab in New Haven and helped a local law firm represent the Black Panthers.

All was golden until tragedy struck. Janet gave birth to Ian, who was diagnosed with multiple disabilities. The marriage ended shortly after Ian’s birth with Mark assuming full custody of his son. Disillusioned, he left Yale University his senior year without graduating and returned to Maine to start building his own home on farmland in Canaan, becoming a pioneer in Maine’s back to the land movement.

He bundled his good-natured toddler son in a Volkswagen and drove to California, where he spurned legal work in favor of building houses, and worked on light shows for the Grateful Dead. He became a full-fledged hippie for about a year before returning to Maine and his own partially built house. An encounter with a young lawyer in Skowhegan’s legal clinic for the poor, Angus King (now Senator King), persuaded Mark to complete the one remaining paper necessary for his Yale law degree. Mark completed his paper and was awarded his J.D. degree from Yale Law School (Class of ’70). Upon passing the Maine bar, Mark embarked on a 47-year career in the practice of law and business.

At one point, he led a delegation to New York City to solicit a large donation from a TV network executive for a Maine nonprofit benefiting people with cerebral palsy. He chartered the plane and returned with the check in hand. He represented many Maine people with low incomes on a pro bono basis. Verdicts and Mark’s advice often changed the lives of people he represented, enabling them to buy homes, become educated, avoid prison, and become productive community members. He relished playing the role of a hick Maine lawyer with unsuspecting opposing attorneys from out of state and then beating them in court. He successfully litigated an appeal before the Maine Law Court (which is what the Maine Supreme Judicial Court is called in its appeal capacity) and won a record verdict for a client in Somerset County.

Mark married again, and settled into a life of the practice of law, travel, alpine skiing, golf, sailing, gardening, mowing his fields, and appreciating nature. He volunteered with a local committee to prevent the further spreading of sludge on Canaan farmland decades before PFAS contamination became a prominent issue. He started a company in the late 1990s (Global Protein Products) that uses a nontoxic corn protein film to prevent seed rot in potatoes and maintain fresh produce when shipped. He traveled to farms and food processors all over the U.S. for several years selling this innovative product, which is used to this day.

In 1996, he met Jennifer Wilder Logan, and they married in 1999 with a blessing ceremony on the old Wilder family estate, in Sulham, England. He was 54 years old. Jennifer brought two young daughters to the marriage, Eleanor and Jessamine. At his behest, Jennifer and the girls obtained their passports, and they all attended the Wilder family’s 500-year reunion in Pangbourne, England in 1997. When Ellie’s rowing prowess became known, she asked Mark to help her negotiate a rowing scholarship package to Stanford University, which he proudly did. He traveled to the Olympics in Beijing and in London to watch Ellie cross the finish line to win gold twice, but he did not attend her third gold win in Rio. He was pleased with Jessamine’s decision to attend college at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, and although he was a lifelong Democrat, he was proud of Jessamine’s tenure working for Senator Susan Collins after college. He attended his stepdaughters’ weddings in Boothbay in 2015. Later, when struggling with the severe memory loss of Alzheimer’s disease, Mark remained cheerful and loving and enjoyed trips to Boston and northern Minnesota with Jennifer. He was predominantly cared for at home, until the last 19 months of his life.

After his first experience of heart trouble in 2008, he vowed to stop drinking and succeeded in doing so with the help of AA and a skilled therapist.

In May of 2024, Mark was one of 30 people in Maine honored at the annual Remember Me ceremony organized by the Maine Health Care Association, which he attended and enjoyed. State Senator Craig Hickman presented Mark’s biography.

Mark is survived by his wife Jennifer, of Waterville; his son Ian; his stepdaughters Jessamine Pottle and Eleanor Dinares Cardenal; sons-in-law Jonathan Pottle and Carlos Dinares Cardenal; grandchildren Matilda and Renfrew Pottle and Guillermo, Alejandro, Casilda Dinares Cardenal and Jordan Dykema; cousins Stephanie Kierstead, True Kelley, Mark Kelley, Donald Saccone, Adelaide Whitaker; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert and Jennifer Wilder, Edward and Annette Wilder, and Thomas and Anne Wilder.

A memorial service open to the public will be held May 3, at 2 p.m., at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 60 Eustis Parkway, Waterville, where Mark was a member.

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

Donations in his memory may be made to MaineGeneral’s Alzheimer’s Care Center, 154 Dresden Ave., Gardiner, ME 04345, directed to its Activities Department for residents.

CAROLINE E. SOUVINEY

WATERVILLE – Caroline Eleanor (Jaques) Souviney, 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 28, 2025. Born October 13, 1930, in Ban­gor, she was the daughter of John S. Jaques and Harriet Eleanor (McCrum) Jaques, and she grew up in Portland.

Her husband James, the great love of her life, predeceased her in 1991. They had five children together. Her only sibling, brother John F. Jaques, died in 2006.

Carol never hesitated to stand up for herself or to speak out for others. She was a four-year member of Portland High School’s Championship Debate team, graduating in 1948. She earned a scholarship to Bates College as the Best Speaker in the 1948 Maine State debate tournament. She attended Bates College, Colby College, and Thomas College.

During the early years of her marriage and motherhood, she led a crusade to replace the old, wooden Presumpscot School, in Portland, because of the great fire risk it presented. After moving to Winslow in 1966, Carol worked at Thomas College, in Waterville, for 21 years and was very active in the Maine Business and Professional Women’s Association. In 1990, through the BPW, she initiated the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame, into which Senator Margaret Chase Smith became the first inductee. Carol was also active as a literacy volunteer, a docent for the Colby College Museum of Art, board member of the Senior College of the University of Maine at Augusta, and a lector at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, in Waterville.

World travel and learning about other cultures were important parts of Carol’s life. She and her husband Jim drove across the country to San Francisco and traveled by train to Western Canada. After Jim’s death, she participated in the Elderhostel program for ten years in the U.S. and abroad, and she also traveled independently and with friends to Australia, New Zealand, Greece, France, England, the Dominican Republic, and the Canary Islands.

Carol is survived by her five children, daughters Janet Roderick (Peter), of Rome, Judith Souviney (Peter Michaud), of Brunswick, Ellen Souviney (Kevin Mizner), of Pittston; sons James Souviney (Janice), of Winslow, and Brian Souviney (Rebecca), of Winslow; eight grandchildren, Jeffrey Sirois, Megan Smith, Sam Roderick, Luke Small, Julia Small, Kathryn Souviney, Nicholas Souviney, and Cody Souviney; 16 great-grandchildren, Alex, Hannah, and MacKenzie Sirois, Elizabeth, Ava, Evan, and Wyatt Smith, Paige Camp, Hunter McDanie, Malachi Cusano, Nixon and Jaclyn Souviney, Cooper and Bethany Blakley, Colton and Brantley Souviney; and one great-great-grandchild, Ellianna Duprey; “Aunt Carol” to her brother’s children, John Jaques, Mary Jo Jaques Daigle, and Kathy Jaques Peary.

The service will take place at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, in Waterville, on Saturday, March 22, at 1 p.m.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in Carol’s name to Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec or the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

THEODORE H. BROWN

WATERVILLE – Theodore H, Brown, 79, a long-time resident of Waterville, passed away at his seasonal. home in Bradenton, Florida, on Sunday, March 2, 2025. He was born in Oakland on July 29, 1945, and graduated from Messalonskee High School.

He made a career working at Maine Central Railroad. He was an active member of the Oakland Lions Club. His favorite times were outdoor activities with his family, and playing horseshoes. He was a racing enthusiast and was especially devoted to NASCAR.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean (Pelotte) Brown; two children Selena Brown with significant other Egide Dostie and Jim Brown and wife Sara; four grandchildren, Athena, Robbie, Abigail and Nolan; two great-grandchildren Tarrin and Ellowyn; sisters and their families, Leata and BobClark, and Mary Lou and Ray Maheau.

He was predeceased by his parents Marguerite and Edmund Brown Jr., sister Shiela and brother Edwin Brown, of Oakland.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests you watch a NASCAR race, or play a game of horseshoes with your family.

ELAINE S. HAINES

OAKLAND – Elaine (Spofford) Haines, 95, passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2025, in Waterville. She was born on May 4, 1929, the daughter of Howard and Dorothy (Bailey) Spofford.

She lived independently, up until mid-December 2024, living in her home, driving and doing her own errands. She was a homemaker and avid cat lover. Over the years she has adopted many cats, her most recent cat was Mindy.

She is survived by her son, Roy D. Willey, daughter-in-law Ann, and granddaughter Kimberlee, of Westbrook; great-grandson Morgan C. Willey, his mother Katie (Willey) Hume, her husband Joe and their family Abby, Ruth, Maxwell and Samuel, of Windham; a brother-in-law, Byley Martin, of Manchester; several nieces and nephews and their families; a step-grandson, Clifford Haines III, of Arizona.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Clifford Haines; two sisters, Lois and Jean; a brother David; grandson Christopher M. Willey; and her daughter Marilyn J. (Willey) Wheeler.

Funeral and burial will take place at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, beside her husband in the Spring.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland, where memories of Elaine may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.wheelerfh.com.

JOYCE J. PURNELL

WATERVILLE – Joyce Joan Rancourt Purnell, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial, on Wednesday, March 19, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Burial will be held at 2 p.m., on March 19, at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Highway, Augusta, ME.

To see Joyce’s full obituary please visit http://www.gallantfh.com.

ERIC J. CACCAMO

OAKLAND – Eric Joseph “Doc” Caccamo, 55, passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on January 25, 1970, in Butler, Pennsylvania, Eric was the son of Vincent J. Caccamo Sr. and Eleanor Gregory Caccamo.

He graduated from Butler High School in 1988 and went on to earn his degree from St. Vincent College, in May 1992. His passion for medicine led him to Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he obtained his doctor of Osteopathy Degree in 1997.

In the fall of 1999, Eric married Melissa Sue Kelly, and together they built a life filled with love and family. They later moved to Maine, where he established his first medical practice in Fairfield before relocating it to Waterville and eventually settling in Oakland in 2004. Known affectionately as “Doc,” he was a dedicated physician who took the time to genuinely care for his patients, earning their trust and admiration throughout his career.

Beyond his profession, Eric was a devoted family man who cherished traditions. He had a deep love for cooking and believed in elaborate daily meals which took hours to prepare resulting in second dinner being served well after 9 p.m.; and always ensuring there was plenty to share. A passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan, the team’s performance often set the tone for his week. When not working or cheering on his team or kids, he found solace at camp, where he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Eric was predeceased by his father, Vincent J. Caccamo Sr.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Melissa S. Caccamo; their children, Salvatore Vincenzo Caccamo, Francesca Isabella Caccamo, Giovanni Antonio Caccamo, and Alexa Angelina Caccamo; his mother, Eleanor A. Caccamo; his sister, Valarie Nold and her husband David; his brother, Vincent J. Caccamo Jr.; and his nephew, Evan Nold.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at St. John Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home. To share a memory with the family, please visit Eric’s Book of Memories at http://www.bchfh.com.

LINDA M. ROY

WINSLOW – Linda Marie Roy, 76, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025. She was born on December 22, 1948, in Everett, Massachusetts, daughter to Anthony Cocco Sr. and Carolyn Trask.

Linda grew up in Oakland, and graduated from Williams High School in 1966. In April 1965, Marshall Roy was bet 50-cents that he wouldn’t dare ask Linda Cocco to the Ripple Dipple Dance. He won the bet and married Linda on January 17, 1970, and together they built a beautiful life. After Marshall’s return from Vietnam, they were stationed at Maguire Air Force Base, in New Jersey. In 1972, after Marshall’s final two years in the U.S. Air Force, they moved back to Maine, valuing their closeness to family. In 1976, they bought a home in Vassalboro, where they lived until Marshall’s death in 2015.

Linda worked as a switchboard operator for the New England Telephone Company right after high school. After having children, she stayed home until they were in school and then worked as a school secretary in Vassalboro for 12 years. In 1994, she joined Mid-State Machine Products, in Winslow, retiring with a big bash in 2015 after 21 years.

Linda was very involved with her children and grandchildren, attending all their sporting events and activities as the loudest cheerleader in the crowd. She enjoyed playing cards and games with her kids, family, and friends. Once they became empty nesters, Linda and Marshall enjoyed playing golf at the Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro, spending many happy hours there with great friends, both playing golf and socializing in the clubhouse. In later years, she loved playing cards with the Fabulous Women of Maine, a group for whom she was very grateful. Adjusting life without Marshall after 50 years together was difficult, but with her kids’ encouragement, she moved to a condo in Winslow, where she made new friends and stayed very active with family and friends, both old and new. She was always involved, whether volunteering at the Essentials Closet, serving on the HOA condo association board, or helping at the polls; she always gave it her all.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012, Linda worked hard to stay active and not let the disease define her, maintaining her strength and dignity until her last breath.

Linda was predeceased by the love of her life, Marshall; mother Carolyn Trask and stepfather Stacy Trask; father Anthony Cocco, Sr. and stepmother Helen Cocco; mother-in-law Lousie Roy; brothers Anthony Cocco, Jr. and Timothy Trask, brother-in-law Daryl Bragg, sister-in-law Carmie Jolicoeur and husband Tim.

She is survived by son Matthew Roy and his wife Denise; granddaughters Madison Nerney and her husband Jonathan, and Lauren Roy; daughter Jessica Cassese and her husband Sabato; sister Cheryl Michaud and her husband Jerry; sisters Tina Boag and her husband Dave, Valerie Paul and her husband John; brother-in-law Butch Roy and his wife Carol; sisters-in-law Kay Tucker and her husband Dewey, and Shelley Poulin; many nieces, nephews, and their children.

A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at St. Bridget Center, 864 Main Street, Vassalboro, on Saturday, March 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. All are welcome to join in toasting to a woman who loved life, laughter, and touched many lives.

A private burial will take place this spring in the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta, Maine.

Please visit Linda’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/linda-roy-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

DANIEL DOW

BENTON – Daniel Dow, 64, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025, following an eight-month battle with cancer.He was born on March 30, 1960.

Daniel is survived by his wife, friend, and partner of over 33 years, Sue; brothers Steve Dow, Tim Dow, and Brandon Lewis; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy Ware and Ron Young; nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister Amber Hawes.

There are no scheduled services at this time.

JOSEPH L. FORTIN

SIDNEY – Joseph Leo Fortin, 78, died Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, following a long illness. He was born in Augusta, on July 5, 1946 a son of the late Gerard J. and Marie Anne (Pare) Fortin.

Joe was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, class of 1966, and was a communicant of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving during the Vietnam War as an F4 Phantom machinist. Joe had been employed at the Veterans Hospital at Togus for 35 years and previously worked for Kirschner’s Meat Packing Company. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS and Le Club Calumet.

He was very active and enjoyed the outdoors, kayaking, hiking, fishing, hunting, and playing with his grandchildren. Other activities included, dancing, bowling, playing cards, and finding a good bottle of wine.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 13, at 11 a.m., at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Northern Ave., Augusta. Burial and committal prayers with military honors will follow in the old Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Dr., Augusta.

Joe was predeceased by a brother, Joseph Robert Fortin.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Docile R. (Veilleux) Fortin, of Sidney; two sons, Dale A. Fortin, of Tualatin, Oregan, and Kevin R. Fortin, of West Bath; a daughter, Angela Fortin, of Glenburn; two sisters, Maria Rita Busque, of South Carolina, and Marie Anita Fortin, of Waterville; four grandchildren, Ellie, Austin, Tyler, and Brady; many nieces, nephews and cousins who he loved very much.

Arrangements are under the carer of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations in Joe’s memory be made to: Maine Veterans Home Activity Center, 35 Hero’s Way, Augusta, ME 04330.

MICHAEL F. ESTRADA

ROME – Michael Frederick Estrada, 65, affectionately known to thousands of radio listeners as “Mr. Mike”, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Mike was born on October 16, 1959, in Mount Kisco, New York, the seventh of eight children to Evelyn and Frank Estrada.

He spent his early childhood in Katonah, New York, attending St. Mary’s School. In 1971, his family relocated to Orleans, Massachusetts, where he attended Nauset Regional High School. He pursued higher education at UMass Amherst, studying journalism and meeting his future wife, Tammy.

Mike launched his career in Bennington, Vermont, covering sports for the local paper. He later moved to central Maine to start a family, welcoming two children, Andy and Dory. Though Mike and Tammy eventually separated, he found love again with Debbie Hutchins, who remained his devoted life partner for 25 years.

Mike’s passion for journalism led him to a successful career in radio broadcasting. In 1992, alongside fellow radio DJ “Tom O”, he co-founded The Mountain Morning Show on WTOS, bringing humor, news, and entertainment to listeners across Maine and beyond each morning. His sharp wit, playful banter, and dedication to his craft were hallmarks of his relationship with both his colleagues and his audience; making his audience laugh – and regularly groan – while delivering the latest news, sports, and weather. In recognition of their outstanding contributions during their 33-year partnership, Mr. Mike and Tom O were inducted into the Maine Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2018.

Beyond radio, Mike took great joy in the art of writing. In addition to the sports journalism of his early career, he spent years penning a weekly Mr. Mike’s Musings column and was the mastermind behind The Mountain Morning Show’s hilarious Wacky Zany Goofy Radio-type Quiz Shows. Mike was also a prolific reader of newspapers across the country and enjoyed delving into an array of sports biographies.

Mike was a local legend. Whether dining out, grocery shopping, or at an appointment, he was regularly greeted by fans who recognized his voice. His ability to connect with people anywhere was profoundly unique and positive.

Mike was an avid sports enthusiast, with an encyclopedic knowledge of trivia and stories at the ready. He was an active athlete well into his adult life, participating in local softball leagues, shooting hoops with his kids, and golfing with his friends. He lent his broadcast voice to hundreds of local football games, field hockey matchups, and swim meets, in addition to being a fixture at annual state high school basketball tournaments. Mike was a devoted follower of the Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics – but was even more so a quintessential long-suffering, lifelong Red Sox fan, watching or listening to every game for decades. He made many happy memories catching a game at Fenway Park and considered the 2004 World Series as one of his most treasured moments.

Mike is survived by his partner, Debbie, of Rome; children Andy (Andie) of Seattle, Washington, Dory (Amir), of Brentwood, Maryland, Kim (Ben), of Woodbridge, Virginia, Thomas (Tommi), of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Melissa (Dustin), of Rome; his grandchildren include Nico, Audrey, Anna, Liz, Eva, Ainsley, Eleanor, JoJo, Claire, and Wesley; siblings Clare, Janie (Rick), Katie (David), Anne (Bob), and Tony, as well as two sisters-in-law; and eight nieces and nephews.

Mike was predeceased by his parents Evelyn and Frank; sister Helene, and brother Frank.

A celebration of life will be held in central Maine later this year.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mr. Mike’s Maine’s Fenway Park Endowment Fund at https://www.clubaycc.org/giving/ or to the Rome and Belgrade Lakes Fire & Rescue Departments via check mailed to, 8 Mercer Rd., Rome, ME 04963 or via credit card by calling 207-397-4011 in Mike’s memory Giving – Alfond Youth & Community Center.

FRANKLIN E. BUSHEY

SKOWHEGAN – Franklin E. Bushey, 56, passed away on Wednesday March 12, 2025. He was born May 25, 1968, to Judith M. Bushey and Franklin D. Bushey, in Skowhegan.

Frank met his soulmate early in life at the age of 19. They wed April 3, 1993, after starting their life with a newborn child, which Frank himself delivered.

Frank spent much of his career life employed at Prompto, creating a family with his coworkers and customers since 1989. The men he worked with were his brothers, his customers his extended family. “Waddaya doing today?” He’d ask with a grin. Frank truly cared about treating people well and enjoyed every conversation he had.

In his free time, he was fond of Unity Speedway, volunteering and spending time in the pit, always creating a sense of brotherhood wherever he was.

He enjoyed animals, nature, family gatherings and Friday nights with his great-nephew.

He was a strong man, who lived for a good laugh, and took care of his family well.

He was predeceased by his parents; many uncles, aunts.

He is survived by his wife, Roxanne; daughter, Laurel Bushey and her fiancé Benjamin Waite; many in-laws; nieces, nephews; cousins; uncles, aunts.

A service will be held on Sunday, March 23, at 2 p.m., at Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, in Skowhegan. A gathering will follow directly after. All are welcome.

Please visit Frank’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/franklin-bushey-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

Others Departed

PAULINE BOUDREAU

HALLOWELL – Pauline “Polly” Boudreau, 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Gosnell Hospice House, in Scarborough.

She was born on October 26, 1949, in Waterville, the daughter of the late Joseph A Cosgrove Sr. and Marian (Ayer) Cosgrove.

Polly graduated from Winslow High School. After graduating Polly made a career in banking. She spent many years in Florida enjoying the warm weather and making many new friends, especially Faye.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a bother Joseph Cosgrove Jr., and a sister Gwen Michaud and brother-in-law Ken Michaud.

Surviving is Polly’s sister Betty Lemieux and her husband Jerry Lemieux, of Gorham; nieces and nephews, Leslie Cosgrove, Michael Cosgrove, Debbie (Doug) Bradley, Kevin Michaud, Wendy (Bob) Levesque, Michelle (Marc) Begin and Allison Caruso.

To express condolences or to participate in Polly’s online tribute, please visit http://www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com.

Those who wish may make donations in Polly’s name to Hospice of Southern Maine at http://www.hospiceofsouthernmaine.org.

JOHN E. JACQUES

BELFAST – John Edmund Jacques, 83, passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in Belfast. John was born to Fredrick and Dora Jacques as the young­est of five in Waterville on January10, 1942.

John graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1962, going on to join the Waterville Police Department, serving for 25 years as a Sergeant, followed by another eight years for the Winslow police Department.

John married Dana Beane on September 1, 1962, and they were married for 62 years.

John had a deep love of the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping with his family and friends. John had a passion for fast cars, cracking jokes, and telling a good story.

He is remembered by many for his deep dedication to helping others in the community.

He is survived by his wife Dana Jacques; daughter, Lisa Kipp Jacques and son, Avery Henningsen; son, Jeffrey Jacques and his wife Kim, their son, Marsden; daughter, Stacie Jacques and her husband Peter, their two children, Maya and Elijah; along with his many nieces and nephews.

There was a Mass of Christian burial at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on Tuesday, March 18, 2-25.

Services are in the care of Veilleux Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home and more information and online condolences may be shared at https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s memory may be directed to the Waterville Food Bank. Envelopes will be available at the visitation.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 13, 2025

FALECIA L. POTTER

WHITEFIELD – Falecia Lauran Potter passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Falicia was born on April 28, 1997, to parents Jennie Rebecca Lorance and Timothy Gordon Dupont.

Falecia grew up in Jefferson, and graduated Erskine Academy, in South China. She later graduated University of Maine-Augusta with a BSN in nursing. Falecia was continuing her education and was building her career at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta.

Falecia married her husband John Potter in 2018.

She was predeceased by her grandparents Robert J Henn, Gordon L. Dupont and Elsie A. Dupont.

She is survived by her husband John Potter; daughters Autumn and Lilyanna; parents Timothy Dupont and Jennie Lorance; stepfather Dwayne Lorance; and brother Timothy D. Dupont; by her grandmother Laura Curtis; great-grandmother Shirley Mahar; and many other extended family.

CHRISTINE F. AUCOIN

SHAWMUT – Christine Frances (Proulx) Aucoin, 69, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Chris was born on May 1, 1955, in Brewer, to Avis (Quirion) Noel and Leonel Valmore Proulx.

She attended Waterville High School, class of 1973, and worked as a supervisor at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, until its closure in 2002. She then attended Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, graduating in 2004, after which she worked as a supervisor at New Balance Shoe Factory, in Skowhegan, until her retirement in 2019.

Chris was the cornerstone of her family; the rock upon which they all depended for strength, support and stability.

She was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Tamera May Aucoin, and two brothers, Gary Proulx and Mark Proulx.

Chris is survived by her son and his wife, Jeffrey and Stephanie Aucoin, of Fairfield; granddaughter and partner, Kaitlin Overlock and Gaige Fuller, of Albion; partner Mark Thibodeau, of Shawmut; stepson Dustin Buzzell and grand-stepson Lennon Buzzell, both of Waterville; her siblings and their spouses, Norma and Leonel Proulx II, of Orrington, Mary Proulx, of Orrington, Jeananne Proulx, of Eddington, Danny and Brenda Proulx, of Florida, Nanette and Dan Wells, of England, Scott Proulx, of Texas, and Denise and Clifford Jones, of Clifton; her stepmother Ladonna Proulx, of Clifton; fourteen grandchildren; several great- and great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held on May 4, 2025, at 1 p.m., at the Shawmut Chapel, 57 Bray Avenue.

ANN MARIE DOHERTY

WATERVILLE – Ann Marie Doherty, 86, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2025. She was born on March 10, 1938, to her parents Raymond and Marion (Grover) McHugh at Richardson House in Boston, Massachusetts.

Though her last few years were marked by health challenges, including lung cancer, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and bouts of pneumonia, Ann Marie approached these trials with the same bravery, dignity, and resilience that defined her entire life. While her body grew weary, her mind and spirit remained unwavering until the time came for her to rest.

Ann Marie graduated from Needham High School in 1956 and earned an associate’s degree in business from Cardinal Cushing College in 1958. She met her husband John while working at Sylvania, and their love story began with a glance at his 6’5” frame, dark hair, and blue eyes. Together, they raised a family, and though John passed away in 2010, Ann and her kids remained a loving united family.

In 1963, the family moved from Massachusetts to Waterville. Little did they know that this new chapter would lead to the creation of a home that would become a beacon of warmth and love for the entire neighborhood. Their second home on Violette Avenue was more than just a place to live, it was a haven, a sanctuary, and a gathering space for countless families and individuals over the years. At the heart of this welcoming home was Ann Marie. Known for her attentive listening and open heart, Ann Marie made everyone who crossed her doorstep feel seen, heard, and valued. Her ability to connect with people, offering a kind ear or a thoughtful word, created an environment where friendships blossomed, and memories were made. Ann Marie’s love for animals was immeasurable. Alongside her family, she cared for three Samoyed dogs, several cats, rabbits, and parakeets—each of them part of her unique and vibrant family.

Ann Marie was an extraordinarily self-taught cook, developing her skills through her vast cookbook collection. Her kitchen was her sanctuary, and cooking wasn’t just a task-it was her happy place. Beyond her love of cooking, Ann Marie enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, shopping, reading romance novels, getting her hair done, watching her afternoon soap operas, and talking with her friends.

But her greatest joy, without a doubt, was spending time with her children and grandchildren. Ann Marie was a devout Catholic with a strong Christian faith. Even as health issues kept her from attending Mass in person, she continued to watch the services on TV, maintaining a deep connection to her faith.

As her children grew older, she ventured into the workforce, taking on roles as an administrative assistant and a cook for her husband John’s restaurant ventures. Later, she became the restaurant manager for a small local business in Oakland, where she touched on the lives of customers and colleagues alike.

She is survived by her five children and their spouses/partners, John, Soraya, Jordan, and Mike; seven grandchildren; extended family members, Uncle Rich, Aunt Tish, Aunt Joan; her niece Christine; nephews Rick and Matt, their children Caelan, Gia, Sara, Shian, Ashtynn, Nolan, Logan, and June from Ireland.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by interment at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, PO Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903, or online: give.mainegeneral.org.

GORDON R. POW

BELGRADE – Gordon R. Pow, 80, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born in Manchester, New Hampshire, on June 8, 1944. A son of the late Bruce and Fredrica (Burnham) Pow grew up in a family of five siblings.

Gordon was a graduate of West High School in Manchester, New Hampshire. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business from New Hampshire College while he worked many part time jobs and was quite the pool shark to help pay for school.

Gordon started in banking at Depositors Trust Company, in Augusta, which became Key Bank where he was the Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending. Later he worked for DeLorme Mapping and retired from Penobscot McCrum as a financial consultant.

Gordon was a member of the Augusta Country Club, Kennebec Chamber of Commerce, and participated in many other boards in the Augusta area, including the Board of Directors for MaineGeneral Medical Center.

Gordon hosted the best family reunions known as the “Ka-Pows,” had a love for his family that was foremost in everything he did. He enjoyed playing golf, watching the Boston Celtics, and being with his friends far and near. Gordon loved being on the water and fishing with his girls and grandson. Nantucket Island was a place with many childhood memories and visited often throughout the years.

Gordon took immense pride in his home and property, where he loved to mow the lawn and drive his John Deere tractor. There were many celebrations held for friends and family at his home.

He was pre-deceased by a brother, Clifton and sister, Pamela.

Gordon is survived by his wife and best friend, Patricia Callahan Pow, of Belgrade; two daughters, Allyson Pow and partner Dean Northup, of Oakland, and Kathryn Damren and her husband Scott, of North Belgrade; a brother Stanford “Buddy” Pow, of Bedford, New Hampshire; sister Janet Seiler, of Florida, and Andrea Conway, of Bedford, New Hampshire; a grandson Kaleb Moore, his second-best friend and partner in crime, and his partner Lea Violette; as well as 13 nieces and nephews.

A gathering will be held at the Augusta Country Club, in Manchester, on March 23, 2025, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., where condolences, stories and photos may be shared.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME, 04330.

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

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association PO Box 404, Belgrade ME, 04917.

CATHERINE A. KING

WATERVILLE – Catherine Alice King, 84, passed away Monday, March 3, 2025, at Northern Light Con­tinuing Care, Lakewood, in Waterville.

Catherine was born in Waterville, the daughter of Theodore and Beatrice (Provencher) King, on November 2, 1940. She grew up in North Anson.

Catherine graduated in 1963 from Farmington State Teachers College (now the University of Maine-Farmington) and in 1973 received a Master’s Degree from Simmons College, in Boston, Massachusetts. She began her teaching career at Ridgefield Park High School, in New Jersey, where she taught for four years. In 1966 she was employed by the Arlington Massachusetts Public School System to teach home economics, at Arlington High School, where she taught until her retirement in 2002.

Catherine had an uncanny ability to recall detailed stories of past events which were always fun and enlightening to hear, whether it be about family, (she researched genealogy) or about her travels to foreign lands (Japan, China, Russia, Ireland, Netherlands, and Germany). She cared for her family and was always interested in the latest updates. She maintained lifelong friendships.

Catherine did volunteer work for the Massachusetts Citizens for Life and various political campaign as well as supported charitable organizations. She belonged to the Bedford Council on Aging and was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, in Arlington, Massachusetts.

Catherine was predeceased by her parents Theodore and Beatrice King and brothers David King, Paul King, James King and Theodore King Jr..

She is survived by sisters Elizabeth (Douglas) Phillips, of Vassalboro, Mary (Roger) Mayott, of Springfield, Vermont, Rachel (Stephen) Chang, of Seal Beach, California, and Jane (Mark) Decker, of Dover, New Hampshire; and brothers Michael King, of Parkhurst, North Carolina, Daniel (Janice) King, of Madison, and Stephen (Lynette) King, of Skowhegan; as well as cousins, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Friday, March 14, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. A Spring committal will be held at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

All liturgies at Notre Dame Church parish are live streamed on the parish website: www.corpuschristimaine.org.

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 www.gallantfh.com.

ALAN D. YOUNG

CHINA – Alan Duane Young, 64, passed away at his home on Monday, March 3, 2025. Alan was born on March 14, 1960, in Waterville, the son of Harland and Norma Young.

He was predeceased by both parents.

Alan is survived by his two sisters, Angela Young, of Augusta, and Ann Young, of China; his nephew Devin Young, of McFarland, Wisconsin; aunts and uncles.

Alan grew up in China and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1978. He worked at Central Maine Railroad and retired from Bath Iron Works after 30 years.

Alan was an avid sportsman; he loved fishing and hunting or just sitting up in his clearing in the woods to watch the deer gather at sunset.

Alan will be missed by many. A graveside service will be held in the spring.

Services are under the care of Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine 04901

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the China Village Fire Department, P.O. Box 6035, China Village, ME. 04926.

ALDEN A. McCARTY

WINDSOR—Alden A. McCarty 85, passed away at home on Thursday, March 6, 2025. He was born on June 25, 1939, the son of Aubrey and Gertrude (Wartman) McCarty.

Alden, also known as “Mac” grew up in Aroostook County before moving to the Augusta area at the age of 12 where he attended Cony High School. Following school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served as a Military Police Officer.

Following his honorable discharge, he married Jeannette LaVallee on May 28, 1960. They settled in Windsor where they raised their three children and celebrated 57 years of marriage until Jeannette’s passing in 2017.

Mac was employed at AMHI, in Augusta, before his 25-year career at Statler Tissue, also in Augusta. His working years concluded with employment at VA Togus, retiring in 2001.

Mac took pride in his yearly vegetable garden. He enjoyed being outside, going for walks, and in his younger years he enjoyed hunting and fishing. On most Wednesdays and Sundays, you could find him at the Le Club Calumet, waiting for that lucky ball to drop for him to holler “Beano”. He particularly looked forward to his great-grandson Joshua’s weekly visit, where they would talk for hours about old days and Joshua’s dreams of the future. Mac will be remembered for his independent spirit, outgoing personality and always waiting for the next opportunity for that wise crack.

He was predeceased by his parents; his loving wife, Jeannette McCarty; his grandson, Gary Alden McCarty, II. and his sister Audrey McCarty.

Alden is survived by his children, Gary McCarty and his wife Lisa, Lori Ann Leclerc and her husband Bruno, and Douglas McCarty; grandchildren, Tanya McCarty-Barrett and her husband Josh, and Jennifer Dissell and her husband Matt; great-grandchildren, Joshua Barrett II, Leah Barrett, Cooper Dissell, Piper Dissell, and Jackson Dissell; his sister Roberta Reher and husband Jerry; and brother Vernon “Butch” Burns; his niece April McCarty; his brother-in-law Sonny (Dot) LaVallee, and sister-in-law Priscilla Thompson.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Following visiting hours will be a Mass of Christian Burial, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 41 Western Ave., Augusta, ME 04330.

A spring burial will be held on May 28, at 1:30 p.m., at the Holy Family Cemetery, 139 Townsend Rd. Augusta where Alden will be laid to rest next to his wife Jeannette on what would have been their 65th wedding anniversary. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

DONALD L. ABRAMS

WINSLOW – Donald L. Abrams, 91, passed away Thursday, March 6, 2025. Don was born on November 8, 1933, to Louis and Abbie Abrams, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

He graduated from Sweet­water High School, in National City, California, in 1951 and attended San Diego Community College.

Don joined the U.S. Army and served from 1951 to 1953. He was stationed at Fort Belvoir, in Virginia, and served as an Honor Guard, at Arlington Cemetery, as well as in Greenland.

After his military service, Don was employed at Rohr Aircraft, in San Diego,California. From 1956 to 1964, he worked at General Dynamics, holding positions in San Diego, California, Topeka, Kansas; Roswell, New Mexico, the Atlas Program, at Cape Canaveral, Florida; and Rochester, New York. He later moved to Waterville, where he became co-owner of the Harry J. Smith Company, and subsequently worked for Kmart.

After retiring in 2000, Don served as a substitute teacher at Winslow High School, in Winslow, and Erskine Academy, in South China.

An accomplished artist, Don was an active member of the Waterville Art Society and participated in numerous juried art shows throughout Maine. At just 16 years old, he survived a horrific train collision that left him hospitalized for an entire year in a Navy hospital. Despite this devastating experience, he emerged as a survivor – stronger, more determined, and deeply shaped by the resilience he developed during that challenging time, a trait that influenced him throughout his life. Don became an avid outdoorsman, competing in multiple 5K and 10K road races as well as several marathons. His passion for nature led him to volunteer for the Appalachian Trail Maintenance crew. Additionally, Don contributed his time to the Boy Scouts, supporting his oldest son, Paul Briggs, in earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Don was an avid traveler who explored several provinces in Canada – such as Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and Québec, most U.S. states – including Alaska and Hawaii – numerous Caribbean islands, and one of his favorite destinations, Aruba.

Don was deeply engaged in state and national politics, volunteering for and supporting several political campaigns, including those of Robert F. Kennedy, George Mitchell, Jimmy Carter, and Angus King.

He is survived by his wife and best friend, Sharon H. Abrams, of Winslow; his children Paul Abrams Briggs and his wife Patricia, of Albuquerque, New Mexico (predeceased by baby son Edward), Eleanor Abrams, of Durham, New Hampshire, Cindy Randall and her husband John of Cape Neddick, Andy Abrams and his wife Paula, of Byron, Minnesota, Shawn Houghton and his wife Heather, of South China, and Tammy Houghton Lunt and her husband Eric, of Fairfield; grandchildren include Hailey Abrams of Omaha, Nebraska, Kyra Abrams Wilschek and her husband Adam, of Rochester, Minnesota, Sam Hale, of Durham, New Hampshire, Jackson Hale and his wife Maddy, of Fort Worth, Texas; Jacob Houghton and his partner Ciera, of Palermo, Peyton, Easton and Blake Houghton, of South China, Mason Lunt and his fiancée Cassidy, of Albion, and Gavin Lunt, of Fairfield; great-grandchildren Chace Houghton, of Palermo, and Riley Hale, of Fort Worth, Texas; his sister, Jean Katis, and her children Chris, John, Sandy, and Mike; several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Northern Light Home Care and Hospice Foundation, PO Box 679, Portland, ME 04104 in appreciation of the compassionate care provided to Don and Sharon in his final months.

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

SHIRLEY M. SKOCZENSKI

WATERVILLE – Shirley M. Skoczenski, 97, of Waterville and formerly of Saco, passed away in Medford, Massachu­setts, on Thursday, March 6, 2025. A lifelong Mainer for her first 89 years, Shirley was born in Skowhegan on December 26, 1927, daughter of Peter and Nellie (Gilbert) Riel.

She graduated from Skowhegan High School and Bloomfield Academy, class of 1945.

Shirley’s love story began with the tragic passing of her brother. PFC Robert Riel was killed in the line of duty during World War II, in France. She met her future husband Alfred Skoczenski as he accompanied Robert’s remains back to his home town of Skowhegan. The couple married on November 27, 1948.

Shirley was deeply devoted to her family. As her six children got older, Shirley went to work at Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Waterville, as a telephone switchboard operator. Her career there spanned for 25 years, retiring in 1989.

Shirley had many interests, including travel, reading, bingo and the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. But none compared to her family, and she loved nothing more than to gather everyone together for a big Sunday dinner, creating many happy memories.

She was predeceased by her husband Alfred in 1993, by sons Brian Skoczenski in 2014 and Michael Skoczenski in 2025.

She is survived by four children, Robert Skoczenski (Parise,) of Florida, Alfred Skoczenski Jr., of Washington, Cheryl Tebolt (William), of Florida, and Ann Skoczenski, of Massachusetts; daughter-in-law Alison Skoczenski (Brian), of Maine; 10 grandchildren, Eric Skoczenski (Shelby), Brian Skoczenski (Allison), Peter Skoczenski, Ellen Riel (Ashley), Julia Major (Nathan), Elizabeth Manz (Brady), Evan Skoczenski, Hannah Duffy (Chris), Grace Natole (Nate), and Nathan Skoczenski; 13 great-grandchildren, Robert, Dominic, Atticus, Lydia, Emelina, Olin, Faela, Josie, Jack, Molly, Finnegan, Elsie, Sullivan, and Levi.

At Shirley’s wishes, services will be private. Burial will be at a later date in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta.

To view Shirley’s memorial page or leave an online condolence please visit http://www.cotefuneralhome.com.

In Shirley’s memory, donations may be made to The Red Sox Foundation.

Others Departed

ALEX N. FIELD

VASSALBORO ­ – Alex Nova Field “Bud,” 24, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Born in Waterville, Alex was the firstborn son of Leslie Field and Casey Bronn.

He graduated from Winslow High School in 2019, earning both OSHA and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. After graduation, he began working in the automotive industry, at O’Connor AutoPark, in Augusta, in the detailing department. Later, seeking a change, he found his passion as a commercial and residential painter with The Maine Painting Company. He took great pride in his work, often sharing stories about the historic places he had the privilege of painting, such as Colby College Lorimer Chapel and Oak Grove Church, in Vassalboro.

From a young age, Alex had a natural curiosity for how things worked. Whether tinkering with a snowmobile alongside his dad or taking apart household appliances with his siblings: he loved restoring things to working order. He had a deep appreciation for tattoos, music, and gaming, and he cherished time spent with friends and family. His love for animals, especially dogs, was evident in the way he always made space for them, no matter how uncomfortable it made him.

In March 2024, Alex overcame the effects of a rare immune disorder, an experience that profoundly shaped him. He became an inspiration to his family, embracing life with renewed purpose. His bond with his mother was especially strong; they were best friends who shared countless conversations and moments together.

Alex was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, Keith Bronn, several great- aunts and -uncles.

Alex is survived by his parents, Casey Bronn and Leslie Field; siblings Zackary Field, Tyson Field, Lexus Field and her companion Dominick Wasilowski, and Denali Hooper; grandmother(Gamma) Cecelia Bronn; grandparents Marietta and John Field; aunt Lora Goodrich; uncle Dwaine Field and his wife Jennifer; aunt Melody Curtis and her companion Tommie Edwards; two nieces; and several cousins.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, 175 Veteran Dr., Winslow, ME 04901.

In lieu of flowers, donations to assist the family during this difficult time would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent via CashApp ($CaseyBronn), Facebook Pay (Casey Bronn), or by mail to Casey Bronn, 460 Bog Rd., Vassalboro, ME 04989.

Alex’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

HARRY D. TISDALE JR.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida – Harry D. Tisdale Jr., 80, known to most as “Sonny”, passed away at his home in New Symrna Beach, Florida, on Saturday, March 1, 2025. He was born on August 22, 1944, in Brunswick, the only boy of five children, to Dorothy M. and Harry D. Tisdale.

Sonny was a kind, loving, generous man who never left his family or friends without a hug.

Sonny had a love for horses, dogs and all things automotive. Following his service in the U.S. Army and becoming a Vietnam Veteran, he returned to Maine and eventually settled in Chelsea. There he opened and operated Tisdale’s Junkyard. Later he sold Tisdale’s and in 1982 he established what became his well known business, Sonny T’s Used Cars and Trucks.

Many memories were made and friendships formed at Sonny T’s and occasionally, a vehicle or two were sold. Sonny knew how to wheel and deal yet lend a helping hand to customers who needed assistance to buy a vehicle. As his business grew, he purchased a supporting location and Sonny T’s Junkyard was developed.

Sonny had his hands full raising three sons who he thoroughly enjoyed life with. He and his boys, Greg, Bobby and Randy were active in fishing, trail riding on ATVs, playing sports including tennis in their own home court and swimming in their pool.

Sonny was especially gifted in teaching his boys many interesting life skills. Performing proper burnouts, hauling a heavy bulldozer to a customer using a light Ford Bronco and lifting a building on top of a schoolbus and hauling it with a wrecker to relocate it are just a few of those valuable lessons. Sonny was a wonderful, fun loving man who will also be remembered for his plentiful lobster bakes. His lifetime of success and humor with so many stories of comical events will be cherished for years to come.

In addition to his automotive businesses, Sonny engaged in the buying and selling of many real estate properties. He once stated “At one point or another I probably owned half of Chelsea!” Sonny spent many winters in Florida before moving permanent to New Smyrna Beach where he spent the last 17 years with his love, Annette Keenan. He was warmly welcomed, befriended and loved by her adult children and grandchildren who also became his family.

Sonny was predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Arlene McRee; Janice Jenkins, Dorothy Read and Harriett Rogers.

He is survived by his sons, Greg D. Tisdale and wife Mary Kay, of Albion, Bobby D. Tisdale, of Chelsea; stepson Randy Markham, of Morril.; grandson Noah D. Tisdale, of Albion; special partner Annette Keenan and family; and many nieces and nephews.

Services are being provided by Settle-Wilder Funeral Home and Cremation, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Celebrations of life in Florida and Maine will be determined and details will be shared. A private burial will take place at a later date.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 6, 2025

JACQUELINE M. GERRISH

OAKLAND / PALERMO – Jacqueline Margaret Gerrish, 79, passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2025, following a lengthy illness, at Mt. Joseph’s Rehab Facility, in Waterville. Jackie was born in Portland to Charles “Frank” and Margaret (Sargent) Gerrish.

She received her education in Hartford, Connecticut. As a high school student, she volunteered at the Oak Hill School for the blind and deaf. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in public service. Jackie continued her education at the University of Connecticut, and after graduation, she took a permanent position at the Oak Hill School for the Blind and Deaf.

In the 1970s, Jackie moved to Palermo to live with her father after her mother’s passing. She took a position for the Community Justice Project and in 1977 she became a certified social worker for the State of Maine working with adults with disabilities. Jackie loved her work and was dedicated to making a difference in her client’s lives. She retired from her position after 33 years of service.

Jackie loved nature and was an avid gardener. For several summers, along with her dear friend, Kathy Poulin Guzman, they hosted a garden party in her beautiful gardens, which was enjoyed by friends and family. Jackie loved animals and each of her furry friends were treated like a valuable family member. She also had a deep closeness with the children in her life, spending countless hours enjoying their company.

She was predeceased by both her parents; brothers Ralph, Timothy, and Frank Gerrish, and sisters Francina Gerrish Haskell and Madeline Gerrish Bartol.

Jackie leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a celebration of Jackie’s life at the Sheepscot Lake Fish and Game Association, located on Route 3, in Palermo, on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m.

Jackie’s ashes will be placed at the family plot at the Oakfield Cemetery, in Oakfield, this summer.

Please visit Jackie’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/jacqueline-gerrish-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jackie’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

DAVID H. GORTON

ARDMORE, Oklahoma – David Hoyt Gorton, 67, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, following complications from pneumonia. He was born in Saint Albans, Vermont, on August 1, 1957, the son of Hugh W. Gorton and Lois G. Cherry Gorton.

The family moved to Augusta when Dave was four years old. He attended Cony High School, in Augusta, graduated in 1975, and then obtained a bachelor’s degree from Roger Williams College, in Rhode Island, in 1979. He also spent one year in London to continue his education. Dave met his wife, Donna, in 1982, and they were married in 1983.

Dave was very involved in China Baptist Camps, in Maine, as a camper, then as a counselor, camp pastor, and coordinator. He was always known as “Big Dave!”. He always would say, “As long as I have breath within me, I will serve the Lord.”

He assisted Pastor Russell Smith at the Centre Vassalboro Baptist Church and then accepted the calling as full-time pastor at the North Vassalboro Baptist Church from 1986 to 1992. His next calling was from 1992 to 2012 at the North Windsor Baptist Church. He started a Home Church Fellowship, in Maine, for five years. His final calling was in 2022 to help in any way he could at the Maranatha Free Will Baptist Church in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

Dave’s hobbies and activities through the years were studying God’s Word, camping, fishing, hiking, putting together WWII Italian Army model ships, cannons, tanks, and trucks.

He was husband to Donna Lutz Gorton for 41 years.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; sister, Cherry Gorton, of Massachusetts; brothers, Grant John Gorton and his wife Kathleen, of Vermont, and Burton Gorton and his wife Jeanne, of New York; brother-in-law, Robert Lutz and wife Diane, of Maine; several nieces, nephews; grandnieces and grandnephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held, on Saturday, March 8, at Maranatha Free Will Baptist Church, 1906 Myall Rd., Ardmore, Oklahoma, at 10 a.m. A second Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, October 4, 2025, at China Baptist Church with Pastor Ron Morrell officiating the service, at 10 a.m. Burial will be at the conclusion of the service in Camden.

GARY R. HAWKINS

AUGUSTA – Gary Robert Hawkins, 76, died Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center following a long and productive life. He was born in Augusta on July 4, 1948, the son of Robert Boyd and Arline (Lajoie) Hawkins.

He grew up in Augusta and graduated from Cony High School in 1966. Following high school, “Hawk”, as his friends called him, was enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served six honorable years in the reserves.

Hawk worked a variety of jobs in his post-high school years. In 1976, he became a part-time writer in the Kennebec Journal sports department. By 1980, he had been promoted to full-time staff member. What started as a passion for local sports became a beloved career of 38 years. He said it was a blast.

But proving it wasn’t just about the infamously-lofty journalism paycheck, Hawk also volunteered his time mentoring countless youth athletes. Beginning in 1974, he started coaching junior high basketball and Babe Ruth baseball for St. Mary’s School (now St. Michael), in Augusta. He would frequently follow the high school careers of his players, even recalling specific championship performances many years later. In 2017, Hawk was inducted into the Maine Basketball Hall of Fame.

In 1978, Hawk met the love of his life, Railynn Smith, of Gardiner. They began dating in 1981, at which time he let her call him Gary. They eventually had two children before settling into their Augusta home in 1988. Throughout their 40-year marriage, Gary and Railynn frequently spent time with family and friends, with a special pleasure for visiting the Maine coast. Boothbay Harbor became a particular joy as they spent many summer weeks there year after year.

After retirement, Hawk sought to support his lifelong love of golf with more than a pension could provide. He soon obtained work with St. Michael School, continuing his tradition of serving the youth of Augusta.

In addition to his love of golf, Hawk played many different sports throughout his life. He could often be found in basketball and softball leagues, and he would occasionally be spotted on a pair of skates at the ice arena in Hallowell or even the rink in his own backyard.

Hawk’s mother, Arline, was always the best cook in the family, but Hawk was a close second. He would effortlessly put together the best holiday meals, late-night cheeseburgers, and American chop suey. The grill on the back deck would only go into storage when the weather demanded it be so.

Hawk also loved to talk sports with friends and coworkers over a beer or two. One of his favorite watering holes was Lisa’s, on Bangor Street. He had been a faithful patron since its days as Mike’s, and he visited there with friends and family for almost the entirety of his adult life.

Hawk’s great sense of dry humor was as understated as he was, and he had a much greater interest in others than himself, some of the reasons he had so many friends and admirers.

In addition to his wife of 40 years, Gary is survived by two sons, Ryan and his partner Justin, of Gardiner, and Michael and his wife Jocelyn, also of Gardiner, and their children Theo, Kael, and Konnor; his brother, Bob, of Augusta, and his sons Tyler and Todd and their mother, Susanne, of Baltimore, Maryland; his uncle Dick and Aunt Marion, former long-time residents of Augusta.

A celebration of life took place on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the Augusta Elks Lodge, 397 Civic Center Dr., Augusta.

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

Memorial donations may be made to the St. Michael School Athletic Program, 56 Sewall St., Augusta, ME 04330.

JACKIE DORKO

CLINTON – Jackie Dorko, 84, of Clinton, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Born in Eagle Lake on July 7, 1940, she was the daughter of Lorena and Donah Pelletier.

After graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, she met and married Robert “Bob” Dorko Sr. in 1959.

She and Bob raised five children, Laurie Haj Ashab, Joy Ware, Mary Gallagher, Angel Maillet, and Bob Dorko.

In addition to being a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and wife, she was an avid gardener and loved to read. In 1977, she joined the Clinton Elementary School staff and worked as a librarian until retirement. She was proud to have helped the many students, who passed through the Clinton school system, enjoy literature.

She was predeceased by her husband, Bob; and her daughter, Laurie Haj Ashab.

On Friday, February 28, a funeral Mass was held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville.

Services are under the care of Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

For family and friends who wish to honor Jackie’s memory, the family encourages donations to your local library.

ALVAH E. DONNELL JR.

BELGRADE – Alvah E. Donnell Jr., 69, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He was born on January 21, 1956, in Augusta, to Alvah E. Donnell Sr. and Dorothy (Betts) Donnell Tisdale. He was raised in Gardiner and graduated class of 1974.

He was a member of the Sharples Drill team from 1967-1970 and served in the U.S. Army from 1974-1978. He was currently a member of the American Legion Post #40, in Winthrop, and 1st Vice Commander for District #9, American Legion, member of the Maine Veteran Cemeteries for the State of Maine and serving as commander for the Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard.

He served on the Pittston Fire Department for 24 years and served on several town boards while living in the town of Pittston.

He was predeceased by both parents, and stepfather, Arthur Tisdale, Sr.; stepsister, Diane Bryant, sister, Joanne and son, Alvah E. Donnell III; and lifelong Army buddy, Roland Price.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia A. Donnell of 45 years; and by four children, Una Purvis (Dan), of Carmel, Ivy Donnell, of Milo, Angela Donnell (Bob), of Belgrade; a son, James Donnell (Kelly), of Farmingdale; nephews William Price (Amy S), of Anson, Charles Price (Amy B), of Emden; siblings, Alice Zawadzki, Ben Tisdale, Alan Tisdale, Wilson Donnell, Sharon John, Hugh, Joel, and Richard; grandson, Kendall Paquette; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.”

Al’s graveside service was held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Blue Star Avenue, Augusta, on Thursday, March 6. A celebration of life followed immediately after at the American Legion Post #40, Winthrop.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, One Church St., Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard, 815 Manchester Rd., Belgrade, ME 04917.

HENRY N. FOSSETT SR.

AUGUSTA – Henry Norman Fossett, Sr., 77, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. He was born on March 19, 1947, the son of Norman and Arlene (Hughes) Fossett.

Henry grew up in Vassalboro and was a graduate of Hall-Dale High School, in the class of 1965.

Following school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge, Henry returned home to Maine, started a family, and was married to Marie Rose Charest.

Henry worked at Kirschner Foods, ultimately retiring after many years of employment. Henry was an avid hunter and enjoyed collecting coins. He was also a life member of the American Legion Fitzgerald-Cummings Post #2, VFW Post #887, and the NRA.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a sister, Colleen True.

Henry is survived by his sons Henry Fossett Jr., Dan Fossett and his wife Sue and their son Ryan, Jack Fossett and his wife Stacy; his sister, Melody Beaulieu; and a brother-in-law, Tim True.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. A graveside service will be held on a date and time to be announced in the spring in Vassalboro.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Henry’s name may be made to Tunnel to Towers at http://www.t2t.org.

Others Departed

THOMAS W. ANDREWS

MADISON – Thomas W. Andrews, 74, passed away quietly, at home, on Monday January 20, 2025. He was born on March 30, 1950, in Bangor.

Tom had a passion for working on vehicles and feeding birds. He loved classic cars, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and was known by friends and family to give his time to help them in even the most mundane of tasks.

He was predeceased by his parents Sherwood and Lois Andrews; his brother, Andrew “Andy” Andrews and several half-siblings.

He is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Julia M. Andrews; his daughter, June M. Potter and stepdaughter, Sara Bruce; his sons Thomas Andrews, Timothy Andrews, Robert “Frankie” Andrews, Warren Andrews, and Christopher Andrews; grandchildren; and many nieces, and nephews.

A remembrance gathering will be held in late spring for friends and family at a date to be determined, followed by the spreading of his ashes on Boot Hill.

DIANE H. PARKER

PORTLAND – Diane Houghton Parker, 95, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 1, 2025. She was born Nov­ember 24, 1929, in Providence, Rhode Island, only child of show business parents Wilfred and Dorothy Gray Houghton.

She was raised in South Portland by her maternal grandmother, Annie Martin Gray, and an aunt, Helen McBrady Gilchrist. Diane graduated from South Portland High School in 1947. She worked for a time at the phone company before marrying.

She married Francis X. Parker in 1950 and moved to the Augusta/Gardiner area where they raised five children while Frank worked for IBM. They were parishioners at St. Mary’s Church, in Augusta.

During these years she was active as a volunteer in the Augusta Community Concert Assn., Parents’ Creative Arts Committee, Augusta General Hospital, and the Oblate Retreat House. She also worked during these years at the Maine Heart Association, the Kennebec Journal, UMA Bookstore, the Talent Tree Art Gallery, and the ME Library Advisory Comm.

After their divorce in the mid ‘70s, Diane continued her college education, and added to her many skills by working as a secretary for the UMA FORUM-A office, in Augusta, then moving to Orono to work as an admin. secretary at UMO. She then moved back to the Portland area to work at the University of Southern Maine, the Maine District Court, and finally with Mary Alice Reilly Antiques, in Portland, and later Mulberry Cottage, in South Portland. She maintained a long wonderful relationship with Mary Alice and her family for many years afterwards.

Diane also had a wonderful relationship with her sisters-in-law – Jean, Nina, Mary Lou, and Elaine. They were the glue that bonded the large Parker family together in a way that inspires others to this day.

She had a great appreciation of the arts, music, languages (especially French), proper grammar and travel, visiting Europe three times, twice with her children! She was witty, sarcastic, intelligent, inquisitive and appreciative of other people’s talents.

She lived in Cape Elizabeth for 30 years in her last, favorite apartment. It was here she enjoyed playing her piano (beautifully!), holding Scrabble tournaments with family, enjoying her classical music and Opera CDs, reading, and listening to PBS. She was a member of St. Bartholomew’s Parish, in Cape Elizabeth.

Her final years were spent at Fallbrook Woods memory facility, in Portland, where she entertained.

Now that Diane is finally flying free, her family is celebrating her lifelong love of planes. She started a serious love affair with flying when she had her first flying lessons at age 18. Her children presented her with another lesson at age 70, she took lessons in Scarborough at age 79, and she flew again in an old fighter plane in her 80s.

She found joy in simple things, needed so little and was grateful for what she had. At times not an easy life and born too early for her to soar. She had such appreciation for small things, especially French things.

Diane was pre-deceased by her son Michael Parker, and a grandson Derek Emery.

She is survived by a brother John and wife Laurel Rodman, of Tiverto, Rhode Island, her daughters Elizabeth and husband John Campbell, of Chelsea, Susan Parker, of Brunswick, Jane Parker and partner Kevin Cassidy, of Eagle, Colorado, and her son Gregory and wife Jerrie Parker, of Albion; four 4 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren

Visiting hours will be Friday, May 30 4 – 7 p.m., at Hobbs Funeral Home, in South Portland. A graveside service will be Saturday, May 31, 11a.m., at Riverside Memorial Cemetery, in Cape Elizabeth, followed by a Celebration of Life, at Two Lights State Park (The Group Shelter, handicap accessible, watch for signs) in Cape Elizabeth.

MARLENE M. McGOVERN

SACO – Marlene Mary (Langlois) McGovern, 92, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. She was born on July 12, 1932, in Boston, Massa­chu­setts, the second of three children born to Albert H. and Elsie (McNeil) Langlois.

Having moved to Maine as a young girl, Marlene was educated in Portland schools, graduating from Cathedral High School, in 1950. She met her future husband, Kenneth G. “Greg” McGovern, in Portland, in 1954, and they were married in 1956.

Following several years in Portland and the birth of their daughter, Kelly, they moved to Winslow. The birth of a son, Ken, completed the family, which resided in this part of Maine for more than a quarter century.

Throughout her time in Central Maine, Marlene looked after the family and worked in various administrative roles for local businesses. She was very active in local clubs, such as Antique Club and Contemporary Club, and had a broad circle of friends throughout the area. Relocating to the Greater Portland area in the late 1980s, Marlene worked as a hospice volunteer and a tour guide at the Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum, in Brunswick.

She was an avid quilter and each of her grandsons were frequent recipients of her various creations. Marlene also enjoyed travel, and together with Greg, she traveled widely across North America, and enjoyed multiple trips to Ireland, Europe, and Australia.

Marlene was predeceased (November 2024) by Greg, her husband of 68 years. Her siblings Frank Langlois and Helen Langlois, and their spouses have predeceased her.

She is survived by her daughter, Kelly McGovern Shaw and her husband Bob, of Falmouth; and her son, Ken and his wife Michelle, of North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; four grandsons, Ben Shaw (Falmouth), Cameron Shaw (Auburn) and his wife Sage, Declan McGovern (Victoria, BC) and Mark McGovern (North Vancouver, BC); nephews Ken Higgins and Michael Higgins; and a niece, Marianne Langlois.

A private graveside service was held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Calvary Cemetery, in South Portland.

Please visit http://www.jonesrichandbarnes.com to view Marlene’s tribute page and to sign her online guestbook.

CHERYL A. GOFF

MADISON – Cheryl A. Goff, 74, passed away on Friday, December 20, 2024. Cheryl was born Septem­ber 9, 1950, in Farming­ton, the only child to Elwood & Thelma Chesley.

Cheryl spent her school years in Kingfield. Her class was the last to graduate from Kingfield High School, on June 13, 1969. She went on from there and earned her associates degree. For 17 years Cheryl spent her days waitressing at the 3G’s Restaurant, in Skowhegan. Later in life she spent time caring for developmentally disabled adults.

Throughout these years she met many people that she genuinely cared for and many people that kept her close to their hearts as well.

When Cheryl moved out of state, she left the life she missed dearly in the end of her time. Her desire was to get back home to the life that she missed in Madison.

Cheryl was a proud member of the United Methodist church and of the United Baptist church since the age of 4.

Survivors include her daughters Jennifer Goff and Jessica Crispin; her four grandchildren Cameron and Brandon Schmidt and Jaithon and Brilynn Crispin; great-grandchildren Parker and Dahlia Crispi; as well several cousins.

Now that Cheryl’s back in town she will R.I.P. She’s back home to where her heart was!

A service and celebration of Cheryl’s life will be provided by Giberson Funeral Home, on Saturday March 15, 2025, at 3 p.m., at the Christ Community Fellowship Church, 43 Maple Street, in Madison. This is across the road from Giberson Funeral Home.

MARGARET E. CHIN

PORTLAND – Margaret Elisabeth (Smith) Chin passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Born to Mary “Mae” Rita (Dionne) Smith and L. Aubrey Smith, in Waterville, in 1952, as the fifth of 10 children.

She graduated from Winslow High School where her accomplishments included head cheerleader, National Honor Society, and voted Most School Spirit by her classmates. She went on to college where she studied at Lesley College, Queen’s College of Canada, and graduated from University of Maine.

Her thoughtful cards were always timely, and the knitted hats, mittens and scarves made with love. As the very extended family grew they were assured to receive a warm card and even warmer hat for the new baby. She always looked forward to her family trips for ice cream (Butter Pecan was her favorite). However, what people will recall most about Margaret was her sweet, gentle nature and kindness.

Her fight with cancer over the past couple of years has been nothing short of heroic and her spirit inspiring. It may have been complications of cancer that took her body, but it was the long term struggle with Schizoaffective Disorder that shaped her adult life. With her husband by her side, they didn’t let this define who she was as she enjoyed a full life as a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, aunt, sibling and friend.

Please consider donating, volunteering and/or educating yourselves and others of mental health. Visit Nami.org for more information.

In addition to her parents, Margaret was predeceased by her brother, Michael; and daughter-in-law, Terri Lynne Chin.

Margaret is survived by her husband, Thomas, who have been together since 1972 and married in June 1976; as well as two sons and four grandchildren, Kevin and partner Melissa van Wijk (Tommy) and Kenneth and wife Kimberly (Teddy, Charlie and Elizabeth); and eight surviving siblings, Robert (Anne), Judy Daviau (John), Anne Sinclair (David); sister-in-law, Nancy, John, Peter, Jim (Daigo Fujiwara), Joseph, David (Alicia).

ROBERT MINER

MT. VERNON – Robert Miner passed away on Monday February 17, 2025.

He was well known in the community to be a prominent citizen and gracious man who will be greatly missed. Bob was a disabled veteran who fought in the Vietnam War, and gave 13 years of service as a U.S. Marine and as a Paramedic in the U.S. Air Force.

Bob had a love for animals, and a passion for taking care of them. (He was owner of D.E.W. Animal Sanctuary, in Mt. Vernon.) He started by sheltering animals into his home and eventually started a zoo in 1980. Bob was one of a kind, and many people enjoyed going to the zoo to see the animals as much as talking to him. Bob lived and enjoyed life, he traveled the world, took care of many exotic animals, and helped a lot of people along the way.

Bob leaves behind his partner, Sheila; her sons Chris (wife Lauren), and Nate; good friends John “Mac”, Jared, Claudia, and Nellie.

He will be remembered for his wild and adventurous stories of his past, his connection and love for animals, his selflessness and willingness to help others in need, and his jokester ways of making everyone laugh will fill our hearts forever.

MICHAEL SKOCZENSKI

LINCOLN – Michael J. Skoczenski, 62, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Lincoln, following a long illness. Michael was born in Waterville, October 6, 1962, to Alfred and Shirley (Riel) Skoczenski.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1981 and attended the University of Southern Maine. Mike was a free spirit with a passion for fishing and music, especially The Grateful Dead.

Michael was predeceased by his father Alfred and his brother Brian.

He is survived by his mother Shirley; his daughters, Hannah Duffy and husband Chris, Grace Natole and husband Nate; four grandchildren, Finnegan Duffy, Elsie Duffy, Sullivan Natole and Levi Natole; two sisters, Cheryl Tebolt, of Florida, and Ann, of Massachusetts; and two brothers, Bob, of Florida, and Al, of Washington; several nieces and nephews.

There will be an informal memorial for Michael, in Waterville, this summer. Date and location to be determined.

Services are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 27, 2025

JANET M. SYLVESTER

WINSLOW – Janet Mayo Sylvester, 91, of Winslow, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025. Born at home in Wilton, on December 25, 1933, she was the daughter of Oscar and Evelyn (Buzzell) Mayo.

Janet graduated from Wilton Academy in 1952 and went on to attend the University of Maine, where she reconnected with her childhood friend, Harrison Sylvester. Janet and Harry married in 1953 and shared nearly 55 years of love and partnership until his passing in 2008. Together, they lived in Maine and Massachusetts, raising their three children, Michael, Richard, and Deborah. Janet later returned to school, earning a degree from Worcester State Teachers College in 1967. She then taught elementary school in Westborough, Massachusetts, marking the beginning of her lifelong dedication to education. Janet and her family returned to Maine for good in 1973, settling in Albion, where she was a member of a bowling league and active in the Lions for many years.

Janet was an avid reader, known for her sharp humor and an unwavering sense of fairness. Her home was always open to family and friends. Every summer, Janet and Harry joyfully hosted their four grandchildren at their home in Albion or their camp in Eustis, playing a central role in their lives. Her love of sweets, especially ice cream, was a well-known “secret” among family and friends, and she was lucky to enjoy regular ice cream outings in her later years.

When Harry was diagnosed with learning disabilities in the late 1980s, Janet took it upon herself to become an expert in the field and a passionate advocate for children and adults with learning differences. She regularly fielded calls from parents seeking advice and supported families across Maine and the country. Janet served as the executive director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Maine for many years, making a lasting impact on countless lives.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Harrison Sylvester, and her son, Michael Sylvester.

She is survived by her children, Richard Sylvester and wife Carol, Deborah Noyes and husband Charles; her grandchildren Ryan Sylvester, Erin Cliche (Jason), Erica Bosse (Jordon), and Noah Bradstreet (Lucie Strokoszova); and two great-grandchildren, Graham and Ivy Cliche.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a later date in Eustis.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com/tribute.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Harrison C. Sylvester ’55 Family Scholarship at the University of Maine in Janet’s memory.

JAMES A. DAVIS JR.

CLINTON – James A. Davis, Jr., 83, of Clinton, died Monday, February 10, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Born in Waterville, to the late James A. Davis, Sr. and Fatina S. (Duty).

James leaves behind his wife and best friend, Louise (Menard) Davis, of Clinton. For the past eight years, they enjoyed many relaxing drives, exploring the lakes and coastlines of Maine, a state he loved deeply and wanted to share with Louise. He leaves behind a wealth of stories and adventures shared with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by four daughters, Christina (Dave Joder), of Colorado, Penni (Rick Wetzbarger), of Colorado, Jamie (Benjamin Cevelo), of Massachusetts, and Jodi (Davis) Perreault, of New Hampshire; five grandchildren, Meghan, Emily, Sarah, Lucy, and Kim; six great-grandchildren; sister, Cheryl Walker, of Benton; his brother Ronald Davis (wife Linda), of El Paso, Texas. He also had three stepchildren, Deborah Reardon, Suzanne Leps, and Brandon Harris.

He was predeceased by his sister, Debra Davis, who passed away in November 2024; his first wife, Barbara (Ridley) Davis, the mother of their four children; and his second wife, Georgine Y. Davis.

A Mass will be held in honor of James, with a memorial service planned for the spring when family and friends can gather to celebrate his life.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of James may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

ANNA L. RICHARDSON

MADISON – Anna Louise Richardson, 86, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She was the wife for 62 years to Ernest Richardson. She was born in Bingham, on August 18, 1938.

She had been at Maplecrest nursing home in Madison for the last three years.

Family and friends will be invited to a graveside celebration of life in the spring or summer in Solon.

She leaves behind daughter, Tammy and husband John Collins; son, Danny and wife Melonie Ayer; grandsons, Brandon Gove, Mathew and wife Tara Newick; granddaughters, Kristina Ayer, and Katrina Ayer; great-grandchildren, Madison, Summer, Kylan Newick, and Jeremy and Ryley Lyons; a sister, Frances Owens Ong and husband Willy Ong, of Orlando, Florida.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

THERESA P. MATHIEU

WATERVILLE – Theresa Pauline Mathieu, (Tee), 56, passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Theresa’s journey paved a path for many to follow. She graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 1988. She enjoyed and participated in the programs at Skills and Goodwill.

Although Theresa’s journey was different, she was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Theresa loved her family, care takers and friends. She enjoyed drinking coffee, watching 3 Stooges and cleaning.

Theresa is survived by her mother, Pauline Mathieu; brother Richard Mathieu and his wife Susan, and Robert Mathieu and his wife Laura; nieces and nephews Sarah Michaud (Ryan), Michael Mathieu (Mindy), Rebecca Mathieu, Ashley Mathieu, Alyssa Mathieu, Cooper Loiko, and Brody Loiko; and great-niece and -nephews Conner, Cameron, and Olivia.

She was predeceased by her father Raymond Mathieu and her niece Katie Marie Mathieu.

A full Catholic funeral Mass was held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 112 Silver Street, Waterville, on Friday February 21, 2025.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of Theresa may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Skills, Inc., 461 Hartland Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 to support individuals with similar special needs.

ROGER E. ROUTHIER

WATERVILLE – Roger E. Routhier, 82, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at home. He was born on November 1, 1942, in Waterville, to Harvey and Irene (Poulin) Routhier.

He attended Waterville High School, where he excelled in hockey and having fun. After graduating high school in 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Army for three years and served in various locations, including time spent overseas in Korea. Upon his return, he began his 28-year career with the Keyes Fibre Company.

In 1968, he married Jane Ann Gagne. He loved his family above all else and was happiest when he was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, cousins, and the many friends he made throughout his life. Roger had a way of making everyone feel welcome and nobody was a stranger for long. After his career at Keyes, he dedicated his time working at the Bean School, in Oakland, and at the home daycare he helped Jane run for 35 years. He was a longtime volunteer with the Sidney Fire Department and at the Waterville Soup Kitchen.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jane; his children Tina (Tricia), Arthur (Corrine) and Tammy; his grandchildren Alexander, Catherine, Jack, Olivia, Alden, and Grace; his sister Jeannine, to whom he was very close.

He was pre-deceased by his father and mother, as well as his older brother Yvon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Veilleux Redington Lawry Funeral Home with visitation on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 4-8 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery, on Grove St., in Waterville, in the spring.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a cause of your choosing in Roger’s name.

GREGORY G. RACKLIFF

OAKLAND – Gregory Gene Rackliff, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, following a sudden and brief battle with cancer. He was born February 14, 1950, in Farmington, where he also attended school. He was one of 11 children. His first marriage was to Crystal Trafton, sharing three children. He later married Lorelei Hall.

His family will always cherish the great memories such as camping, riding on the old army truck, the late nights smelting, riding our horse, Domingo, and all the small calves we raised. We had many adventures including building snow sculptures, sliding and ending our days with fudge and popcorn.

Later in life, he enjoyed watching NASCAR races and other sports along with exploring a good antique store. He was an active member of the Winslow Baptist Church and always encouraged his children to help others, as he did.

He worked several years at Dexter Shoe, drove both a milk and bread truck, managed Payless Shoes, in Augusta, and spent several years at Hammond Lumber Co.

He is survived by his wife Lorelei; mother-in-law Elizabeth Susi; children, Lori Drodge and husband Doug, of Pownal, Chad Rackliff and wife Janice, of Harmony, Lisa Rackliff Rice and husband James, of Harmony, Brad Bussell and wife Brandy, of Harmony; grandchildren, Elizabeth Rackliff and significant other Nick Champney, of Skowhegan, Chayse Cushing and wife Carolin of Fairfield, Jessie Cushin of Texas, Bree Fitzgerald and husband Spence of Harmony, Brody Bussell and significant other Simon Liszk of Winslow, Maverick Rice and significant other Kory Bouthillier, of Corinna, Montana Rice, of Harmony, and Nathaniel Rackliff, of Harmony; great-grandchildren, Charlie and Irene Cushing and Natalie Liszka; step-children, Rebecca Hall, of Virginia, Sarah Pickell and husband Travis of Sidney and Katie Hall, of Winslow; grandchildren, Sofia Adractas, of Virginia, Loukas Adractas, of Virginia, Anthony Pickell, of Sidney, Kayla and Sam Saunders and children, of Florida and Ben Thomas, of Winslow; siblings, Stanley and wife Lisa, of Wilton, Raynold and wife Elnora of Wilton, Nelson and wife Mary, of Chesterville, and Peggy, of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Leon Rackliff and wife Ida, mother Bertha Cox (Bachelder) and husband Frank; brothers: Dennis, Buddy, Dale, and Neil, sisters, Beverly Trafton and Nancy Knight.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Winslow Baptist Church, 1040 Augusta Road, Winslow, with Pastor Larry Lakey officiating. A gathering with light refreshments will be held in the fellowship hall following the service. All are welcome.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Teen Challenge, 11 Hudson Lane, Winthrop, ME, 04364.

NORMA N. O’NEAL

LIBERTY – Norma “Nancy” O’Neal, 72, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 17, 2025. Nancy was born on January 9, 1953, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Elsie Stanley and Frederick O’Neal.

Nancy had a profound love for animals, welcoming any creature in need into her home. There wasn’t an animal that didn’t love her in return. Over the years, she cared for many pets, but her heart was especially drawn to rottweilers. Her favorites – Wazoo, Mya, and Dillon Dog – were not just pets but true companions, each a big baby in her eyes. Her love extended to her feline friends as well, with Monkey-Do, Moxie, and Newton holding a special place in her heart. However, her dearest companion was her beloved cat, Pony, who was always by her side.

Throughout her life, Nancy worked in various roles, bringing dedication and compassion to everything she did. She spent years at Sam’s Club before finding her true calling as a caregiver. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she provided comfort and care to countless individuals. Her most fulfilling work was at Hayden House, where she ensured special needs adults received the dignity and care they deserved. She also worked at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital, where she treated every patient with understanding, free of fear or prejudice.

A lover of classic films, Nancy enjoyed watching her vast collection of VHS and DVD movies. Her all-time favorite, Gladiator, was watched countless times but she also had a love of horror stories (especially Stephen King) and Johnny Depp films.

Nancy loved going up to the family camp on Moosehead Lake, where she found peace in nature. She also enjoyed catching up with loved ones including her hours-long chats with her daughter, her niece Chasity and her brother Joe.

Nancy was a truly special person – unique, loving, and unafraid to be herself. She gave endlessly to those around her, both human and animal, and the world is a little less bright without her. She will be missed dearly and forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Smith, and her three children, Nichole, Fred, and Frank O’Neal; grandchildren; brother, Joseph Paul, his wife, Patty; nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

JOHN E. MILLER

WINDSOR—John E. Miller, 88, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long Term Care at Glenridge. He was born October 19, 1936, a son of Jesse Miller Sr. and Ella (Marquis) Gardiner.

John worked for many years at Sheridan Construction.

He is survived by his wife, Norma (Hallowell) Miller; his son, Jared Miller and his wife Bethany; and grandchildren, Nathan and Lauren Miller.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363, where a brief service will begin at 2 p.m. Burial will take place in the spring at Rest Haven Cemetery. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

Others Departed

ANN NILES

WHITEFIELD – Ann Niles, 81, of Whitefield, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

A gathering to celebrate Ann’s life will be held at the Kings Mills Union Hall where she spent so much time. The gathering will be on Saturday, April 12, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Ann’s full obituary may be viewed, and condolences may be expressed online at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either Kings Mills Union Hall Association, P.O. Box 49, Whitefield, ME 04353, or Whitefield Historical Society, P.O. Box 176, Whitefield, ME 04353

SHEILA K. HENDERSON

BRISTOL, Vermont – Sheila Kelly Henderson, 81, passed peacefully at her home in Bristol, Vermont on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She had lived with Parkinsons since 2019.

She was born in Madison on March 22, 1943, to Stephen and Pearl (Reed) Kelly. She met her husband, David, at Madison High School and they graduated in 1961. She graduated from Maine Medical Nursing School, in Portland, in 1964. They married that same year and celebrated 60 years of marriage on June 6, 2024.

Sheila worked as an RN in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to support David through medical school. Their journey together brought them from Philadelphia, to Burlington, Vermont, to North Dakota, and ultimately back to Vermont, moving to Bristol, Vermont, in 1975, to raise their family and set up their medical practice from which they both retired in 2009. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling, camping, and most of all, her grandchildren.

Sheila was a caregiver at her very core. This was evident in her profession as a nurse, as a volunteer EMT on the Bristol Rescue Squad.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers Donald Kelly, Alva Reed and his wife Shirley, her sister, Joyce Estes, brothers-in-law, Leo Estes, Dennis Barron, Richard Saucier; and David’s parents, Harold and Lucille Henderson.

She is survived by her husband, David Henderson, of Bristol, Vermont; and her three children, Erin Henderson (Bryan Serinese) of Williston, Vermont, Keely Henderson (Matt Germon), of Lincoln, Vermont, and Tim Henderson (Jenny Endris Henderson), of Felt, Idaho; her six grandchildren, Hugo, Gus, and Maeve Serinese, Charlie and Noah Germon, and Henry Henderson; her two sisters, Carolee Barron and Gail Saucier, of Madison; and her in-laws Jan Kelly and Tim and Linda Henderson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Sheila’s life is planned for this summer.

JOSEPH R. ROY

KENNEBUNK – Joseph R. Roy, 99, of Kennebunk, formerly of Winslow, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, February 13, 2025, following a courageous battle with heart disease. Joe or (Chubby as known to many) was born on January 25, 1926, in Waterville, the son of the late Paul and Mary Roy.

His 76 years of marriage to Shirley H. Roy formed an everlasting bond that was often celebrated with family and friends throughout their years together. Likewise, celebrating their 99th birthdays in January was an amazing recognition of their lives together and reminder of how fortunate their extended family has been.

Joe attended Winslow High School, graduating in 1944. He entered the Armed Services in 1944 and was a decorated Staff Sergeant in World War II, having served in the 11th Armored Division, 3rd Army under General Patton until his honorable discharge in 1946.

After WWII Joe attended Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and the New England Technical Institute, in Providence, Rhode Island. Joe became an accomplished radio station engineer servicing Lewiston and Augusta radio stations as well as Maine based airport beacons.

He began his career at Twin City Communications (WCOU), in Lewiston, and next at Capitol Communications WFAU/WKCG, in Augusta, where he served the greater Augusta community with technical support in many sporting and public service events to include historic boxing matches, concerts at the Augusta Civic Center and high school sporting contests until his retirement in 1991.

Throughout his life and particularly after his retirement, Joe loved enjoying the outdoors, especially Moosehead Lake, where he and his brothers Harold and Bob had a fishing camp on Lily Bay and enjoyed each others’ camaraderie and antics for many years.

Joseph is survived by his wife Shirley H. Roy, of Kennebunk; son Michael (Mick) Roy (Lauren), of North Yarmouth; daughters Patti Butler, of Naples, Florida, Cindi Cooper (Bill), of Venice, Florida, and Donna Dierkes (Lee), of Wells.

He was preceded in death by parents Paul Roy and Mary Roy, of Winslow, brothers Harold, Bob, Norman, Kenneth, and sisters Geraldine, and Lorraine; grandchildren Jami Bartlett-Rosario (Jose), Kristi Bartlett (Alex Hernandez), Lyndsay Winger (Justin), Brianna Deroche (Christopher), Kayla Roy (Tai Burgess), Julia Maturo (Joey), Greg Cooper (Jenn), Tim Cooper (Katelyn), Alayna Kelly (Sean), and Elyse Dierkes; great-grandchildren include Camdyn Rosario, Cassidy Rosario, Logan Dostie, Connor Deroche, Caroline Deroche, Jackson Burgess, Layla Maturo, Avery Cooper, Sadie Cooper, Bryce Cooper, Mason Cooper, Mylie Cooper, Skylar Cooper, Rosie Kelly.

A future celebration will be planned for the summer of 2025. His ashes will be placed at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, in the Spring/Summer of 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Amanda Worth, Office Manager, Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, 143 Blue Star Avenue, Augusta, Maine 04330, or donate to the charity or foundation of your choice.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 20, 2025

SHERLIE THAYER

CLINTON – Sherlie Thayer, 94, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 23, 2025. She was born on July 16, 1930.

For much of her adult life, Sherlie worked as a waitress at Mary’s Place, in Clinton, where she became a beloved fixture in the community. If you dined there, Sherlie knew you – and you knew her. Her warmth and genuine care for her “people” left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She had a remarkable ability to make every customer feel like family, and her kindness was returned with the love and admiration of those she served.

Sherlie’s family was her greatest treasure. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and cherished every moment spent with them. Her love extended to her church family, where she found strength and fellowship, and to her pets, who were her loyal companions throughout the years.

Sherlie was preceded in death by her siblings, Carl and Katherine; as well as her son Ira and daughter Patricia.

She is survived by her son Terry and his wife Kim; her son-in-law Keith; her grandchildren, Ken and his wife Angel, Justin and his wife Crystal, Teaen and her husband Greg, and Michael Thayer; three step- brothers; as well as many nieces and nephews; eight great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held in the spring, with the date to be determined, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your local humane society.

CYNTHIA L. WILLEY

OAKLAND – Cynthia “Cindy” Louise Willey, 66, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at her residence. She was born on December 4, 1958, in Portland,

Cindy enjoy­ed spending time playing games, cards and doing puzzles, making her a well-rounded source of trivia knowledge. She often was the winner of such games at family gatherings. She loved reading, listening to music, spending time with friends and many other interests.

Cindy was preceded in death by her father, Russell Percy Willey; and her son, Ronald “Ronnie” Charles Willey.

She is survived by her mother, Margaret “Peggy” Caouette; four sisters, Hope Segar and husband Steven, Susan Willette and husband Robert, Jeanne Labreck and husband Wayne and Angela Derosby and husband William; three nephews, Jacob Willette and wife Mallory, Jordan Derosby, Russell Labreck; five nieces, Aimee Lynch and husband Bradley, Megan Willette and partner Luis Cotto, Kari Derosby, Krystal Labreck, Kerry Gervais and husband Chris; several grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

A memorial service will be held in the Capitol Room, at Governor’s, in Waterville, on Saturday, February22, from 2 to 4 p.m. for those who would like to celebrate Cindy’s life.

HAZEN R. SHAW JR.

SKOWHEGAN – Hazen Russell “Skip” Shaw Jr., 69, a lifelong resident of Skowhegan, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2025. Skip was born on June 20, 1955, in Skowhegan and attended Skowhegan High School.

In 1974, he met his high school sweetheart, Laurie Hooper, and they were married in 1976. They had 48 years of marriage and were such a perfect fit for each other. Skip worked for over 20 years at the Clinton Woolen Mill, and after that at the Hartland Tannery for 26 years until he retired in 2019.

Skip loved being with family and helping others, always anxious to help them with whatever project they were working on. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing, hunting and camping, especially “upcountry.” His fishing and car driving escapade stories are the stuff of legend. He was so much fun to be around, and he will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of spending time with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carolyn and Hazen Shaw, Sr.,

Skip is survived by his wife of 48 years, Laurie Shaw, of Skowhegan; sisters, Rebecca Thelin with her husband Andy, Debbie Holt with her husband Tommy, Colleen Wood with her husband Richard, Patricia Michaud; sisters-in-law, Ann Laverdiere and JP Faucher, Vickie Hunnewell with her husband Steve; brother-in-law, Larry “Brother” Hooper with his wife Kathy; as well as many nieces, nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held starting at noon, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Canaan Farmers Hall, in Canaan.

Please visit Skip’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/hazen-shaw where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Somerset Animal Shelter, in Skowhegan.

THERESA D. VIOLETTE

WATERVILLE – Theresa Dumont Violette, 98, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025. Theresa was born on November 18, 1926, to Mattie Brann and Joseph S. Dumont.

She was raised in Fairfield, and attended St. Joseph’s Academy, in Portland, for high school. She received a classical education.

Theresa’s life was rooted in the close bond she shared with her parents, eight siblings, and maternal grandmother. Another beloved foundation was her husband James P. Violette, also of Fairfield. The pair married following his Naval service in the Korean War. Together, they built a home in Waterville where they devoted themselves to raising their four children.

In 1963, Theresa and Jim purchased an old cottage on Great Pond, in North Belgrade. In the years to come, they spent every summer transforming the rundown camp into a beautiful refuge. Family and friends came together to enjoy the lake, work in the garden, eat Theresa’s raspberry pie, and play cards late into the night. She was a natural hostess, drawing many to the porch for supper and a sunset.

Theresa had a deep appreciation for folk art, and her own creativity shone in reverse glass painting, furniture refinishing, and the colorful painting of Jim’s carvings. She was an active member of the Friends of Art at Colby College, The Historical Society of Early American Decoration, Central Maine Garden Club, Youth for Understanding, and the Waterville Historical Society.

Theresa was predeceased by her husband, Jim; and first-born son, Thomas; as well as her eight siblings, Kathleen Dumont (Sister of Mercy), Marguerite (Gerard) Begin, Henry Dumont (MIA World War II), Florence (Clement) Theberge, Lena (Neri) Maillet, Lawrence (Therese) Dumont, Richard Dumont, and Joseph (Roberta) Dumont.

Theresa is survived by her children, James P. (Mary Flaherty) Violette Jr., of Kennebunk, Paul B. (Watcharee Limanon) Violette, of Yarmouth, John B. (Pamela Kirk), of Granby, Connecticut, and Mary R. (Herb Nolan) Violette, of Wellesley, Massachusetts; her 12 grandchildren include James (Jeanine), Anne (Ben), Grace (Chase), Luke, John, Marie, Andre, August, William (Maude), Nathaniel, Olivia, and Annabelle; and seven great-grandchildren, Ellis, Bailey, Andrew, Bennett, Colin, Callahan, and Maxine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Helena’s Church, in Belgrade Lakes, this summer.

Donations may be made to The Belgrade Lakes Association and 7 Lakes Alliance.

DALE AUSTIN

SIDNEY – Dale Austin, 90, passed away Saturday, February 8, 2025, as the result of an accident at home. He was born in Oakland on April 26, 1934 to Robert P. Austin and Christine (Sweet) Austin.

The family moved to Sidney that same year.

Dale graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, class of 1952. During high school, he worked part-time at Pine State Tobacco.

Dale went on to make his career at Bath Iron Works and graduated from the BIW Apprentice School in 1955. He worked his way through the ranks as a shipfitter, loftsman, and leading man. In 1973 he was promoted to foreman and held that position until 1984. From 1984-1990 he was Special Projects Manager for the Industrial Products Department until his early retirement in 1990.

During this time, he also worked part-time at Hammond Lumber Company, in Belgrade, designing and building components for a state-of-the-art sawmill, and truck bodies.

Dale gave much of his time to the town of Sidney, serving on the budget, planning, athletic, and road committees. He also served as PTA president for three years, an assistant scout leader, grounds superintendent for the Sidney Fair, secretary for the Center Sidney Fire Department, and was a member of the Sidney Grange for many years.

Dale was the longest-serving member, at 68 years, of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Rural Lodge of Sidney and a Past Patron of the White Rose Chapter of the Eastern Star.

He enjoyed antique cars, was a member of Maine Obsolete Auto League, and even built a replica ‘52 MG.

Dale enjoyed working with steel, drawing, oil painting, bowling, collecting scale model cars, camping, and cooking, often experimenting with new recipes.

Dale was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Theodore Austin and Dwain Austin (and wife Janet); daughter, Polly Austin, and son, Timothy Austin.

He is survived by his wife Maxine of 43 years. He fathered six children with his first wife, Shirley, of 29 years. The surviving children are Janet Desjardins of Augusta, Sharon Soble, of Florida, Shari Austin, of Virginia, David Austin and wife Linda, of Albion, and his adopted daughter, Renee Page and husband Richard, of Farmingdale; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service for close friends and family will be planned in the spring.

If you would like to leave a memory about Dale, please do so on the Wheeler’s funeral home website https://wheelerfh.com/ under his obituary.

BOBBIE JO EVANS

PALERMO – Bobbie Jo Evans, 52, passed away quietly on Sunday, February 9, 2025. She was born on April 30, 1972, to Jeffrey and Lauretta Grady, of Palermo.

Bobbie Jo loved life and lived it to the fullest, always. She. was an incredibly hard worker who didn’t know the meaning of the word “quit”. She had a sharp wit and an infectious laugh. Her smile and spirit lit up a room. A scooter was her preferred mode of transportation, and she loved nature in all its forms.

She was an avid hunter and fisher and spent many hours camping with her family. She was a fierce friend, an incredible grandmother, and had a unique way of ensuring those whom she loved always felt important and cared for.

Bobbie Jo worked at Blueberry Patch Childcare from 2000 to 2018 with owner Katie Bailey. The two became lifelong friends and enjoyed many adventures together through the years. She then worked at Piece Works from 2018 – 2024 and genuinely loved the work she did there. It kept fingers and mind busy, and always enjoyed learning new skills.

She was married to the love of her life, Scott Evans, for 32 years, and they created a beautiful life together.

Bobbie Jo is survived by her parents; her husband; mother-in-law Judy Evans; sons Cole and James Evans; daughters-in-law Michelle and Isabelle; grandchildren, Ava, Anna,Walter, and Milana; niece Clary Grady; nephews Jacob and Kay Grady; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was predeceased by her brother, Jeffrey Grady, and father-in-law, Junior Evans.

Take some time and read these three verses in the Bible for Bobbie Jo: Isaiah 53:5, Romans 12:1-2, and Proverbs 1:7.

There will be a family gathering and celebration of life held on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

JANICE E. CUSHMAN

WATERVILLE – Janice E. Cushman, 63, passed away at her home on Monday, February 10, 2025. Janice was born in Waterville on April 24, 1961, daughter of Dorothy (Stuart) and James Cushman. She was raised in Clinton.

She was predeceased by both her parents; brother, Thomas Cushman, and sister, Pamela Weisher.

Janice is survived by her husband, Joe Rogers; children, Brandy Robinson, of Waterville, Rachel Howard, of Mercier, Terri Cushman, of Waterville, Donald Denni,s of Waterville, Cheyenne Potter, of Waterville, and Rhonda Rogers, of Waterville; grandchildren, Allen, Brooke, James, Nickolas, Octivia, Allexius, Dylan, Alex, Connor, Madison, Kia, Shelby, and Nikita; great-granddaughter, Kinsley; siblings Mary (Leroy) Welsh, Martha Howard, Maurice (Lek) Pillsbury, Diane (Mike) Dailey, Dwayne Pillsbury, Jo Ann Cushman (Mike Corson); as well as many aunts, uncles; cousins; nieces, and nephews.

At her request, there will not be a service at this time.

Please visit her memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/janice-cushman where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

GARY A. WORKS SR.

WINSLOW – Gary Arthur Works, Sr., 66, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Gary was born in Waterville on February 19, 1958, son of Laurina and Everett Works.

He grew up in Shawmut and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1976. He worked for Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), at Shawmut Mill, then at the Waterville Mill, from where he retired, due to health issues, after 27 years of service .

Gary was an avid sportsman. He enjoyed his yearly spring fishing and fall bird hunting trips with his brother, Skip. He also enjoyed spending his summers at camp on Pattee Pond, where he could be found sitting on the deck or in the water. He acquired a love of traveling on cruise ships with Kelly and close friends and was looking forward to a cruise in August.

Gary had a big heart and was always there for friends and family. If you were in need, Gary’s door was always open, he would do what he could to help. He was also forever appreciative of his friends who were there for him when he needed a hand. Gary had a natural gift as a peacemaker. He could get people to forget their differences and become friends. They say, “good fences make good neighbors”. Gary could get neighbors to tear down fences and become great friends, a gift that we will be grateful for forever.

Gary was a life member of the Waterville Elks Club, with 36 years, and an auxiliary member of MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, Winslow VFW and the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Post #14, in Fairfield.

He was predeceased by both his parents; daughter, Mia Grant; previous wife, Wendy; and stepsons Jeff and Keven Roderick.

Gary is survived by his wife Kelly (McDonough); son, Gary Jr.; brothers Skip with his wife, Sue and Kenny with his wife Allie; sister-in-law, Bridget (Barney) Wright; stepchildren Tyler Bonnell, Nicole Bonnell (Justin Tardif), and Melissa (Ken) Nason; daughter-in-law, Sue Roderick and son-in-law, Stephen Grant; granddaughter, Shelby Grant; step-grandchildren Kayla, Zack and Jenna, Maddox and Johnathan, Elliot, Emmet, and Edie.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m., at MacCrillis-Rousseau, VFW Post #8835, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow.

Please visit Gary’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/gary-works where condolences, photos, and special memories.

JOHN E. TABER

SOMERVILLE – John E. “Johnny” Taber, 70, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Augusta, following a short illness. John was born on November 11, 1954, in Augusta, and grew up in South China.

John lived the life he wanted and he went out on his own terms.

He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1973. After a stint in the U.S. Army, in which he was stationed in North Carolina and Hawaii, he married Helen Priscilla Hill, the love of his life, on May 5, 1979, and they settled in Somerville. Helen died of cancer at the young age of 37 and John became a single parent to daughter Nicki. Nicki remembers him as a loving, knowledgeable, patient, and kind father who enjoyed a lively conversation and always tried his best. John encouraged her to love learning, music and appreciate nature (the things he loved best). They spent many summer days at Three Mile Pond, in South China, swimming and having cookouts with family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Nicole Marie Taber, and grandson, Dexter Taber Ouellette; siblings James S. Taber (Sydney), of Unity, Joseph W. Taber (Cheryl), of Naples, Florida, and Kathy Paradis, of North Yarmouth; many nieces and nephews and also daughter Nicki’s childhood friend Tiffany Norton, who was like a second daughter.

He was predeceased by wife Helen Hill Taber, parents Stanley R. and Jean (Turner) Taber, and sister Rebecca “Becky” Toman.

Later in the year, John will be laid to rest in Sand Hill Cemetery, in Somerville, and will be finally reunited with Helen.

BARBARA J. CHAMBERLAND

CORNVILLE – Barbara J. Chamberland, 62, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Barbara was born on April 30, 1962, in Ft. Lau­derdale, Flo­rida.

Barbara graduated from Madison Area High School in 1980, the same year she met her life long partner and husband, Roger Chamberland. They were married on January 17, 1981. Their first daughter, Wendy, was born July 18, 1981. They had their second daughter Tanya on Oct. 18, 1982.

Barbara was able to stay at home with their girls until they went to school. Barbara then chose to go to work and fulfill her passion by working as a CNA taking care of other people, which she always enjoyed. Barbara enjoyed camping and boating with her family, riding motorcycles with her husband, and just enjoyed time spent outside with family and friends.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Gloria; two brothers, Rene and Tim, and sister, Kathy.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 44 years, Roger Chamberland; her two daughters, Wendy and her fiancé, Travis, Tanya and her husband, Dave Marquis Jr.; her five grandchildren, Caitlynn, Connor, Cameron, Tyler and Dylan; and her two great-grandchildren, Paisley and Blake; her sister, Michelle Hopkins; two brothers, Kenneth Provencher, and Stephen Provencher; and her mother-in-law, Evangeline Chamberland;

There was a service on Monday February 17, 2025, at Giberson Funeral Home, 40 Maple St., Madison, from 4 to 7 p.m. A celebration of life followed.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

Others Departed

LORI ANN SIMPSON

FARMINGTON – Lori Ann (Briggs) Simpson, 63, born Thursday, March 9, 1961, passed away suddenly on Thurs­day, February 6, 2025 at her home in Farmington, following a long illness. Lori was the daughter of Douglas and Phyllis (Richard) Briggs.

She was the second of four children and was raised in Madison, graduating from Madison Area Memorial High School with the class of 1979.

After graduation, Lori began working in manufacturing and by 1982 she was employed with Bass Shoe, in Farmington. The same factory and industry in which her father found much success. In 1988, Lori began working at Hannaford, in Farmington, where she was able to continue with her love of baking by working in the deli. In 1995, she moved into administrative work with the town offices in Farmington and Jay. Due to illness, she was forced to resign from the Farmington Town Office in 2017.

She was a loyal New England Patriots football fan as well as an avid golf fan, installed in her by her father. A wonderful cook and homemaker (notably a New England Boiled Dinner and fruit pies) many times making pies to sell, helping others with their holiday dessert. Lori enjoyed sewing, carving, and was very proud of the care she took of her home. Most importantly, Lori was tirelessly seeking happiness and making the most of every situation. She was determined to live her life to the fullest and on her terms. She was so happy to have returned to her Catholic faith and found it provided her comfort and peace through her diagnosis and illness.

Lori is survived by her sons Nathan Simpson, Derek Simpon and his wife Lisa; and her grandchildren Elyse, Samuel, Parker, Julianna, and Mason; siblings Brian Briggs and life partner Theresa Girouard, of Poland, Leisa Brooks, of Windham, and Bruce Briggs and wife Anne, of Freeport; her aunt, Ann Marie McCarthy, and husband Leland, of Madison; as well as many nieces, nephews; cousins.

She was predeceased by her partner, Michael Kiernan; her mother, Phyllis (Richard) Briggs, her father, Douglas Briggs; and many aunts, uncles, and friends.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Christ the King Parish, St. Sebastian Church, in Madison, on Saturday, February 22, at noon. A reception will be held at the Madison American Legion, on Maple Street, directly following Mass.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local animal shelter or to the American Cancer Society.

SHEILA M. AUDET

FAIRFIELD – Sheila M. Audet, 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 8, 2025.

Visiting hours were held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. A burial will be held in the spring.

A full obituary may be found and online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

MICHELLE R. ALEJANDRO

MERRITT ISLAND, Florida – Michelle R. Alejandro, 59, of Merritt Island, Florida, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025. She was born at Regional Memorial Hospital, the first of five children, to Daniel Bruce Carey and Mary Lou (Reny) Pascoe on July 27, 1965.

Michelle found peace in the outdoors, and delighted in boat trips to the lake or strolling the beach. She had a bounce in her step, a bubbly laugh, and a gentle bedside manner, like her mother.

Michelle had a natural knack for learning, the grit of a carpenter, and a love for animals, like her father; and had a gift for silliness from them both. She loved long drives, staying up late, listening to music, and laughing until her abs were sore.

Michelle was full of life, and was extraordinarily outgoing. She loved to hop on her motorcycle, find adventure, get lost, and navigate a new way home. A graceful gymnast, a beautiful dancer, and a fierce martial artist, she never gave up the chance to learn a new skill. A gypsy at heart, Michelle tried on many hats over the course of her life, and could build or fix nearly anything. She was extremely proud of her nieces and nephews, and was often found at concerts, recitals, and graduations. She was a hard rocking, roller skating, tap dancing, water skiing, cruising, jumping, tumbling, powder keg of humanity.

Michelle was predeceased by her parents Daniel Carey and Mary (Reny) Pascoe; her brother, Louis Carey, and her sister, Eva (Carey) Todd.

She is survived by her husband of six years, Omar Alejandro; godmother, Shirley Jolicoeur, of Winslow; aunt, Margaret (Carey) Soucy and husband Lester, of Waterville; uncle, Paul Carey and wife Patty, of Ellsworth, aunt, Deb Carey, of Readfield; brother, Daniel Carey Jr., of Waterville; sister, Tammy Carey, of Waterville; sisters-in-law, Lynn Carey, Carla and Eva Valentine, of Brookline, Massachusetts; nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

A ceremony will be held by family in the spring.

JOHN R. HUARD

SOUTH PORTLAND – John R. Huard, 80, passed away peacefully on Wednes­day January 29, 2025, at his home. John Huard was born on March 9, 1944, in Waterville, to the late Roland “Zip” and Rita (Landry) Huard.

From an early age, he demonstrated a pronounced enthusiasm for athletics and academics, establishing himself as a distinguished student-athlete. John developed lasting friendships throughout his formative years.

John often reflected on a significant incident from his youth in which he inadvertently collided with a fire hydrant while playing catch. He regarded this experience as the most substantial impact he had ever endured. This incident held considerable meaning for him, as it contributed to his character development, instilled a sense of resilience, and fostered a lasting sense of humor he maintained throughout his life.

During his junior high school years, John was introduced to Helen, an exceptional individual whose influence profoundly impacted his life. Their immediate connection resulted in a strong bond that rendered them nearly inseparable. John frequently undertook the considerable journey from the South End to the North End of Waterville to spend meaningful time with her.

In high school, John demonstrated a remarkable level of achievement in both academic and athletic pursuits. This success was greatly attributed to the mentorship of his esteemed football coach, John Theriault, and his basketball coach, John “Swisher” Mitchell. Coach Theriault played a pivotal role in imparting the fundamental skills and work ethic necessary for success in collegiate football.

Following his high school education, John attended Kents Hill School for a postgraduate year, where his chemistry teacher, Mr. “T,” inspired his passion for learning and personal development.

While attending the University of Maine, John committed to his academic studies and passion for football. His talent and determination on the field were quickly recognized. John earned the honor of being a two-time first-team All-American and played a crucial role in a historic moment for the university as a member of the first UMaine football team to compete in a postseason game – the prestigious 1965 Tangerine Bowl. He was also the first Black Bear football player to be inducted into the “Ring of Honor” at Alfond Stadium and remains the only player from the university recognized in the College Football Hall of Fame.

The late J.I. Albrecht, who became a respected friend and mentor, recognized John during his time at the University of Maine. He successfully advocated for the Denver Broncos to select John in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL Draft. John went on to play four seasons with both the Denver Broncos and the New Orleans Saints. Off the field, he worked as a probation and parole officer.

Later, Huard became the head coach at Acadia University, leading the Axemen to victory in the Canadian National Champ­ionships in 1979 and 1981. His coaching career also included positions at Maine Maritime Academy and the Toronto Argonauts, in the Canadian Football League.

John transitioned from a prominent career in athletics to president of Northeast Turf, Hue Inc., a reputable organization recognized for its expertise in installing high-quality artificial turf for professional sports teams, colleges, and secondary schools. He held the late John Gilman, the founder of FieldTurf, in high regard, valuing the extensive experiences they shared, including their attendance at multiple Super Bowl events.

Affectionately referred to as “Gramp” by his family, John took considerable pride in his role as a grandfather to eight grandchildren and a great-grandfather to two. He dedicated late hours to flooding the backyard ice rink each winter, creating cherished memories for his family. Alongside his wife, Helen, he frequently traveled throughout the Northeast to attend various competitive events that showcased their grandchildren’s talents.

John is survived by his wife, Helen, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage; their three children, Kimberly and her husband Harlan, John Jr. and his wife Sarah, and Kristi and her husband Craig; eight grandchildren, Matthew, Sam, Lucas, Kory, Makayla, Piper, Thomas, and Connor; two great-grandchildren, Lilah and Josie; and three siblings, Ricky, Jane, and Ray.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Rd., South Portland.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway. To view John’s memorial page, or to leave an online condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of John Huard to the Boston University CTE Brain Bank and Neuropathology Fund to advance research efforts and safeguard the well-being of future generations; checks payable to “Trustees of Boston University”, Memo Line: “BU CTE Center”, and mailed to Boston University Development, c.o Gift Processing, JPMorganChase & Co., P.O. Box 22605 New York, NY 10087-2605.