OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 14, 2024

DAVID N. THIBEAULT

AUGUSTA – David N. Thibeault, 70, of Augusta, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024. He was born August 10, 1954, in Fort Kent, and grew up in Waterville. He graduated from Waterville High School and was employed at Colby College, in Waterville, for several years.

He was an excellent chess player and was a member of the Waterville High School chess club. He often went to Barnes and Noble, in Augusta, to play chess with people from the community. The two things he enjoyed reading the most were chess books and the Bible. He also enjoyed playing pool.

He was a strong supporter of the police force and credits the police with saving his life once. Several years ago he appeared in the local paper which showed him holding a sign that publicly thanked police officers for their service.

David was very outgoing and went out of his way to make people feel good. When he entered businesses, employees often greeted him by name. When he went to Walmart, he would greet the greeters and commend the employees for the good work they were doing. He also volunteered at local food banks.

He had a sense of humor and loved cats so he gave his cats funny, ironic names such as Big Foot, Godzilla, and King Kong. For Christmas, the only gift he wanted was a new cat calendar.

He had a strong faith in God and often expressed gratitude for his blessings.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Denise (Paquet) Thibeault, and his stepmother, Claire Hanna Thibeault.

He is survived by his two brothers, Thomas (Brooke) Thibeault, of Alabama, and John (Celeste) Thibeault, of Utah; one sister, Taylor Keane, of Atlanta, Georgia; three stepsisters, Lisa (John) Hanna, Michelle (Gerry) Gagne, and Patrice (Greg) Roy.

A memorial service with the family will be held at a later date.

Donations on David’s behalf can be made to the Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine.

NANCY E. FORTIER

SKOWHEGAN – Nancy E. Flynn Fortier, 76, passed away early Saturday morning, October 26, 2024, at home. Nancy was born on November 5, 1947, daughter to Victoria Alice (Wandzy) and Edward Daniel Flynn. She graduated from high school in 1965, in Hartford, Connecticut, where she then worked at The Boat Building, in Connecticut.

In the late 1960s she met Terrence Fortier with whom she relocated to Maine. She loved animals, had many ducks, bunnies, and her cocker spaniel Dusty, they were all her babies. She would eventually have one child, Veronica Ann Fortier, who resides in Skowhegan with her partner Joshua Kerr. Nancy spent her last years living with Veronica and Josh in their mother-in-law suite where they had the honor to love on her daily.

Nancy worked for many local places including Dr. Laney’s office, several lawyers, doctors in Skowhegan Family Medicine, Crossroads Alternative Learning Center, Skowhegan Area Middle School where she ultimately retired from. Every place Nancy worked she made lifelong friends who became family.

She was predeceased by both her parents, sisters Kathy and Patty, nephew Christopher, mother-in-law Helen Veronica Fortier, and brother-in-law Jack Fortier.

Nancy is survived by daughter Veronica Fortier with long time partner Joshua Kerr; grandson Garret Fortier with his wife Samantha Fortier and their children Regan Ann and Briar Rose; and granddaughter Morgan Lanctot with her partner Seth Allen and their children Paysen Leigh, Jaxten Edward, and George Thomas.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, 19 Washburn Lane, in Skowhegan. A private burial will be held at a later date.

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

PATRICIA G. HOLMES

WATERVILLE – Patricia Geneva (Vigue) Holmes, 81, passed away at home on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Pat/Patsy/Patty, as she was known by her friends, was born in Waterville on January 1, 1943, the eighth child in her family.

Pat married Scott S. Holmes on May 21, 1961, at the age of 18. Pat and Scott raised three children on the family farm in Waterville. She helped on the farm for a brief period, became a nursing assistant, and held various other jobs, all around her children’s schedules. Her primary focus in life was her three children.

Pat was a well-loved friend. She loved music, dancing, playing cribbage and cards. Her favorite music was’ 50s, ‘60s and ‘70s music. She loved to travel and go to casinos. She loved nothing more than her family.

She was predeceased by her husband Scott in 2020; parents Alfre and Sadie (Gero) Vigue; and between the years of 1960-1970 all seven of her siblings and their spouses passed; along with multiple nieces and nephews.

Pat leaves behind her son Nathan Holmes with wife Tammy; daughter Roxanne Cahill with husband Tom; and son Dwayne Holmes; grandchildren Miriah Rodrigue with wife Bethany, Orlando Holmes with wife Alexa, Jordan Holmes with wife Chelsea, Sophia Holmes, Connor Cahill, Lindsay Cahill, Krysta Holmes, and Calvin Holmes; five great-grandchildren; several nieces,.

A graveside service will be scheduled for June 14, 2025, at noon. There will be a “party” celebrating Pat at the family camp in Smithfield following services.

Please visit Pat’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/patricia-holmes-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

R. VINCENT LETOURNEAU

WATERVILLE – R. Vincent Letourneau, 84, passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, as the result of a fall. Vincent was born in Waterville on May 1, 1940, to Edgar and Evelina (Roy) Letourneau.

He attended grammar school at Notre Dame Catholic School, in Waterville, and graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1958.

Immediately after graduation, he began working at Keyes Fibre Company (Huhtamaki) in the engineering department. Through much hard work, studying, and some college, Vince worked his way up to become a Keyes tool-and-die engineer.

Vincent’s work brought him to Keyes plants across the United States and across the globe including Greece, France, Brazil, Venezuela, and Mexico.

Vince was very involved in his church, Sacred Heart parish, serving on the parish council, and as a Eucharistic minister. For many years, he served as an altar server at daily Mass.

In 2000, Vincent retired from Keyes after 42 years but continued as a consultant for several years.

In retirement, he began volunteering at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, in Waterville. He drove the sisters to their out-of-town appointments and assisted at Mass as an usher.

Vincent enjoyed playing the guitar. For many years, he was part of the Roger LeBrecque Trio. He also greatly enjoyed fishing with his nephew, Gene, at Kingsbury Pond. They also took several fishing trips to Lake Ontario. He liked working in his woodworking shop. Over the years, he made cradles, table and chair sets, and step stools for the nieces and nephews. Several of these sets have been passed down in the family.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister Lorette Stearns (Virgil), brother Gerald (Margaret); niece Linda Pelotte; mother-in-law Jessie Butler; brothers-in-law Eugene and Ronald Laliberte, and Richard Etchie.

Vincent is survived by his wife of 61 years, Doris (Laliberte); sister Gloria Etchie; and close nieces and nephews, Gene Etchie (Diane), Brenda Skeel, Sandra Rodriguez, Brad Laliberte, Jane Leathers (Carl), Jill Duelley, and Jessica Laliberte; as well as several great nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Notre Dame Catholic Church, on Wednesday, November 13.

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 shared at gallantfh.com.

BETTY JEAN RODERICK

WINSLOW – Betty Jean Roderick, 64, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Betty was born in Skowhegan on February 15, 1960, the daughter of Roland and Rosalee (Walker) Roderick.

She was raised in a large family with ten children, she was the fourth youngest. Betty attended the Skowhegan school district while growing up and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1979.

Over the past few years, Betty had been courageously battling Leukemia. She didn’t let cancer slow her down from living the life she wanted. She loved participating in the Special Olympics. She loved going on adventures, especially camping, riding ATV’s, riding in boats, going to state fairs, and going to Monster Jam events. She loved flowers, bowling, talking on the phone with family and friends, “Betty Boop”, listening to Elvis and watching him on TV. She loved playing games and dancing. Her beloved dogs, “Jeanie” and “Foxy” meant the world to her.

She was predeceased by her parents, Roland and Rosalee (Walker) Roderick; two siblings, John Roderick (Lorraine) and Nancy Roderick; sister-in-law, Denise Roderick; uncle, Vernon Walker; nephew, Terry Roderick; paternal grandparents, Thomas and Florida (Paradis) Roderick and maternal grandparents, Fred and Ruby (Garland) Walker; and godmother, Claudette Rodrigue.

Betty is survived by seven siblings and their spouses, Larry Roderick (Denise), Gloria Veilleux, Roland “Tom” Roderick, Ronald “Ronnie” Roderick, Robert “Bobby” Roderick (Myra), Donna Quimby (Bryan) and Michael Roderick (Bobbie Jo); godfather, Charles “Charlie” Rodrigue (Claudette); uncle, John Dixon (Nancy); several cousins; many nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Celebration of Life was held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, 19 Washburn Lane, Skowhegan, Maine.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Calvary Cemetery, on North Avenue, in Skowhegan.

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

NANCY M. WYNNE

WATERVILLE – Nancy Miller Wynne, 97, passed away, at home, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. Nancy was born May 30, 1927, in Chicago to Edwin M. and Blanche Guthrie Miller.

From an early age and shaped by her years as a student at the progressive Francis W. Parker School, in Chicago, Illinois, Nan had an insatiable thirst for learning. Into her final week she reiterated her desire to “learn something new every day.” She wanted to contribute to her communities and to society, and indeed she did, as a wide-ranging volunteer and an advocate for and supporter of social justice causes. A Waterville resident for four decades, she was a longtime and steadfast member of the Waterville Universalist-Unitarian Church.

She earned a bachelor’s degree at Mount Holyoke College and a master’s in social work at Simmons College. She married David French Wynne Sept. 9, 1950, and they celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary together; Dave passed away at 96 in 2022.

In Winona, Minnesota, and Wayland, Mass., they raised daughters Carol, Martha, Connie and Mary, all of whom survive them. In addition, those left to cherish Nan’s memory are grandchildren Taylor Merk-Wynne and Dana Liebowitz and her husband James Liebowitz; “fifth daughter” Anne McAuliff; son-in-law Tom Ferro; a sister-in-law; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.

A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the Waterville Universalist-Unitarian Church.

Donations in her honor may be made to the church and to MaineGeneral Hospice.

RAYMOND E. JOSLYN

WINDSOR– Raymond E. Joslyn, 77, also fondly known as “Butch” to many, the unofficial Mayor of Windsor, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 2, 2024. He was a beloved and legendary figure in town, known by all for his sense of humor and unique personality.

Born in Gardiner on February 13, 1947, to Evelyn and Raymond P. Joslyn, Ray attended the Whitefield Elementary School and then Wiscasset High School.

After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served four years during the Vietnam War. After being discharged in 1969, he enrolled at Aroostook State College (now UMPI) to study education. There (after illegally letting a buddy use his address to get a resident hunting and fishing license in Maine) he met the city clerk, Judi (Shea) on a blind date arranged by Judi’s sister-in-law. After she drank just one 10-cent beer on their first date, Ray thought he had it made! He used the TV she loaned him for his room as collateral for a ring, and they married a year later, in 1973.

Ray and Judi moved to Windsor and settled down. Ray dabbled in various entrepreneurial projects and together, they built a successful RV business. They had two boys, Michael and Troy. Ray wasn’t just a father, but a truly amazing dad. He was the kind of dad who not only bought his boys bikes but also taught them to ride them. He taught them to swim, fish, hunt, how to take care of their bounty, and to appreciate the land and wildlife. He taught his grandson, Owen, to drive the boat and the tractor, to do “work” with Grampy, and to be proud of it.

He was always thinking of his grandson and shared his love of the outdoors with him, too. Each year for Christmas, he got Owen an ice fishing trap engraved with his name and the number of the trap. This year, he’ll have a complete set of five. He also made Owen a beautiful set of cedar monkey bars. Ray also had a deep love for the game of baseball, and was good at it, too. He loved playing it, teaching it, coaching it and he relished that his boys and his grandson had such a love for the game. He loved watching them all play.

Ray spent most of his life in Windsor and was a prominent figure in the community. While not a quiet man, he worked quietly to make life better for everyone around him. Whether by showing up with his generator during a storm to help keep their freezer from thawing, driving his Amish friends to medical appointments, teaching a newer hunter to skin a turkey, or providing friendly and fatherly guidance when it counted, he was always thinking of others.

He was Santa’s helper, an auctioneer for the Coopers Mills Volunteer Fire Department, a past Whitefield Lion’s Club member, and was honored as Lion of The Year (1979-1980) for his involvement in getting the Sheepscot Valley Health Center established in Coopers Mills. These, of course, are only the things we know about. He spent hours driving around town with his four-legged sidekick, Katie, checking on folks and things every day, and found countless other ways, both big and small, to help people. His kindness and generosity were humble and honest. Ray sought no accolades or recognition.

His wit was simply unmatched. Friends and family all agree he was bigger than life, a genuine character extraordinaire.

He enjoyed numerous family vacations to Alaska, the Grand Canyon, Cabo, Colorado, Utah, and lots of ice fishing trips to Moosehead Lake. Still, he would tell you the best times were spent cruising the pond in the evenings on his pontoon boat with Judi.

He is survived by his mother Evelyn (Tarr); wife, Judi; his sons, Michael of Berwick, Maine, and Troy of Lakeview, Oregon; his grandchildren, Owen and Gianna, and his godchildren Sam and Molly King; his brother Daniel (Cheryle) of Whitefield, his brother Rodney, of Brunswick; many cousins, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

He is predeceased by his father Raymond P Joslyn.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held on Saturday, November 16, from 1 – 3 p.m., at the Whitefield Lions Club, in Coopers Mills. All who knew him are invited to share their stories and memories. A private graveside service will be held in the spring.

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

ELIZABETH FOWLER

WATERVILLE – Elizabeth “Betty” Fowler, 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at Woodlands Assisted Living, in Waterville. She was the daughter of Richard D. Nawfel and Maria (Barakat) Nawfel.

Betty was born on August 6, 1935, in Waterville, to Lebanese immigrants. She grew up in the Elm City, on Main Stree,t and graduated from Waterville High School in 1953. After her father’s sudden death during her senior year, Betty remained in Waterville with her mother, working for her brother at his dental office and as an operator with the telephone company.

In her early 20s, Betty started working at Sears Roebuck and Co., in Waterville, where she met her future husband and soulmate, Leon, of over 65 years. After starting their family, Betty chose to stay home to raise their children. She was an exceptional mother and manager of the family household. Once her children were in school she re-entered her career at Sears, where she excelled in sales.

Betty was a good cook and a great baker, always having homemade desserts on the counter and passing-on Lebanese traditions such as making stuffed cabbage rolls and Easter cookies with her family. She enjoyed sewing and knitting as well as many arts and crafts. She played piano and was a beautiful dancer, turning heads with her husband Leon whenever they took to the dance floor.

Betty loved anything active and was an athlete ahead of her time. She was in the Girls Athletic Association in high school and excelled in racquetball and tennis in adulthood. She was a ‘ringer’ in horseshoes and a fierce competitor who was very involved with her children’s sports and activities. An avid sports fan, she loved watching the Olympics and the professional tennis circuit.

With love, respect and leading by example Betty and Leon raised their three children and taught them many life skills. Betty cherished family most of all. From weekly and impromptu visits with extended family, birthday parties and holiday gatherings, she loved them all. She enjoyed time both at Lovejoy Pond, and later at Messalonskee Lake. Some of her favorite activities were canoeing, nature walks and picnics, playing cards and enjoying our family pets. Betty adored her only granddaughter, Ariele, who brought many years of happiness to her ‘Sitto’.

Betty is survived by her son, Edgar Fowler and wife Sharon; daughters, Michelle Fowler and partner Debra Strout, Tonya Fowler; granddaughter, Ariele (Fowler) Battipaglia and husband Paul; sister-in-law, Linda Vitale and husband Vite; brother-in-law, Beasley Edwards; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Betty was predeceased by her parents Richard and Maria Nawfel; Leon, her husband of 64 years; her siblings Elias Richard Nawfel, D.M.D. (Jamila); sisters Sumayah (David) Ferris, Julie (Beshara) Saliba, Lorice Franklin, Dolores (Michael D.M.D.) Nawfel and Helen Edwards.

An informal graveside burial of Leon and Betty Fowler will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at Maple Grove Cemetery, in Albion. A dual celebration of their lives will be at noon at the Lodge, Snow Pond Center for the Arts, in Sidney.

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

In lieu of flowers and for those who would like to make a donation in Leon and Betty’s name, you are welcome to considerc Humane Society Waterville Area https://hswa.org or Friends of Messalonskee https://friendsofmessalonskee.com.

MARIE CHARETTE

WINSLOW – Marie Charette, 88, died on Monday, November 4, 2024. Marie was born in Kingscroft, Québec, the 14th child of Rosilda and Richard Lebeau.

In 1956 she married her husband of 56 years Donald, relocated to Connecticut, and had five children. They moved to Maine in 1969, settling on 40 acres in Sidney, where she remained until 2015, relocating to Winslow.

She was fluent in French and English, retiring after 20 years as a secretary supporting The Maine Army National Guard, at Camp Keyes, in Augusta. She was a communicant of St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta, for 45 years, then St. John the Baptist Parish, in Winslow.

She was an extraordinary woman, an earth angel who lived a simple life. Marie loved God with all her heart and always put him first. She had that“je ne sais quoi” that lit up a room. She, also known as Sweet Marie and Miss Marie, absolutely loved people and was beloved by so many. She was the heart of her family, fiercely independent, loyal, strong, and faithful. She gave everything she had. .

She was predeceased by her parents, siblings, husband Donald, daughter Lynn, and “like a daughter” Rhonda Wakefield.

Marie is survived by her children, Donna and husband Fred, Nancy, Brenda and husband Ray, and Jeffrey; grandchildren, Melissa, Justin, Marissa and husband Devin; great-grandchildren, Raven, Isabella, Xavier, and Jordan; sisters-in-law, Margot and Carol; many nieces and nephews.

A Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, on Saturday, November16, 2024, at 9 a.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, consider donating in Marie’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 800-805-5856.

GORDON L. DUPONT

BANGOR – Gordon L. Dupont, 80, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 4, 2024, at Maine Veterans’ Home, Bangor. Known since childhood as “Crow,” he was born on October 5, 1944, to the late Louis and Clara (Carter) Dupont of Hallowell, Maine.

Crow served in the U.S. Army from 1963-67, primarily in Germany. He married Elsie Ann Rodrigue in December 1968, and lived in South China for over 50 years. Crow worked for Williams Construction, in Windsor, and O’Connor GMC, in Augusta, as a heavy duty diesel mechanic.

Crow loved to dance, swim, play pool, ride motorcycles, work on antique cars, eat lobsters and steamers, drive around and visit friends, and garden.

Crow was predeceased by his wife; his oldest brother Walter; many friends, and many special dogs.

He is survived by his children, Tim and Melissa (Dan); two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a sister, Marilyn Grace; and brother, William Dupont.

There will be no public visiting or services. A private burial will take place at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, Augusta, at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor.

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

LESLIE M. HILTON

SKOWHEGAN – Leslie M. Hilton, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Les was born on September 19, 1938, in Norridgewock, son of Maurice and Ruby (Lynds) Hilton.

He graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1956 and then went on to Skowhegan Commercial School of Business. Les married his wife of 65 years, Caroline (Carlson), on June 27, 1959.

After a short period with Norrwock Shoe and a local canning factory, he went on to work for Noyes Stove Company which later became Mainegas. His career with them began as a bookkeeper and service man that later grew into sales and management. His work there continued for 29 years until he took a position with the Webber Oil Company as a propane specialist, passing on his years of experience teaching new technicians and helping to grow the propane business for the company. He retired in 2010 at age 72 from what was then the Dead River Company. He was known for his dedication and hard work ethics. He was also a member of the local masonic lodge.

Les enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting with his loved ones. He especially enjoyed his time at Pleasant Pond with his family and friends. He was an avid golfer and in his later years spent a lot of his free time at the golf course perfecting his game. Les’ greatest love was his family, he was an exceptional husband, father, and grandfather.

His eyes would light up when the great-grandchildren entered his home. Family always came first for Les, and he made many sacrifices. He could always be counted on to provide his love and support, regardless of the circumstances. His work ethic was admirable and went well beyond his day job. He took great pride in everything he did. The imprint he left on his loved ones will carry on for generations to come.

Les was predeceased by his parents Maurice and Ruby Hilton; sister Janice, brother Ray with his wife Geraldine, sister Noreen with her husband Arthur Landry, sister-in-law Lillian with her husband Leslie Watson, and brother-in-law Richard Wilder.

Les is survived by his wife Caroline; son Michael with his wife Anita Hilton; grandsons Derek Hilton and Benjamin Hilton with his fiancée Renee Proctor; great-grandchildren Jackson and Everli; sister Margaret (Peggy) Walker, sister-in-law Shirley Wilder, and brother-in-law Norman Carlson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Sunset View Memorial Cemetery, in Norridgewock, on Saturday November 16, 2024, at 2:30 p.m., with a gathering immediately following at Brick House Kitchen, located at 147 Madison Avenue, in Skowhegan. Light refreshments will be provided.

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

ANN T. PIERCE

WINDSOR – Ann T. Pierce, 79, passed away following a long illness on Thursday, November. 7, 2024. She was born on March 2, 1945, in Augusta, to Edmund and Barbara (True) Tabb.

Ann graduated from Erskine Academy, inSouth China, in 1965. She married Emery Pierce in 1967 and together they had one son, Sean Pierce.

Ann was a Windsor School Board member, a volunteer at local schools, was superintendent of Windsor Fair Exhibition
Hall, a Cub Scout Den Mother, and head of the department of war and finance.

Nicknamed “Dinnie” by her niece, Brooke, she hosted many holiday dinners for her family, which was very important to her. Ann loved her family dearly and was always there for them when needed.

Ann was predeceased by her parents; her aunt, Earlene True, uncle, Phil True; and nephew, Nathan Brann.

She is survived by her husband, Emery Pierce; son, Sean Pierce; and brothers Foster Tabb and his wife Judy, and Jeff Tabb.

A private burial will be held for family at a later date. 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.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

BARRY W. THOMAS

A celebration of life for Barry W. Thomas, of China, who passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, will be held on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 2 – 4 p.m., at Erskine Academy cafeteria, 309 Windsor Rd., in South China. Refreshments will be provided courtesy of White Flour Catering.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 7, 2024

ROBERT T. COBB

WATERVILLE – Robert T. Cobb, 86, of Waterville, and Horseheads, New York, passed away peacefully at home with his daughter, on Friday, October 11, 2024, from complications due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Even while experiencing his symptoms, Bob greeted each day with cheerful exuberance. He lived his life with dignity, honesty, life-long learning, and profound love. He had the best chuckle in the world.

Born in 1938, Bob graduated from Matignon High School in 1956. He earned his B.S. in chemical engineering from Tufts University in 1960 and his MBA from Syracuse University in 1968. Bob was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, enlisting in 1961. He served as communications officer on the USS Leary (DDR 879) and later USS Richard E. Byrd (DDG 23). Aboard USS Leary in 1962, Bob took part in the Cuban missile blockade and never forgot how it felt to be so close to the end of all things. He left active duty in 1965 and was honorably discharged as a lieutenant in 1972.

Bob married the love of his life, Barbara Bigus, in 1967. They met at a singles mixer in Corning, New York, where Bob worked for Corning Glass Works and Barb was an elementary school teacher. Barb thought he had a lot of class because he brought top shelf whiskey to the party, so she agreed to take a walk with him. Later that night, Barb told her roommate she had met the man she would marry.

They settled in Horseheads, New York, where they started Cobblestone Enterprises, a computer portrait business. As they raised their family, Bob launched his own accounting and tax preparation practice, BINEX Business Services. He retired in 2019 after decades of loyal clients returning every year for his personal touch and advice.

Bob imparted many life lessons to those around him, including his passion for equality and equity. He particularly celebrated the advancement of women and people of color in fields of science and technology. In his younger days, Bob was an avid coin and stamp collector. In his adulthood, he rediscovered his childhood love of magic and became an amateur magician specializing in card tricks. His fellow magicians became some of his dearest friends. Bob loved to dazzle his audience and always abided by the magician’s oath and code.

Bob and Barb traveled to Bermuda and took cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska. They visited their children and grandchildren in Maine, California, and Washington. Bob’s favorite place in the world was the family camp on Great Pond, in the Belgrade Lakes of Maine. He spent every summer there growing up, fishing and boating, with his family, his devoted dalmatian, Queenie, and especially with “the other Bob Cobb.” Indian Island was always in his thoughts. When Barb passed from COVID in 2021, Bob accepted Amy’s offer to live with her in Maine. He spent two perfect nights on the island for his 85th birthday.

Bob was predeceased by his mother, Kay and father, Carl; his sister, Marion and her husband Jack; and his wife of 53 years, Barb.

He is survived by his daughter, Amy, son, Jeff and his wife Ellen; grandsons Henry, Oliver, and Simon; niece, Michele, nephew, Bruce; and many loving in-laws, relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes, 2282 Route 6, Wellfleet, Massachusetts, on Monday November 4, immediately followed by burial in Pine Grove Cemetery, 17 Cemetery Rd., Truro, Massachusetts.

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

In remembrance of Bob’s life, we ask that any charitable donations be made in Bob’s memory to either the Belgrade Lakes Association, https://belgradelakesassociation.org/ or to Girls Who Code, https://girlswhocode.com/.

DONNA E. COOK

AUGUSTA – Donna Elaine Scott Cook, 82, passed away peacefully at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. She was born May 29, 1942, in Waterville.

Donna was raised in Fairfield and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1962.

Service will be on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Emmanuel Lutheran Episcopal Church, in Augusta.

To read her full obituary or to share memories and condolences please go to directcremationofmaine.com.

RICHARD QUINLAN

WINSLOW – Richard Quinlan, 87, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024. He was born on November 16, 1936, in Winchester, Massachusetts, the son of Edward and Ethel Quinlan.

Rich­ard graduated from Island Falls High School and Fresno State College, Fresno, California He taught at Oxford High School, Oakfield High School, Yarmouth High School, Warsaw Junior High School, Unity College, Unity Junior High School and, for many years, at Mount View Junior High School, in Thorndike. Mr. Quinlan enjoyed coaching sports during his 31 years of teaching, including junior and senior high school boys basketball, high school girls basketball, high school cross country and junior and senior high school track and field. He particularly enjoyed coaching girls track and field.

Richard and Elaine raised their children in Unity where they lived for nearly 40 years. For several summers in the early 1980s, he and Elaine organized and ran the very popular Twilight Track Club for 5 – to 18-year-olds. While teaching, he also worked summers at Willow Beach Camps, in China, and Saturdays at the Unity Pharmacy. Outside of work, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

In the transition to retirement, Richard and his wife spent several winters in South Carolina. From 2001 – 2017, they enjoyed an active retirement in Zephyrhills, Florida, where Richard organized a golf league and volunteered in the Betmar community, at Gulfside Hospice, and at Woodlands Elementary School. They moved back to Central Maine in early 2018 to enjoy time with family. To his last day, he enjoyed his hobbies, including playing bridge and poker, watching the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics and Red Sox on TV, and betting on harness racing.

He was predeceased by his wife, Elaine Quinlan, whom he married, in Fairfield, in June 1964.

He is survived by his four children, Joseph Quinlan, of Hong Kong, Dr. Kathleen M. Quinlan, of Canterbury, England, Karen Jamison, of Waterville, and Carol Wohlers, of Rochester, New Hampshire; as well as his 12 grandchildren, Emily Ackley; Dakota, Makita, Jessie, Tatonka, Jerico, Jasper, Journey and Justice Champagne; Josie Eaton; and Casey and Trevor Wohlers; nine great-grandchildren; and his brother, Edward Quinlan, of Island Falls.

An informal gathering with finger food will be held on Sunday, November 10 from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Unity Community Center, 32 School St., Unity. The family looks forward to hearing remembrances from his friends, former colleagues and former students.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to a local charity such as youth sports.

JAMES E. WADE JR.

NORRIDGEWOCK – James Emery Wade, Jr., 79, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024. Jim was born on February 19, 1945, in Fall River, Massachusetts, to James Emery Wade Sr. and Mae Elizabeth (McCullough) Wade.

He grew up in Bangor attending the local schools where he enjoyed playing in the marching band as well as playing basketball and ping pong.

Jim graduated from Bangor High School where he participated in the ROTC, then attended the University of Maine for a year before joining the United States Navy. After returning home from Navy deployment in the Mediterranean he married Aleta Littlefield, and they were blessed with three sons.

During that time, he worked in multiple different trades. He also attended Husson College, in Bangor, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, working as an accountant / auditor for the remainder of his career. He married his second wife, Diana (Fickett) Wade in 1998, adding three stepdaughters to the family. They all often joked they were the “modern Brady Bunch”.

Jim was well known to his family and friends as having a fantastic sense of humor. His quick and dry wit was never lost in any situation and later in life was expressed through writing. His writing began as a form of self-entertainment, but it soon turned into a hobby beloved by his family and friends. He wrote many entertaining anecdotal emails, humorous short stories, and even a short book titled An Awesome Mystery.

In addition to writing, Jim was an avid reader. He loved smoking meat for annual family BBQ’s, family camping trips, and solving crossword puzzles with Diana. His sense of humor was often expressed via the exchange of playful gag gifts with family. He could be found at family parties and barbecues proudly wearing his outrageous and colorful “party shirts”.

He dabbled in home winemaking, loved having a martini on the patio at home, eating at his favorite restaurants, and going on cruises. Jim’s kind and gentle heart was likely best demonstrated in how much he loved his cats, or as he and Diana called them, their “fur babies”. He was known to dote on and spoil their cats over the years, all of which were rescues from the humane society or strays that showed up in their yard.

Jim leaves his wife of 26 years, Diana L. Wade; his three sons, David Wade with wife Lura and their children Alison and Connor; Jeffrey Wade with wife Jessica; Robert Wade with wife Jamie and their children Kassidy, Alana, Robbie, and Declan; his three stepdaughters, Heather Beckner with husband Thomas Fickett and their son Wyatt; Kimberly Beckner with husband Marcelo Silva and their children Mariah, Madison, and Marcelo Jr.; Alyssa Graham with partner Daniel Roy; and his brother, Jerry Campbell-Wade with wife Elna.

A private service will take place with Jim’s family.

Please visit Jim’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/james-wade-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Somerset Animal Shelter, 123 Middle Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

EARLAND A. CULLETON

SKOWHEGAN – Earland A. Culleton, 86, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Earl was born on July 7, 1938, in Mechanic Falls, to Thomas and Eva (Coffin) Culleton.

He attended Oxford Hills District High School and joined the U.S. Navy in 1956. He was honorably discharged in 1964. Earl was stationed at Bainbridge, Maryland, “Blimp Squadron”, in Key West, Florida, and Glynco, Georgia. He also served on the USS FDR, and at the Pentagon, in Washington, DC.

Earl was employed at Marcal Paper, in Mechanic Falls, then on to SAPPI, in Skowhegan, where he retired from in 2004. Earl proudly drove patients to appointments for the American Cancer Society. On June 5, 2010, he married Diane S. (Watts)(Turcotte) at Christ the King Parish, in Skowhegan.

He was predeceased by both his parents; previous wife, Maud Curtis Culleton, son, Dale Thomas Culleton, brothers Roger Culleton and James Culleton, sister, Lorraine Felker, brothers-in-law Charles Felker and Walter Watts Sr., sisters-in-law Maxine Leighton, Irene Culleton and T. Dale Watts.

Earl is survived by his wife, Diane Culleton; sons Mark with wife Jill, of Waterville, Dana Culleton, of Portland, and Robin Culleton, of Canaan; stepdaughter, Nancy Turcotte-Noonan with partner James Julia, of Belgrade; grandchildren Cory Culleton, of Lewiston, Dale Culleton with wife Elaine, of Clinton, and Kayla Culleton, of Canaan; step-grandchildren Delaney with husband Sid St. Peter, of Ellsworth, and Sydney Noonan, of Orono; great-grandchildren Tori Culleton, of Bingham, Colby Culleton, of Clinton, Mackenzie Kelley, of Skowhegan, Lucas and Lila Linnell, of Clinton, Cooper Culleton, of Lewiston, and Teagyn Noonan and Todd St. Peter, of Ellsworth; siblings Sidney Culleton, of Oxford, Connie Purdy with husband Jim, of Poland, and Cheryl Grass with husband Gene, of Norridgewock; sisters-in-law Judith Libby with husband Jim, of Skowhegan, Ruth Cyr with husband Dave, of Lewiston, and Helen Smith, of Tucson, Arizona; brother-in-law Ryan Watts with wife Karen, of Heber, Arizona; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no visiting hours at Earl’s request. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, November 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, at 19 Washburn Lane, in Skowhegan. A graveside service will be scheduled in the spring at Walker Cemetery in Canaan.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Earl’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org.

JUDITH P. GOWER

WATERVILLE – Judith P. Gower, 81, formerly of Pittsfield, died on Monday, October 28, 2024, in Waterville. Judy was born on June 5, 1943, in Pittsfield, a daughter of Charles and Linnie (Whitten) O’Reilly.

She attended Maine Central Institute and retired from C.M. Almy, in Pittsfield, after 24 years of dedicated employment. She enjoyed walking, reading, putting puzzles together, and playing games on her iPad. She had a very special relationship with Shane and Erica’s Pomeranian, Krypto, who kept her company when she lived with them.

She is survived by her two sons, Scott Gower and wife Misty, of Skowhegan, and Shane Gower and wife Erica, of China; grandson, Joshua Gower, of China; brother, Dale O’Reilly and wife Ada, of Palmyra; nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Stanley Gower; her infant son, Stephen; and her infant sister, Linda.

A graveside service was held on Sunday, November 3, at the Fairview Cemetery, in Canaan, with Rev. Glenn Nichols officiating.

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.

Others Departed

BRENDA B. DOWDLE

CALIFORNIA, Maryland – Brenda Branch Dowdle, 63, of California, Maryland, formerly of Vassalboro, passed away at home on Monday, October 21, 2024.

She is the daughter of William D. and Betty Branch of Vassalboro.

She was the wife of Anthony Dowdle whom she married in July 1988.

Brenda was a retired government employee and worked as an attorney at the Naval Air Systems Command Office of General Counsel, at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland.

Brenda is the mother of Matthew Dowdle (Theresa) of Monkton, Maryland, Nicholas Dowdle (Lilly), and Katherine Dowdle, both of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the sister of William I. Branch, of Vassalboro, Brian Branch (Jamie), of Madison, Wisconsin, and Ken Branch (Maria), of Nashville, Tennessee. Brenda is survived by two grandchildren; and 11 nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 8, from 11 a.m. to noon, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 22375 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, Maryland, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon with Father Benjamin Garcia officiating. For those unable to attend in person, livestream will be available at ihmrcc.org. Interment will be private.

Condolences may be made to the family at http://www.mgfh.com.

Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, P.A., Leonardtown, Md.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 31, 2024

GLORIA TAYLOR

AUGUSTA – Gloria Taylor, 90, passed away Saturday, October 12, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical. Center, Augusta. Gloria was born, in Oakland, to Herbert and Marion Olafson, of Rome.

She had four stepchildren, Susan (Michael), Michael (Linda), Jeffry (Linda), Daniel (Cathy) Taylor.

She met and later married Hardy Taylor and were together 46 years. They worked together at A.L. Taylor & Son until their retirement.

Gloria loved riding motorcycles and four wheelers. She enjoyed feeding the animals in the bog behind the house.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband Hardy, Susan, and Michael Taylor.

She had two sons with her first husband, Ted Bradley II (Marlene), Tony Bradley (Tricia) and a niece Sarah that she helped bring up that she thought of as a daughter. Gloria had seven grandchildren; 12 great- grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be at the American Legion, 22 Church Street Oakland, on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Burial services will be held at a later date.

Donations can be made to the American Legion, 22 Church St., Oakland, ME 04963.

ANITA L. GERARD

VASSALBORO – Anita L. (Cottle) Gerard, 75, passed away peacefully at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, on Monday, October 14, 2024. Anita was born on September 11, 1949, in Waterville, daughter to Edward A. and Nina P. Cottle.

Anita was educated in Belgrade schools where she was involved in several extracurricular activities, most notably, cheerleading, National Honor Society, and the Student Council. She was a proud member of The Rainbow Girls and The Order of the Eastern Star. She was a 1967 graduate of Belgrade High School and achieved the rank of third in her class. Upon graduation, Anita attended the University of Maine at Farmington. She was employed for over 30 years by the state of Maine, where she held various positions and gained several dear friends throughout her career.

Anita never met a child she didn’t love. She was always there with open arms to welcome and help all “her kids” whether they were her own, extended family, friend’s children, neighborhood kids, or friends of her kids. She was well loved and known as Ma to all her bonus kids and was always there with an understanding ear, a piece of solid advice, and a warm hug.

She was a lady of many interests, her true passions being gardening, miniature horses, stock car racing, crafting, and farming.

She was predeceased by both her parents; her husband of 45 years Robert C. Gerard; her sister Miriam Elliot, and her three brothers-in-law.

Anita is survived by her husband and companion of many years Norman D. Cummings Sr.; son Robert E.G. Gerard with daughter-in-law Vicki Boynton; daughter Jodi-Lyn Sleeper with her fiancé Ray Stafford; granddaughter Mikaela Hickey with her husband Cody, and great-granddaughters Delanie and Addison; grandson Edward Gerard-Mills and great-granddaughter Errie; stepsons Ozzie Cummings with his wife Rachel, Norman Cumming Jr. with his wife Jessica, and Greg Cummings with his partner Melissa Brown; step-grandchildren Wendy Cummings, Randy Cummings with his wife Sara, Samantha Fowler with her husband Joey, Paige Servello with her husband Marco, Atticus Brown, Foxx Brown, and Mary Brown; step-great-grandchildren Kennedy and Logan Fowler and Massimo Servello; brother-in-law, John Cummings with his wife Sandra; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a Celebration of Anita’s Life on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 11 a.m., located at the Boynton-Webber American Legion Post #179, in South China. There will also be a time of gather following the service.

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

RICHARD E. HARRIS

WINSLOW – Richard Elmer Harris, 92, passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Richard was born in Nutley, New Jersey, on June 1, 1932, the son of Anne Byrne Harris (who died when he was seven), and Fred Harris. His family moved to Haverhill, Massachusetts, for his school years, and he graduated from Hampton Academy, in New Hampshire, in 1950, where he also played hockey as goalie. He spent one year in pre-med courses at UMass, followed by four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, honorably serving as an M.P. during the Korean War.

Upon his return from Korea, Richard studied for three years at Lincoln Chiropractic College, in Indianapolis, Indiana. When he ran out of money for college, he came to Maine and began working at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, where he met his future bride, Marlene Amber Ham, at the annual Christmas party. Wasting no time, they were married on February 1, 1958. Together they spent 63 years raising three children, building their home on the Garland Road, in Winslow, and a lovely cottage in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

They were a very hard-working team, fearless about tackling creative projects, doing new things, and going to new places, always together, although not always with the same ideas about how to do things, which kept life interesting. Richard instilled in his children a strong work ethic, honesty, respect, and decency by example. He had a great wit and a knack for sarcasm, which he also passed on.

Richard was intelligent and talented in many areas and could build nearly anything, do plumbing, wiring, and anything else that was needed. He restored antique furniture and clocks in his younger days, enjoyed woodworking and made furniture for his children and grandchildren. In his later years, he built model boats, including a 32” wooden model of the Bluenose II. He liked antique autos and owned several during his lifetime. He and Marlene enjoyed camping, snowmobiling, and motorcycling, and were avid square-dancers. He was a loyal Boston Red Sox fan his entire life and couldn’t believe he lived to see them finally win a World Series in 2004.

Richard worked at Thayer Hospital (Maine General Medical Center), inWaterville, for 37 years, starting out as a surgical technician in the OR and Recovery, and spent most of his career as Purchasing Agent, retiring 30 years ago in 1994. Retired, he and Marlene spent summers in Prince Edward Island, winters in Fort Meade, Florida, and the rest in Winslow.

Richard was also an active participant in the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star, both in Maine and Florida. He was a Past Master and 60-year member of Waterville Lodge #33, and Past Patron of Martha Washington Chapter #15, Waterville.

After Marlene passed in 2021, Richard was fortunate to live at Goudreau’s Retirement Inn, in Winslow. Richard provided lots of laughs with his signature teasing, funny faces, and sense of humor.

Richard was predeceased by his oldest son, Dana Richard Harris, of Fairfield, in 2008; his wife, Marlene, in 2021, and his sister, Jeanne Stevens.

He is survived by his youngest son, Martin Paul Harris, of Oakland,(with Rhonda Kennedy); his daughter, Allison Watson, of Fairfield, (with Len Poulin); grandchildren, Melissa Audet (with Ray Benjamin, Cameron Stewart, and Abigale Stewart), Brian Audet (wife Sydnee, Laynee Brook, and soon Kenlee), and Benjamin Audet (with his better half Felicia Paradis); brother-in-law Wayne Ham, his wife, Peggy, Jason, and Christopher (with Sarah Austin).

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

Please visit Richard’s memorial page https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/richard-harris-oct-2024 at where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

MURIEL RANCOURT

WATERVILLE –Muriel Rancourt, 90, unexpectedly passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Sunset Home, in Waterville. She was born on July 4, 1934, and was the daughter of Napoleon and Josephine Begin, of Waterville.

Muriel grew up in the historic Head of Falls, by the Kennebec River, in Waterville. Shortly after graduating from Waterville High School, Muriel married Karl Rancourt and moved across the Kennebec River, to Winslow, where she and her husband, Karl, made their lifelong home and, also the place where they raised their three children, Sandra, Wayne and Mark Rancourt. Muriel worked for the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, for nearly 43 years as a stitcher making Hathaway shirts.

The passion of Muriel’s life was her family and friends. Muriel was well known for her friendly, helpful and outgoing nature. After retiring from the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, Muriel was employed part time for a Colby College, in Waterville, catering service, working the banquets at the college. When she was unable to do the catering work, she volunteered at the Hospice resale store in Waterville.

Muriel was predeceased by her husband, Karl, in 2013. She was the last living member of her very large French-Canadian, Begin family.

Muriel is survived by her three children, Sandra Rancourt and husband Virgil Stimer, Wayne Rancourt and wife Benita, and Mark Rancourt; seven grandchildren, Todd (Katie) Burbank, Jeremy (Lorelie) Burbank, David (Sarah) Rancourt, Michael (Laura) Rancourt, Faith, Aaron, and Daniel Rancourt; 12 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Muriel was very much loved by her family and friends and will be sorely missed in this life.

A service for Muriel will be held at a later date for the immediate family.

RICHARD B. GALLION

JEFFERSON – Richard B. Gallion, 77, died suddenly on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. Rick was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 11, 1947, the son of the late Virgil A. and Doris E. (Johnson) Gallion.

He grew up in southeast Kansas and earned a B.A. in French literature from Pittsburgh State University.

Rick served as a Green Beret in the United States Army but had conflicted feelings about the U.S. military. Rick married Saundra Mackey while he was in the service, and they divorced some years later after many adventures together. Saundra preceded in him death.

On October 5, 1996, Rick married the love of his life, Linda S. Marrs Farrell, at the Topeka Kansas Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Together they shared 28 years of marriage.

Rick worked for the U.S. Marshals Service, District of Kansas, for 16 years, during which time he spent 10 years studying ballet and jazz dance and performing in community theater. He left the Federal Marshals Service to pursue a career in custom woodworking and moved to Maine with his wife, Linda, in 2002. Together, they owned a bed and breakfast in a 165-year-old farmhouse, in Jefferson. Rick founded the Clary Lake Woodworking School in 2014 and shared his technical skills and passion for woodworking with a multitude of students.

Rick was a lover of classical music, especially Beethoven and Mozart. He enjoyed sailing, parachuting, and maintaining the property around Clary Lake Bed and Breakfast which he owned with Linda. He was an avid bicyclist and undertook several long-distance bike tours in the U.S. and throughout France and Scotland. He loved a good cup of tea and cherished the time he spent with his granddaughter, Madeline Elizabeth.

Rick was predeceased by his sisters Iris Pfautz and Victoria Gallion Germonde as well as his brother, Don Gallion.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Gallion; his brother, John Gallion; his stepdaughters Amy (spouse Shea) Farrell and Beth (spouse Jay) Holley; and his granddaughter, Madeline Elizabeth.

Visiting hours celebrating Rick’s life will be held on Friday, November 1 from, 2 to 4 p.m., with a service to follow at 4 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

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

Those who wish may make contributions in Rick’s memory to Carpenters Boat Shop, 440 Old County Rd., Pemaquid,ME 04558 or Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4775 SW 21st St., Topeka,. Kansas 66604.

CAROLYN J. GARDINER

UNITY – Carolyn June Gardiner, 89, passed away on Wednesday October 23, 2024. June was born on February 9, 1935, in Montville, to George and Lucille Bowman.

She attended Freedom Academy. She was very involved in her church. She was married to Robert Gardiner for 62 years.

June was predeceased by her husband, Robert; her son Alfred; her sister Bea; and her grandson, Phillip.

She is survived by her son Gary and his wife Sheila; daughters Susan and Melanie and her husband John; her grandchildren Aleisha, Nicholas, James, Ben, Anita, April and Christy; great-grandchildren Ellington, Jackson and Kevin; and her sister Bette.

Visiting hours and the funeral service took place at the Clinton Baptist Church, in Clinton, on Wednesday October 30, 2024. Burial took place at the Center Cemetery, in East Thorndike.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, 383 U.S. Route One, Suite 2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 24, 2024

ISABEL M. BRAGDON

VASSALBORO – Isabel Mary Bragdon, 77,, passed away on Friday, October 4, 2024, from complications due to the COVID virus. She was born on May 11, 1947, to Roland Patnaude and Dorothy (Peters) Patnaude in Winslow.

She worked for many years at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow. After finishing there, she decided to start a new career of her own and opened a six-bed boarding home for veterans with no family and gave them a homey place to stay. When the state came out with new rules and regulations, the home became more like an institution, and she made the difficult decision to close it. Isabel then went on to work for the Vassalboro Community School as a teacher’s aide where she enjoyed working with the students and teachers alike. Eventually, she decided to retire so she could spend more time with her family and her beloved grandchildren.

Isabel was predeceased by her parents, her older brother John Patnaude, sister-in-law, Nancy Patnaude, niece, Cheryl Richardson, and nephew, John Patnaude.

She is survived by her husband, Peter Bragdon, of Vassalboro; her daughter, Dr. Beth Bragdon and husband Benjamin Reining; grandchildren Makayla and Kaleb Reining, of Quincy, Massachusetts; niece, Cathy Maroney and husband Joe, of Vassalboro; nephew, David Patnaude and wife Barbara, of China; sisters-in-law, Peggy Gallant and husband Terry, of Winslow, and Lois Kvool and husband James, of Las Vegas, Nevada.

There will be no funeral or graveside service.

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.

LINDA T. PAWLICK

OAKLAND – Linda Theresa Pawlick, 73, passed away peacefully at home, on Thursday, October 10, 2024, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born on September 21, 1951, in Rumford, the daughter of Robert and Theresa Bernard.

She attended Ricker College in Houlton, where she made lifelong friends who remained close to her heart.

On May 1, 1976, Linda married Ted Pawlick, and together they raised three beautiful daughters.
Linda spent many years working as a teacher at Atwood Tapley Elementary School, in Oakland, where she cared for her students in her motherly way, leaving a lasting impact on many young lives. After retirement, she found joy in working with Atlantic Partners EMS, where she cherished her work family and built lasting friendships.

Linda deeply loved her friends and her community in Oakland, where her bright spirit left a mark. Known for her infectious laughter and her ability to make everyone feel at home, she had a unique way of making people feel loved and comfortable in her presence. Whether she was hosting family gatherings, sharing stories, or just enjoying a quiet moment with loved ones, Linda made every moment feel special. She was never afraid to be herself and always knew how to have fun, making her the life of the party wherever she went.

Linda loved simple joys: reading, doing puzzles, indulging in a good steamed lobster, and spending time by the ocean. She found true happiness in making others happy and will be remembered as an amazing mother, grandmother, wife, and friend who touched the lives of everyone she knew. Her brilliant light and selfless spirit will be missed deeply by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Linda is survived by her husband, Ted; her daughters Jessica Bellingeri and her husband Joe, along with their children Natalie, Abe, Birhan, and Jackson, and Kate Bown and her husband Nate, with their children Silas, Aiden, and Oakley; and Dresden Pawlick.

Linda was predeceased by her parents Robert and Theresa Bernard.

A celebration of life will be held at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Winslow VFW Post #8835, on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 1 to 4 p.m., where friends and family will gather to honor and remember the incredible woman who brought so much joy into their lives.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Oakland Public Library in Linda’s memory.

PATRICIA C. H. WARD

CHINA – Patricia Constance H. Ward, 97, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at her Goodwin House residence, in Alexandria, Virginia, where she and her late husband, Cptn. Raymond Edwin Ward (retired), of China Village, lived. She was born April 25, 1927, in London, England, where she later met her husband to be, Raymond, who was stationed there in the U.S. Navy. They were married June 4, 1949, in Sandyway, England.

She is survived by her half-sister Christine Britton who, with her husband John, still resides in England; three children, Susan H., P. Anne, and Michael R. Ward. Sadly, Michael passed away in January 1993; her daughters, Susan H. Swift, of Northampton, Massachusetts, and husband Brian, with daughter Gwenn E. Swift who is engaged to Mike Hensley, and Patricia ‘Anne’ Monrad, of Mooresville, North Carolina, husband Wayne with two sons, Nathaniel with wife Amy, and Ian with wife Rachel; five great-grandchildren. Maddison, Sonya, Ella, Shelby, and Gabriel.

A memorial service will be held at Goodwin House, on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at 3 p.m. A memorial service at China Baptist Church, in China, and burial will be determined at a later date in the summer 2025.

ELLEN S. RICE

FAIRFIELD – Ellen (Siket) Rice, 71, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Long Term Care-Glenridge, Augusta. She was born August 28, 1953, the daughter of Andrew and Lois (Coombs) Siket.

Ellen was a 1971 graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

While working full time and raising her children, Ellen attended additional nursing classes at University of Maine, Augusta. Although fearful of any questions requiring math, she studied extra hard to be sure to pass the licensing requirements for nursing. Her life was devoted to family and healthcare. After 40-plus years of nursing she retired from Mid-Maine Medical Center (now MaineGeneral Medical Center).

For much of her life, she resided at Montcalm Steet, in Fairfield. Ellen loved animals and throughout her life cared for many pets. On August 8, 1980, Ellen married William Rice, and they raised two children, son Daniel and daughter Katherine.

She was predeceased by her parents, son Daniel Rice, brother Andrew G. Siket and sister-in-law Sylvia Siket.

She is survived by husband William Rice, of Waterville; daughter Katherine Rice, of Portland; stepsons Adam Rice and his wife Kimberly, of Texas, Jason Rice and his wife Catherine, of California; mother in-law Evelyn Rice, of New Hampshire; granddaughter Paige Reynolds, of Fairfield; brother Steve Siket, of South Portland; and sister in-law Sheryl Siket, of North Carolina.

There will be a memorial gathering on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 1 – 3 p.m., at Veilleux-Remington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. A private burial will occur at a later date at St. Sebastian Cemetery, in Madison.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, Maine.

CARLENE F. BESSEY

CLINTON – Carlene F. Bessey, 85, passed away Tuesday, October 8, 2024. She was born July 23, 1939, in Thorndike, to Mary (Bellows) Bessey and Edward Bessey.

They moved to Clinton in 1942. She graduated from Clinton High School, class of 1957 and also from Victor Temporaries Computer School in 1967.

Carlene worked at Harris Bakery, in Waterville, and retired from Ethan Allen, Inc., in Burnham, due to health problems after 25 years of service.

Carlene loved the outdoors; camping, fishing and hunting with her Dad at his old stomping grounds. She enjoyed all wildlife, especially the birds, the deer that she fed, watched, and learned their behaviors, and caring for “her” alpacas at Northern Solstice. She loved watching sports, especially the University of Maine women’s basketball team. She loved her family and friends very much.

She was happiest when traveling with friends and loved to plan for her next adventures. She traveled and camped out in many parts of the United States and Eastern Canada, with Phyl and other friends.

She is survived by her sister, Camilla Charrier; niece, Mary Bernatchez (Glenn); nephew, Mark McKenney (Bonnie Joyce); great-nieces, Alexa Holmes (Orlando), Angel Reed (Jared Martin); great-nephews, Kevin McKenney (Anna), Chris McKenney and Zach Bernatchez; great-great nieces, Memphis, Cara and Austyn; great-great nephews, Gage, Grant, Jaxxson, Colten, Hunter, Kane and Jameson; her Charrier nieces, nephews, and their families, Benny (Sharon), David, Wayne (Darlene), Mary, Valerie (Todd), Dawn (Tim), Tiger, Jean and Lisa.

Carlene was predeceased by her parents, life partner Rev. Phyllis C. Dodd, niece, Deb Noonan.

A private graveside service will be held.

Donations may be made in her memory to the Humane Society WatervilleArea, 100 WebbRd., Waterville, ME 04901.

VIOLETTE R. HUARD

WINSLOW – Violette Rodrigue Huard, 85, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at home. Violette was born on August 3, 1939, in Lac Megantic, Québec, Canada, the daughter of Delphis and Cecile (Dostie) Rodrigue.

Violette married the love of her life, Fernand, in 1965 and together they made a home in California and Winslow, where they raised their three children, with Maine being the final home for the last 40 years. Violette worked for many years at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, where she held numerous jobs.

Violette lived a very simple life. She enjoyed staying home, where it was her domain, reading, watching TV or simply just sitting on the porch and watching the cars go by. Most of all, she loved it when company would arrive. She never passed up a chance to chit chat with her children, or grandchildren and especially her great-grandson. She also enjoyed her yearly trip to Canada to visit family with her daughter. She was very religious. She never swore and she always prayed. Her rosary was always nearby. She never complained and most of all, she never gossiped.

She was predeceased by her parents and seven siblings.

She is survived by seven siblings, whom all live, in Lac Megantic, Québec, Canada; her three children, Edward and his wife Jessica, Daniel and his wife Jill, Susane and her husband Edward Cochrane; grandchildren, Brian Chapman, Kathleen Huard, Lisa Huard; great-grandson Jack Gilbert.

There was a funeral service at Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Bros. Funeral Home, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. Committal followed at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, next to her husband.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Meals on Wheels.

STEPHEN F. KILLAM

WATERVILLE – Stephen Francis Killam Jr., 47, unexpectedly passed away early in the morning on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Stephen was born June 10, 1977, in Waterville, the oldest of five children.

Stephen was known to have a very big heart, loved being with his family and friends, and would always offer to lend a hand to those in need.

Visiting hours will be Oct, 24, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Veilleux-Redington- Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. A graveside service will take place Oct. 25, at 2 p.m., South Freedom Rd, Maple Grove Cemetery, Albion.

Please visit http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com to view the entire obituary and to sign the guest book.

CHAD D. CROMMETT

VASSALBORO– Chad Dewitt Crommett, 57, passed away peacefully in his long time family home on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, following a long and hard fought battle with cancer. He was born June 1, 1967, the son of Candace (Hall) and Herbert Crommett.

Chad spent most of his life working in the construction industry and as a carpenter working for himself. One of his greatest accomplishments was becoming a Registered Maine Guide and being able to work with his brother Shane at 15 Mile Stream Lodge and Outfitters.

Chad loved being outside, hunting, fishing, softball, cornhole, watching sporting events, snowboarding, attending rock concerts, camping with friends, and most of all just spending time with his family and friends.

Chad was predeceased by his parents Herb and Candace Crommett.

He is survived by his son Patrick Crommett and wife Tiffani, of Vassalboro; two grandchildren Braiden and Tarynn Crommett; his brother Shane Crommett and wife Rachel, of The West Forks; step-mother Pam Powell, of Windsor; nieces Kelley Crommett along with her partner Lucas and three children Wyatt, Walker, and Lilah, all of Vassalboro; Sarah Johnson and husband Sam, of Portland; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 2 p.m., at the Crommett/Hall Family Cemetery, 330 Quimby Road, in Albion, ME 04910. A celebration of life will follow at the Albion Town Hall (Besse Building), at 22 Main St., in Albion.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Road, Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

SHELLEY PUSHARD

WINDSOR – Shelley Pushard recently passed away of breast cancer that had metastasized throughout her body, especially the liver. She had previously beaten ovarian cancer. Shelly was born on March 21, 1958, in Waterville.

This is her husband Scott who is writing this. One of the advantages of our journey was knowing roughly how much longer we had together. We got to tell each other everything we wanted to. She had time to tell me what she wanted for her obituary and what people she wanted to thank.

She lived in Hardwick, Massachusetts, from age four to 17. She attended Quabbin Reginal High, in Barre, Massachusetts, before returning to Maine for good. She had two boys, Wayne Goodrich Jr., and Rick Podkowka. She would always pull out pictures of them to show or tell people what they were doing. She was so proud of the men they had become.

Shelly had many jobs in her life and on one of them is where we met. We dated for five years before marrying in 2006. She was as beautiful in her final days as she was the first time I saw her. Shelly so wanted to pass at home but things didn’t work out that way. She passed away at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.

Our very first date was near Maine Med at the 3.5-mile walk you can do around the water. We would go there a lot over the years and in her final days one of her rooms overlooked our spot. So, she passed near a special place to us.

Some of the things Shelley enjoyed doing over the years were dancing, camping, trips with Rick and Heather, a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, with friends Joe and Michele, bonfires, walking, bingo at Fox Woods, zoos, aquariums, trips to North Conway, New Hampshire, fishing, ID TU especially Dr. G and Joe Kenda, Sopranos, and she loved her scratch tickets. She loved to travel but as her cancer spread over the years she loved to stay home.

She would sit outside for hours each day watching me work and looking at wildlife, but she loved the four gardens we had made over the years best. We had stone animals and decorations in them all and they all had a lot of lights in them as well. She would sit on her swing and watch the lights at night for hours. We would sit and talk out there often, rarely ever talking about cancer or death. We always, through the long fight, would take it day by day and laugh as much as possible. She loved to pull pranks like throwing cold water on me in the shower or trying to scare me, but I couldn’t do it back, of course.

Shelly was a beautiful woman who never needed make-up to look good, but she loved to dress up and look good and wear lots of jewelry. She was an amazing woman who never lost her sense of humor or will to live. Throughout her cancer journey, she showed me and everyone she knew never give up no matter what cards you are dealt. She showed incredible perseverance through all the treatments, bad and good news, medications, and surgeries along the way. She did it all with such determination. She wanted to thank the Pushard Family for making her feel like a real family member. You all always made her feel so loved throughout our 24 years together.

She was predeceased by parents, Helen and Bob Nason; son, Wayne Goodrich Jr.; sisters, Sandra Hartly, Sharon Pooler, Ella Johnson, and Verna Williams; and stepbrother, Alan Nason.

She is survived by husband, Scott; her son, Rick Podkowka and his wife Heather, and many more relatives, and in-laws.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 17, 2024

LOUIS J. CAREY

WATERVILLE – Louis J. Carey, 57, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, in his sleep. He was born at Regional Memorial Hospital, the second of five children, to Daniel Bruce Carey and Mary Lou (Reny) Pascoe on January 9, 1967.

Louis loved music and art, cheap thrills, had excellent penmanship and a poetic soul. He enjoyed the outdoors, and trips to the lake or beach. He kept small circles but would pour into the cups of those close freely and endlessly, never checking his own. Louis spoke his mind and was stubborn but reasonable. He was a very thoughtful, curious person – but never nosey, and he loved to learn new things. He started weekends with a coffee and newspaper and was great at word puzzles.

Louis had excellent coordination and inherited great speed and stamina, a strong athlete in every sense of the word. A runner, like his father before him; most of his colleagues recall how fast he worked, setting records and maxing out many kinds of machines over the years. He especially enjoyed billiards, candlepin bowling, disc golf, and softball. He was a fearless competitor, and an encouraging teammate. He was silent when you needed an earnest ear, and the loudest clap and holler in the room at your concert or recital. Louis had the sharpest funny bone, and he delighted in a good laugh.

Louis was predeceased by his parents Daniel Carey and Mary (Reny) Pascoe; and his sister Eva (Carey) Todd.

He is survived by his wife of four years Lynn (Giles) Carey and her daughter Renā Giles; his son Louis J. Carey II; godmother Margaret (Carey) Soucy and husband Lester, of Waterville; uncle Paul Carey and wife Patty, of Ellsworth; aunts Deb Carey, of Readfield, and Shirley Jolicoeur, of Winslow; sister Michelle (Carey) Alejandro and husband Omar, of Merritt Island, Florida; brother Daniel Carey Jr., of Waterville; sister Tammy Carey, of Waterville; stepdaughter Jaylin Marcoux and her partner Brandon, of Belgrade; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, on Sunday October 27, 2024,between noon and 4 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, in Skowhegan. Please visit Louis’ memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/louis-carey where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting youth sports by donating in his memory at https://alfondyouthcenterivsrq.formstack.com/forms/donations1.

BRENDA J. STEVENS

BELGRADE – Brenda J. (Wadleigh) Stevens, 72, passed away at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta, on Friday, October 4, 2024. Brenda was born August 18, 1952, in Augusta, the daughter of Everett and Muriel (Hutchinson) Wadleigh.

She grew up in Belgrade and graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1969.

Shortly after graduating she met her best friend and love of her life, David. They married October 7, 1972, and soon after had their daughter, Tonia. Their life was spent enjoying time with family and friends.

In 1992, Brenda and David welcomed their granddaughter, Jordan.

Brenda worked for the State of Maine for over 25 years, retired, and went on to work for Colby College, in Waterville. After a few years she retired from Colby and spent the rest of her working years at Messalonskee High School, in Oakland. While at MHS she made many great friends and the students adored her.

Brenda was vibrant, full of life and always had a smile on her face. As a child, she and her two friends, Jayne Deneen and Debbie Thing, were accomplished baton twirlers and participated in several parades. Her true passion was dance, which she started as a young girl and continued until her body wouldn’t allow it anymore. She and her lifelong friend, Jayne, had a dance studio together for a period of time and she then went on to own her own studio for several years. When the time was right, she retired her studio and went to dance at Studio One with her brother-in-law, Scott.

In January of 2022 Brenda was blessed with her great-grandson, Theodore David James. She spent countless hours with him and went everywhere he did. Teddy will forever love and miss his “Ma” and carry on her vibrant spirit and beautiful smile.

Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Everett and Muriel; her brother, Barry and her sister, Betty; her husband, David; and a brother-in-law, Stevie. Both Brenda and David came from large families and there are a multitude of other family members and friends that they lost over the years.

She is survived by her daughter, Tonia and husband Tony; granddaughter Jordan and partner Eric; great-grandson, Theodore and another grandson coming in November; granddaughters Jenna (Chad), Chrissy (Craig); great-grandchildren, Kayden and Bella; her brothers, and Bryce and wife Pam, Bryan and wife Donna; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Judy, Pam, Donna (Steve) Barbara (Rick) Randy (Diana) Jeff (Lisa) Barry, Scott (Michael), Ann Marie and Debbie; several nieces, nephews; great-nieces and nephews.

A service will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., in Augusta, at 1 p.m. A graveside sendoff directly after, for those that would like to attend, and then a celebration of life at the Sunset Grill, in Belgrade Lakes.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, One Church Street, 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 donations may be made in Brenda’s memory to Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association, P.O. Box 404, Belgrade, ME 04917.

LAURA GABRIEL

AUGUSTA – Laura Gabriel, 68, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 4, 2024, following a brief illness. She was born on April 11, 1956, in Mineola, New York, the youngest of three daughters, of the late Harold Gabriel and Betty (Ramirez) Gabriel.

Laura was a graduate of the University of Maine and earned her master’s degree in education. She was a fourth grade teacher at Jefferson Village School for many years and finished her career as an educator at Troy School where she was principal.

Upon retirement, Laura’s love and energy always remained constant with her family and the many friends she had in the community. She enjoyed spending time with her family more than anything, rarely missing a ball game or event that involved her children or grandson. She extended this warmth to the many friends she had far and wide and all the kids she had in her classroom during her career as a teacher. Her presence will be missed beyond measure, but her kind spirit will endure in all that loved her dearly.

Laura is survived by her sons, Brandon Wing and his partner Vanessa O’Neil and their son Braxton Braley, of Augusta, and Justin Wing and his partner Brianne Genschel, of Augusta; and her daughter Melissa Mann, also of Augusta; two sisters, Docthina “Dina” Gabriel, of Brooklyn, New York, and Sophia Gabriel, of Harpswell; and a grandson Arlo Wing, of Augusta, and lastly, her partner Mike Maxim, of Augusta; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

At her request, there will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. A private burial will be held at a later date.

A celebration of life will be held at the Governor Hill Mansion, State St., Augusta, Maine, on Saturday, November 2, 2024, between 3 and 7 p.m..

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street, Augusta, Maine.

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

JOHN G. MAYO

CHINA – John Gibson Mayo, 87, passed away Sunday, October 6, 2024, at his home in China. John was born on February 23, 1937, a son of Ogilvie and Eleanor (Napolitano) Mayo.

John grew up in Windsor and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, in the class of 1954. While still in school, he enlisted in the National Guard and served for nine years. On October 5, 1957, he married Judith Gordon and the two settled in China and raised a family. For 47 years, John was employed as a millwright at Hudson Pulp and Paper, (later known as Statler Tissue), in Augusta, before his retirement in 2001.

John was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and ice fishing, snowmobiling and golfing. He was an avid reader, particularly of western novels, and loved gardening on his property. John was also a master woodworker and crafted many beautiful furniture pieces for his family. In retirement, many winters were enjoyed in Yuma, Arizona, his wife Judy.

He was a member of the Dirigo Masonic Lodge #104 AF & AM.

John will be remembered as a kind hearted and respected man.

He was predeceased by his parents, and his brothers, George and Vincent Mayo.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Judy Mayo; his 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 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. donation may be made to Weeks Mills Fire Department, 778 DirigoRd., China, ME 04358.

DONALD C. L. MAHEU

WINSLOW – Donald C. L. Maheu, 89, of Winslow, died Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. He was born April 27, 1935, in Winslow, the son of Archeles and Mary Jane (LaFlamme) Maheu.

Donald attended Waterville public schools and married Marilyn Thompson, in 1954.

He worked at Hollingsworth & Whitney, (later Scott Paper Co. and Kimberly-Clark) and Waterville Window Company, both in Winslow, and founding Winslow Aluminum Inc., with his brother. Donald was the president.

Donald coached Little League, Babe Ruth Baseball, and youth football. He was an avid sportsman who loved the Boston Celtics, Red Sox, Patriots, and the Bruins. He also loved attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sports games, traveling to both home and away games. Donald was known to enjoy fishing, hunting, and bowling.

He was predeceased by his wife of 54 years; brothers, George, Adolph, George, Napolean, Robert Maheu, and Pete Boutin; sisters, Pearl Ahearn, Florence Pooler, Violet Fecteau, Geraldine Flibbert, and Rose Roy.

He is survived by his daughter Paula Caron, of Waterville; son Marc Maheu and wife Denise, of Fairfield; sister-in-law Nancy Maheu; grandchildren, Jennifer Caron and partner Brian Kelly, Jason Caron and partner Ashley Brooks, and Jack Maheu; great-grandchildren, Gabrielle, Isabelle, and Annabelle Lamoreau; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 2, 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donald’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or at Online Donations – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).

DR. RODNEY M. REDDING

CLINTON – Dr. Rodney Malcolm Redding, 91, Professor Emeritus of UMA, died peacefully in his home early Sunday morning, October 6, 2024. Born in 1933, Rod was a Korean War Veteran. He was selected for the Honor Flight in 2023 and he proudly went to Washington, D.C., with his best friend and guardian, Bill Lowenstein.

Having dedicated his life to education, he is remembered by many administrators and psychology students from around Maine. He was instrumental in getting Thomas College, in Waterville, and Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, accredited, which are legacies to this day. In the late 1970s and early 1980s he was president of National Council on Alcoholism-Maine and along with his surviving wife Judy, was a primary contributor to the legislation that set precedent to funding programs for alcohol and drug treatment, prevention, and education throughout the state. He died a grateful recovering alcoholic with 45 years of sobriety and was a respected and honored member of the recovery community.

Rod was known for his love of Maine, nature, and fishing, and invited everyone (literally everyone) fishing with him and always said, “I know a place where I can guarantee you’ll catch a fish.”

He will be deeply missed by his wife, blended family of five daughters and two sons, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. They will carry on his sense of humor, love of nature, mineral collecting … and of course, fishing.

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

Donations may be made in his honor to Donations (honorflightmaine.org) or Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs: Instructor Certifications: Educational Programs: Programs & Resources: Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 10, 2024

HELEN L. BOURGET

WINSLOW – Helen L. Bourget, 89, passed away on Monday, September 16, 2024. Helen was born on September 3, 1935, in Dover-Foxcroft, at the home that her father built.

She attended school in Winthrop where she was the schools Head Majorette. She took this role very seriously. Once she was hurrying to a parade line-up so she wouldn’t be late and was struck by a car!

Helen graduated from Waterville High School in 1955. Soon after graduation she began working at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., in Waterville, and soon went to work for Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, where she met her husband of 55 years, Arthur.

Helen loved dressing with style, for several years she worked at Stern’s Department Store, in Waterville, as a fashion model and sales clerk. She then worked briefly at Butler’s Department Store, also in Waterville,“ until finding the job that suited Helen to a“T”, Marden’s, in Waterville. She enjoyed a good bargain and what better place to work!

She and Arthur owned a camp at Baker Cove, on Moosehead Lake, where they spent most of their summers. Helen loved being at camp and fishing with her father and George Richie. She also enjoyed X-country skiing. Helen had a beautiful soul and would help anyone without judgment or questions. She had lots of energy; it was rare to see her sit to relax. Her quirky little jokes, costumes and sayings would always be followed up by her laugh and smile.

There was so much more to Helen that words cannot describe. She touched many lives but the ones most important to her were her husband, a son, and two stepchildren that she raised from toddlers. Her Siamese cats, Cinnamin, Ming, and Ching along with the family dog Snuff brought her so much love and joy. She was very proud to have been in a clip-on AFV with Bubba, her mother’s cat.

Helen is survived by her husband Arthur Bourget, of Winslow; son James (Jimmy) Begin and partner Karen, of Winslow; stepdaughter Kim Larrabee and husband David, of Fairfield; two sisters, Betty Parsons and husband Linwood, of Millinocket, Susan Sarto and husband Rick, of Hermon; grandchildren, Jason, Heather, Sam and Emma; great-grandchildren, Bella, Aria and Nola; and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was predeceased by her parents, Gordon and Shirley Carlson, and stepson Arthur Bourget Jr (Joe / Joey)

Services will be held on Saturday, October 19, 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, lunch to follow.

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

STEPHEN A. ERSKINE

WATERVILLE – Stephen A. Erskine, 93, passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024, one day after his 93rd birthday. He was born on September 22, 1931, in Bath, son of Alfred Erskine and Elizabeth Perro.

He met the love of his life, Lucille Pelletier, when he moved to Waterville and they were married for 45 years, until her passing in July of 2000.

Stephen worked for Harris Baking Company, in Waterville, before he enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. He worked in the plumbing and heating trade after the Army until his retirement.

It was then that his best job began as pépère to his three grandchildren who called him Pep. His special names for them were Pumpkin #1, Pumpkin #2, and Little Man.

Stephen loved to putter around the house and spend time with his family.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lucille; his parents; his sisters Betty, Beverly, Joyce, Marilyn, and Patricia; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his daughter Laurie Joler and her husband John; his granddaughters Sarah Joler and Erica Childs, and his grandson Daniel Joler. He is also survived by his sisters Jackie and her husband Lynn McCommic and Julie and her husband Denton Ayers, his brother Ted Erskine and his wife Linda; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service with military honors was held on Wednesday, October 9, in the Committal Shelter at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta.

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.

JAMES T. McGAREY

ALBION – James “Jeep” T. McGarey, 53, passed away unexpectedly of a car accident, in Albion, on Friday, September. 20, 2024. He was born in Biddeford, September 2, 1971. He was employed at Flood Farms hauling milk and wood at the time of his passing.

Jeep had the biggest heart, best hugs and was always there for his family and friends. His love for his only son Jesse filled him with pride and he looked forward to their camping and fishing adventures. He joined the American Legion Riders Post #14, in Fairfield, earning the rank Sergeant of Arms.

He was predeceased by his father Richard McGarey, of Biddeford, and his mother Deborah Sylvester, of Unity, a brother Spencer McGarey, of Lewiston, and brother Micah Taylor, of Auburn.

He is survived by his son Jesse James McGarey; his mother Linda (Leighton) McGarey, of Poland; step-parents and the man he called “Dad” Lawrence and Beth Taylor, of China; his brothers Lendal “Rusty” Taylor, of Unity, and John Taylor and his wife SunMi, of Vine Grove, Kentucky; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The American Legion Riders Post #14 dedicated their annual fall ride in honor of Jeep, on Saturday, October 5, 2024.

A celebration of life will be held in honor of Jeep at the VFW, 246 Main Street, in Fairfield, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at noon.

He will be buried at a later date in a private ceremony.

PHILIP SCHLEGEL

WINSLOW – Phil Schlegel passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 20024, at his home in Winslow.

He is survived by his wife and devoted companion Linda; daughters Kimberly and Kate; his children’s mother Janet; his sister Deborah; and two grandchildren, Lea and Ethan.

He was predeceased by his parents, Elmer G. and Barbara (Johns) Schlegel.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Phil served from 1970 – 1972 in Texas and Germany, satisfied to have had a bit part in that centuries-long lineage. After completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history at Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, he came to Maine in 1978 and embarked on a 30-year career in municipal and state government, retiring in 2007. After retirement, Phil continued his pursuit of two intensely personal endeavors, to follow his life-long interest in the study and interpretation of history and to attempt to discern the meaning of things.

His gratitude for Linda’s unconditional love and support through joys and challenges is undying. To those he let down he is truly sorry. To his family, his friends, and those who lent helping hands along the way he thanks all of you very, very much for your love and caring, with a sincere hope that all of you may find peace.

According to Phil’s wishes, his family will schedule a private gathering.

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

BERNARD F. LEWANDOWSKI

JEFFERSON – Bernard F. Lewandowski, 78, of Jefferson, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at his home, in Jefferson. “Bern” was born on February 2, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, to Frank Lewandowski and Shirley Gitchlag.

Bern grew up in Detroit, Michigan. When Bern was 10 years old his dad passed away leaving him with his mom and brother. When he was a teenager his mom married Joseph Bozzo who became a second dad to Bern.

He attended local schools and enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served from 1963 – 1967. After his discharge from the Navy Bern met his wife Linda Braun. He attended Macomb County Community College where he earned an associate’s degree. In 1983 Bern and Linda moved to Jefferson to raise their three daughters. Bern loved his daughters and was always attending all their sporting events when they were younger. He enjoyed taking his three girls fishing, taking them to the beach and he even stepped in when a soccer coach was needed. He may have even been asked to go to the other side of the soccer field for yelling at the referees, but that’s not here or there.

Later in life Berns role changed from “Dad” to “Pa” given the title by his seven grandchildren. He always enjoyed making them laugh and having fun with them. He was a great cook, gardener, Uber driver to his grandchildren, sports lover of any Michigan team and a John Wayne enthusiast. In 2010 Bern retired from the Veterans Association at Togus. During retirement Bern and Linda became snow birds and spent the winters in Florida. Many nights Bern and Linda would be found at the puzzle table. Bern would always point out that Linda took all the easy pieces. During the day you could always find Bern out in the sun soaking it all up or watering his flower and vegetable garden.

Bern was predeceased by his parents.

Bern is survived by his wife of 50 years Linda Lewandowski, of Jefferson; daughters Jennifer St.Cyr and her husband Shawn, and Melissa Lewandowski, all of Jefferson, Sara Rogers and her husband Jason, of Nobleboro; grandchildren Abby St.Cyr, Allison St.Cyr, Adam St.Cyr, Lillian Powell, Cooper Powell, Kadence Rogers and Logan Rogers.

A celebration of Bern’s life will take place in the summer of 2025 for all of Bern’s family and friends to celebrate his life as he lived it in the sunshine, warmth and laughter.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hall Funeral Home, Waldoboro. To share a condolence or story with the Lewandowski family, please visit Bern’s Book of Memories at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bern’s name to Home for Little Wanders, c/o Development Department, 72 E. Dedham St., Boston, MA 02118.

MARY LOU MARTIN

WINSLOW – Mary Lou Martin, 72, of Winslow, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024, following a long battle with breast cancer. She was born on September 28, 1951.

At a young age Mary Lou had a passion for hairdressing. While in high school she would do her own hair along with her friends. She attended cosmetology school after graduating from Waterville High School. She then went on to fulfill her lifelong profession as a beautician. She eventually owned her own beauty salon, Classic Cuts, in Winslow.

After working at the beauty salon, Mary Lou would always make sure there was a home cooked meal for her family before heading to Cindy’s School of Dance where she taught dancing with her sister Cynthia. Mary Lou and Cynthia started dancing as little girls with Miss Patsy. Miss Mary Lou and Miss Cindy passed on their passion for dance to many students throughout the years.

Mary Lou loved life and lived it to the fullest. She loved to share her bountiful experiences with her family and friends. Mary Lou and her husband Michael went to Aruba for the past 25 years. If you were lucky enough to visit them in their favorite place, she would have had a full itinerary planned. All you had to do was show up and she took care of the rest. She also loved her yearly trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, with her girlfriends where they would attend shows and gamble.

While Mary Lou’s health allowed, she loved to play golf. That transitioned to watching golf on TV on the weekends. She also organized many different football pools that kept her busy keeping up with weekly NFL scores. Mary Lou loved to play cards. Sitting down at the table with family after dinner and playing several card games was a Martin tradition. Gathering with their best friends on the weekend always included card games. Later in life she learned to play the game of Mahjong and played with her lady friends weekly. Her best friend and sister Marie was a huge part of Mary Lou’s life and shared in many of her hobbies and passions.

Mary Lou was outgoing and loved being around people. She hosted many gatherings and was the life of the party. Mary Lou and Michael’s home was always open to her son’s friends. There were swimming pool parties, billiard and card tournaments, and Friday night bonfires before a Saturday Winslow High School football game. They attended all Chad and Corey’s football games decked out in Orange and Black.

Mary Lou loved spoiling her four grandchildren and shared many experiences with them. As much as she loved her family and friends, she loved and spoiled her animals just as much. You were always greeted by a Yorkie or a cat when you entered their home.

Mary Lou was predeceased by her mom, Loretta Desveaux; siblings, Joanna Wilbur, Ralph Paradis, Cynthia Crowell and Joyce Paradis.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; their sons, Chad and Jennifer Martin, Corey and Emily Martin; her four grandchildren, Sophia, Andrew, Sarah, Alex; and her sister Marie Paradis.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, on 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, the Martin family is asking for donations to Cynthia’s Challenge.

Donations can be made to P.O. Box 213, Eaton, NH 03830. Cynthia’s Challenge is named after Mary Lou’s god-child and is a nonprofit organization created to support children and their families faced with staggering expenses associated with special medical needs.

DAVID J. MAYO

SHAWMUT – David J. Mayo, 96, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024. He was born in Portland on January 3, 1928, son of Joseph and Corris Mayo.

He spent most of his life living in Shawmut and was a proud father of nine children as well as a proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

David graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1946 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in June of that year and served until 1948. He married Beverly Works on July 2, 1951, and enjoyed 67 years of marriage until her passing in September 2018. Together they lived and raised their family in Shawmut.

David was a hard worker, often working two jobs to support his growing family. He was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years, where he made numerous friends and acquaintances. In conjunction with the postal service, he also worked for Keyes Fibre Corp., at the Shawmut pulp mill, as well as the machine shop, in Waterville, and the paper mill in Fairfield.

David was an avid bowler, loved to do crossword puzzles, and was a dominant player at many card games such as Skip-Bo. He mastered the art of making mac and cheese and peanut butter fudge, which everyone looked forward to indulging in at family gatherings.

Through the years, he and Beverly could be found proudly cheering for their children and grandchildren on the sidelines of many of their athletic events.

David was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Beverly Mayo; son Jeffery Mayo, daughter-in-law Tina Mayo; grandson, Aaron Wadleigh.

He is survived by eight children. Michael Mayo, Stephen Mayo and wife Melanie, James Mayo, Corrisann Vigue and husband Joey, Donna Fortin and husband Bob, Timothy Mayo and wife Karen, Mary Wadleigh and husband Brian, Ronald Mayo and wife Heather; a daughter-in-law, Genie Mayo; and brother-in-law, Derwood Works and wife Debbie; 16 grandchildren, Rob Fortin and wife Christy, Krystal Blaisdell and husband Josh, Nicole Fortin, Ashley Johnston and husband Mac, Krysten Bailey and husband Ryan; Brittney Turner and husband Ricky, Chelsea Mayo and husband Jonathan Baker, Katye Mayo-Chipman, Cody Vigue and wife Brittany, Lindsay Mayo, Casey Wadleigh, Lauren Wadleigh, Andrew Mayo, Ethan Mayo, Grace Mayo, Lucas Mayo; and 11 great-grandchildren, Aubrie and Robbie Fortin, Rylynn and Adalyn Turner, Kinzley and Kiley Vigue, Declan and Corbin Johnston, Hazel and Holden Bailey, Kaden Mayo-Chipman, Drake Johnson, Hannah Clowes.

Visiting hours will be from 6 – 8 p.m., on Friday, October 25, at Veilleux and Redington Funeral home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Catholic Charities, Development Office, PO Box 10660, Portland, ME 04104-6060.

RITA HIKEL

VASSALBORO – Rita Hikel, 93, passed away on Sunday, September, 29, 2024. She was born on January 16, 1931, in a tiny house on what is now Ken­nedy Memorial Drive, in Waterville, to a large French-Canadian family, where she gained a passion for music and a devotion to her Catholic faith.

Rita attended elementary and high school in Waterville until she developed tuberculosis as a teen. She spent three years in the sanatorium, in Fairfield, missing both the death of her mother, Dora, and her high school graduation.

Rita, through drive and perseverance, would go on to receive her high school diploma. Afterwards, she put her talent of painting to use and worked as photographer’s colorist and touch up artist. She was also a teller at the Waterville Savings Bank and worked as an inspector at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville.

In 1963 Rita married Adam Hikel at a well-attended ceremony at St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, in Waterville. After the birth of her daughter, Anne, in 1965, they moved to Illinois and then to Tennessee where son Joseph would be added to the family. From there, they moved to Michigan where, on Christmas Eve 1970, her third child, Adam, was born.

During the ’70s, Rita packed up the family no less than six times, and was pretty much over it by the time they moved to Wilton. Finally, after all the children were out of the house, Adam and Rita moved one last time to Vassalboro, where they were able to reunite with many friends and family and never worry about moving ever again.

Rita’s passion was music: she loved to sing and could play piano by ear. She sang with her older sister, Theresa, at the Waterville Opera House and in Skowhegan when they were still in grade school. She sang in the choir at St Joseph’s for many years to the delight of the congregation, learning songs in Arabic and Syriac.

Not only did Rita have a beautiful voice, her tourtière pies were blue ribbon winners. She could assemble a killer pie crust in the time it took to say “preheat oven to 350°”. Known to many as a fabulous cook, she loved to bake and make treats for the people she loved. Needless to say, she made a lot of treats.

Her skill in the kitchen and her love of art, theater and music she passed on to her children. She also passed on her sarcasm and stubbornness and the philosophy that nothing is insurmountable with a little effort, and everything else can be fixed with some aspirin and a nap or copious amounts of duct tape.

Most importantly though, she taught by example what it meant to be a decent, kind, and positive force in the world, and what generosity and living in faith was truly about.

Rita was predeceased by her husband Adam; her parents John Theriault and Dora (Ouellette); brothers Renee Theriault, Ray Theriault, Leonard Theriault, Wilfred Theriault, and her sisters Grace Huard, Teresa White, Madeline, Marie, and most recently, Jeffrine Quirion who passed in August.

She leaves her daughter Anne; sons Joseph and Adam; a grandson, Ian El-Habre and his wife Taylor; younger brother Paul Theriault; many nieces and nephews.

Ginnaz for Rita will be at 10 a.m., on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton Street, Waterville. Her remains will be interred following the service 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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Maine Children’sHome, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

CHARLENE F. STAIRS

SOUTH CHINA– Charlene F. Stairs, 92, passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. She was born on June 26, 1932, a daughter of Gilbert and Myrtle (Clement) Keller.

Charlene attended grade school in Montville and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in the class of 1947. In 1952, she enlisted in the United States Army and worked her way up to becoming a surgical medical technician. While in the service, Charlene received training in Virginia and spent time stationed in Washington State as well as Germany.

Upon her honorable discharge, Charlene was employed as a nurse at various places including Waldo County General Hospital, Monmouth Medical (in New Jersey), and AMHI. In 1968, she began her long time career as a nurse at the VA, in Togus, retiring as the OR supervisor in 1996.

Charlene was a hard-working and dedicated employee, but she was even more committed to her family. Known by her grandchildren as “Mim”, Charlene played a vital role in her grandchildren’s upbringing and eventually her great-grandchildren’s lives. She was an unwavering supporter of all activities and groups her grandchildren were involved in, particularly sports and the Cub Scouts.

Charlene enjoyed reading, researching family genealogy, and traveling, especially with her best friend, Ardith.

Charlene will be remembered for her hard work ethic, tough resilience, and for the unconditional love she had for her family.

She was predeceased by her parents; and four brothers, Merton Keller, Myron Keller, Gilbert Keller Jr., and Carleton Keller.

Charlene is survived by her daughter, Sharen Careen Grenier and her husband, John; grandchildren, Shawn Porter and his wife, Deann, Chasity Robichaud, and Sonya Porter-Burrill; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Olivier and her husband, James, Kaden Porter, Nicholas Robichaud, Hannah Robichaud, Kali Porter and Kyle Burrill; three great-great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Isabella and Ayla; a brother, Leroy Keller and his wife, Mary; and several nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held for the family at Maine Veterans Cemetery, located at 143 Blue Star Ave., in Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local children’s sporting group.

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

LEO E. GOULETTE

WATERVILLE – Leo Edward Goulette, 98, died on Monday, September 30, 2024. He was born in Waterville on November 24, 1925, to J. Edward and Alfreda (Poulin) Goulette.

He was educated at St. Francis School, in Waterville, and left home at the age of 13 to attend school at the Brothers of Christian Instruction, in Alfred. As a “Brother”, he taught school in Plattsburgh, New York, and Montreal, Québec, Canada. He left in 1946 and returned to Waterville because he wanted to marry and raise a family. His years with the Brothers shaped his life and he enjoyed telling stories of his time there.

He served in the U.S. Army for two years active duty and four years in the reserves and in later years was a member of American Legion Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, in Waterville.

He met his future wife, Geraldine Beaulieu, on a blind date, married on November 14, 1953, and raised five children together. He worked for R.E. Drapeau, in Waterville, for 20 years and at Scott Paper/Sappi, in Winslow/Hinckley, as a master electrician and then as an electrical planner until he retired in 1989.

He was good natured, humble, and loved people. He had a remarkable memory, able to recall detailed stories even in his later years. He could repair just about anything and enjoyed working on his home and camp.

Hockey was a big part of his life, playing from a young age and later coaching youth hockey and refereeing high school and college games. He maintained a backyard rink and his children have fond memories of their time skating and playing hockey with friends.

He was a devout Catholic, served as a Eucharistic minister and was a member of the Notre Dame choir. He volunteered at the Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen for 26 years and served on the Waterville City Council.

He loved to golf and was able to do so into his 90s. He was a long-time member and ranger at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro. He enjoyed card games, especially cribbage. Leo and Gerry loved to travel, making numerous trips around the country to visit family, as well as frequent day trips to the Maine coast. Their trip to Europe, shortly after Leo retired, was a highlight.

He treasured summers on China Lake, often saying it was his favorite place. He and Gerry loved having family visit, which allowed their grandchildren a connection to each other and to Maine lake life they would not have enjoyed otherwise.

Leo was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Geraldine (Beaulieu); a newborn son; his parents; his sister Yvette Michaud, his brother James Goulette; his nieces Elaine Belcher and Margaret Goulette; his nephew Russell Michaud; and his first grandchild, Christopher P. Goulette.

He is survived by his daughter Debra Goulette Carter (Scott), of Falmouth; four sons: Paul (Dianne), of Baldwinsville, New York, Andrew (Linda), of York, Dana (Suzanne), of Stafford, Virginia, and Thomas, of Pittsfield; his grandchildren, Natalie Carter Leishman, Aimee Goulette Reakes, Nicholas, Spencer and Joseph Goulette, Cadie Goulette Yeager, Nathan and John Goulette, Avery, Patience, Kristanna and Matias Goulette; great-grandsons, Henry Goulette and Connor Reakes; his sister Jeannette Bolduc (Robert); sister-in-law Elisabeth Goulette; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville. A reception will follow.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Maine Veterans Home, Atten: Employee AppreciationCommittee, 35 Heroes Way,Augusta, ME 04330. It would be helpful if you also included Employee Appreciation on the check memo line.

BARRY W. THOMAS

CHINA – Barry W. Thomas, 81, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville, following a long illness. He was born on September 13, 1943, the son of the late William and Juanita (Pierce) Thomas.

Mr. Thomas was a 1961 graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, then earning his bachelor’s degree in education from then Farmington State Teachers College, now the University of Maine at Farmington.

Upon graduation, he was then employed for 33 years in the China school system, where he taught subjects such as science, mathematics, and history. During these 33 years he also coached both basketball and baseball for China schools. He was also a long-time coach and counselor, with friends John Mitchell, Richard Meader, and Richard Whitmore, at Pine Tree Basketball Clinic, coaching there for over 25 summers. Barry took immense pride from his opportunity to coach and shape, to some extent, the young men who played for him and was always proud to see their achievements as they grew older.

Barry was a long-standing member of the Erskine Academy Board of Trustees, serving as its president for well over a decade and was immensely pleased to see the school’s continued growth and evolution over the course of his tenure. He also was a caretaker of Erskine Academy’s history and was honored to have Erskine’s formal archives named after him. Mr. Thomas was also a member of the Dirigo Masonic Lodge #104, where he served as Grand Master over several years in the 1970’s.

Barry was an avid sports fan, especially of the New York Giants and Boston Celtics, and a lover of classic 1950s country, and rock and roll music. This love of sports and music led him to being an active collector of both records and sports cards, which he enjoyed doing with his son, Jason, for many years.

He was predeceased by his parents, a brother, Milford Thomas, and a sister, Marilyn Gray.

Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sandra G. (Grimshaw) Thomas, of South China, who would have been celebrating their 60th anniversary on November 7 of this year; his son, Jason W. Thomas and partner, Hollie Kunesh, of Waterville; a brother, Wayne Thomas and his wife, Diane, of Foley, Alabama; two grandchildren, Olivia and Riley Kunesh; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Per his request, there will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. Burial will be at a later date with a private Masonic service at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China, and a public celebration of life, open to all, also to be announced at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor, ME.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Best Buddies of Maine, an organization helping those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in memory of Barry W. Thomas, at Best Buddies of Maine, PO Box 573, Cumberland, ME 04021 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

TAYLOR B. WILSON

SKOWHEGAN – Taylor B. Wilson, 27, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, September 20, 2024, from an unforseen medical event. He was born April 10, 1997, in Farmington, the son of Tracy Karr and James Wilson.

Taylor graduated from Skowhegan Area High School. He went on to Spectrum Generations, in Skowhegan, where he enjoyed being with his friends. His favorite activity was Meals on Wheels. He loved Thursdays when he helped to deliver meals and visiting. He was especially fond of Michelle, Carrie and Jill, who accompanied him.

Taylor was a sweet, caring, kind, loving person. He loved people and made friends wherever he went. Animals gravitated to his calm, gentle manner. If he met you, he never forgot you.Taylor gave the best hugs. We called him our “gentle giant”.

Taylor was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Harold and Phyllis Gallant, and his fraternal grandparents, Dan and Kathy Wilson.

He is survived by his mother, Tracy Karr and her partner Chris; his father, James Wilson and his wife Tammy; sister, Brooklyn; half-brothers, Harley and Josh; step-sisters Becky and Taylor; grandmother, Kathleen Norris; grandfather M. Benjamin Pinkham; aunt Laurie Mowatt; cousins Becky Daly and children Cole and Ciara, Ashley Mowatt; his special friends Nancy and Peter Worthley and children Molly and Sam.

Cremations arrangements are by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, Skowhegan.

Memorial donations may be made to Spectrum Generations, 30 Leavitt St., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

Obituary Policy

Because The Town Line has always published obituaries as a public service, free of charge (donations accepted), we reserve the right to edit for length and content, when necessary. Since newspapers are recorders of local history, and for future genealogical purposes, the basic information will include name, date of death, date of birth, parents, and a brief history of the decedents life. Predeceased and survivors are listed by blood or law. The service will be included if it takes place after the publication date. We do not publish first person messages nor thank you’s.

Others Departed are published to alert residents that a neighbor or acquaintance in the community has lost a loved one from outside our coverage area.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 3, 2024

DR. ALBERT R. AMALFITANO

WATERVILLE – Dr. Albert R. Amalfitano, 93, passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. Albert was born in Wilmington, Delaware, on October 1, 1930, the last child to Candida and Aniello Amalfitano, immigrants from Forio d’Ischia, Italy.

After graduation from high school, Albert attended both the University of Maryland and Temple University. He was a member of the Iota Tau Sigma Fraternity. He was also a member of the Army National Guard.

He followed the footsteps of his older brothers, Joe and Lou, and his brother-in-law, John Cifala, to begin a long lineage of osteopathic physicians that continues to this day. He graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1956. He then completed his internship at Detroit Osteopathic Hospital.

He married Winifred on May 4, 1957, and they moved to Bangor, where he completed his general surgery residency at James A. Taylor Osteopathic Hospital. They relocated to Waterville in 1962, where he joined the practice of Marshall Gerrie Sr. He would remain in Waterville, practicing for more than 50 years, devoted to and proudly caring for the people of this town as a highly respected surgeon and family physician. He was a maverick in the earlier days of his career, performing many surgeries that are now further specialized, including ENT, obstetrics, and orthopedic procedures. He also performed some of the first laparoscopic appendectomies ever done in the United States.

During his long career, he served many years as a board member for the Maine Osteopathic Association. He served as president in 1968 and received numerous awards which include the 1984 Roswell P. Bates DO Public Service Award, the 1994 Distinguished Service Award (the highest honor given by the MOA), and the 2011 Sandra Featherman, Ph.D. Osteopathic Champion Award. Through the years, he enjoyed educating and mentoring countless medical students and interns. In addition, he served as a state medical examiner for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. He also frequently performed pilot physicals for the FAA. At the age of 83, he finally retired from his medical practice.

Albert’s favorite pastime was aviation. In the 1970s, he owned and piloted a twin-engine Piper Apache. He spent many hours at Robert LaFleur Airport, in Waterville, flying his plane and taking his children for rides. He loved his annual vacations with his wife and children to Wilmington, Delaware, Ocean City, Maryland, and Easton, Pennsylvania, to spend time with his large extended family. He also enjoyed spending the summers relaxing at his camp on Salmon Lake, in Belgrade. He believed strongly in fixing what was broken rather than replacing it with new, and because of this philosophy, he was always working on projects around the house and camp.

His twilight years were, as expected, quiet. He spent this time residing and was cared for at Northern Light Continuing Care, Lakewood.

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Winifred (Wheeler), his siblings, Michael, Joseph, Laura Cifala, Mary Curtius, Celeste, Louis, and Anthony, and his grandson, Michael.

He is survived by his nine children, Lee, (and his partner Michele), Laurie Thornberg, Cathie (Don) White, Joni, Mark (Sara), Neil (Kim), Nic Lee (Nyari), Bryant Lee, and Jonathan Lee; his grandchildren, Matthew, Hannah, Kaitlin, Lauren, Rachel, Dana, Dominic, Dimitri, Anthony, Benjamin, Giovanni, Marchesa, and Vivianna; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and their children.

A memorial visit for family and friends will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 10 – 11 a.m., at Veilleux-Redding-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine, to be followed by a Celebration of Life. Burial will occur at the Saint Francis Cemetery family plot.

For online condolences, please visit http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

SUSAN ANN LeCOMTE

WATERVILLE – Susan Ann (Marino) LeComte, 71, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, September 8, 2024, following a long and brave battle against cancer.

Friends and family are invited to attend visitation from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine.

A Celebration of Life for Susan will be held from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Waterville Elks Lodge, 76 Industrial Street, Waterville, Maine.

To read Susan’s full obituary please go to https://gallantfh.com/obituaries/susan-lecomte

DEBRA E. LYMNEOS

CHELSEA – Debra E. Lymneos, 69, affectionately known as Debbie, passed away Thursday, September 19, 2024, at her home, in Chelsea. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1954, the daughter of Sophie (Sulya) and the late Robert Welsh.

Debbie graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in social work and worked for the State of Maine, primarily in child protective, for 26 years. She later served as the Director of General Assistance for the city of Augusta until her retirement in May 2023.

Throughout her career Debbie was known for her caring and compassionate nature. She impacted the lives of numerous individuals through her dedication to social work, always demonstrating consideration and respect for those she served. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she was actively involved in community organizations including The 99s, a female pilot association, TOPS, and the Chelsea Historical Society.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Lymneos; her mother, Sophie Welsh; sister Linda Saucier and her husband Roland Saucier; her nieces and nephews, Meredith Saucier, Christopher Saucier, his wife Elisha and their children; cousins Alfred and Donna Tobias; brother-in-law Charles Steve Lymneos and his wife Donna; niece Kristen, nephew Keith and his family.

In memory of Debbie, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of choice.

SOPHIA HAYES

BENTON – Sophia Hayes, 18, died unexpectedly on Friday, September, 20, 2024, when her life was taken in a tragic motorcycle accident.

Sophia is survived by her parents, Thomas Haynes and Laurie Blake; and her siblings, Thomas Hayes Jr., from Lawrence, Massachusetts, Charles Paradise, of South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, Marie Maniero, of Jacksonville, North Carolina, Edward Blake, of Benton, David Blake, of Gardiner, and Isreale Rodriguez, of Benton; many aunts, uncles, cousins, niece and nephews.

For full obituary go to vrlfuneralhome.com.

SANDRA J. CHRISTENSEN

SMITHFIELD – Sandra J. Christensen, 65, passed away at home on Friday, September 20, 2024. She was born in Waterville on July 30, 1959, the daughter of Alice (Dudley) Christensen and Charles Christensen.

She has belonged to the Smithfield Baptist Church since 1970 where she was a deacon. She enjoyed doing plastic canvas, sudoku, puzzles and reading.

She was predeceased by her father, Charles Christensen.

She is survived by her mother, Alice (Dudley) Christensen; her brother Scott and his wife Pam; her Aunt Florence and Uncle Richard; and many cousins.

Her service will be Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Smithfield Baptist Church, at 10 a.m., with a reception to follow.

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 may be made to the American Diabetes Association, in her name, at Diabetes Research, Education, Advocacy | ADA or mailed to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

ROBERT ELLIOTT

OAKLAND – Robert “Bob” Elliott, 76, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 23, 2024. Bob was born in Augusta on June 4, 1948, the only son of Millard and Charlene Elliott (Brown).

He attended Augusta schools and graduated in 1967. Bob was employed at Augusta Supply for 20 years and retired from Redlon and Johnson where he was employed for over 30 years.

As a child, Bob enjoyed lobstering in South Bristol, with the lobsterman. In his later years he continued the love of the ocean and eating lobsters, enjoyed duck hunting with Brett and Jeff, on Dyer Long Pond, ice fishing, his camp in Burlington, making popovers, football, gardening, mowing the lawn, winemaking and bird watching.

Bob and Cyndee bought their first home on Three Mile Pond, in China, where Bob grew up as a young boy. They resided on the pond for 10 years with their dog Zeke. During these years, the family enjoyed their time in the pontoon boat, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and making family memories.

Bob, Chad, and Steve went ice fishing on Chesuncook Lake and slept on the lake, a memory he always talked about.

For three summers Bob and Cyndee traveled to Prince Edward Island with their three grandchildren and close friends: Sherwood, Laurie, and children.

Bob and Cyndee would spend their summers at home in Florida, at Loon Ridge, in Belgrade. The family made many memories with Sherwood, Laurie, Lindsey, Chris, Blair, Bear and many more family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents Millard and Charlene, Brett Ellis, and many aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife Cyndee Palmieri; his two daughters, Jocelyn LaCroix and her husband Toby, Mikel Booker and her life partner Chad French; grandchildren, Mikayla Marden and husband James “Bub”, Chalbi Simmons and husband Taylor, Nickolas Sandelier; great-grandchildren, Karson, Mia, Easton, Hudson and Sophia; and his sister-in-law Debbi Bozworth and husband Gary; niece Dr. Miranda Shorty, her children, Max and Moxie.

Please visit Bob’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/robert-elliott-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

RICHARD LaBELLE

ROME – Richard LaBelle, 96, passed away on Monday evening, September 23, 2024. Richard “Dick” LaBelle, Rome’s oldest resident. Born October 3, 1927, in Pearl River, New York, Richard was the sixth child of Ernest Adelbert and Ruth (Bickford) LaBelle.

Richard was the oldest living resident of Rome.

As a child, Dick moved around following the business of his father’s portable sawmill for many years. In his younger years, Dick would move with his family from New York to New Jersey to New Hampshire before finally settling in Maine. Richard answered America’s call to service during World War II. In 1945, he enlisted in the United States Navy, heading to the Naval Training Center, in Bainbridge, Maryland, before taking a train cross-country to join his shipmates. The young Private served in the Pacific Theatre, spending much of his time in China.

Upon his return from war, Dick continued to travel with his family. His father’s business took him to Maine, where Richard would meet the love of his life. After courting her for some time, Dick married Lois Marie Mosher, daughter of the late Paris L. and Martha E. (Dudley) Mosher, on November 25, 1950, in Fairfield. Together, they settled and made a home on their Jamaica Point farm. Dick and Lois raised five children on their beautiful eleven-acre parcel overlooking Great Pond.

Richard was always an active woodsman, either in career or leisure. In 1949, he began his 18 years working in the woods for Luther Stevens. With a changing economy and a growing family, Dick yearned to provide his family with a stronger way of life. With an eighth-grade education and very little start-up money, it was in 1969 that Richard took a risk and defied the odds to start his own business, Dick LaBelle’s Plumbing. Even without indoor plumbing in his own home, He was determined to take his new-found trade and create a livelihood that would afford a better future for his family. With signature red trucks and blue Dickies, the company continues to deliver quality service 55 years later under the watchful eye of his son, Alan and grandson Chapin.

Even after his retirement in 1991, Dick would work part-time in the plumbing business. As he looked to his retirement, he found much more time to take up his special interests. On a spring day, you may have found Dick planting flowers and vegetables in his greenhouse or sawing logs and splitting wood in the yard. On a summer’s day, he may have been deep among his raspberry bushes or huddled between sewn rows of vegetables. Fall brought harvest and a bit of rest before winter when Dick would retreat to the woodshop to construct beautiful pieces of small furniture for family and friends; he was especially well known for his beautiful mission-style furniture. For 38 years, Richard served the Town of Rome as Selectman, Assessor, and Overseer of the Poor, a member of the Rome School Board, Board of Health, Budget Committee, Planning Board and/or Rome Recreation Committee.

Though busy with work and hobbies, Richard always had time for the Lord. Dick and Lois were members of the Rome Baptist Church for many years. In 1990, they began a search for a new home church and found a small country church to call their home: North Belgrade Baptist Church.

Richard is survived by his five children, all of Jamaica Point, Rome, Susan LaBelle, Cynthia and husband Gary Wilkie, Sandra LaBelle, Sara LaBelle, and Alan and wife Lynn (Buzzell) LaBelle; eight grandchildren, Joshua Desrosiers and wife Kahlie, Dr. Jessica Desrosiers and husband Ramel Dennis, Andrew Wilkie and wife Molly, Paige Collier and partner Kelsey Saucier, Chapin LaBelle and wife Rebekah, Alyssa and husband Ryan Bell, Richard LaBelle, and Chena and husband Jacob Bean; great-grandchildren, Jessica Dennis, Elsie Bell, Ander Bell, River Wilkie, Aiden Desrosiers, Nevaeh Dennis, Peri Wilkie, Emilyn Desrosiers, Adaline Bean, Quinn LaBelle, and Warren Bean; and sister-in-law Hannah LaBelle.

Richard was predeceased by his wife of 72 years, Lois Marie (Mosher) LaBelle, and his great-grandson, Isaiah Hamlin Dennis, siblings Archena Bickford McCrory, Russell LaBelle, Herman LaBelle, Jean Linderman, Frances McCord, W. Arthur LaBelle, Sr., and Lee LaBelle

Visiting hours will be held Friday, October 4. 4 – 7 p.m., at Wheeler’s Funeral Home, 26 Church St. in Oakland. A funeral will be Saturday, October 5, at 10 a.m., at the Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, 744 Augusta Rd., in Belgrade. Interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery, Wooster Hill Rd., Rome.

Services are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home Church Street, Oakland Maine. http://www.wheelerfh.com

Donations may be made in Dick’s memory to Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, 744 Augusta Rd., Belgrade, ME 04917 or to the Maine Veterans Home, memo: Employee Appreciation Committee, 35 Heroes Way, Augusta, ME 04330.

LUCILLE NICKLESS

BELGRADE – Lucille Nickless, 95, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 23, 2024. She was the daughter of Louis and Margaret (Brown) Jenney.

She grew up in Belgrade and graduated from Belgrade High School. She worked for the State of Maine for 28 years, retiring as a computer analyst.

Lucille’s home was always a hub of warmth and joy, where family and friends gathered to feel her love and selflessness. She was known for her quick wit, always ready with a clever remark that brought laughter to any room.

Lucille had a variety of interests that brought her joy, including lunch dates, knitting and playing bingo. But above all, she loved spending time with her family. Her generous spirit and dedication to those she loved will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love, laughter, and care will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Lucille’s kindness, sharp wit, and selflessness touched the lives of so many, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Lucille was predeceased by her husband, Carroll; her son, Chester; and her five siblings, Douglas, Katherine, Lawrence, Gordon, and Eleanor.

Born in Connecticut, Lucille was a pillar of strength and love for her family and all who knew her.

She is survived by two of her children, Richard Nickless and his wife Melanie, of Gardiner, and Rhonda Kaiser and her husband John, of Winthrop; grandchildren Richard Nickless Jr., Melissa Goucher, Chad Nickless, Mathew Nickless, Joshua Nickless, Alexandra Nickless, Kayla Kaiser, Ashley Miller, and Lauren Souza; numerous great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family invites all who knew and loved her to join them in celebrating her life at a graveside service at 2 p.m., on Friday, October 4, at Pine Grove Cemetery, Belgrade, followed by a celebration of her life, from 3 to 6 p.m., at the Alfred W. Maxwell Jr. American Legion Post #40, Bowdoin Street, Winthrop.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop, Maine.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alpha Phi Foundation in honor of Lucille.

Her daughter, along with her two granddaughters, Kayla and Lauren, are proud alumnae. Your contribution will support heart health initiatives. https://gofund.me/b15d36db

KENNETH R. LaCHANCE

CLINTON – Kenneth R. Lachance, 69, gave up his fight Monday, September 23, 2024 at BIDM (Beth Israel Deacon Medical Center,) Boston, Massachusetts, where he received 20 years of exceptional care.

Kenny was a hard worker. He was a jack of all trades working as a union shipfitter at Bath Iron Works, a mechanic, a welder, and a carpenter’s union in 1996 to name a few.

In his younger years he enjoyed working on fast cars, being at the racetrack, boxing, working with his father in his butcher shop, and creating detailed woodwork.

The man could not say no to a lobster, or any seafood dish. Many good memories made ice fishing on Moosehead Lake. His greatest pride was sharing the love and passion for the game of basketball with his granddaughter Jordyn.

He was predeceased by his parents Raymond and Geneva (Cote) Lachance, of Winslow; son Craig Joseph Lachance; and brothers Wayne and Raymond Lachance.

Kenny is survived by one brother; daughter Kelly Jo Lachance, Wayne Penney and their families; son Kenneth Hyde; granddaughters Merranda Lachance, Kaula and Jordyn Towers, Jamee Cyr, and Metehya Lachance, with their families; as well as 14 great-grandchildren.

Kenny has had a lot of friends from a lot of places throughout his life. The family hopes you can join them celebrating his life on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at the Winslow VFW, at 11 a.m., located at 175 Veterans Drive in Winslow.

CYNTHIA DAVIDSON

BELGRADE – Cynthia “Cindy” Davidson, 63, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at her home, in Belgrade. Born on October 25, 1960, in Waterville, she was the third daughter of Sumner “Everett” Trask and Dolores Cabana Trask.

Cindy married her high school sweetheart, Andrew Davidson, on March 12, 1983. Together, they lived in Florida during Andy’s service in the U.S. Air Force, where they welcomed their son, James. Upon returning to Maine, they settled in Cindy’s childhood home and soon welcomed their daughter, Katrina.

Cindy attended grade school in Belgrade and graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1979. After high school, she pursued a career in nursing and dedicated herself to caring for others in nursing homes, hospitals, and home care. Cindy also had a passion for dance, starting at a young age with Sandra Grant’s classes. She attended numerous dance workshops and taught dance for many years, even running her own studio at the North Belgrade Community Center. Her love for dancing and sharing it with others remained a joy throughout her life.

Cindy was a creative spirit, known for her talent in scrapbooking. She crafted many treasured memory books for her family. Her gentle, caring nature and her ability to bring joy to others will be deeply missed.

She was predeceased by her parents, Everett and Dolores, stepmother Rita Trask, sister Gail Hudson, and cousin Valmond Cabana.

Cindy is survived by her husband of 41 years, Andrew; son James and his wife Kate; daughter Katrina; grandchildren, Chloe Elkins, Sophia Mitchell, Olivia Lane, and Jace and Jack Davidson; her sister Sharon Young and husband David; brother David Trask and wife DeAnna; step-siblings, Susan Blake and husband Herbert, David Seeley, and Michael Seeley and wife Debra; nieces Melanie Blair, Melinda Gervais, Elizabeth Trask; and nephew Eric Trask.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from noon – 1 p.m., at Wheeler Funeral Home, in Oakland. A graveside service will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, at 2 p.m., in North Belgrade.

PETER A. LOCKHART

AUBURN – Peter Alan Lockhart, 70, of Auburn, husband of Lisa (Agurkis) Lockhart, passed away Monday, September 16, 2024.

They married on a beautiful day in China, on June 4, 2004. Peter was a courageous man with many health conditions until his passing.

His love for Lisa was unconditional with many happy trips around the state and special time with his grandchildren. He had a love of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots as well as hunting at his families camp, in Palermo.

Peter graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1971, and graduated from Washington Community Technical School, in Calais, for electrical construction, working beside his father in the electrical business before going to work at Bath Iron Works for 17 years as a marine electician and finally worked at Ace Security before becoming disabled.

Peter was predeased by his father Frank and Mother Marian (Hopkins) Lockhart, of China, and his uncles Donald and aunts Liesel Lockhart and Lloyd and (Isabel) Lockhart.

Peter is survived by his wife Lisa; his three sons, Justin (Stephanie) Lockhart, Jeremy (Krystle) Lockhart and Travis Lockhart; his brother Roger (Mary) Lockhart Sr., of China; nephew Roger (J.R) and (Stacy) Lockhart, Jr., and their children, Gwen and Owen, of China; niece Sarah and Jay Pucci, of South Carolina; and grandchildren, Hayden, Hunter, Piper Lockhart, Josh and Tyler Wilde, and Trent Poulin; great-grandchildren, Schyloh, Emmit and Leo; cousins Donald and (Robin)Lockhart, of South Carolina, Sandy and (Dominick) Lupichino, of Connecticut, Eunice and (Bob) Johnson, Everett and ( Debbie) Lockhart, all of Connecticut, Barry and Gail Mitchell, of China, and Cindy (Jim) Hart, of China, Carol Ann (Terry) Cusick, of Gardiner; mother in-law Priscilla Agurkis; sister and brother in-law Stephanie Agurkis, and Briggs Seekins.

A Celebration of Life will be on Friday, October 4, 2024, at China Baptist Church, in China, at 2 p.m. Refreshments to follow in the Vestry.

Donations can be sent to The American Kidney Foundation in Peter’s name.

CHARLES R. BELLOWS

WATERVILLE – Charles Raymond Bellows, 43, the man, the myth, the legend known to some as “mastermind”, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024. He was born June 17, 1981, in Waterville, to parents Darla (Carpenter) O’Neil and Charles “Chuck” Bellows.

Charlie led an adventurous life, ever since his early years running through the Southend of Waterville. At a young age he learned of his talents as a prolific writer, poet, visual artist, graffiti artist and often shared these gifts with loved ones and comrades. He has an insatiable laugh, he was hilarious and always the biggest presence in any room. He was bold and intelligent. He was a lyrical artist and wrote many verses with hundreds of songs; many on YouTube.

He was loyal and defended people when they were treated unfairly. He taught others to be strong and never give up. He was determined and loved hard. In spite of Charlie’s hardships, Charlie always remained positive and it reflected around him deeply. Charlie’s loved ones knew him to have a warriors mindset and the heart of a lion. He was the strongest, most fearless and loyal person one could meet. Even if you disagreed with him, Charlie commanded respect.

In his pastime, Charlie enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, or in deep thought, often in solitude, or in nature with his beloved. While he never achieved mainstream success, Charlie was arguably the greatest hardcore rapper to have deep roots in the pine tree state. Charlie stood for love, truth, and loyalty; for language, truth, and logic, and his legend will never die!

He was predeceased by his father Chuck and mother Darla; three children; Justice, Charli and Mason; siblings, Israel, Antelsy, Michael and Elizabeth; stepfather Mike; and many extended family members.

A Celebration of Life was held at Governor’s, in the Ballroom, on Sunday, September 22, 2024. The formal funeral service dates are to be determined.

Others Departed

WILLIAM H. MORGAN

SIDNEY – William “Bill” H. Morgan, 72, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10 a.m., with an interment ceremony planned for 1 p.m., at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Avenue, Augusta.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home. A full obituary and online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Bill’s name to the Sidney Food Bank, 3022 West River Rd., Sidney, ME 04330.

ROBERT F. STEINMEYER

WASHINGTON – Robert “Bob” Frank Steinmeyer, 81, of Washington, passed away peacefully at the Sussman House, in Rockport, on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

For a full obituary with service information, please visit Bob’s Book of Memories at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com.

Obituary Policy

Because The Town Line has always published obituaries as a public service, free of charge (donations accepted), we reserve the right to edit for length and content, when necessary. Since newspapers are recorders of local history, and for future genealogical purposes, the basic information will include name, date of death, date of birth, parents, and a brief history of the decedents life. Predeceased and survivors are listed by blood or law. The service will be included if it takes place after the publication date. We do not publish first person messages nor thank you’s.

Others Departed are published to alert residents that a neighbor or acquaintance in the community has lost a loved one from outside our coverage area.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 26, 2024

NANCY A. CAYFORD

WATERVILLE / SOUTH CHINA – Nancy Ann (Dubois) Cayford, 72, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at camp, her “happy place”. She was born in Waterville on October 28, 1951, the daughter of Wallace and Shirley (St. Peter) Dubois.

Nancy graduated from Waterville High School in 1970. She retired in 2019 after 20 years as front desk associate at the Fireside Inn and Suites (formerly Best Western), in Waterville.

Before her declining health Nancy loved vacation trips, cruises, and casino adventures with her beloved partner of 30 years, Dan Pooler, and his sister, Margie and brother-in-law, Craig Handley. Their recently purchased summer home on China Lake instantly became her “Happy Place”, where family and friends were encouraged to visit and enjoy the lake. She loved floating around the lake on her inner tube, going for boat rides, and evenings by the fire pit with Dan.

Nancy was predeceased by her parents; her son, Vance Cayford, daughter, Lori Cayford; brother, Tim Dubois, sister, Susan (Dubois) Moffett, and sisters-in-law Linda Harding, Nancy Hewins and Pam Pratt.

She is survived by “her perfect man”, Dan Pooler; stepsons Dan Pooler and wife Sarah, and Shawn Pooler; sisters Donna Spillman and husband Wayne, and Debbie Goldsmith; sisters-in-law Donna Martin and Margie Handley and spouse Craig; grandsons Gaige and Gavin Hessert; step-grandchildren Kenzie, Jordan, and Maryanne Pooler; and great-grandson, Ezra Hessert; as well as many special nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, in South China, Fire Road 37 (directly across from the China School sign), Camp 54.

Please visit Nancy’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/nancy-cayford where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers those who wish may donate to Dialysis Clinic, Inc., 205 Ridge Rd., Fairfield ME 04937.

JOHN JOHNSON

CHINA – John Johnson, 58, passed away at Lahey Hospital, in Burlington, Massachusetts, on Sunday, September 8, 2024. John was born in Winslow on April 26, 1966, son of Patricia (Corey) Johnson and John Johnson.

He graduated from Winslow High School in 1984 and went straight into the workforce as an excellent Subaru mechanic for 32 years.

John was an avid hunter, fisherman, and snowmobiler. He loved being in the woods, regardless of the season. John enjoyed building tree stands, making his own deer jerky, and riding his Polaris up to Canada.

At the age of 32, John became the proud father of triplet girls. He passed his enthusiasm for animals and the outdoors on to his children, who grew up to be lovers of animals and nature as well.

John was predeceased by his father, John Johnson; and his sister, Anna Bouchard.

He is survived by his mother, Patricia (Corey) Johnson; his wife, Lisa Johnson; and his daughters Kinsey, Lexi, and Meagan Johnson; his sisters, Linda Marshall and her husband Paul Marshall, and Terry and her husband Blaine Breton, and Jody Leary and her husband Chuck Leary.

A graveside service was held at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, on Friday, September 20,2024. .

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

WILLIAM WAHLEFIELD

CHINA – William Wahlefield, 88, died peacefully on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Bill was born in New York City on July 20, 1936. He attended the University of North Dakota and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering and continued his studies at Lowell Technical Institute. He was a supervising civil engineer for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection in the Construction Grants department and a member of the Underwater Inspection Unit inspecting bridges, wall foundations, and sewer outfalls throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He eventually started his own business, Atlantic Engineering, which operated until 2019. He retired at the age of 83. In 2002 he married his wife, Deanna. They resided in Revere Massachusetts, until moving to the place he truly loved, China, Maine, in 2020. He was also a dedicated member of the Elks in Winthrop, Massachusetts and Augusta.

Bill was an avid fisherman all his life, sharing this passion with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. As a young man, he took up SCUBA diving so he could explore the beauties of the ocean even further, and, of course, bring in a few lobsters along the way. After fishing out of the Boston Harbor for many years, he retired to China Lake, and was often seen hauling in fish at his secret “Honey Hole.”

Bill truly loved animals of all kinds, especially dogs. He treated every dog he met as his own, spoiling them with abundant amounts of table scraps, invites to sit on his lap, and never-ending scratches.

He was a do-it-yourself type of man, taking on any challenge no matter how large. And most importantly, he was a man who valued family. He placed family above all else, and spent his life going above and beyond for them. In the summers, he spent his mornings at the griddle making eggs, bacon, and buttery english muffins for everyone. Every afternoon you could find him at the grill, determined to bring his family and friends together for a big meal. His beautiful wife Deanna “Nana Deedee” was often cooking alongside him making her famous macaroni salad. He loved making his homemade custard for dessert and sharing his box of Hershey bars with almonds.

In between, he filled his time with fishing, bringing his grandchildren tubing, spending time with his daughters and son, and fixing anything he could get his hands on. His energy was contagious and he was a joy to be around, always managing to be the funniest in the room. He lived life to the fullest, beating to his own drum until his last days. Bill passed along his strong values, resilience, selflessness, work ethic, and huge heart to all his children and grandchildren. His impact will be felt forever.

William “Papa Bill” is survived by his wife, Deanna Wahlefield; his children, Cathy (Parris) Varney, Charlotte Keefe, Julie Brachanow, Linda (Ariel) Anguiano, Joanne (William Sullivan) Torres, William Wahlefield Jr.; his grandchildren, Parris Varney Jr., Lindsey Varney, Liam Keefe, Casey Mcgah, Nathania Brachanow, Frankie Brachanow, Tonya Omar, Catherine Downard, Charlotte Anguiano, Kiyanna Anguiano, Denise Lawrenson, Deborah Morel, Joanna Torres, and Gabriella Torres; 16 great-grandchildren; four step-daughters, Rhonda Fulton, Kimberly Imbruglia, Annette Guarino, Sharon Mercier; and many step-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his granddaughter Julia Healey, his son Richard Wahlefield, his brother Richard Wahlefield Jr., his mother Kathleen Wahlefield and his father Richard Wahlefield.

A service will be held at 1:30 p.m., at the China Baptist Church, 36 Causeway Rd, China, on Sunday, October 13, 2024, followed by a celebration of life at 2:30 p.m., at 701 Neck Road, China. All of his friends and acquaintances are invited.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society or your local animal shelter.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

DOUGLAS DAVIS JR.

BENTON – Douglas Davis Jr., 72, of Benton, passed away Sunday, September 8, 2024. He was born in Waterville on September 17, 1951, to Cecile Tingley and Douglas Davis, Sr.

He attended school in Fairfield and joined the U.S. Army in 1970, stationed in Germany and then at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He then worked for MSAD #49 for many years.

Doug loved sports, whether it be watching sports or playing sports. He loved to play golf. He was in a bowling league for many years, earning many awards and honor scores. Doug enjoyed collecting baseball cards and playing cards with family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Lucille Thibodeau and brother, Greg Davis.

He is survived by daughter, Christine Fontaine and husband Ted; son, Keith Davis, wife Magda; grandchildren, Mariah Bryant and fiancé, Richard Shibles, Nicolas Fontaine and Mckenzie Davis; great-grandchildren, Reed and Walker; brothers Gilbert Willette and David Davis; sisters Colleen Willette Rezendes and Rhonda Levine; brother-in-law, Stephen Thibodeau.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 1 p.m., at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

LEON A. DUFF

VASSALBORO – Leon A. Duff, 89, of Vassalboro, passed passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024. Lee was born on June 5, 1935, at his homestead in East Hodgdon, to Maurice and Ruth Barton Duff and was the ninth of 10 children.

He graduated from Ricker Classical Institute in 1953 and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in education from Bob Jones University in 1957.

He started his career as a high school English teacher in New Haven, Connecticut, and eventually received a master’s degree and post master’s certificate in Education Administration from the University of Connecticut.

Lee was passionate about education and worked his way through the ranks to eventually become assistant superintendent at Amity Regional School District and then superintendent of schools in Woodbury and Bethlehem, Connecticut.

In 1984, he moved his family back to Maine where he spent 17 years as superintendent of schools for Winslow, Vassalboro and China, and retired in 2001 after 44 years in education.

Lee was an active member of Winslow Congregational Church and spent much of his retirement volunteering his services to United Way, Kennebec Behavioral Health, and Hospice Volunteers of the Waterville Area. He was an avid racquetball player and known for his quick wit, dry humor and sage advice. He loved to play cribbage and was a fierce competitor during outdoor family horseshoes and washers tournaments. Family fun was always on the agenda, but not until the work was done.

He was ready with a chore or project as soon as help arrived. He was generous, kind and giving. When he saw or heard of a need, he offered help and guidance. He shared stories and wisdom with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. He made a difference for many people. Lee once said “As long as I am able, I want to make a difference and that’s the bottom line.” And that is truly how he lived his life.

Lee is survived by his wife Barbara; children Bruce and (Leslie) Duff, of Plain City, Ohio, Suzanne and (Chuck) Rogers, of Colchester, Connecticut, Kathryn and (Robby) Pelotte, of Hallowell, Maury and (Pennie) Duff, of Brewer, and Emelia and (Patrick) Strainge, of Woolwich; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Ann Barnes Duff; his parents; and five siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Winslow Congregational Church, 12 Lithgow St., in Winslow.

Memorial gifts may be made to Maine General Homecare and Hospice, in gratitude for their kind and compassionate care in Lee’s final weeks.

DAVID A. STEVENSON

VASSALBORO – David A. Stevenson, D.M.A., 72, of Vassalboro, passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024. Born in Mars Hill on January 20, 1952, David lived most of his life in Unity and Vassal­boro.

He was a devoted father who loved taking his family on epic road trips around the U.S. each summer, which eventually turned into international travel with his wife. He particularly looked forward to their February vacations in Saint Maarten and fondly remembered their trek across El Camino de Santiago de Compostela. David was quite the Renaissance man; this unassuming guy was incredibly handy and could replace a head gasket while giving instructions on how to do it in Spanish, build anything from custom cabinets to canoes, plumb and wire a house, plow and maintain fields with an antique tractor, and more.

In retirement, he embraced ‘slowing down’ by helping build his daughter a new house and growing fields of pumpkins with his grandchildren to sell and contribute to their college funds. Few things made him happier than watching his grandchildren play sports and perform in recitals.

David was a music teacher for 42 years, primarily at Mt. View High School, in Thorndike, where he was known by his many students as Stevo. In addition to teaching, he arranged and composed many of the pieces his students sang, planned an international tour each April vacation for the Chamber Singers, wrote and ran the annual Olde Tyme Radio Hour variety show, and conducted the Kennebec Valley Chordsmen. Dedicated to his craft, David received his Doctor of Musical Arts from Boston University and had numerous compositions published under various pen names. Despite these accomplishments, he was perhaps best known for his quiet strength and humility.

David was predeceased by his parents, Dana P. and Madeline Dickey Stevenson. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sonia; his daughter Jen; his son Anthony and wife Sarah, their three children, Manny, Lucia, and Violet; his sister Paula Young and husband Dana Turcotte; his brother Jeff Stevenson and wife Brenda; his extensive Zepeda family; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at the China Lake Conference Center, 255 Neck Rd., China, ME 04358; all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice.

LUCIEN VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Lucien Veilleux passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024. Lucien was born on Thanksgiving morning November 30, 1933. He was the middle child of John and Josephine Veilleux, in Waterville.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1951. He enjoyed sports, especially baseball and candlepin bowling. He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots.

He joined the U.S. Air Force in April 1952 and served in Japan during the Korean Conflict. He was selected as “Airman of the Month” by Stars and Stripes magazine. In April 1954, he was promoted to Senior Airman to be in charge of the machine shop, with the rank of NCIOC. He was discharged in March 1956 and while attending Southern Maine Vocational-Technical Institute (SMVTI), in Portland, he met Glennis Bubier. They courted for three years and were married on April 4, 1959. They were blessed with three children, Kevin, Garrett and Karen.

Lucien was proprietor of Veilleux’s Meat Market, on Sherwin Street, in Waterville, from 1958 to 1967. Then he went onto work at Laverdiere’s Super Drug Stores, as manager, in the Waterville area for 26 years until they sold to Rite- Aid in 1995.

Lucien is survived by his wife of 65 years, Glennis; children, Kevin, Garrett and Karen; his brother Roland, of Skowhegan; his sister Vernette Dechaine, of Statesboro, Georgia; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Josephine Veilleux; brother Leonel Veilleux;and his wife Bernly; his sister Jeannette Bourgoin and her husband Roland; his sister-in-law Everlyn Veilleux; his brother-in-law Roland Dechaine; his mother and father-in-law, Dorothy and Richard Bubier; brother-in-law Clarance (Sonny) Bubier; two sisters-in-law, Delores Leveque and husband John and Connie Wood and husband Harold.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, September 24, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, Silver Street, Waterville. The burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery, Fairfield.

Obituary was primarily written by Lucien himself.

Services are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, Elm Street, Waterville, Maine. Please visit http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com to view the memorial page and sign the on-line guest book.

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

CHRISTINE E. DePROFIO

WINDSOR – Christine E. DeProfio, 60, passed away Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at her home. She was born December 26, 1963, a daughter of Francis “George” and Helen (Yoe) Schuessler.

Christine grew up in Waltham, Massachusetts, where she graduated from high school in the class of 1982.

On September 8, 1984, she married Joseph DeProfio and the two made their home in Windsor and raised two sons, Christopher and Steven.

Christine worked for Digital Corporation, in Augusta, later known as SCI and was employed for the last 21 years by UnitedHealthcare. In 2005, she graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, with an associate degree in Medical Transcription. Christine was an avid reader who enjoyed going to the beach and shopping. She will be remembered for her selfless nature and down to earth personality.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her brother, George Schuessler and his wife, Deborah.

Christine is survived by her husband of 40 years, Joseph DeProfio; her sons Christopher DeProfio and his wife Chelsea, and Steven DeProfio and his wife, Elizabeth Penrose; grandson, 18-month-old Lucas DeProfio; her siblings, Linda Dodwell and her husband Thomas, Karen Cutler and her husband Ralph, and Paula Serrentino and her husband Phillip; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held at 2 p.m., on Monday, September 23, at 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 Christine’s name may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/maine.

LETICIA F. BROWN

SIDNEY – Leticia F. Brown, 58, passed away on Thurssday, September 19, 2024, following a long battle with cancer.

Leticia Brown dedicated 22 years of exemplary service to MaineGeneral Health. Leticia began her healthcare career as a medical transcriptionist at Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Waterville, in April 1994. In December 2000, she transitioned to MaineGeneral Health, taking on the role of Manager of Medical Transcription. As her career progressed, Leticia served as the Director of Health Information Management, Coding, and Transcription. Leticia retired from MaineGeneral Health on January 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, professionalism, and warmth.

Leticia will be remembered for her kindness and the care she showed everyone around her. She was particularly enthusiastic about helping those around her, especially her family and others suffering from cancer. Since 2014 Leticia participated in raising money in support of Team Hallowell for the Dempsey Challenge. Currently, she and her Lady Warriors are raising money for MaineGeneral’s “Day of Hope.”

Leticia is survived by her significant other, Terry Jacques, of Sidney; her two sons, Brandon Brown (his wife Ashley), of Oakland, and Ryan Brown, of California; her granddaughter, Maggie Hickey, of Oakland; her two brothers, Lyle Frost (his wife Cheryl), of Florida, and Wendall Frost (his wife Kay), of North Anson; her three sisters, Darlene Robbins, of Waterville, Melody Warren (her husband Terry), of Mercer, and Darla McGuire (her husband Peter), of Augusta.

She was predeceased by her parents Lyle and Arlene Frost; and her siblings Franklyn Frost, Arnold Frost, Melvin Frost, Sylvia Davis and Olene Hasson.

Leticia’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 28, from noon – 2 p.m., at the Augusta Elks Club.

Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Wheeler Funeral Home, located at 26 Church St., Oakland. Memories of Leticia can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.wheelerfh.com

In lieu of flowers, Leticia invites you to donate to her fundraising page for the charity online at https://tinyurl.com/LeticiaBrown

JEANNETTE V. CURTIS

WATERVILLE – Jeannette Veronica Michaud Curtis, 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at her home in Waterville. Jeannette was born on December 5, 1930, in Waterville, and is the daughter of Joseph E. Michaud of Saint-Isadore, Québec, Canada, and Hermoza V. Michaud (Gilbert), of Waterville. She graduated from Waterville High School with the class of 1948.

After graduation, Jeannette was employed by Spring Brook Ice and Fuel Co., in Waterville, while patiently waiting for her high school sweetheart, Keith M. Curtis, to return to Waterville from his U.S. Navy deployments.

On May 16,1953, she married Keith, the endearing love of her life. Over the next three years, Jeannette and Keith were blessed with three children, Kathy, Scott and Craig.

After living in Waterville and then Brunswick, they left Maine and moved to Wappingers Falls, New York, where they raised their children until they graduated from college. Jeannette was a stay-at-home nurturing mother and beloved wife. She was the quintessential homemaker, managing all aspects of the family. She instilled in her three children the importance of family life, unconditional love, and the values of hard work, commitment, respect, gratitude and integrity.

In 1989, Jeannette and Keith moved back to Waterville, their “home-sweet-home”. They found their dream home and settled down to enjoy their retirement, family, friends and their life together. It was a special time for them. Jeannette enjoyed several hobbies, including baking, reading, gardening, basket weaving, puzzle making, and over 30 years of team and doubles bowling. She was a very talented seamstress, creating beautiful outfits and home decor for herself, family, and friends. She was always happy to assist when someone needed tailoring or alterations.

Jeannette looked forward to summer vacations at Moosehead Lake where the family went for many years. She loved boating, swimming, canoeing, cooking four-course meals campside and watching sunrises and sunsets with Keith, and connecting with old friends each year. After she and Keith became empty-nesters, and even into their 80s, they continued trips to the lake, preferring the rustic lifestyle of a campground over an amenity-filled cabin. They enjoyed nature and being outdoors and they truly perfected their art of camping.

Jeannette’s beautiful love story with Keith was put on hold when he passed away in 2023. After more than 70 years together, the loss she felt was unimaginable, leaving a void in her heart. She will be remembered as a kind, friendly, loyal, devoted, and courageous woman, a woman who loved her husband and family unconditionally, a woman who would reach out to help friends and neighbors.

Jeannette was predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Keith Merle Curtis; her parents, Joseph E. Michaud and Hermoza V. Michaud; her three sisters, Gertrude Michaud, Germaine Alice Michaud Orloff, and Marie Michaud Lacombe, and a brother, Joseph Michaud.

She is survived by her three children, Kathy L. Curtis-Hernandez RN and her spouse, Gus Hernandez, of Scottsdale Arizona, Dr. Scott K. Curtis DVM, of Winslow, and Dr. Craig W. Curtis MD and his spouse, Sande Curtis NP, of Dedham; her younger brother, Harold Michaud and his spouse, Stephanie, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; her sister-in-law, Elizabeth King Michaud, of Waterville; her five grandchildren, Justin Curtis Jenkins and his spouse, Andrew Foster Shi, of Los Angeles California, Dr. Kimberly J. Curtis PhD and her spouse, Ian McDonnell, of Marlborough Massachusetts, Ethan S. Curtis, of Winslow, Dr. Kyle E. Curtis MD and his spouse Erika Curtis, of Farmington, Marcis I. Curtis, of Dedham; and a great-granddaughter, Eloise Curtis.

A public graveside memorial service will be held for Jeannette and her husband, Keith, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, on Saturday October 5, 2024, at 11 a.m. Immediately following the memorial service, a reception and Celebration of Life will be held for Jeannette at the Best Western Plus Grand Hotel, 375 Main St., in Waterville.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville ME 04901. Memories may be shared and an online registry book may be signed by visiting: vrlfuneralhome.com

Others Departed

PETER A. LOCKHART

AUBURN – Peter Alan Lockhart, 70, of Auburn, husband of Lisa (Agurkis) Lockhart, passed away. They married on a beautiful day in China, on June 4, 2004. Peter was a courageous man with many health conditions until his passing.

His love for Lisa was unconditional with many happy trips around the state and special time with his grandchildren. He had a love of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots as well as hunting at his families camp in Palermo.

Peter graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1971, and graduated from Washington Community Technical School, in Calais, for electrical construction, working beside his father in the electrical business before going to work at Bath Iron Works for 17 years as a marine electician and finally worked at Ace Security before becoming disabled.

Peter was predeased by his father Frank and Mother Marian (Hopkins) Lockhart, of China, and his uncles Donald and aunts Liesel Lockhart and Lloyd and (Isabel) Lockhart.

Peter is survived by his wife Lisa; his three sons, Justin (Stephanie) Lockhart, Jeremy (Krystle) Lockhart and Travis Lockhart; his brother Roger (Mary) Lockhart Sr., of China; nephew Roger (J.R) and (Stacy) Lockhart, Jr., and their children, Gwen and Owen, of China; niece Sarah and Jay Pucci, of South Carolina; and grandchildren, Hayden, Hunter, Piper Lockhart, Josh and Tyler Wilde, and Trent Poulin; great-grandchildren, Schyloh, Emmit and Leo; cousins Donald and (Robin)Lockhart, of South Carolina, Sandy and (Dominick) Lupichino, of Connecticut, Eunice and (Bob) Johnson, Everett and ( Debbie) Lockhart, all of Connecticut, Barry and Gail Mitchell, of China, and Cindy (Jim) Hart, of China, Carol Ann (Terry) Cusick, of Gardiner; mother in-law Priscilla Agurkis; sister and brother in-law Stephanie Agurkis, and Briggs Seekins.

A Celebration of Life will be on Friday, October 4, 2024, at China Baptist Church, in China, at 2 p.m. Refreshments to follow in the Vestry.

Donations can be sent to The American Kidney Foundation in Peter’s name.

MARC J. LaPOINTE

ANDERSON, Indiana – Marc Joseph LaPointe, 61, of Anderson, Indiana, formerly of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 19, 2023, in Anderson, Indiana. Marc was born in Hartford, Connecticut, son of the late Leo George LaPointe, and is survived by his mother, Carole (Ferland) Pouliot and her husband, Ken Pouliot.

Marc had lived in Maine most of his life before relocating to Anderson, Indiana. He worked in Anderson for Two Guys and A Truck for the better part of 27 years as a mover. Marc enjoyed his job and the co-workers that became like family to him. Marc was a people person and every person in the world, to him, was just a friend he hadn’t met yet and one he could share his jokes with.

He leaves behind two sons, Shaun Evans and his wife Tabatha Evans, of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Joe Evans and his wife Brittany Evans, of Bloomington Springs, Tennessee; his brother, Raymond LaPointe, of Waterville; his sisters, Sue LaPointe, of Augusta, and Carolyn (LaPointe) MacKeil and her husband Mark MacKeil, of Peachtree City, Geogia; and several nieces.

EVERT FOWLE

LANCASTER, Massachusetts – Evert Fowle, of Lancaster, Massachusetts, passed away at his home on Saturday, September 14, 2024, following a 10-month fight against cancer. He was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to the late Evert and Cellen Fowle and grew up in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he graduated from Lexington High School in 1975.

Evert was an avid Boston sports fan, with a particular love for the Red Sox. Evert developed a lifelong love for travel with his family on road trips across the country and on adventures through Europe. He graduated from Macalester College in 1979 and Syracuse Law School in 1984.

After law school, Evert moved to Central Maine and began his career as a prosecutor working for David Crook, who became a lifelong mentor and friend. For 27 years, he served Kennebec and Somerset counties in the District Attorney’s Office, his last 10 years as the District Attorney. He devoted his career to helping victims and seeking justice for the people of Maine. His work went beyond the four corners of being a prosecutor. He strived to lower recidivism by co-founding Kennebec’s Co-Occurring Disorders Court in 2005 and the Veterans’ Treatment Court in 2011. Later that year, the governor swore Evert in as a District Court Judge. He spent much of his time on the bench presiding in Newport, Belfast, and Augusta.

Evert met his wife Lori in 1986 and the two were married in 1990. They moved to Vassalboro where they raised their three children. Like all other facets of his life, Evert parented his children by leading by example. He cultivated their curiosity by reading them books and being a lifelong reader. He showed them how to live a full life by living one himself, through attending symphonies, “Sox” games and community events. He did all of this while keeping a balanced checkbook. He could tell a good story, but was an even better listener, especially when his family wanted to tell him about their day.

In retirement, Evert and Lori divided their time between Maine and Florida before moving to Massachusetts in 2022. He enjoyed exploring and hiking with Hayden. For the last six years, Evert and Lori traveled around the country with friends and family joining them in places ranging from southern California to Vail, Colorado, to Jekyll Island, Georgia, to Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Evert leaves behind his wife, Lori; their three children, Evert, Hayden, and Morgan; daughter-in-law, Alyssa; and granddaughter, Sutton; his three siblings, Cellen Wolk, Jef Fowle, and Janet Fowle.

A memorial service will be held in Hallowell, at Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center, on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following organizations serving Kennebec and Somerset counties: https://www.familyviolenceproject.org/ and https://www.silentnomore.org/how-we-help.html.

STEPHEN W. FOSS

CANAAN – Stephen Wayne Foss, 76, of Canaan, originally from China, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon September 12, 2024. “Butch”, as he was affectionately known, was born in Waterville, on August 25, 1948, to Bernard and Catherine Foss.

Stephen will be remembered for many accomplishments. After graduating high school in 1966, Stephen enlisted into the United States Air Force. Where he was deployed in 1967 to fight in the Vietnam War. He served until 1972.

In 1972 – 1977, Stephen went to serve in the United States Navy where he was stationed in Europe.

From 1977 – 1991, Stephen transitioned to the United States Army Reserves, 1125th U.S. Army Hospital, in Bangor. From 1989 – 1990, Stephen was stationed in Panama to provide reinforcement to the hospital during the Noriega Conflict. In 1991, Stephen was then deployed to Desert Storm assigned to the 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division – “Big Red 1” – which led the ground invasion into Iraq.

From 1991 – 1995, Stephen moved into the Army Individual Ready Reserve. From 1995 – 1997, Stephen finished his 31-year military career at the 133RD Battalion Maine Army National Guard as an E6, staff sergeant. Throughout this career, Stephen served as a Combat Medic.

In his normal life, Stephen was a certified Nurses Aid (CNA), Certified EMT and then went onto becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Stephen had worked at Pleasant Hill Nursing Home before he went on to work at AMHI, now known as Riverview Psychiatry Hospital, in Augusta, which he retired from.

Stephen was a volunteer First Responder at the Canaan Fire Department along with being a medical officer part time at the old Somerset County Jail, in Skowhegan. He then went to work part time at Genesis Oak Grove Center, Waterville.

Stephen was also a USATF-Maine National Level Certified Official who specialized in Weights and Measures. His other caveats were officiating throwing events. Being a USATF-Maine National Level Certified Official, Stephen could officiate most events but maintained SME (subject matter expert) in Weights and Measures.

He is survived by his wife Valaree JL Foss; his daughter Stefanie L. Foss; his son-in-law Chris Foster; his sister Doreen Casabona; his grandson Ian Norton; many nieces, nephews.

He was predeceased by his first daughter Tavi J. Norton who recently passed herself in 2021.

Funeral service will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 1 p.m., at the Skowhegan Federated Church, 13 Island Ave, Skowhegan, followed by a graveside interment, 3 p.m., Fairview Cemetery, Hartland Road, Canaan. Finger foods and beverages provided after at the Carrabassett Masonic Lodge, 21 Oak Pond Road, Skowhegan. The Masonic Lodge is 1.7 miles from the cemetery.

Please visit Stephen’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/stephen-foss where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

MURIEL O. M. DOUCETTE

SOUTH CHINA – Muriel Olsson Mann Doucette, 92, passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024. She was born in New­port, Rhode Island, on October 30, 1931, to Ger­maine Olsson Frederick and William Frederick.

She lost both parents at the tender age of 2-1/2 and was raised and later adopted by her maternal grandparents, Capt. Neil and Irene Olsson, of East Skowhegan, on a large dairy farm that comprised a large portion of Eaton Mt.

She graduated a top ten student of the 1949 Class at Skowhegan High School. She was a quite active actor and singer there and wore the crowns of Grange Poultry Queen and Apple Queen and was a Lady in Waiting at her Senior Prom. It was written in her year book “ She likes to act and likes to sing, but above all, she likes to smile”.

She went on to marry and had three beautiful children. They were the bright light in
her life. As the children grew she decided to go back to work outside the home. After passing many state exams for different positions, she went to work for the State Dept. of Transportation where she worked for 30 years, starting as a clerk/typist and eventually becoming chief accountant.

With her beloved husband Howard, they owned cottages at Belgrade lakes and Bottle Lake, in Lakeville Plantation. The enjoyed fishing on Junior Lake and going through the channels at West Grand Lake. Beautiful Salmon were quite plentiful and they enjoyed many a tall tale of who caught the biggest fish.

Her last home was in South China and here she would find a perfect outlet for her passion of gardening, flowers and bird watching. She was always improving the landscape around her and stayed quite active until a major back operation in 1977 slowed her down, but just a bit. She surely loved her country home.

She is survived by her three children, sons Larry Mann and partner Rene Veilleux, of Auburn, and Gary Mann and wife Tina, of East Winthrop; and daughter Margaret DeGroff, of Riverside, California; step-son Thomas Doucette and wife Colleen, of Windsor; and step-daughter Cheryl and husband Doug Clary, of Vassalboro; grandchildren Carrie and Alice DeGroff, of California, Jacob Mann and Katy Mann, both of Winthrop, and Jason Mann; four great-grandchildren and several step-great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours, 116 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901. Burial will follow at 1 p.m., at Mount Pleasant Catholic Cemetery, 449 Ohio St., Bangor, ME 04401, where she will be laid to rest with her husband.

Donations may be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association, or The Kennebec Valley Humane Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 19, 2024

JOYCE L. BENNER

WALDOBORO/WINDSOR – Joyce L. Benner, 101, of Windsor and formerly of Waldoboro, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Joyce was born in Waldoboro, on March 4, 1923, the daughter of Millard and Lillian (Rosco) Creamer.

Joyce was co-owner of Benner’s Crabmeat for 30 years, and previously worked for Country Manor Nursing Home.

She loved raising animals, gardening, hunting, and her favorites were playing beano and going to lawn sales. She will always be remembered for her delicious crabmeat and will be missed by many. She was a strong woman, a member of the Whitefield Lions Club, and had a way of taking care of everyone.

Joyce was pre-deceased by her parents, her sister Madeline, brothers Carl and Arthur, beloved husband Alfred and son “Bobo” Malcolm Genthner.

She is survived by a son Ronald Genthner and partner Lois, of Waldoboro; daughters Maureen Beaucage and husband Brian, of Rochester, New Hampshire, Sheila Bernier, of Sabattus, Kathleen Good, of Florida, and Kimberly Haskell and husband Carleton, of Jefferson; sister-in-law Ruth Benner, of Rockland; many nieces, nephews and could boast many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and great- great-great-grandchildren.

There will be a celebration of life for family and friends on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 1 – 4 p.m., at the Whitefield Lions Club.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joyce’s memory can be sent to the Whitefield Lions Club, reference “Keep Me Warm”- 66 Philips Rd, Jefferson, ME 04348.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hall Funeral Home, Waldoboro. To share a story or condolence with the Benner family, please visit Joyce’s Book of Memories at www.hallfuneralhomes.com

PETER J. GERVAIS

CHINA – Peter J. Gervais, 71, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024. He was born June 26, 1953, in Augusta.

Pete lived a life centered on his love for his family, community and country. He had a charitable heart, a great sense of humor, and was a man of principles.

Pete graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served as a marine mechanic for four years. He made some true friends while in the Navy, referred to them as his brothers, and spoke with them on a regular basis.

After his years in the Navy, Pete had several careers, notably working at Formtek starting in 1989 and retiring in 2016. During his employment at Formtek, he served as president of the union for several years. He also took on a second job mowing and maintaining the cemeteries for the town of Albion.

Pete was an outdoorsman who spent many vacations canoeing and camping in the Allagash region. In his younger years he enjoyed rock climbing, hiking, biking, mushing sled dogs, weight lifting and running. Pete was a beekeeper and loved making gifts of his honey. Most notable was Pete’s love for cats. He had many over the years, cherishing and spoiling them.

Pete is survived by his wife Jennifer; his daughter Alyssa and her partner Craig; grandsons Aero and Nash; as well as his friend and sister Joan, her husband Dan and nephew Joel.

He was predeceased by his parents Omer and Louise Gervais.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunday, September 22, at noon, at the Bessey building, in Albion. All are welcome to attend.

A private burial will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any humane society.

DOROTHY M. AUDET

WATERVILLE – Dorothy “Dot” M. Audet, 106, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024, at Northern Light Continuing Care, Lakewood, in Waterville, where she had been a resident for the last six years. She was born on August 10, 1918, the daughter of William and Eva (Foster) Paquette.

Dot grew up in Fairfield and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1935.

Dot married Edward Audet in 1939. She had a truly deep faith in God and was a devout Catholic all her life. She was a communicant of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, where she was a faithful member of the Rosary Sodality for many years. She was able to walk to daily Mass until the age of 91.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She loved her flower gardens and loved playing cards with family and special longtime friends. She made the best molasses cookies and peanut butter fudge. The family looked forward to Friday night spaghetti dinners. Her faith and family were most important to her, and she will be truly missed.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edward, and her siblings Wallace, Roland, Eugene, Priscilla Paquette and Doreen Violette, her two sons, Wayne and David Audet, and by her grandson, Ricky Hendsbee.

She is survived by her son, Larry Audet and wife Elaine, of Princeton, North Carolina; her three daughters, Doreen Roy and husband Paul, of Stafford, Virginia, Jeannine Hendsbee, of Winslow, and Judy Hendrick and husband Bo, of West Gardiner; her daughter-in-law, Martha Audet, of Winslow; 11 grandchildren, Arlene McLean and husband David, John Audet and wife Ashley, Beth Pelletier and husband Dominic, Stephanie Roy, Colonel Christopher Roy and wife Anita, Kevin Roy, Luke Hendsbee and wife Liz, Brian Audet and wife Jennifer, Christa Brown and husband Joe, Lt. Colonel Robert Hendrick and wife Chelsea, and Lauren Niles and husband Jonathan; 34 great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.

Her great-granddaughter, Madilyn Roy, was born on her 100th birthday.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, September 18, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by a burial 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.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to her favorite charity Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, 101 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

RUSSELL S. BICKFORD JR.

CLINTON – Russell S. Bickford, Jr., 76, passed away following a short illness on Friday, September 6, 2024. Russell was born on December 2, 1947, in Waterville, son of Russell S. Bickford Sr. and Laura (Downing) Bickford.

He graduated Class of ‘65 from Clinton High School, then immediately entered the United States Navy where he served proudly for the next four years until he was honorably discharged in 1969. In 1974 he graduated from Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, (KVTC) with a certificate in carpentry. With his education he was able to help family members and friends build their garages and remodel their homes.

Russell began his career as a carpenter working for LL Gerald, and then for a short time at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow. The job that he retired from after 30 years was the Maine Central Railroad as an engineer, at times working with his father as the conductor on the same train.

For the next seven years he wintered in Florida to be close to his aging father. When his father had to come back to Maine due to declining health, Russell decided it was time for him to give up his winters in Florida as well. It was a time to enjoy the winters at home in Clinton with his family and friends.

Russell was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge # 146, in Clinton, as well as recently becoming a member of the Elks Lodge # 905, in Waterville. He loved to go there for Wednesday Wing Night, Buck Night, and Sportsman’s Night.

One of his greatest enjoyments was spending time on Moosehead Lake at the Watson’s family camp. Russell so enjoyed the ice fishing, the rides on the party boat, and just being there. He also enjoyed going to the Bickford camp (God’s Little Acre), in Monson, where some of the 4-wheeling trips took place in which he loved to participate. Anywhere North is where he wanted to be. Another passion he had was a good game of golf with friends and family.

He was predeceased by both his parents and brothers Meredith, Alan, David, and Randy.

Russell is survived by his sisters Lynn Bickford and partner Charlie Weymouth, of Clinton, Marsha Duprey and husband Leo, of Clinton; children David Bickford and wife Katrina, of Clinton, Brian Bickford and wife Tara, of Clinton, Lorriann Watson and husband David “Skip”, of Canaan, and Julie Bickford and fiancé Cody Williamson, of Madison; grandchildren Brittany Laney, Monique Bickford, Briannah Dostie, Thomas Bickford, Derek Bickford, Suther Bickford, Devon Watson, Lauren Watson, Dylan Bickford, Kaiyley Bickford, Landon Dunham, Colton Williamson, and Carter Williamson; 11 great-grandchildren with another on the way; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; as well as his long-time friends Butch Whittaker, Don Proctor, and William “Smitty” Smith.

A graveside service will take place at 11 a.m., on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Greenlawn Cemetery, Rte. 100, in Clinton.

There will be a Celebration of Life from noon to 4 p.m., on Saturday October 5, 2024, at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, Industrial Street, in Waterville.

Please visit Russell’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/russell-bickford where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

CONNOR M. McCURDY

SIDNEY – Conner James McCurdy, 22, passed away Sunday, September 8, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical­Center, in Augusta. He was born May 28, 2002, a son of Stacy and Donna (Plourd) McCurdy.

Connor attended and graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in the class of 2020. During middle school and all four years of high school, Connor was a team member of Infinite Loop 2648. He went on to further his education by attending classes at Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield. Conner was a skilled gamer and enjoyed playing video games and watching anime. Some of his favorite shows included Law and Order and South Park.

Despite living with muscular dystrophy, Conner had a good sense of humor. He loved spending time with his animals and although a homebody, Connor enjoyed going out on trips and looked forward to future adventures.

Connor was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Donald and Esther McCurdy, his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Carmeline Plourd; his uncles, Russell Manduca and Ronald Plourd; and his father, Stacy McCurdy in 2023.

Connor is survived by his mother Donna McCurdy; his brother Ian McCurdy; uncles Shawn McCurdy (Lois), Bruce Plourd (Dana); aunt, Tammy Manduca; many cousins.

A memorial service was held on Monday, September 16, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Burial followed at Holy Family Cemetery, on Townsend Rd., in Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Connor’s name may be made to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901 or at hwsa.org or, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc., 1016 W Jackson Blvd #1073, Chicago, Il 60607 or at mda.org.

JAMES A. MILLIGAN

SIDNEY – James A. Milligan, 73, passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2024. He was born November 2, 1950, following a period of declining health.

He could build or fix anything. His belief was there are no problems, only solutions.

His sense of humor was one of a kind. He loved to tell a good joke with that grin and sparkle in his eyes, never taking life too seriously.

His career consisted mainly of being a meat cutter, managing his own business, Mace’s Meat Market, in Ashland, for many years before returning to Sidney and turning the former Bangs Beach into what it is now, The Lakeside Lodge. He passed down his tireless love and care of the family property on Bangs Beach to the next generation.

He would tell stories of the glory days as a Cony High graqduate of 1969, his childhood adventures and his weekly recaps of Days of our Lives. He will be remembered fondly for many family camping trips, summers at the lake, his love of cooking, fishing and most of all the countless sunsets around the campfire.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, wife Agnes Milligan; daughters Laurie, Maggi and Mandy; sons-in-law Royce Witham, Adam Stone, and Andrew Campbell; grandchildren, Jason, Derek and Owen; great-grandchildren, Sophia, Lucas, Harper and DJ; and son, Daniel and family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 5, from 2 – 4 p.m., at The Lakeside Lodge, 28 Marigold Lane, Sidney.

META LEE HART

Meta Lee Hart, 73, of Canaan, (formerly of Wood-Ridge, New Jersey) passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024.

She is survived by her brother Ernie and his wife Susan; her nephew Dalton Strunck; niece Victoria Pandel, and many friends both near and far.

Meta was predeceased by her husband, Frank, parents Ernest and Josephine Strunck, brothers Walter, Bruce, and sister, Elaine.

At Meta’s request there will be no service.

ROBERT S. REED

VASSALBORO – Robert “Bob” S. Reed, 61, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, at MaineGeneral Comfort Care at Glenridge, in Augusta. He was born in Waterville on February 27, 1963, the son of the late Alva and Shirley (Fletcher) Reed, of North Anson.

He grew up in North Anson and graduated from Carrabec High School in 1981. He then obtained his bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering technology in May 1986 at the University of Maine, Orono. He was inducted into the Phi Kappy Phi Engineering Society.

Bob met his wife, Jessica, while she was a senior in high school, and he was a junior in college in Maine. They dated for five years while both finishing degrees at different colleges, including Bob graduating and traveling to Texas for a Texas Instruments (TI) training program for 18 months, and then he accepted a position in Waltham, Massachusetts, with TI as a distribution channel sales manager for six years. He then worked for Genesis Associates, as a distribution channel manager, sales engineer for almost 13 years, in Burlington, Massachusetts, before returning to Maine in June 2007. Once in Maine he became a project Manager/Developer with Paine Properties, and then held the position of General manager at NETCo Inc., and finished his working career as a general manager at Thayer Corporation. He then focused his attention even more on battling his cancer and fighting as hard as possible every day.

On October 7, 1989, Bob married Jessica (Paine), and they lived briefly in Burlington and Framingham, Massachusetts, before moving to Westford for almost eight years, then Hampstead, New Hampshire, for almost 10 years, returning to Maine to settle in Vassalboro in 2007.

Bob was a devoted family man and loyal friend who would lend a hand to anyone in need without hesitation. He was also “Mr. Hobby,” who enjoyed learning magic tricks and performing magic shows for neighborhood birthday parties, collecting stamps, working on model trains, and teaching himself how to whittle wood. Bob loved Scouting and devoted over 20 years volunteering as a Cubmaster, in Hampstead, and then as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster,, in Vassalboro, Troop #410. His two sons achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and he assisted 14 other young men in Troop #410 to Eagle rank as well. Bob also had a passion for music and the outdoors. Enjoying and playing music on his guitars was a big part of his life. He was an avid hiker, snowboarder, and loved being outdoors as much as possible – especially on Embden Lake.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Alva and Shirley Reed, Aunt Essie Ferguson, and cousin Bill Ferguson.

He is survived by his wife, Jessica; their four children, Becca, Josh, Seth, and Paige; brother David Reed; brother-in-law Mark Paine; sister-in-law Wendy Paine; nephew, Conner Paine; nieces Courtney Paine, and Laurie Ferguson, wife of cousin Bill Ferguson.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, September 15, at the Winthrop YMCA Camp of Maine, located at 305 Winthrop Center Road, Winthrop, Maine.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux, Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St, Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com/.

Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the MaineGeneral Comfort Care Unit at Glenridge, online at https://give.mainegeneral.org/comfort, or by mail payable to MaineGeneral Health, Comfort Care at Glenridge, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903 – marked as a “Tribute Gift for Bob Reed” or by phone at 207-626-1809.

The family also set up a Bob Reed Memorial Campership for Vassalboro Troop #410 for Scouts that would like to attend Scout Camp in the summer but need financial assistance to do so.

Donations can be sent to Assistant Scoutmaster Steve Polley, 19 Szady Drive, Vassalboro, ME 04989.

JAMES S. MIXON JR.

WINSLOW – James Sidney Mixon Jr., 61, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2024. He was born on September 18, 1962, in Amite, Louisiana, the son of James S. Mixon Sr. and Mary Emma (Noel).

With his dad passing away a year later, Mary returned to Maine where her sister lived. Jim grew up in Winslow where he was a member of the Babe Ruth league in school and also participated in cross country. He often ran the five miles from home to school as practice.

Jim attended Job Corps, in Bangor, where he learned to weld. He also met his future wife, Heather Inman.

They moved to Medway and to Sanbornton, New Hampshire, where he held various positions and soon became a member of the pipe fitters association with the Local Union #537, in Massachusetts.

During that time, he was able to travel with his mother to New Brunswick, Canada, to re-acquaint with relatives at the Red Bank Indian Reservation. He also established his Native status. He became a firekeeper and participated in sweat lodges, learning many customs. He was able to fish the Miramichi River and landed a 40-pound salmon on a 10-pound test line, following a 45-minute struggle. He bragged about that for years.

Following his divorce from Heather, he continued his welding career and traveled all over the country. He remarried and lived in Tilton, New Hampshire. An accident disabled him and he was forced to retire. He returned to Winslow to retire, leaving Nashua, New Hampshire.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, along with aunt and uncle Jerry and Maggie Languet; his half-brother Monroe Mixon, and great-nephew Sidney James Boynton.

He is survived by his children, Bridget, of Sanbornton, New Hampshire, and Ryan, of Winslow; stepson Eachan, of Winslow; grandson Gabriel, of Sanbornton, New Hampshire; sisters Margaret, of Waterville, and Carole, of Caldwell, Georgia; nieces, Jessica Turner and fiancé Jason, and two sons Daniel and Anthony, Jaime Fagan and husband Chris, with daughter Lorelai, and Salina Young and her three children, Trinity, Harmony and Kaysin; many cousins, the Languets, Greg, Gary, Melanie, Denise, Dolores, Cindy, Peter and Jay, and their spouses, children and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at the Sidney Event Room, 255 Trafton Road, Sidney, from 1 – 3 p.m.

Others Departed

RACHEL J. PRADILLA

INWOOD, W. Va. – Rachel Judy Pradilla, 68, of Inwood, West Virginia, passed away Friday, September 13, 2024, at Berkeley Medical Center.

Born October 8, 1955, in Waterville, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Felix Hutchison, Sr. and Rella Fernette Hutchison.

Rachel is survived by her husband, Diego Pradilla; sons, Ryan Frank Nason Sr. and wife Kim, and Rodney Allen Nason and wife Rachel; daughter, Robin Leah Pradilla; grandchildren, Cassidy, Katrina, Ryan Jr., Robert, and Sky Lee; brothers, David Sr., and Brian, both of Vassalboro, and Peter, of Port Charlotte, Florida; sisters, Betty, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Jean, of Waterbury, Connecticut, Janet, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Cindy, of Waterville; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Richard, Joseph Jr. and Allen; sisters, Norma and Sally; and an Aunt Evelyn.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 3 p.m., at the Brown Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be offered at http://www.BrownFuneralHomesWV.com.

DANA HAMMOND

AUGUSTA – Dana Hammond, 79, of Somerville, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024. He was born June 24, 1945, to Irvin and Reta Hammond.

Dana’s graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, September 19, at 1 p.m., at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.

BETTY JANE BURNHAM

 

AUGUSTA – Betty Jane Burnham, 70, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Glenridge Hospice, in Augusta, where she suffered from frontal lobe dementia. Betty was born October 2, 1953, to Lucy and Arthur Whitaker, Sr., in Augusta.

She was the fourth youngest of 18 children. Betty went to China schools and graduated Salutatorian at Erskine Academy, in South China, Class of 1973.

She married Lyle Burnham Sr., on April 20, 1973, and they made their home in Belgrade. Betty went to work after graduating at the State of Maine’s Inland Fisheries & Wildlife for four – six years. She and her husband went on to raise a daughter, Lisa, and a son, Lyle Jr.

When her children were older, Betty would also clean camps in Belgrade during the summers. She worked for over 20 plus years as a secretary/custodian at Central Maine Power Company. She loved watching cooking shows and listening to country music. She would get up at 5 a.m. to have a cup of coffee with her husband and read the newspaper.

Betty enjoyed her life with her family, husband, children, and adored her grandchildren. She was a big help with her grandchildren cooking delicious foods and desserts. She also enjoyed going to the Winterport Raceway with her sisters Muriel, Mary, Marie, Elaine, and Brenda to watch their brother Mike drag race.

She was predeceased by her parents; four sisters Vera Whitaker, Wilma Whitaker, Eltheia Girard, and Susie Potter, one brother Harold Whitaker (2021); several nephews; grandniece; grandson Bradley (2006); Lyle Sr (2013), and daughter Lisa (April 2024).

Betty is survived by her son Lyle Jr; eight sisters Belva MacComb, Marie Vigue, Elaine Brochu, Muriel Michaud, Mary Shaw, Jean Mason, Irene Poulin, Brenda McCamish; four brothers Willard Whitaker, Meldon Whitaker, David Whitaker, and Mike Whitaker; four grandsons David, Connor, Jayden, and Ricky III; and one granddaughter Alina Rodrigue; along with many nieces and nephews; many grandnieces and grandnephews; and cousins.

Graveside services for Saturday, September 21, at 2 p.m., at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Belgrade, are handled by Gallant Funeral Home and Mary-Anne MacArthur.

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.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 12, 2024

DOREEN A. NADER

WINSLOW – Doreen Ann Nader, 55, of Winslow passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Doreen was born in Waterville on May 31, 1969, to Joseph “Joe” William Nader Jr., and Mary Effie (Robinson) Nader.

Doreen graduated from Winslow High School in 1988. In 1990 she graduated from Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute, in Auburn, with a graphic arts technology degree. She also took classes at Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1994.

Doreen worked at Staples for many years, she worked at Marden’s Inc., in Waterville, and Target, in Augusta.

Doreen enjoyed scrapbooking with her mother and friends, She also enjoyed sewing, Stampin’ Up and being part of family gatherings along with spending time with her friends.

She was predeceased by her father Joseph “Joe” William Nader Jr. and mother Mary Effie (Robinson) Nader.

Surviving her are her younger sister, Paula (Nader) Snow and her husband Thomas Snow, of Wayne; one nephew, Ben Hasson, of Columbus, Ohio; one niece, Christine Hasson, of Waterville; her godmother Beatrice Nader; and many cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Saint Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton Street, in Waterville, at 10 a.m. The burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., 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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Doreen Nader ,to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd, Waterville, Maine 04901.

PENELOPE LU SWEATT

ALBION – Penelope Lu Sweatt, 82, passed away peacefully at her home, in Albion, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Penny Sawyer was born on February 5, 1942, in Farmington, the daughter of Norman and Phyllis (York) Sawyer.

Moving many times in her childhood, she graduated from York High School, in 1960, before heading to beautician school. She met the love of her life, George, at school in Penacook, New Hampshire, and they married in July 1960.

Penny spent her 50-year career as a hairdresser. She founded Penny’s Hairstyles out of her home, in Greenland, New Hampshire, in the early ‘60s where she raised three sons. In 1976, the Sweatts moved to Albion, to build a home on the family farm.

Penny loved life and lived it to the fullest. She traveled the world with her closest friends and grandchildren and drove long distances to watch her family at sporting events, performances, racing, and so much more. She was always there to support her friends and family and coordinated every major family gathering.

Penny was predeceased by George A. Sweatt Jr., her husband of 58 years, her son, George (Scott) Sweatt III, of Salisbury, New Hampshire, her sister Beverly and husband David Kelley, of Albion.

Penny is survived by Willie Sawyer Grenier (Mike), of Albion; sons, Daren Sweatt, of Concord, New Hampshire, Brian Sweatt (Belinda), of Albion; daughter Jennifer (Jason) Buck; and daughter-in-law Jen Sweatt, of Fairfield; grandchildren, Melissa, Andrew, Ryan, Meghan, Devon Raie (Alton) Savage, Spencer (Cassidy) Sweatt, Ashley Ferris, Amanda Ferris, Jordyn Buck, Sydney (AJ) Amato, and Brady Buck; great-grandchildren, Brynn, Sully, Hailie, Lanalynn, Addilynn, Natalee, Alexandria, and Sophia; nieces and nephews, Katrina (Rick) Dumont, Lynne (Bruce) Blye, Karey Kelley, Keith (Deborah) Kelley, Kern (Michaela) Kelley, Kristin (Scott) Wescott, Ariel Grenier, and Jared (Samantha) Grenier.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11 a.m., at China Baptist Church, 36 Causeway Road, China, followed by a burial at the family cemetery, in Albion. Reception will be at the Sweatt Homestead, 348 Winslow Road, Albion.

NANCY V. BODINE

SOUTH CHINA – Nancy V. Bodine, 67, passed away unexpectedly Friday, August 30, 2024, at her camp, on Hyde Island, on Moosehead Lake. She was born August 4, 1957, in Greenville, the daughter of Clementine R. (Munster) and Joseph Henry Gilbert Sr.

Nancy loved her camp (Lucky Bummer) on Moosehead Lake, from her hummingbirds to her gatherings on the back beach, sitting around bonfires with friends and family while looking at the stars, and listening to Delbert McClinton. BLP themed parties, raking leaves, champagne cruises at sunset, and her famous barbecue chicken sauce with bean hole baked beans are just a few of the many things for which she was known and loved. She celebrated everything she cared for or about, and was a constant loving force to all who loved her.

Nancy was a 1979 graduate of Thomas College, in Waterville, with a BS in accounting and mathematics. Later she was a 1983 graduate with a Masters of Business Administration, from Thomas College, as well.

She held many varied managerial positions in both private and government sectors during her career. Her final position and the one she was most proud of was her work with the State of Maine as Fiscal Administrator of the Unorganized Territories at the Office of State Auditor. This was a position that allowed her to serve the people in these remote rugged areas like where she grew up.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 45 years, Matthew Bodine; son, Madison Bodine; four brothers, Henry, Mark, Darryl, and Darren Gilbert; four sisters, Vanessa Folsom, Lori-Anna Douglass, Clarissa Howard, and Anna-Maria Herrick; and several brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents.

A celebration of Nancy’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.

JEFFRINE M. QUIRION

WINSLOW – Jeffrine Marie (Theriault) Quirion, 92, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. Jeffrine was born in Waterville on March 14, 1932, to Joseph and Lucie Dora (Ouellet) Theriault.

After attending Waterville schools, she then went to work for C.F. Hathaway Shirt Co.

On July 4, 1951, she married Gerard Quirion. They lived in Winslow for a short period of time before relocating to Marlboro, Massachusetts. They were both employed at the Raytheon Corp., in Waltham, Massachusetts, for many years. She retired in 1992 and moved back to Winslow to be near family.

She enjoyed her beautiful backyard flower garden in the summer months. She and Gerard also enjoyed several cruises over the years. She was a member of the Ladies Guild at her church in Marlboro for many years. Jeffrine was an avid quilter, making many beautiful quilts and wall hangings for herself and family members. Although she had no children of her own, she adored her many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Gerard, brothers, Irenee (Rene), Raymond, Wilfred, and Leonard, sisters, Grace Huard, Madeleine Grivois, Marie Cash, and Theresa White.

She is survived by her brother John Paul; sister Rita Hikel; sister-in-law Colette Lachance and her husband Roland; many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by a burial 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.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.

JOHN M. POWERS

SOMERVILLE—John M. Powers, 92, died Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was the son of John F. and Jessie (Marvin) Powers.

John, aka “Jack”, grew up in Revere, Massachusetts. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for four years before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force where he dedicated 17 years of service before retirement as a Tech Sargeant.

On December 27, 1965, Jack married Teresa A. Varrell and they became parents to a son, Michael Powers. Jack’s career in the military led the family to live in various parts of the country, even going overseas to Japan for a period of time. Jack was a gifted artist, and in retirement, he worked as an illustrator for the U.S. Army.

Jack enjoyed singing and playing his guitar, and participating in community theater productions both as an actor and director. He found peace in fishing on Long Pond, in Somerville. Jack also enjoyed creating artwork as his home is adorned with his beautiful paintings and drawings.

Jack is survived by his wife of 58 years, Teresa “Polly” Powers; and his son, Michael Powers.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, September 10, at 10 a.m., at Calvary Cemetery, 299 Grand Army Rd., Whitefield, ME 04353.

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

DONNA M. HEATH

HALLOWELL – Donna Maxine Heath, 88, passed away Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Woodlands Senior Living, in Hallowell. She was born in Lincoln, on October 7, 1935, the oldest daughter of Isabel Hamm and Harry Peters.

Donna graduated from Sherman High School, in the class of 1954, and went on to attend New Brunswick Bible Institute. Donna married her high school sweetheart, Robert Paul Heath, of Sherman, on August 29, 1955.

Paul and Donna pastored churches from Maine to New York, most recently the East Auburn Baptist Church, Pittston Congregational, and Freedom Fellowship. Donna was the most generous, kind, and loving person to everyone she met. Throughout their lifetime, her children were told countless times by those that knew their mom, just how special she was. Donna’s unconditional love for people made them feel as though they were the most important person in the room. Donna’s legacy was the epitome of unconditional love and support that she invested in each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Donna was predeceased by her parents Isabel and Harry, her brothers, Vaughn, Woody and Maurice Peters “Dick”, her sister Maxine, her infant daughter Lori-Ann, and her husband “Paul”.

Donna is survived by her daughter Lois Dorr, and her husband Terry; her three sons, Brian Heath and his wife Jennifer, Bruce Heath, Jonathan Heath and his wife, Jessica Wincapaw; her seven grandchildren, Shawn, Erin, Steven, Rachel and her husband Brad, Zoe and her husband Jake, Josie and her fiancé Connor, and Samantha; her six great-grandchildren; Sophia, Izak, Emma, Johnny, Sophie and Bennett; her younger sister Patricia (Peters) Albert, and her husband Leonard.

A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m., on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church, 2539 Riverside Dr., Vassalboro, ME 04989. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ministry of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 2539 Riverside Dr., Vassalboro, ME 04989.

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

RUSSELL J. VESECKY

WATERVILLE – Russell J. “Russ” Vesecky, 92, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024. He was born on December 23, 1931, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois.

In his early years, Russ was involved in his family’s business, working alongside his siblings at their parents’ store in the Chicago area. His academic journey led him to earn a bachelor’s degree from a junior college before being drafting into the U.S. Army in 1953. Russ served honorably for eight years, completing his boot camp at Fort Lewis, Washington, and later being stationed in Germany, where he met his wife, Gerda. His military tenure ended in 1961 with an honorable discharge, marking a period of dedicated service to his country.

Post-military, Russ transitioned from Florida to New Jersey, where he worked for the U.S. Post Office. In 1970, seeking a change, he moved with Gerda and their children, Susanne and Saul, to Harmony. The rural setting required adaptability, and Russ embraced various roles from taxi driving in Bangor and Boston to delivering newspapers and engaging in seasonal agricultural work. His resilience shone brightly when he became a self-taught expert in scissor sharpening, a skill he honed to serve clients from Maine to Florida.

Tragedy struck in 1984 with the loss of his wife Gerda, after which Russ raised his granddaughter Heidi, demonstrating immense strength as a single caretaker. His personal life saw joy again when he married Edith in 1990, who survives him today alongside his son Saul, granddaughter Heidi, sister Lillian, and nieces and nephews, Gail, Charlene, Jack, and Wayne and their families.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Gerda, daughter Susanne, brother John, and his parents, Anton and Bessie Vesecky, longtime owners of the Key Largo Shopper, in Florida.

Russ’s hobbies painted the picture of a man ever engaged with life and his community. He was an accordion player, often gracing the Harmony Grange Hall with music, and he cherished gardening and fishing. His profound love for aircrafts remained a significant part of his life, reflecting his passion for mechanics and flight.

A private celebration of life was held in his favorite place, underscoring a life rich in experiences and love.

Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, of Skowhegan, Maine, assisted the family during this time, ensuring that Russ’s final farewell was handled with care and respect.

Russ’s journey through life, marked by service, adaptability, and a deep commitment to family, leaves a lasting legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

JOYCE D. TOMAN

WINSLOW – Joyce Daugier Lessard Toman, of Winslow, passed away on Tuessday, July 2, 2024. Born on March 2, 1936, in East Vas­salboro, she was the daughter of Ray­mond Daugier and Madeline Vigue Daugier Marcoux.

Joyce spent her entire life in the Winslow area. She graduated from Winslow High School and embarked on a 44-year career with Federal Trust Co., Fleet Bank (now Bank of America), in Waterville, retiring in 1998. Even in retirement she worked part-time at Merrill Bank and L.L.Bean.

Joyce was a member of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, and enjoyed hobbies such as crafts, bowling, gardening, boating, snowmobiling, and camping at Snow Pond with her family. She actively participated in numerous community activities and was involved in various banking organizations throughout her career.

Joyce will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the positive impact she had on everyone who knew her.

Joyce was predeceased by her parents, mother Madeline Marcoux, stepfather Donald Marcoux; and husband, George “Buzz” Toman.

Survivors include her son, Scott Lessard and wife Mary; grandchildren, Shannon and Eric Lessard; and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements will be handled by Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. Services will be held at Notre Dame Church in Waterville, on October 5, 2024, at 11 a.m., with burial at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, following the service. There will be no visiting hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Michael School, 345 Church St. Livermore, California 94550.

JAMES R. DOE

WINDSOR – James Russell Doe, 75, of Windsor, unexpectedly passed away at his home on Sunday, June 30, 2024. He was born in Waterville, September 26, 1948, to George William Doe and Carolyn Lavenia Fernald.

Jimmy was educated in the Windsor school system, graduating from Erskine Academy, in South China, on June 8, 1968, with perfect attendance throughout his high school years.

Jimmy was a dedicated and hardworking individual. He was a licensed forklift operator and industrial truck operator. He was employed by the state of Maine D.O.T. bridge division for 14 years, cleaning, painting and welding. He was employed at Statler Tissue, the 105-year-old mill on the banks of the Kennebec River, in Augusta, for 14 years as a back tender and spare machine tender. Jimmy was a talented and artistic designer and carpenter. He sketched and built furniture. He was a self-employed carpenter and had a furniture refinishing business, as well as home maintenance. He was always building projects that went beyond expectations. He built classic steel wooden runner sleds for a teacher’s two children who still have them today. He was fondly remembered by the Jefferson Village School staff.

Jimmy enjoyed classic vehicles of which he owned many, such as his immaculate 1955 and 1957 Chevys, 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, a burnt orange Corvette, a Camaro, multiple trucks and Harley motorcycles. He was a perfectionist and kept everything he owned in a neat, clean and pristine condition. His sister, Joyce, fondly remembers Jimmy giving her motorcycle rides. Jimmy enjoyed going off-road 4-wheel truck driving with his brother Danny, exploring the roads less traveled. Together they frequently worked on vehicles and welding projects.

Jimmy will be missed at his Saturday morning drive to Dunkin’ Donuts, shopping a Tractor Supply, lunch at Burger King and afternoon visits with his brother Ralph.

He was always helping family and friends, as he was very skilled with his hands. He helped his brother Peter with his tractor, making parts from scratch, as well as helping Peter rebuild his barn.

Jimmy’s laughter was explosive and memorable. He loved old time Rock ‘n’ Roll, and the Beatles music.

Jimmy will be remembered by the many lives he touched. He was actively involved with Disabled American Veterans Commanders Club, and cited as a Silver Leader in recognition for his outstanding devotion and generosity. He was a Special Olympics Partner and Supporter, donating annually all of his spare change he collected in his cigar box, and dropping it off at the Capital Area Federal Credit Union’s fundraiser. He dontated to the Father Flanagan’s Boys Home Children of Boys Town, helping to ensure that everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential.

Jimmy was a strong-willed and set-in-his-ways private and quiet person, but he had an enormous heart and sense of humor. He was generous, loyal and clever through the knowledge gained from his life experiences.

He was a proud man who did not ask for help as he would problem solve independently before reaching out. He will always be the golden hair, hazel eyes, slender built, 5-foot, 11-inch Harley driving “Easy Rider”.

His departure came as a great shock and the entire family and community feel this loss. Jimmy lived the best life he knew. While everyone mourns his loss, they take comfort in knowing his earthly body suffers no more pain. His soul is now in the comfort of God and heaven, safe and at peace.

Jimmy is survived by seven siblings, Peter S. Fernald, Ralph E. Doe, David P. Doe and wife Carla, Debbie A. Barnes and husband Robert, Diane L. Brown and husband Robert, Daniel R. Doe, Joyce E.Vittoriso, and husband Alan; sister-in-law Lois Doe; seven nieces; 13 nephews; cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, George and Carolyn, brother Alan L. Dodemont and wife Joyce, brother Jay C. Doe, sisters-in-law Phyllis Fernald and Madeline Doe, and nephew Adam Schools.

His ashes will be laid to rest at Rest Haven Cemetery, in Windsor, on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 11 a.m.

JOANNE R. GAGNON

BENTON – Joanne Robinson Gagnon, 72, passed away peacefully, holding the hand of her husband of 53 years, Roger Gagnon. Joanne was born the youngest daughter of the late Kelsey and Edith Robinson.

She was a lifelong resident of Benton and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

Joanne had a 42-year career at Warren Bros/Tilcon/Pike Industries, serving most of those years as their accounts receivable manager. She had great friendships with both coworkers and many appreciative customers.

Joanne was a talented quilter and crafter. She was very clever and could figure out how to make or fix nearly anything. She also enjoyed reading, movie watching and shopping.

Joanne is survived by her husband Roger; daughter Heather and her husband Brett Libby; son Barrett and his wife Wendy Gagnon; grandchildren Taylor, Shelby, Elizabeth, Gabriel, Amelia, Kaiden, Caleb; great-grandson Everett; her brothers Eugene and Gary (Mary) Robinson; sister Maxine Dennis; sister in-law Pam; and nieces and nephews.

Predeceased family members include parents Kelsey and Edith, siblings, Harvey (wife Donna), Horace and sister in-law Beverly Robinson.

Arrangement under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home 8 Elm Street Waterville Maine.

Service to be held Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, visiting hours will be 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., with service to follow. There will be a private grave side burial with family members.