FREDERICK V. GLIDDEN

SOUTH CHINA – Frederick Victor Glidden, 75, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at his home, in South China. Fred was born in Gardiner, January 15, 1948, to George Burton Glidden and Pauline Winifred (Stimpson) Glidden.

After graduating from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1966, he then achieved his Maritime Engineering Degree from Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, in May 1970. A few months later, in September, Fred married the love of his life, Bonnie.

Together they enjoyed building a home full of love, laughter, and life values for their three children. Fred was passionate, full of life and enthusiastic. He filled the room with his presence, always telling stories and jokes. He led a life full of adventure, filled with lots of unusual journeys and many traditional hobbies; snowmobiling, ice fishing, camping, boating, water skiing and billiards were just a few. His many extraordinary adventures, both at home and abroad, could fill a bestselling book. Who else do you know has visited all 15 Presidential Libraries, or flown in a Concorde? After circling the globe many times, family lost count of the countries he visited.

Although he traveled the world, his one true north was home with his family and community. Fred fostered these relationships by building homes with his family, joining the South China Volunteer Fire Department in 1973, of which he became treasurer in 2012. He enjoyed hosting gatherings at the multi-generational family camp, his hard work, exceptional life, dedication, and laughter became legendary and will forever echo on China Lake.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie (Smith) Glidden, and their three children: Michael (Tania Martinez Lemke), Tiffany (Joseph Plourde) and Dori (Isreal Rancourt); nine grandchildren, Rowen Glidden, Zachary Glidden, Arianna Forbes, Matthew and Thomas Plourde; Carrie, Nicholas, Victoria and Natalie Rancourt; and a great-granddaughter, Ophelia Forbes; his brother, Nelson (Sue Coons Glidden); sister Gayle; his cousin Pamela (Stimpson) Aveling, and many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents George and Pauline, cousins Jerry Stimpson, Paula (Stimpson) Fueschel and other cousins.

Please join the family to remember Fred on July 1, 2023, at 1 p.m., at the camp.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Gerald Stimpson and Frederick Glidden Scholarship, at Erskine Academy, 309 Windsor Road, South China ME 04358, or the South China Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 325, South China ME, 04358.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.directcremationofmaine.com.

CELINA KNIPPLING

OAKLAND – Celina Knippling, 52, died peacefully, in Oakland, on Thursday, March 16, 2023. She bravely fought cancer for many years and died peacefully.

Yanked into the world by the forceps of an impatient doctor, Celina was born on the plains of South Dakota, November 1970, to Howard and Claire Knippling.

She was the definition of an exceptional child who was known to say, “I ‘mart, Mommy.” and could read Little House books before kindergarten.

Celina was known for her genius-level wit coupled with her unquenchable thirst for truth and justice, usually served with a sprinkling of her sardonic humor. She wanted to be a historian and was a voracious reader of all topics but settled on becoming an auditor in order to bring white collared criminals to justice and pay the bills.

She earned many accolades as a Senior Auditor, in Sacramento, California, including the State Auditor’s Excellence Award (much like Jamie Lee Curtis’s character in the movie Everything Everywhere All at Once). In 2013 she moved to Baltimore, Maryland, eventually becoming the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) at Optimity Advisors. She relocated to Maine in March 2022 to be closer to family while receiving palliative care.

She loved her cats (Kit Kat, Snickers, Basheera, and Harriet), traveling (especially to Rome), visiting friends, fossil hunting for megalodon teeth (which she never found), pranking her nephews and niece, growing things, baking bread, listening to musical theater, coloring and painting her chotskies.

Celina also followed current events closely. Some people think social justice warrior is a scary concept, but Celina wore that badge proudly (her online Reddit presence will be felt and missed thoroughly). She loved fiercely and formed a small group of friends also known as her “chosen family” who were very dear to her. She was known as Celina “The Great”.

She was preceded by nieces Xea Clare and Juniper; father Howard; brother-in-law, John Meyer; and too many other relatives to list.

She leaves behind her mother, Claire (Lafontaine Knippling) Ryan; stepfather, Kelly Ryan; sisters Laurie (and brother-in-law Shane) Nelsen, Kitara Meyer, Jen (and brother-in-law Craig) Allen; brother, Mike Knippling; nephews Phoenix Sanchez, Eli, Luke and Noah Nelsen, Lex Knippling and niece, Vani Byerly.

A celebration of life will be held virtually and in Maine on July 2, 2023.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, please donate to her favorite charity, the Fistula Foundation.

LEE E. FITZGERALD

OAKLAND – Lee Edward Fitzgerald, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 17, 2023, at his home, located on Messa­lon­skee Lake, in Oakland. He was born in Waterville on January 29, 1934, the only son of Harry and Mary (McCann) Fitzgerald.

Lee grew up in Winslow, graduating from Winslow High School in 1952, where he excelled in basketball and baseball. He then went on to the University of Maine where he was honored to be selected his sophomore year into the University Owls Honors Society. He was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity.

In 1954, he enlisted into the U.S. Army and trained in the Armor Branch, completing his term as an instructor. In 1956, he returned to the University of Maine, graduating in 1959 with a B.A. degree in history and government.

Lee started his employment career with Travelers Insurance Co., in Hartford, Connecticut, trained in selling pension and group health plans for company employees. A change to State Mutual Insurance Co. took him to Providence, Thode Island, Chicago, illinois, Syracuse, New York, and onto Washington D.C.

Lee started his own company, Global Benefits, offering group health benefits to companies and associations. He started another company, Group Claims Administration (GTA), which insured and processed health insurance claims for foreign students enrolled in colleges in the United States. He sold his business and retired in 2005.

Lee had a passion for old history and the many antiques that he had collected over the years. He liked nothing more than attending an antique auction to bid on a treasure that he had researched to know its true value. Lee accumulated a diverse collection of antique furniture, pewter, paintings, and was especially proud of a large collection of antique guns with his special interest in shotguns.

Lee took advantage of his retirement, along with his longtime companion, Delia Thompson, to travel several times to Ireland, investigating places of interest and his family ancestry. He later flew to Rome, Italy, involving a three-week trip to Italy, Spain, Egypt, and many other points of interest on the Mediterranean Sea.

Lee is survived by his daughter, Laura Lee Fitzgerald, of San Luis Obispo, California; and longtime companion, Delia Thompson, of Oakland.

A family and friends graveside service will be held at a later date.

PEARL I. FULLER

ALBION – Pearl Irene (Rood) Fuller, 93, passed peacefully on, Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville, just three weeks shy of her 94th birthday. She was born in Benton Falls, the fifth child of nine born to the late Robert H. and Elvira Goodale Rood.

She enjoyed being part of a large family and admired her mother for keeping the children in line – most of the time! She was proud of graduating eighth grade at the East Vassalboro Grammar School.

In 1943 the family moved to a home on the Benton Road, in Albion, and she entered Besse High School, in Albion, as a freshman. There she met Carleton “Dutchie” Fuller, who was into everything sports related. She was a cheerleader at many of his games. During summers she worked at Willow Beach Camps, in China, along with several of her sisters and friends. She graduated in 1947 and entered a two-year secretarial science program at Thomas Business College,, in Waterville. Upon graduation in 1949 she started working for the Waterville Morning Sentinel.

Pearl and Carleton were married April 25, 1950, on the 25th wedding anniversary of his parents, in a candlelight ceremony at the Albion Christian Church. They lived in Waterville for a short time before moving back to Albion to start a family and buy a home. Their first child, Stephen Carleton, was born in 1952; David Mahlon in 1956, and Bettie Jane in 1959.

After leaving the newspaper, Pearl worked for several superintendents of Albion schools, and when Albion consolidated with area towns, she worked for the superintendent of SAD #49 (Albion, Benton, Clinton, Fairfield). She took a short break from working and then became a teacher’s aide at the Albion Elementary School where she enjoyed guiding and caring for the students she supervised.

When Grandfather Fuller passed away in 1970, the family moved to the farm where Pearl did all the bookkeeping for the business of the farm, worked in the broiler house, tended a large vegetable garden, and helped out in other areas when needed. She was a very active woman! She was also known for her cooking and baking skills, especially her yeast rolls and sweet treats.

Pearl made many life-time friends in Albion and was involved in a variety of community organizations, both as a member and officer, including PTA, Rebekahs, Fireman’s Auxillary, Extension, Fairfax Club, Grange, and Red Hatters. For many years she belonged to a bowling league and was a fierce competitor! Playing cards, cribbage, Uno, Yahtzee, and other games with friends and family, especially grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brought her much joy.

During retirement, she and Carleton went on bus tours and cruises with friends and family and spent many a Saturday night “cutting the rug” at dances. After Carleton passed away, she traveled to Italy with her sister and husband, Hattie and Roddy, and spent multiple winters with Aunt Hattie in Florida, Arizona, and California.

Pearl was a woman of faith and for many years went to the Albion Christian Church. In later years, she enjoyed visiting China Baptist Church and Getchell Street Baptist church, in Waterville, with Aunt Hattie and their cousin, Sharon Norton. The last church she attended was the Winslow Baptist Church where she was baptized (for the second time) and became a member.

In 1989, Pearl and Carleton donated land to Albion for the creation of ball fields for the town’s youth. Fuller Fields is their legacy and a demonstration of their love and hope for their hometown.

After living in Winslow for several years, in 2019 Pearl entered assisted living at Redington Memorial Home, in Skowhegan. In 2020 she moved to the Cedar Ridge Center, in Skowhegan, and in 2021 she moved to Lakewood, in Waterville.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; her sisters Hilda Pease (Emery), Bernice Bagley (Ronald), and Hattie Robinson (Roderick); her brothers Harold (Jennie), Herman (Hazel), Ernest (Rosalie), Arthur (Laura); her brother-in-law, Ben Bolin; and her son-in-law, Brent Varney.

She is survived by her children Stephen (Bradley Jordan), of Wells, David and wife Debra, of Albion, Bettie (Randy Hartt), of Vassalboro; her grandchildren April Paul and her husband Kenneth, of Clinton, Christopher Fuller, of Winslow, and Nuria Ramos, of Eliot; her great-grandchildren Cassandra Paul and Draiden Mason; her sister Ellen Bolin of Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 20, at 1 p.m., in the Number 4 Cemetery, in Albion.

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

Donations may be made in Pearl’s memory to the Albion Athletic Association, 195 China Rd., Albion, ME 04910, C/O Chuck Roy, or to a charity of your choice.

KIERRA A. LINT

WATERVILLE – Kierra “Kia” Ann Lint, 25, of Waterville, passed away Sunday, March 19, 2023. Kia was born to George Lint II and Jessica Lint on June 12, 1997, in Waterville.

She spent her childhood making memories with brothers Aaron Lint and Zack Costello, and sisters Rylee Lint and Bayleigh Gorman.

She was a graduate of Waterville Senior High School in 2016. Kia treasured the coastline, exploring many beaches in Maine and Puerto Rico. She would often recount gathering seashells she found walking the shoreline. Kia spent most of her childhood summers on Maine beaches with her family and friends.

Aside from gathering seashells, Kia had a passion for creating art; she drew, painted, and made glass mosaics. She found peace and happiness visiting the country’s great national parks: the Great Sand Dunes, the Grand Canyon, the Arches, the Rocky Mountains, and Carlsbad Caverns, to name a few. Kia traveled coast to coast, spending time in Puerto Rico and New York. She loved the endless sounds of the city.

Kia enjoyed working as a DSP at Skills Inc., assisting individuals with intellectual disabilities. She always tried to make the next person’s job easier, often going above and beyond expectations with her tasks. She had a creative, thoughtful, and passionate personality. She was known for her ability to make people smile, and for her contagious laugh. She touched many lives with her generosity and loyalty.

Kia was predeceased by her paternal great-grandparents Robert and Shirley Sylvia; as well as godfather, Marc Lizotte.

Kia is survived by her father, George Lint II, and mother, Jessica Lint; siblings Aaron Lint, Zack Costello, Rylee Lint, Madisyn Trotter, and Bayleigh Gorman; sister-in-law, Jessie Lint; nieces Lilah Costello and Murphy Lint; biological mother, Angel Trotter; grandparents George and Kelly Lint, and Cindy and James Shaw; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life, which will be held on Sunday, April 2, from 2-6 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, located at 175 Veteran Dr., in Winslow.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

SARAH M. WATSON

VASSALBORO – Sarah Martha Watson, 48, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 20, 2023. Born in Winslow on June 18, 1974, she was the daughter of Wayne Lemieux and Doreen (Pelham) Lee.

She attended Winslow High School, Fisher College, and University of Maine – Augusta, where she received her bachelor’s degree.

Sarah was employed by Maine Service Employees Union (MSEA-SEIU) where she advocated for employees, their families, and the programs across the state of Maine. Her passion for her fellow workers and equality was unwavering and unmatched; advocating for those that could not themselves or needed encouragement to push beyond what they thought possible, was a lifelong passion.

She loved spending time with her family first and foremost, friends, working in her garden, floating in her pool, creating her artwork and crafts, finding beauty in everything with her photography, and watching her daughter’s horseback riding. Her life was dedicated to her family, especially her daughters, whether advocating for appropriate healthcare, teaching them how to be strong, independent women, or being the cool mom that all their friends loved to be with.

Sarah was predeceased by her father, Wayne Lemieux; her daughter, Katherine White (her “Katiebug”); and stepbrother, Randall Lee.

Sarah is survived by her husband Tyler Watson; daughter, Julia White; parents, Doreen Lee and her husband Skip, and Ruth Lemieux; brothers Adam Lemieux and his wife Tania, James Lemieux and his partner Stacey; stepsister, Wanda Lee and stepbrothers Rodney Lee and his wife Sue, Roger Lee, and Rex Lee and his wife Rebecca; mother-in-law, Sharon Hill and her husband Cliff; father-in-law, Roy Watson and his wife Diane; sister-in-law, Lindsay Mutegi; and several other loved ones.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Bridget Center, 864 Main St., Vassalboro, on Thursday, March 30, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. The family requests that all those able to attend wear a plaid flannel in Sarah’s honor.

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

In lieu of flowers, the Watson family respectfully requests contributions in Sarah’s memory be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 250 Brackett St., Portland, ME 04102.

BERNARD J. PERRY

VASSALBORO – Bernard J. Perry, 83, died Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at his home following a long illness. He was born in Gardiner on October 29, 1939, a son of the late George A. and Arlene (Markham) Perry.

Mr. Perry was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, and served 24 years in the Air National Guard.

He was a member of South Parish Congregational Church, Bethlehem Masonic Lodge and the Kora Temple Shriners. He was a driver for the Kora Karts for 15 years.

Mr. Perry had been employed for over 36 years by the state of Maine in the Department of Transportation. Following retirement from the state, he worked for O’Connor Motors and SCS, Inc., both in Augusta.

“Bunk” was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Sandra Saunders; three brothers, Donald, Malcom and Burt Perry and his sister, Loraine Edwards.

Mr. Perry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carole I. (Batchelder) Perry, of Vassalboro; a son, Dennis H. Perry and his wife Christine, of Augusta; a son-in-law, Dana Saunders, of Orland; a brother, Steven Perry, of Augusta; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Burial will be in the old Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta, at a later date.

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

The family requests that donations be made in Bernard’s memory to either Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02144, or Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pet Haven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330.

JOHN D. DORE

WATERVILLE – John D. Dore, 86, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. John was born in Lewiston, the son of Arthur and Albertine (LeBlanc) Dore, on August 17, 1936.

He attended Waterville High School and graduated in 1955. John met the love of his life, Joan Maheu, and they were married in 1958. They celebrated 54 years together last August.

John worked for 40 years at the Waterville Morning Sentinel, retiring in 1995. He enjoyed spending his time golfing, bowling, and fishing. After retiring, John and his wife spent many winters at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where they made and enjoyed the company of many friends. John’s faith and family were both incredibly important to him, and it showed in the way he lived his life.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sisters Lorraine Cyr and her husband, Ray, Christine Wood and her husband Jack, brothers-in-law Donald Maheu and wife Lorraine, and James Maheu and wife Francine.

He is survived by his wife Joan Dore; his children Kathleen Lobene and husband John, of Alpharetta, Georgia, Kevin Dore and wife Rumi, of Wappingers Falls, New York, David Dore and wife Julie, of Fairfield; grandchildren, Andrea Lobene and husband Jacob Wert, of Delaware, Bryan Dore and wife Jaime, of Newport, and Brianna Dore, of Fairfield; great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Cameron Dore; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 29, 2023, at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. There will be a small reception following the service in the church hall. Also, for those who want to attend, the burial will be directly after the funeral at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

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

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

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mount Merici Academy, 152 Western Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

SUSAN A. FECTEAU

FAIRFIELD – Susan A. Fecteau, 64, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully at Mount Saint Joseph Nursing Home, in Waterville, on Monday, March 27, 2023. She was born on August 12, 1958, to Carl and Marguerite Loisel, in Waterville.

Sue married David Fecteau on September 13, 1980, and they had two children, Allison and Michael. She has one grandchild, Austin.

She held jobs with Digital Equipment, in Augusta, and Pine Cone Gift Shop, in Waterville. She enjoyed arts and crafts, cooking, spending time with friends and family, and participating in the comrnunity with the Waterville Elks Lodge #905.

She is survived by her husband Dave; children Allison and Michael; one grandchild Austin; and two brothers Steve and Rick and spouses.

Funeral arrangements are being made at a later date.

MARY JANE SLACK

WATERVILLE – Mary Jane Slack, (born Mary Jane Wagner), 69, of Water­ville, passed away on Sunday, Feb­ruary 26, 2023. Mary was born in Elkhart, Indiana, on July 3, 1953, to a family who put her into the foster system.

She survived living in and out of a number of foster homes, until at the age of 16, she became the daughter of Ken and Shirley Krause, of Cassopolis, Michigan. She found a love of Christianity in their warm, supportive home. She would go on to become valedictorian of her graduating class at Cassopolis High School in 1971.

Mary’s first job was as a roller skating carhop at an A&W, before she was employed as a receptionist at Bergman Veterinary Medical Center, in Cassopolis, Michigan. It was at that animal clinic where she met and dated Alan Slack, who was a DVM there. Shortly after her graduation, Alan and Mary married, after which they settled in New Jersey. They saved and cared for countless animals while also fostering several foster children during the early years of their marriage. They traveled thoroughly and made many friends along the way. In 1979, they started a family of their own, eventually having seven children. They fell in love with Maine, and in 1984, decided to make it their home.

She was very involved with school activities, took thousands of pictures of her family.

Mary loved to sunbathe and garden. She loved all flowers, especially purple super petunias, and lilacs. She had a special tie to redbud trees and hummingbirds. Her Mom Shirley called her “My little redbud girl”, and let her plant them on their property which they enjoyed for decades.

The most important lesson Mary taught was to love one another, please carry that message forward.

She was predeceased by her grandfather and grandmother, Jesse and Elna Krause, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, father, Ken Krause, of Cassopolis Michigan, son, Wade Alan Slack and daughter, Allison Dale Slack, both of Waterville.

Mary will be missed by her children Meghan, Jesse and wife Mackenzie, Lauren, Jonathan, Andrew and wife Tara; grandchildren, Riley, Avery and Henry; mother, Shirley; siblings Tammy, Kendall, Noel, and Dale.

Visitation will be held for Mary on Friday, March 31, 2023, from 2 – 4 p.m., at Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. She will be interred at a later date at Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland, next to Wade, Allison, and Alan.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, ME 04901.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VielleuxFuneraHome.com for the Slack family.

In remembrance, her family asks you to follow your heart. If you wish to do something in her name, perhaps bring flowers to someone who might be suffering the infirmities of old age or anyone who could use a reminder that they are loved. A donation to a charitable organization of your choosing is another great way to honor her.

WILLIAM R. COTTER

CONCORD, Massachusetts – William “Bill” Reckling Cotter, 87, died peacefully at his Concord home on his 87th birthday, Thursday, March 9, 2023. Bill was born on March 9, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Fred J. and Esther (Reckling) Cotter, and lived with his older brother, Fred C., near a large extended family.

Bill and his family moved to Tarrytown, New York, when he was in sixth grade and he graduated from Washington Irving High School there.

He went on to Harvard College, where he was president of the Harvard Democratic Club. In 1956, while serving in that role, he recruited student volunteers at the request of the chairman of Massachusetts Students for (Adlai) Stevenson, Linda Kester, a student at Wellesley College. As Bill was fond of saying, Linda was his boss. They became friends and later, began dating. In 1958, Bill graduated with high honors from Harvard College and went on to Harvard Law School.

Linda and Bill were married in 1959 at the Kester family home in New York and moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts, where Linda earned her master’s degree in teaching at the Harvard School of Education while Bill finished at Harvard Law School, graduating with honors in 1961. Bill and Linda enjoyed 61 years of true partnership, deep friendship, and love until Linda’s death, two years ago.

Bill had an extremely interesting professional life, including as clerk to a federal judge, as an assistant attorney general in Kaduna, Nigeria, as the Ford Foundation representative in Bogotá, Colombia, as a White House Fellow, as president of the African-American Institute in New York City, New York, and as president of the Oak Foundation, in Boston, Massachusetts.

However, the professional role he treasured most was as the longest-serving president of Colby College, in Waterville, from 1979-2000.

In addition to his role as lead administrator and fundraiser, he also taught a course called “Law and Social Change,” and became a dedicated and skilled teacher. He carried this deep love of teaching through the rest of his life. An unusual college president without a Ph.D., during his time as president, he was pleased to receive five honorary degrees. He was especially proud of his work at Colby to strengthen its national academic reputation, build its endowment, and make it a more inclusive community.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Bill was an active volunteer, including serving as treasurer of the Phillips Brooks House at Harvard, chairman of the Oyster Bay (New York) Library Board, chairman of the Board of Maine Public Broadcasting, treasurer of the Massachusetts Historical Society, and as a life trustee at Colby College.

Bill was an accomplished and respected leader in his professional career, but also was a truly beloved father and grandfather. He always made time for his family, despite his busy professional career. He prioritized coming home for dinner and loved to take the family to North Street Dairy Cone for homemade mocha chip afterwards.

Bill lived for his last three years undergoing treatment for metastatic prostate cancer, a fact that that was not evident to most people until last summer, when treatments lost their efficacy and his strength and vigor began to decline. Bill exercised daily and until May of last year, walked five miles per day. While his physical strength was greatly diminished, his mental capacity and speaking ability were not. Bill taught his final Supreme Court class over Zoom on February 14, just three weeks before his death.

In his final days of life, Bill spent time with his children, grandchildren, and close friends at Newbury Court, a true community for him.

Bill was predeceased by his wife, Linda; his daughter, Deborah; and his brother, Fred.

He leaves behind his son David, of San Diego, California; his daughter, Elizabeth and husband Michael Schlax, of Yarmouth; and his granddaughters Elena and Jillian Schlax; his sisters-in-law, Marjorie Smith, of Durham, New Hampshire, and Gai Cotter, of Novi, Michigan, and their families; as well as countless other relatives.

Bill will be laid to rest next to his wife and daughter in Concord, Massachusetts. A memorial gathering will be held in the spring.

To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence in Bill’s online guestbook, please visit http://www.DeeFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bill’s memory to Colby College or a charity of your choice

DAWN P. BURNHAM

ROME – Dawn P. (Rodgers) Burnham, 62, passed peacefully at home, following a long illness, on Tuesday, February 28, 2023. She was born in Augusta on February 16, 1961.

Dawn enjoyed fishing, boating and spending time with family and friends. She loved being a nanny to her three grandchildren and cherished them.

Dawn was predeceased by her parents and stepfather of Belgrade; and a sister Lois Rodgers of Belgrade.

She is survived by her husband Michael L. Burnham, of Rome; a son Lucas Burnham, of Rome; brother and sister-in-law Jim and Cecelia Rodgers, of Whitefield; sister-in-law Sandra Mitchell, of Rome; three grandchildren, Natalia and Alexis Burnham, and Daymein Burnham, all of Rome.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

MARY ELLEN BEAULIEU

WINSLOW – Mary Ellen (Veneziano) Beaulieu, 82, of Winslow, passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, of natural causes, following a brief stay at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. Mary Ellen was born in Madison on November 17, 1940, to Julian and Mary Veneziano.

She attended Madison public schools where she met dear, life-long friends, especially Patricia Antonuccio and Pamela Messier.

Following high school, she attended beauty school in Portland, then returned to Madison and married Leo Beaulieu in January 1963. The couple was married for 29 years and had three children, Dana, Michael, and Sally, whom they raised in Anson.

Mary Ellen opened her own beauty shop in her home and provided service to her many long-term clients for 30 years until she moved to Winslow in 1997 to be with her significant other of 26 years, Ronald Gilbert. She then worked in the kitchen of the Oak Grove Center,, in Waterville, for five years.

Mary Ellen enjoyed reading, traveling, playing cards, being in the sun, and tennis. She cherished her time with friends, particularly Beanie Richardson and Sylvia Corson. She looked forward to gatherings with her Veneziano cousins, especially her travel and card game partner, Sara Sylvester, with whom she remained close throughout her life.

Mary Ellen was predeceased by her father, Julian, mother, Mary; sister, Betty; husband Leo; and son, Dana.

She is survived by her partner, Ronald Gilbert, of Winslow; daughter, Sally Beaulieu, of Hallowell; son, Michael Beaulieu, of Litchfield; daughter-in-law, Narcisa (Risa) Beaulieu, of Anson; granddaughters Bethany Beaulieu and her partner Tom Bethoney, of Whitman Massachusetts, Darby Beaulieu and her partner Evan Randles, of Waterville, Bianca Beaulieu, of Somerville Massachusetts; and grandson, Bayley Beaulieu, of Litchfield; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will take place in the spring. Arrangements are being handled by Direct Cremation of Maine.

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

If you are so inclined, please consider a donation to the Dementia Society of America or the American Heart Association.

KATHRYN J. LATULIPPE

CHELSEA – Kathryn J. Latulippe, 68, passed away unexpectedly shortly after midnight on Wednesday, March 1, 2023.

Kathy en­joyed being a passenger on the back of her husband’s motorcycle and camping with her friends. She liked playing games on her tablet, reading, watching paranormal and crime shows and was a Star Trek lover. Kathy enjoyed visiting with her family and friends. She was trusting and genuine in her friendships, honest and tactful with her opinion and advice, and she was a sounding board for people, providing insight they may not have thought of.

As a child she had traveled with her parents and had seen many places before they settled in Maine. She greatly enjoyed trips with her children in the past few years to Mexico and Bahamas. In her youth she wanted to be an actress and felt the memorization of lines for OES helped her with her memory issues from a TBI in her late 20s.

Kathy participated in the Order of the Eastern Star for many years and was currently the outgoing Worthy Matron of the Queen Esther Chapter in Hallowell/Augusta. She was also past Worthy Matron of Rose of Sharon as was her mother. Kathy was a retiree of the State of Maine and was also a member of the union MSEA-SEIU where she was a delegate and served on the board of directors. She was a very strong supporter of labor relations.

Kathy is survived by her husband Ken, of Chelsea; her daughter Tracie Eastman and her children Krystin Gilbert and her husband Dan; Jesse Perreault and his wife Knel-Leigh and their children (Kathy’s great-grandchildren) Aurora, ZiZi, Ellie, and Ana of Augusta; her son and daughter-in-law Joe and Kim Eastman and their children Logan and Emily, of Pittston; her siblings, their spouses and families, Trish and Gary Newcomb, of Newark Ohio, Robert and Cindy Allen, of Fairfield.

She was preceded by her parents Leon and Helen Allen, of Chelsea; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Per Kathy’s request, she is going to be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church Street, Augusta where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to your favorite charity of choice. Please consider Humane Societies and Traumatic Brain Injury organizations

ELIZABETH M. FERLAND

WINSLOW – Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Ferland, 72, passed away on Thursday, March 2, 2023, following a short, but courageous battle with cancer.

She was employed by Standard Electric and later Wesco for many, many years. An avid volunteer, she loved helping others. She was presented with the volunteer of the year award from Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville, in 2018. She also had an unbridled love for animals and spent the last few years fostering dogs in need of adoption.

A very strong, independent woman, Betty never let anyone know how much she was hurting or if she ever needed anything. She not only made sure those around her were taken care of, she made sure she took care of herself. Reading a book on the deck or taking horse riding lessons with her granddaughter were a couple methods she used to accomplish that.

Betty was predeceased by the love of her life Jeff Brown; her son Joshua Moss; and her parents, Ruth Cote, Albert Ferland and stepfather Carl Cote.

She is survived by her son Sean Cote (Kim), daughter Tanya Johnson (Mark); grandchildren, Corianna, Liam, Hazen and Lauren; and great-grandchildren Addison, Charli and Aiden; brothers and sisters, Sally Cunningham, Ginny Allen (James), Peter Ferland (Beth) and Paul Ferland (Sherry); as well as many nieces and nephews.

There will be no immediate services. A graveside service will be held in the spring. Date to be announced at a future time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Northern Lights Continuing Care-Lakewood or your local SPCA.

THOMAS M. GRANT

WATERVILLE – Thomas Malvern Grant, 81, of Waterville, passed away on Monday, March 6, 2023, at Northern Light Inland Hospital. He was born in Waterville, on August 30, 1941, the son of Ford A. Grant and Briley (Thomas) Grant. He graduated from Maine Centrral Institute (MCI), in Pittsfield, in 1959. He attended Thomas College, in Waterville, for three years and completed his fourth year at the University of Maine in Orono where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. He later received his master’s degree from UMO.

Tom briefly worked at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, in bookkeeping and worked as an accountant at a firm in Boston for a year.

He then returned to Waterville and worked in bookkeeping at the Osteopathic Hospital. He became a teacher at Thomas College while he started his accounting business that he ran for nearly 60 years, working 16-hour days especially during tax season, up until about four weeks ago.

Tom was a connoisseur of cars, candy and Coca-Cola. He had a passion for animals, and had countless cats and dogs over the years. He was dedicated to animal rescue. He was a longtime member of Kiwanis.

Tom is predeceased by his parents Ford and Briley Grant, and his stepson Brett Drouin, who passed away on February 28, 2023.

He is survived by his wife, Yvonne Grant; his son John Grant, of Waterville and his wife Ankeney Weitz; his daughter Amy S. Grant, of Winthrop; his grandson Casey Ford Grant, of Palmyra; his brother William Grant, of Waterville; his brother in law Randy Gerry; his nieces Kelly Fadden and Kerish Benttinen; and his great-nieces Jody Poulin and Michelle Gerry

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity for the care of animals waiting for their forever homes.

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

NEIL E. LADD

WATERVILLE – Neil Edward Ladd, 85, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Water­ville. Neil was born on June 9, 1937, in Milo, the son of Edward and Vivineen (Rollins) Ladd.

Neil graduated from Brownville Junction High School is 1956. He served in the U.S. Air Force from June 1957 to October 1959. He worked many different jobs in the area and at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, for 35 years before retiring in 2002. Neil married Alice Morency in 1967.

He enjoyed painting landscapes and collected miniature airplanes and had more than 100 of them. He enjoyed the New England Patriots and was a big Tom Brady fan.

Neil was predeceased by his parents; his sister Joanne, who died in infancy, his sister Eva (Ladd) Young and her husband Thomas.

He is survived by his wife Alice; his daughter, Karen Ladd, of Waterville; his sons Kevin Ladd (Dawn), of Chicago, Illinois, Derek Ladd, of Fairfield, and Jason Ladd, of Brunswick; his grandson, Liam Ladd and granddaughter Lira Ladd, of Brunswick; nephews Eric Young, of Milo, Mark Young, of Dover Foxcroft, and nieces Marcia Conlogue, of Williamsburg, and Paula Young, of Hermon; and six grand nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, March 16, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, Silver Street, in Waterville. A Committal service will be held Friday, April 14, 2023, at 10 a.m., at Maine Veterans Cemetery Blue Star Highway.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home 8 Elm St. Waterville ME 04901

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Ladd family.

NORRIS N. BRALEY

FAIRFIELD – Norris N. Braley, 82, was born in Burnham, December 3, 1940.

He is survived by his brother and sister, David Braley and Candyee Smith; his wife, Barbara Braley; and five children; and 11 grandchildren.

As a young boy, he moved to Norton Grove, Massachusetts, for a short period, then moved to Clinton to live with his grandfather. He attended Clinton High School before joining the U.S. Army and successfully qualified for the 173rd Airborne Brigade, which only 3,000 men were chosen. He served three years of active duty fighting as a paratrooper in the Vietnam War, and received an honorable discharge from the Army.

His favorite hobbies were golfing, helping neighbors, watching sports and chasing grandchildren. He focused on decreasing waste and leaving things better than they were. He then returned to Clinton to marry his high school sweetheart and had two children, Kevin Braley and Karen Falla, who gave him four grandchildren, Damion Braley, Sam Falla, Cameron Falla, and Jamie O’Keefe. Later, he met his soul mate again and married her, Barbara E. Emery.

He worked at Keyes Fibre Co. (now Huhtamaki) his entire life in the union and as management, retiring early enough to spend every good day golfing. He and his wife had a son, Calvin J. Braley, who gave him two grandchildren, Megan and Bryce. Two children from his wife’s prior marriage that he raised are Valerie Jarman and Richard Baker, with five grandchildren among them Benjamin Clifford, Vivienne Tilton, and Zachary Baker, Joshua Baker and Samuel Baker.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Braley family.

Arrangement are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville ME 04901.

KATHLEEN T. BINETTE

WATERVILLE – Kathleen Theresa Binette, 85, passed away on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Kathleen was born on October 31, 1937, in Waterville, to the late Paul and Nellie Noel.

Kathleen was the oldest of four children raised in Winslow, where she graduated from Winslow High School and then from Golden School of Beauty Culture, in Portland.

Kathleen had a great love of Jesus and Church. On September 7, 1958, she married the love of her life, Leo J. Binette. They had 6 children.

Kathleen was a Christian, wife, and a homemaker. She was a hairdresser, for a time she was a reading teacher at Temple Academy, in Waterville. During the ‘90s she and Leo ran a bed and breakfast.

Kathleen was known for her hospitality and amazing cooking. She also loved to sew, quilt, her flowers, making puzzles, traveling, and worshiping at the church.

She was predeceased by her parents; two brothers, Edward Noel, Joseph Noel; son, Danny Binette; and a grandson, Michael Binette.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Leo J. Binette; her children Sharen Binette; Karen Dounouk and her husband Keith, Kevin Binette and his wife Patty, Kelly Dutil and her husband Tony, David Binette and his wife Vickie; sibling, David Noel; 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m., on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Faith Evangelical Free Church, 250 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, Maine 04901. Burial will be held in the spring at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.

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

If desired, memorial donation in Kathleen’s memory may be made to: Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, 361 Old Belgrade Road, Augusta, Maine 04330.

ROBERT M. TONGE SR.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida / WATERVILLE – Robert Morgan Tonge, Sr., 98, passed away peacefully in Fort Lau­der­dale, Florida, on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Bob first arrived in Waterville from Detroit, Michigan, as a freshman at Colby College, in 1943. Other than brief absences in the Army Air Corp in Europe during World War II and another couple of years back in Detroit, starting his family after graduation, Bob remained a Waterville resident for most of the next 80 years.

After he returned to Colby from Europe in 1945, he met a local girl named Muriel Smith, who had grown up at the bottom of Mayflower Hill near the bank of the Messalonskee Stream. Bob once said that the moment he first laid eyes on Muriel near the campus, sitting in a convertible with her sister, “that was it.” After that they were virtually inseparable for over 60 years of marriage. Bowtie Bob became one of the most familiar sights on Main Street for over half a century, strolling in his Hong Kong tailored suits between his office and the bank.

He leaves behind three sons; and a genealogically complex clan of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

PATRICIA KICK

WATERVILLE – Patricia Kick, 93, passed away on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Patricia was born on February 13, 1930, in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, to Charles and Alida (Zwart) O’Neill.

She was the eldest of four children, Charles, Sharon, and Peggy. The family moved to Lisbon Falls, in the mid 1940s. Patricia graduated from the Lisbon Falls High School, then did an additional postgraduate year. The family later moved to Waterville.

Patricia entered the St Mary’s school of Nursing and graduated in 1952 as an RN. She started her nursing career at the Thayer Hospital maternity department, in Waterville. She also did private duty nursing and worked in various other departments. After 20 years as an RN she switched careers and joined the Government Department at Colby College, in Waterville. She loved every minute at Colby until she retired in 1996.

Following retirement Patricia was very involved in several organizations such as: The Jaycee-etts, The Waterville Woman’s Club, The Red Hatters, and she was on the board of directors and vice president of the Kennebec Valley Industrial Bank.

Patricia enjoyed many hobbies including knitting, needlepoint, ceramics, bridge (teaching and playing), and she was an avid reader.

Patricia was predeceased by her husband, William, parents Charles and Alida, brother Charles, daughter Pamela, and grandsons Matthew Allun Williams and Christopher W. Langlais.

Patricia is survived by her siblings Sharon O’Neill and Peggy Hussey; daughters Catherine, Shelley, and Kimberly; grandchildren Amanda (Victor), John Michael Williams (Jessica), Christian and Aidan Connelly; great grandchildren Kobe, Jordan and Layla Garay, and Mya and John Matthew Williams.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, March, 4 at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, followed by a reception directly after the service. Burial to be held at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Kick family.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Christopher Langlais memorial fund, c/o Cathy Langlais, 20 Court St, Winslow, ME 04901. This fund supports Camp Kita – a week-long camp for child survivors of a loved one who died by suicide, or to Make-A-Wish Maine, at ‘maine.wish.org’ or mailed to Cathy Langlais, 20 Court St, Winslow ME 04901.

JOHN F. HALL

UNITY – John Foster Hall, 80, of Unity, died on Friday, February 17, 2023, at Sebasticook Valley Hospital, in Pittsfield. John was born on January 13, 1943, to Clayton and Bernice (Foster) Hall.

He grew up in Unity and attended Unity schools where he played basketball and baseball, and graduated from Unity-Freedom High School in 1961. He attended one year of college and then enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served from 1963-66 spending 13 months in Vietnam.

After his service, he worked for a short time in Florida and then came back to Maine where he worked for Northeast Shoe, hand sewing shoes, Ski-land Woolen Mill, in Clinton, and then at Sonoco, in Pittsfield.

John enjoyed NASCAR and local races, drinking beer with his friends, ice fishing and playing horseshoes. He also enjoyed the Boston Red Sox, football and watching old westerns.

John was predeceased by his parents.

He is survived by his daughter Cindy and her husband Gene Dickey, of Mesa, Arizona; two grandchildren, Porscha and Israel; and two great-grandchildren; several cousins.

At John’s request there will be no funeral. A graveside service may be scheduled in the spring.

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

CAROL A. LITTLE

SMITHFIELD – Carol Ann (Markham) Little, 79, passed away at home on Sunday, February 19, 2023. Carol was born September 19, 1943, in Middletown, Connecticut, to Frederick and Marjorie (Lypscon) Markham.

She lived in Smithfield, Maine, Connecticut and Florida in her early years and primarily in Smithfield for most of her adult life.

Carol graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1961, and attended Thomas College, in Waterville. She was a proud member of MENSA.

She worked for the State of Maine for most of her career. Her final position with the state was as a legal secretary for the Attorney General’s Office until her retirement in 2002.

Carol had many interests including reading, gardening, cooking, traveling, sewing, knitting, crafting, etc., but her true passion was genealogy. She was proud of the Markham line and could talk about it for hours to anyone who would listen. She spent a lifetime researching her family tree and said that she was inspired at age 10 by her grandfather’s study of it. She provided a welcoming environment for her children and all of the friends and neighbors to come to hang out by the lake. In the late ’80s, Carol began to travel to England, Scotland, Belgium, and Holland as well as to Nova Scotia, Canada, and to Connecticut, Virginia, Alabama, and Louisiana.

She was predeceased by her sister, Dorothy Jean Markham; father Frederick Markham; stepfather Richard Merry; and mother Marjorie Merry.

Carol is survived by Fred Merry and wife, Bonny, of Mercer; Carolyn Lepack, of Sabattus; Loralyn Clark and husband, Dale, of Oakland, Heather Toth, of Smithfield, Heidi Little-Marshall and husband, Conrad, of Fairfield, and Linwood Little Jr., and wife, Linda, of Smithfield; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Mother’s Day weekend.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s memory to Smithfield Historical Society, P.O. Box 15, Smithfield, ME 04978.

BEVERLY A. PERRY

VASSALBORO – Beverly A. Perry, 86, died Monday, February 20, 2023, at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, following a long illness. She was born in Waterville, on December 24, 1936, a daughter of the late Cecil and Ruth (Vaughn) Fitch.

Mrs. Perry was a graduate of Waterville High School.

She was a homemaker for most of her life and had been employed for several years at Waterville Window.

Mrs. Perry was predeceased by her husband, Sherman R. Perry; her parents, a step-mother, Mildred Fitch, a step-father, Kenneth Bushey and four brothers, Cecil Jr., Robert, Paul and Eddie Fitch.

She is survived by two sons, Leslie Perry and his wife Gaye, of Skowhegan, and Hal Perry, of Rockland; two daughters: Deborah Field and her husband Eugene, of Vassalboro, and Lisa Perry-Reynolds, of Palermo; her sister, Joan Marie Hudson, of Cleveland, Texas; five grandchildren, David Field, of New Haven Connecticut, Dana Field, of Vassalboro, Brian Perry, of Skowhegan, Britny Reynolds, of Winslow, and Brianna Reynolds, of Palermo; and three great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins; her “second family”, John and Rete Field, Beverly Smith, Grace Davis, Joan and Bob Locklin and Larry and Diane Demerchant

There will be no public visiting hours. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 4, at 11 a.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor. Burial will be at a later date in East Vassalboro Cemetery.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

The family requests that donations in Beverly’s memory be made to either: American Diabetes Association, Maine Affiliate, 10 Bangor St., Augusta, ME, 04330, or Beacon Hospice, 45 Commerce Dr., Augusta, ME, 04330.

JAMES E. JONES

PALERMO – James E. Jones, 73,, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 19, 2023, at his home. He was born in Palermo to Everett and Phyllis Parlin Jones.

He had six siblings. He enjoyed ice fishing and hunting.

On June 17, 1967, he married the former Linda Leeman. They had two daughters, Kimberly (husband John) Snow, and Angela Poulin, whose husband James predeceased her; four grandchildren, April, Jesse, Aaron and Chad; two great-grandchildren, Brogan and Chloe; a sister, Sharon Leeman and husband Gary.

He was predeceased by sisters Sylvia, Donna, Margret, and brothers Paul and Bill.

Services will be held at Palermo Christian Church, on Tuesday, March 7, at 7 p.m., followed by refreshments at the church.

FRANCIS L. CASSIDY

WINSLOW – Francis L. Cassidy, 90, passed away peacefully Monday, February 20, 2023, at a Bangor nursing home. He was born December 16, 1932, in Skowhegan, the son of Daniel F. and Odell M. (Thibodeau) Cassidy.

At an early age, Francis grew up in Portland, and attended Portland grade school. The family moved to Winslow where they purchased, owned, and operated Cassidy’s Market, and served the community for over 40 years.

Francis attended Winslow High School, where he was captain of the football team. Shortly after graduating, he was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean War. While in the Army, he volunteered for the 11th Airborne, where he became an Airborne Medic. After his service, he attended a meat-cutting school, in Toledo, Ohio, and returned home to work for Cassidy’s Market. Francis served his community as a captain of the Winslow Fire Department for many years. He also participated in search and rescue scuba diving missions.

Francis enjoyed his time with family and friends at the Cassidy Family Farm, in Bingham; hunting, four-wheeling, and constant up-keeping of the family farm. He had great success on his hunts, earning a patch from the Big Buck Club, as well as success with the Maine Moose Hunt.

Francis cherished his lifelong relationships with his Army buddies; spending much time reminiscing with Norm Brackett, Johnny Bilodeau, Carrol Clark, as well as life-long friends, Ky Paquette, and Rene Michaud.

Surviving Francis, are his children, Mark Cassidy and his wife, Gloria (Kee), of Eddington, Marjorie Cassidy, of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Barbara Rand and her husband, Joe, of West Grove, Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Angela Fernandez, Stephanie Rand, Samantha Rand, Avonne Buzbee, Kaitlyn Buzbee and Nicholas Cassidy; siblings, Agnes Cassidy and Daniel Cassidy and his wife, Jean; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Bernice “Bunny” (Overlock); and brother, Lionel Cassidy.

A Celebration of Francis’ Life will take place at a later date and time to be announced. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.

JAMES G. KUS

WATERVILLE – James Gregory Kus, 71, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2023. James was born on May 20, 1951, to Joseph and Sophie.

James graduated from Winthrop High School and went on to Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, where he graduated in 1976. Just a year after, he was a third mate on the Arco Juneau. That was the first ship to carry Alaskan pipeline oil from Valdez, Alaska. Tankers were scheduled to deliver Alaskan crude to refineries in Washington, California, and Texas – the last via the Panama Canal.

James was a “Jack of all trades” and was always ready to tackle any project.

He is survived by his wife, Dawn; and daughter, Jamilee; two grandchildren, Jasmine and Jace, who called him “Popo”; his siblings, Joan Chane, Crawford and wife Beth, David and wife Julie, Thomas and wife Alice, Joseph, Robert and wife Tina, and Catherine Douglas and husband Steven; many brothers and sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews; cousins.

A celebration of life will take place on April 29, 2023, at the Nazarene Church, on Route 3, in South China. Refreshments will be served between noon and 1 p.m., followed by a memorial celebration.

BARRY P. PUIIA

WATERVILLE – Barry Paul Puiia, 78, of Winslow, passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. He was born January 30, 1945. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A full obituary can be found at http://www.gallantfh. com.

KENNETH R. GREENE JR.

WINDSOR – Kenneth Robert Greene, Jr., 63, known to all as Bob, passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023, following a long battle with COPD. Bob was born on February 3, 1959, to Kenneth and Judith Greene in Salamanca, New York.

His family moved to Maine when he was still a child. Bob spent most of his life in the small community of Jefferson and the surrounding areas. He was a kind man who worked hard, loved his family, antique cars, horses, drawing, and building and painting model cars.

He is survived by his four sisters: Lea Glidden and husband Phillip, of Jefferson, Kandy Mitchell and husband Kevin, of El Cajon, California, Penny Greene, of Salado, Texas, and Cindy Greene, of Windsor; his two brothers Walter Morse and wife Aaron, of Jefferson, and Thomas Greene and wife Dawn, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Greene, mother Judy Morse; maternal grandparents Raymond and Eleanor Black; and several aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life will be held at noon, Sunday, February 19, 2023, at the Whitefield Lyon’s Club, in Coopers Mills.

RONALD BRETON

AUGUSTA – Ronald Richard Breton, 77, of Winslow, passed away on Thursday, February 2, 2023, following a brave struggle with PSP (Pro­gressive Su­pranuclear Palsy, a rare form of Parkinsonism). He was born in Waterville on February 11, 1945, to Cyrille and Alice (Legassey) Breton.

Ron graduated from Waterville High School in 1963 (cum laude) and in 1968 he graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, (cum laude) with a business degree. First employed by Central Maine Power/Maine Yankee from 1968-1970, he then transitioned to a 30-year career with the Internal Revenue Service from 1970-2000. It was at the IRS that he developed many lifelong friendships, and established the content for what was to become many stories and anecdotes for which he would entertain for many years.

He was an active member of his community, most notably with the Knights of Columbus as a 3rd degree council #7300, in Winslow, 4th Degree Assembly #341, in Waterville. He held the positions of past Grand Knight and past Faithful Navigator. He also served as the past director of KESO Federal Credit Union, past president of Thomas College Alumni Association, and past member of Winslow JC’s, Lion’s Club and the Waterville Elks.

Ron also served as the past commodore for the Rockland Yacht Club, where many years of joy and family memories were created from Rockland Harbor and sailing the family boat, “Scoundrel”. Sailing was one of his passions where he spent many summers enjoying family adventures and creating life long friendships. In the off season, his other passion was hunting; where he enjoyed the silence of nature and the bonding time with his buddies. Any spare time was filled with outdoor hobbies including ATVing, fishing, gardening or his other joy of cribbage.

Of all of his greatest achievements, Ron will be remembered as a strong, honorable and hilarious father who always was there at sporting events or to help his kids learn life skills. His greatest gift to this world was his laughter, the sense of humor he passed on to others, and his ability to light up a room with stories and puns. Always one to have the last laugh, Ron was a social man who was respected for his leadership skills and his ability to make friends in any circle.

He was blessed to marry two of his best friends in life, and leaves a legacy of being an amazing husband.

He was previously deceased (2002) by his first wife, Doris M. (St. Peter) Breton; his parents; his sister, Dorothy (Bilodeau) Rancourt, and her daughter (Ron’s niece) Diane Bilodeau;

He is survived by his wife, Charlene (Rancourt) Breton; his son, Eric Breton and his wife Ashley, of Wyoming, and their kids Kail, Elyssa (called to heaven when she was just 10 days old) Ethan, and Matthew; his daughter, Kristen Breton, of Rhode Island, and her daughters Emmalyn and Grace; also Katie and Krystle Breton, and his nieces Donna Moriarty (goddaughter), Leta Bilodeau, Linda LaBrie.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver. St., in Waterville. A spring burial will be announced at a later date.

Please visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to leave messages of condolences to Ron’s family.

Donations to help support and advance a better understanding of PSP in his honor, may be made in lieu of flowers to CurePSP, 1216 Broadway, 2nd floor, New York, NY 10001, or online at psp.org/iwanttohelp/ways-2-give/.

GARY A. McCARTY II

WEEKS MILLS – Gary Alden McCarty II, 39, passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023, following years of dealing with pancreatitis and multiple stomach health issues.

He attended Windsor School and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 2001. Through the years he worked for Pine State Trading Company and the Town of China Transfer Station.

Gary enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He looked forward to spending time with his dad and Josh going on fishing trips and rides on their Harleys. But what he loved most was when his mom said yes to him getting his Mustang, in his junior year of high school. He loved that car! And one thing is for sure, he especially enjoyed family traditions and celebrating each holiday with everyone.

Gary always depended on his big sister for her guidance and was so thankful for Tanya. He also considered her husband, Josh, his brother, and enjoyed the time they shared and Gary knew that he could always count on them both no matter what.

Gary was proud to be an uncle and he loved to spend time with his nephew, Joshua, whether it was to talk about his Ford truck or to go fishing and hunting. Gary loved the fact that he was the one to bring Joshua hunting when he got his very first deer and another one the following year! He also enjoyed going to Cony to cheer Joshua on at his varsity lacrosse games.

Gary enjoyed hanging out with his niece, Leah and hearing all about her gymnastics meets and watching the videos of her routines when she completed a competition. And he was the one that fueled her love for snowboarding because she just mentioned it and he bought her what she wanted and her lift ticket. He grinned from ear to ear when he saw her “shred” down the mountain.

And he loved his furbabies and spoiled them. Buckwheat, Princess and Gus. Gus will miss “the good life” on our next trip without having him.

Gary was predeceased by his paternal grandmother, Jeannette McCarty; maternal grandparents, Lloyd “Bucky” and Evelyn French.

He is survived by his parents Gary and Lisa (French) McCarty; his sister, Tanya McCarty-Barrett and husband Josh; his nephew, Joshua Barrett II; his niece, Leah Barrett; his paternal grandfather, Alden McCarty; his aunt, Theresa Grotton and husband Tim; his aunt, Rita Gower and husband David; his uncle, Lloyd French Jr. and wife Lori; his aunt, Betty Baker and husband Jim; his uncle, Richard French; his aunt, Lori Leclerc and husband Bruno; his uncle, Doug McCarty; his cousins, Penny Grotton, Peggy (Jason) Barrett, Tara (Jay) Steeves, Bub (Amy) Gower, Lloyd (Jennifer) French, Amanda French, Lisa Baker, AJ Baker, Jennifer (Matt) Dissell; and many other extended family members and friends.

There was a Celebration of Life for Gary on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Somerhill Events, in Somerville.

KELLY BARNES

FAIRFIELD – Kelly Barnes,, 63, passed away on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, of pancreatic cancer. Kelly was born April 28, 1959.

She was born and raised in Skowhegan, going to schools in Skowhegan.

Kelly devoted her whole adult life to taking care of others. Everyone loved Kelly’s hugs. She worked many years doing in-home work with the elderly before spending 30 years working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At the age of 56, Kelly went to college to become a Certified Medical Assistant, working at Lovejoy Health Center, in Albion, where she loved her job. Kelly loved her work there and loved the people she worked with.

Kelly was predeceased by her mom, Jane Gallant, and her dad, Kenneth Gallant; her grandmother, Thelma Gaffey; her uncle, Edward Gaffey and her aunt, Helen Daigle.

She is survived by her wife of 26 years, Kelly Rogers, of Fairfield; their son, Joshua Rogers and his wife Krista Rogers, of Smithfield; and her grandchildren, Braylen and Brylee Rogers; two brothers, Mark Barnes and his wife Theresa, of Norridgewock, and their family, and Robert Gallant Sr. and his wife Lisa, of Skowhegan, and their family; her sister, Becky Lyons and her husband Rick, of Skowhegan, and their family; her sister, Sue and her husband Dana Burns, of Anson; sister-in-law, Sherry and her husband Rick, of Benton; and her aunt, Norma Gaffey, of Topsham; her niece, Lindsey Barnes, who is in the Navy, Michelle Barnes, of New Hampshire, and Robert Gallant Jr., of Skowhegan; many in-laws, cousins, nephews and nieces.

A service was held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Smart and Edwards Funeral Home, in Skowhegan.

Please visit http://www.SmartandEdwardsFH.com to share your condolences with Kelly’s family.

In lieu of flowers and in Kelly’s honor, donations can be made to Somerset Animal Shelter,, 12 Middle Rd.,, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

CHARLES E. SPEAR JR.

WATERVILLE – Charles Edwin “Ed” Spear, Jr., 80, passed away peacefully at home early Friday morning, February 3, 2023, in Waterville. Ed was born on April 3, 1942, in Hartford, Connecticut, the eldest son of Charles and Doris (Kimball) Spear.

Ed grew up in Connecticut and attended Simsbury High School, graduating in 1960. He graduated from the University of Maine, Orono, in 1964, with a B.S. in Forestry Management. He received his M.S. in Forestry Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 1966.

He served in the U.S. Army and was posted to Frankfurt, Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1968 with the rank of first lieutenant. He worked as a park ranger, a senior insurance underwriter, construction sales and project manager, road construction supervisor and quality control officer.

Ed was an active community member. He belonged to the Sebasticook Masonic Lodge, in Clinton, becoming a third degree Master Mason and serving as Lodge Master for two terms. He attended the Waterville Universalist-Unitarian Church and served as board president. Ed volunteered with many organizations over the years, serving AIDS patients, the elderly and homeless populations. He was generous with his time and was known as a kind, open-hearted man.

He enjoyed adventuring in nature with his family, including camping, cross-country skiing, hiking, and wood cutting. He also loved making apple cider and maple syrup.

Ed is survived by Sylvia (Niles), his wife of 58 years; sons Christopher and Keith, and their spouses Dianna and Cathy, respectively; grandson, Andrew, his wife Kylie and daughters Hannah and Jaelynn; grandson, Jared, partner Emily; brother, Michael and wife Lucia; sisters-in-law Sandra Niles and Jane Gagnon.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

The family requests that any donations be made in Ed’s name to the Unitarian-Universalist Church, of Waterville, and the Humane Society Waterville Area.

JAMES M. McDONOUGH

WINSLOW – James Michael McDonough, 68, passed away unexpectedly at his home, in Winslow, on Saturday, February 4. 2023. Jim was born on February 26, 1954, to James and Alex­an­dria McDon­ough.

He grew up in Winslow, where he stayed to raise his own family.

Jim graduated from Winslow High School in 1972. Jim, with his brothers Mark and Todd, held a McDonough family legacy as state champion wrestlers. Jim served in the United States Army as an expert marksman. While on deployment he was stationed in Germany. Jim was employed by Scott Paper Company, the Wyandotte Woolen Mill, and K-Mart, all in Waterville.

In 1979 Jim married the love of his life, Beverly Lemore. Together they had two children, James Michael McDonough II, and Heather Lynn McDonough.

During his youth, Jim served as altar boy at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, alongside his brother, Mark.

Despite being a New Englander Jim was an avid New York Yankees fan. He enjoyed the outdoors and each fall could be found hunting with his brother and friends in China. During the spring, summer, and fall months you could count on finding him fishing on the Kennebec River, at Fort Halifax, in Winslow, with his brother, Mark, his special friends George, Billy, Ernie, and Butch, as well as his brother-in-law, Bob. If you wanted to know what was biting or when, Jim was the man to ask.

Jim held a pretty steady routine and would often be seen at the 107 Store, in Winslow, purchasing his lottery tickets. He was generally a quiet, reserved man but when he smiled you couldn’t help but smile back. Jim loved his family, his dog, Axle, and his friends deeply, and surely will be missed by many.

Jim was predeceased by his father “Jim” (1986), his mother “Allie” (2013); and his brother, Mark (2023).

Jim is survived by his wife, Beverly McDonough; his two children, James “Jim” McDonough, of Winslow, and Heather Perry and husband David, of Winslow; sister, Kathy Jackson and husband Gary, of Winslow; brother, Todd McDonough and partner Nieves Moon, of Florida; brothers-in-law, Gary Lemore and wife, Dawn, of Fayette, and Robert Lemore, of Clinton; sisters-in-law, Debra Nielsen and husband Paul, of Clinton, Sandra Irving and partner Andy Fortin, of Benton; grandchildren, Arnold “AJ” Mammy, Alexandria “Alex” McDonough, Daniel Perry, Amiya Perry; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a shared celebration of Jim’s life with his brother Mark’s life, at the Silver Street Tavern in Waterville this May.

LILLIAN I. QUIRION

VIERA, Florida – Lillian Irene (Tardiff) Quirion, 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 4, 2023. Lillian was born on June 12, 1925, in Waterville, to Alice (Vear) Tardiff and John Tardiff.

She graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1944. She attended Thomas College, in Waterville, later working at the Augusta State House and subsequently for the Maine State Police, fingerprinting school children in various Maine counties. This was a job she loved and of which she was very proud.

Lillian and Ray retired to Florida in 1980 for some of the happiest years of their lives. In their later years they resided with their son, Joe in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Lillian will be remembered as a mother whose family was the center of her life. She was famous for her pies and breads which she baked each Saturday. Her knitting, crocheting and sewing projects were gifted to family and friends.

She was physically active and few could walk with her and keep up! And she loved to laugh. Her Catholic faith and religious devotion sustained her throughout her long life.

Lillian married Raymond Quirion on June 24, 1946, shortly after he returned from serving in World War II. He predeceased her on March 26, 2022. They were married for 75 years. She was also predeceased by her infant son, Raymond, in 1949, her son, James, in 2003; and her three sisters, Yvette, Dollis and Therese.

She is survived by her daughter, Rose Marie Cole, of Duxbury, Massachusetts; her son, Joseph Quirion; her granddaughter, Lauren (Quirion) Molina and husband Bernard, of Atlanta, Georgia; her grandson, Christopher Cole, of Los Angeles, California; and her sister-in-law, Colette Lachance and husband Roland, of Winslow.

Funeral services will be private.

LAURIE A. McGOWAN

OAKLAND – Laurie Ann McGowan, 67, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2023, at her home in Oakland. She was born August 8, 1955, in Waterville, the daughter of Arthur Joseph and Lorraine Gloria (Poulin) Libby.

She graduated from Waterville High School class of 1973. Laurie spent most of her career working in various doctor’s offices and hospitals, including Northern Light and MaineGeneral Health. Most recently she was employed as a patient service representative for MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville.

Laurie enjoyed nature, fishing, anything with cats, her daily “soaps”, game night with the Hillmans, and watching the WWE.

She is survived by her life partner, Gary S. Meader, of Oakland; his sons, Aaron and wife Emily and their son, Clark, of North Belgrade; Jonathan and wife Megan and their daughters Julia and Sophia, of Levant; siblings, Janice and sons William and Thomas, of Gloucester, Virginia; Susan and husband Tom and children Chris and Jennifer, of South China; Carol and husband Wayne and children Jessica and Shawn, of Chesapeake, Virginia; Angela and husband Tim and children Sarah and Eric, of Canaan; Julie and husband Dan and children Caleb, Garrett and Joshua, of Randolph; brother, Alan and wife Cindy and children Adam, Anthony and Jason, of Waterville; cousin, Jane and husband Bruce Hillman; several aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Laurie’s memory to Humane Society Waterville Area, 00 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

BARBARA WORKMAN

WATERVILLE – Barbara Workman, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, in Waterville. She was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on July 14, 1931.

She attended school in Massachusetts, graduating from Cambridge High School in 1949, and eventually settling in Maine where she raised her family.

Barbara loved the outdoors and spent many spring and summer days tending to her flower garden. She also enjoyed cooking and baking for her family which included birthday cakes and holiday feasts. She loved to travel and would take day trips to the coast, to Boston and many other places throughout the year, often bringing along her family.

She was predeceased by her parents Harry and Elizabeth Cooper.

She is survived by her four children, Betsy Fontaine and husband Dan, of Arizona, David Workman, of Belgrade, Daniel Workman, of Waterville, and Dale Workman and wife Lisa, of Oakland; five grandchildren, Meagan Hensley and her husband Jonathon, of Oregon, Jinni Campbell and her husband Matt, of Lisbon, Jesse Workman, of Waterville, Nicholas Workman and his wife Hannah, of Rome, and Lindsey Pillsbury, of Oakland; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Belgrade.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

FRANCIS MERRITT

WATERVILLE – Francis “Butch” Merritt, 86, died peacefully on Tues­day, February 7, 2023, at Maine­General Medical Center. He was born in Roch­ester, Massa­chusetts, on July 1, 1936, to Francis and Hattie Merritt.

His family lived on the property of Ellis D. Atwood, which had many acres of cranberry bogs in Carver, Massachusetts, and Butch’s father was the foreman of that business. During harvest the cranberries were brought in from the bogs on a narrow-gauge railroad, which Mr. Atwood had relocated from Sandy River. This later became known as The Edaville Railroad. Butch always said he was lucky to grow up there because there was a lot of interesting activity, and in the winter they played hockey on the frozen bogs.

His father and brother were baseball enthusiasts and at a young age Butch was bat boy for the town team and later organized a team for the local boys. He graduated from Plymouth High School where he excelled at basketball and baseball.

In 1950 he met Virginia Nichols at a church camp, in Marion, Massachusetts. Six years later they were married and moved to Aurora, Illinois, where he attended Aurora College (now Aurora University) and was referred to by many as an “eternal optimist.” He played basketball and baseball, and after his graduation he became the baseball coach and assumed other responsibilities in the physical education department.

He graduated with bachelor of arts and bachelor of theology degrees. He then went to seminary in Naperville, Illinois, graduating with a bachelor of divinity degree. In 1964 they moved to Augusta where he served as pastor of a church, and children, Peter and Pam, were joyfully added to the family.

In 1967 they moved to Waterville to serve part time in the Blessed Hope Advent Christian Church and to begin his 25-year career as science teacher at the Waterville Junior High School. He received his master’s degree in science education at Farmington College (now UMF).

As a teacher he is often remembered for his pet iguana, his many trips with the ski club he founded, his winter safety course, and the interesting things he kept in formaldehyde in the closet.

He initiated the building of the Merritt Nature Trail, and many students walked the trail, learning a variety of things as they went along. One year he discovered the bones of a dead moose in the Belgrade woods. With many trips he brought it to the school, and had the students put the moose skeleton together. For years the skeleton served in the classroom as a working illustration of anatomy. During this time, he coached basketball and baseball at the junior high school, and later coached baseball for 11 years at Waterville High School.

He was ordained as a United Methodist elder, and upon his retirement from teaching, he served as pastor in several churches in the area. He was active in the community with the Waterville Rotary Club, the United Way, the Oakland Food Pantry, and as president of the board of the Sunset Home.

He was an avid Boston Red Sox fan, and followed the New England Patriots, and the Boston Celtics and Bruins. He enjoyed skiing, golfing, hiking, hunting, fishing, and playing bridge. Butch cherished the times he hunted with his grandsons and was very proud the day he and Drew came home with Drew’s first deer. He and Virginia enjoyed traveling, visited many states including Alaska and Hawaii, and took two trips to Europe.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia; son, Peter; daughter Pamela; granddaughter Sarah; grandsons Drew and Keith; brother Robert; sister, Nancy; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Gertrude.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church, in Oakland, on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 11 a.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

Memorial gifts can be made in his name to the Oakland Methodist Church, Maine General Hospital in Augusta, St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor, or a charity of choice.

MURIEL MICHAUD

WATERVILLE – Muriel Michaud, 93, passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at Mt, Joseph, of Waterville. She was born March 13, 1929, in Waterville, the daughter of Irene Grenier Lambert.

She attended Notre Dame Catholic School and Waterville High School.

Muriel and Marc were married on July 5, 1948, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, by Rev. Arthur Poulin, of Canada, a family friend. They celebrated 63 years of marriage before Marc passed in 2011.

Muriel worked a few years at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, but most of her life was devoted to being a wife and mother. She loved her family dearly and lived for them. She loved gardening, cooking, sewing, knitting and was known for her homemade bread.

She was active in the Ladies’ Guild of Notre Dame for 25 years, serving as vice-president and then president for several years. She also belonged to the Daughters of Isabella and the Rosary Sodality. She was a member of Corpus Christi Parish (formerly Notre Dame Church) all her life and was on the parish council and served as a Eucharistic Minister for 30 years. She also visited the sick at the hospital and the homebound, bringing them the Eucharist every week.

Muriel was a dedicated and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was a thoughtful person who always put the needs of others above her own and she will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She loved life and was able to make everyone around her feel special.

She is survived by her seven children: James Michaud and his wife Deb, of Belgrade, Ann Hebert, of Colebrook New Hampshire, Bob Michaud and his wife Becky Wyman, of Smithfield, Teri Weisberger and her husband Steve, of Belgrade, Marianne Finkbeiner and her husband Gayle, of Belgrade, Reggie Michaud and his wife Connie, of Lakeside, California, and Jane Patrock and her husband Bryce, of Milford; 18 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren; two sisters Jean Davis, of Maine, and Jolene Calloway, of Florida; and a sister-in-law, Cynthia Lambert, of Maine; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Marc, a brother Arthur Lambert and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 21, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Michaud family.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home 8 Elm St. Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Corpus Christi Parish, 17 South Garand St., Winslow ME 04901.

DAVID S. EASTON

WATERVILLE – David Shedd Easton, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 13, 2022, in Waterville. He was born on September 29, 1947, at Jane Case Hospital, in Delaware, Ohio. He attended Hayes High School from 1961-1965 during which time he excelled on the debate team and the swim team. He was class president his sophomore year and was also an Eagle Scout. He went on to attend Antioch College, in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where he majored in philosophy.

He was married to Carol Jean Oberg for 30 years. They lived for many years in Waterville. Carol was an emergency room nurse.

David lived above the Bob-In Tavern, in Waterville, for the last eight years of his life. David spent many summers in Little Deer Isle, on the Penobscot Bay.

David is survived by his sisters Carol Easton, of Tampa, Florida, Judith Easton, of Chicago, Illinois, and Anne Lundin, of Madison, Wisconsin; and his cousins Lynn Simonds, of Torrington, Connecticut, Dale Whitesell, of McLean, Virginia, Betty Anne Shedd, of Duxbury, Massachusetts, Deborah Wohlert, of Quincy, Florida, and Andy Shedd, of Portland; his aunt, Shirley MacLeod, of Yarmouth; and his cousin, Mark Daniel Shedd, of Deer Isle.

A memorial was held on the small beach across from Pumpkin Island on June 16, 2022.

KIMBERLY L. YOUNG

CLINTON – Kimberly L. Young, 49, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Kimberly was born in Waterville July 17, 1973, to Earl. L. Young and Linda Stewart Young.

She attended elementary school in Pennsylvania and graduated from Lawrence High School.

Kim became disabled in 2017 as a result of complications from spinal surgery. Since becoming disabled, Kim has faced many medical issues. She was a very strong person, always tried to stay positive, and did her best.

Prior to becoming disabled, Kim worked at Inland Hospital, in Waterville, for several years and later worked providing care to people with disabilities both in residential and in the home setting. Kim loved taking care of people. She especially loved being a mother to her children, Cody and Emily. She always put her children and others first.

Kim had a great sense of humor and still enjoyed dressing up on Halloween to treat her great-nephews, Connor and Owen. She loved animals. She cherished the holidays and any time she could spend with family.

Kimberly is survived by her children, Cody and Emily Mckenna; her sisters, Kathy Ware and her partner Carl Clarke, Sue Dow and her husband Dan; and two brothers, Randall and Ronald Young; a niece, Chelsea Davis and her husband Austin, and their two children Connor and Owen.

A Celebration of Life and graveside service will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Kimberly’s memory to the Paralysis Recovery Foundation, 354 North Desplaines St. #3810, Chicago, IL 60661.

VERNAL A. HOOD JR.

BENTON – Vernal A. Hood Jr., 90, passed away on Sunday, January 8, 2023. He was born on December 6, 1932, one of five children to Vernal and Gladys (Hall) Hood Sr.

“Jack”, as he was known to many, worked at Hollingsworth and Whitney Papere Mill, in Winslow, which became Scott Paper Co. and is now known as SAPPI Fine Papers, in Hinckley, until retiring in July 1991.

Jack loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a member of the Skowhegan Sportsman Club and a lifetime member of the Waterville Elks #905, where this year marked his 50th year membership. Jack cut down his last tree at 88 years old. He will be remembered for his humor, stubbornness, strength, willingness to listen and his love of family.

He is survived by his wife Anne; a daughter, Sherry Lee and her husband George Fernald Jr.; daughter-in-law, Jean Hood; three stepdaughters, Tammy, Denise and Stephanie; one brother, Ron and his family and sister, Sandra and her family; six grandchildren, Troy, Crystal, Vickie, George, Alex and Adam; as well as several great-grandchildren, including one on the way.

Vernal is predeceased by both parents; his first wife, Sylvia; his son, Christopher; and his two sisters, Janice and Beverly.

Celebration of life will be held in the spring.

SHARON LEE

SEBRING, Fla. – Sharon Lee, 71, of Sebring, Florida, passed away comfortably at home on Friday, January 13, 2023, following a battle with brain cancer. Sharon was born on October 18, 1951, in Waterville to the late Harvey and Ophelia Hunter.

She grew up in Clinton but considered many places home in the towns of Presque Isle and Waterville. After Sharon graduated Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1970, she went on to study English at the University of Maine Presque Isle, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 1974.

Sharon and her family moved to Waterville where she continued her career as an English teacher at Waterville Senior High School and later as an employee with KVCAP.

Sharon retired with her husband Bill in 2019, and promptly became snowbirds in the close-nit community of Tanglewood, in Sebring, Florida.

Sharon is survived by her husband, William Lee Jr.; her children Jamie Lee and Ryan Lee; her daughter-in-law, Hilary Lee; her grandchildren Hunter Lee and Mason Lee; her brothers Leroy Hunter, Larry Hunter, Dwayne Hunter, Mark Hunter; her sister, Cathy Hodsdon; and numerous cousins; nieces, and nephews.

A celebration will be planned in the spring.

GEORGE A. COLE

WINSLOW – George A. Cole, 90, of Winslow, passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at Woodlands Assisted Living, of Waterville. George was born March 31, 1932, the son of the late Harry B. and Grace C. (Robertson) Cole.

He grew up in Oakland and attended Oakland schools. He joined the Maine National Guard and was honorably discharged in July 1955.

He worked as a truck driver for Keyes Fibre Company, now known as Huhtamaki, of Waterville, for over 30 years. Because he loved driving so much, after retiring he and his wife Carmen purchased a motor home and traveled to many states with the Maine-A-Bagos motor home club and was president from 1989 to 1990, meeting many friends along the way.

They wintered in Zephyr Hills, Florida, for many years until Carmen’s health failed and they could no longer travel. George was Carmen’s primary caregiver until her death in 2009. He catered to her every need no matter how big or small. He was a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather and a dear friend to many. The grandchildren have so many fond memories of their Grandpa from rides on his John Deere tractor to greeting them when getting off the school bus at his home. They always had their special treats of Kit Kats and Pepsi to chicken noodle soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. That was just the kind of man he was. Always ready and willing to take care of his family as they meant everything to him.

George is survived by his daughters Hollee Rossignol and her husband Everett, of Oakland, and Cheryl Michaud, of Florence, Arizona; grandchildren Karen Curtis and husband Keith, Mike Rossignol and wife Lisa, Monique Rossignol Gladziszewski and husband Peter, Randy Michaud, Jennifer Michaud and partner Travis, Garry Libby Jr. and wife Bonnie, Cynthia Fillion and husband Jacques; great-grandchildren, Alyssa Rainey (Thomas), Anna Curtis (Tom), Christopher Michaud, Amanda Tower (Danielle) and Heather Libby; great-great-grandchildren, Thomas, Alaina, Amelia, Wyatt and John Rainey.

He was predeceased by is wife of 56 years, Carmen Cole; son, Garry Libby and wife Kathleen, son-in-law, James Michaud; granddaughter, Michelle Michaud; one brother, Harry Cole, sisters Maxine McMannus, Camilla York and Glennis Hall; and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are entrusted to Advantage Funeral Home and Cremation, Portland.

There will be prayers at Pine Grove Cemetery and celebration of life in the Summer of 2023. An announcement will be made at that time.

WILLIAM J. MURPHY

WINSLOW – Bill Murphy, 69, of Winslow, passed away suddenly on Monday, January 16, 2023, following a brief illness. He was born in Newark, New Jersey.

Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1972, served in Germany, and was honorably discharged in 1975.

Bill met his wife, Donna, and moved to Vermont in 1981 where they lived and worked for many years, raising their sons Jared and Ben, and Donna’s daughter and Bill’s stepdaughter, Rebecca Villa. They moved to Maine in 2000.

Bill was an avid fisherman, a talented programmer analyst and a thoughtful, generous and quick-witted man. Always ready with a quip and a smile, he loved woodworking and terrible action movies, hated peas (the man would pick them individually out of his fried rice), and adored his family.

He was predeceased by his parents Phyllis and Pat Murphy; his brother, Jimmy Murphy and his sisters Barbara Murphy and Kathy Osborne.

He leaves behind his sons, Jared Murphy and wife Erica Mitchell, and Ben Murphy and wife Dani Folsom; his grandchildren Simon Curtis and Alice Murphy; his stepdaughter, Rebecca Villa; his brother, Brian Murphy; his sister, Phyllis Carchia; and his ex-wife, Donna Murphy; as well as a monstrous collection of DVDs

His family is planning a celebration of life for the spring as he always wanted to be celebrated and not mourned in death.

SUE ANN BELANGER

WATERVILLE – Sue Ann Belanger, 69, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Gosnell Hospice House, in Scarborough. Sue was born on May 3, 1953, in Bangor, to Eugene and Rita Sherburne.

She attended school in Bangor, and graduated from Waterville High School. On September 30, 1972, she married Lee Belanger, of Waterville. Together, they raised two children, Erica and Peter. Sue’s greatest love was her family.

Sue is survived by her husband of 50 years, Lee Belanger, of Waterville; daughter, Erica St. Peter and her husband, Joey St. Peter, of Waterville; son, Peter Belanger and his wife, Tracy Belanger, of Brunswick; her grandchildren Sydney Breault, Cole St. Peter, Brody Belanger and Blake Belanger; her great-granddaughters Everlee and Georgie Breault; sisters Lisa Dempsey, Stephanie Brewer and Jackie Madore.

She was predeceased by her sister, Teresa Knotts, and brother, Eugene Sherburne.

A burial and Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Rd., Scarborough, ME 04074.

LAURIE J. JOHNSON

NORRIDGEWOCK – Laurie Jeanne Johnson, 59, of Norridgewock, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, following a courageous year-long battle with stage 4 cancer. Laurie was born on April 12, 1963, in Waterville, to Maxine (Williams) Johnson and Larry Johnson.

Laurie grew up in Oakland and graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1981. Laurie completed CNA and EMT courses at Kennebec Valley Technical Institute (now Kennebec Valley Community College), in Fair­field. Laurie will be well remembered for being an EMT firefighter with the Oakland Fire Department.

Laurie was a gourmet cook and enjoyed preparing meals that were her own style.

Laurie is survived by her parents, Larry and Maxine Johnson, of Norridgewock; brothers Dale Johnson, of Norridgewock, and Craig Johnson, of Winslow; niece Kelli Johnson; great-nephew Elijah Baker; great-niece Neveah McKeil, also of Winslow; aunts Linda Alderson, of Waterville, Stella Swett, of Oakland; aunt and uncle Joanne and Richard Arnold, of Florida; many cousins. Laurie leaves behind Brian Luce of Oakland.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Laurie’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Humane Society Waterville Area.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Norridgewock Baptist on a later date. A graveside service will be held at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, this coming spring.

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

GARY R. BALLARD

WATERVILLE – Gary Russell Ballard, 69, died on Friday, January 20, 2023, in Waterville, following a 10-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Gary was born on May 6, 1953, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the son of late Harry Franklin Ballard Jr., and Ruth E. Ballard.

Gary was a hardworking man, installing flooring as his father had taught him to do as a teenager. Gary owned and operated Ballard’s Carpet Service, of Skowhegan, for many years and worked as a subcontractor out of Waterville. Gary enjoyed working on his vehicles, listening to oldies, and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by three daughters, Sarah Ballard Saravino and husband Will, of Tennessee, Missy Ballard Teacher and husband Justin, of Arizona, Amie Ballard, of Waterville, and predeceased by the twins; grandchildren Alexcia, Elizabeth, Brooke, Mason, Logan, Ethan, Dylan, David, Keslie, Kyla and Nevannie; sisters Nancy Harrison, of Richmond, Virginia, and Dawn Ballard Duesing, of Mobile, Alabama; brother, Bob Ballard, of Palmyra; nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life and graveside burial of ashes will be held in the spring.

BRETT E. HOSKINS

VASSALBORO – Brett Eugene Hoskins, 63, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, at home. He was born April 23, 1959, to Harold Hos­kins, and Bev­erly Preble, in Waterville.

Growing up, Brett was active in the Baptist Church, Youth Group, Demoley, and sports in Waterville. After attending Waterville schools, he served in the United States Army from May 1976 to June 1982, followed by the Army Reserves until 1985. He was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort McClellan, Alabama; and Vaihingen, Germany. He, and Kelly, enjoyed the three years he was stationed in Germany, and they had special memories skiing in the Alps and traveling to Switzerland and Austria. He spent the last 20-plus years working for MainePERS.

On March 10, 1979 he married the love of his life, Kelly. In the years that followed their return from Germany, they started a family, and he was active in coaching his kids in basketball and tee ball, and attending all of their activities throughout the years. He rode the Trek Across Maine, and the Plymouth to Province Town trek, in Massachusetts, with his son. He enjoyed attending New England Patriot games, Boston Red Sox games, various concerts, taking special family vacations each summer, camping, and hunting (though he was quick to remind everyone that he hadn’t shot anything in a couple decades).

For almost 40 years, Brett has been an active Mason with Vassalboro Lodge #54, Oakland Lodge #113, and Augusta Valley Scottish Rites. He was also a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #905, in Waterville.

Brett was predeceased by his father, Harold Hoskins, his mother, Beverly Preble; and many aunts and uncles.

Surviving is his wife of 43 years, Kelly; his daughter Katie Jose; his son Barret Hoskins (Beka); nephew and niece, Matt Vincent and Elena Vincent; grandchildren Roslyn, Bryce, Grace, Sydney and Landon; sisters Penny (David) Bard, Robin (Alan) Withee, and Michelle (Rodney) Green; as well as many other nephews and nieces.

On January 28, a service was held at the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, in Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area; Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers (Christmas program); or the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation.

LUCILLE M. TALBOT

WATERVILLE – Lucille M. Talbot, 88, of Waterville, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, following a long illness. She was born to the late Elie N. and Rose (Mathieu) Viens, February 1, 1934, in Winslow.

Lucille graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1951 and married her husband of 71 years, Gerard, one month later on July 4.

Lucille was kind and compassionate, opening her home more than once to those who needed it. She was a wise and trusted friend, always ready to lend an ear and share a cup of tea or a box of tissues. She had a funny sense of humor and an infectious laugh, but she was also feisty and stubborn when she felt she needed to be. Lucille was always generous with her love and hugs.

While raising her family, Lucille worked as a bookkeeper for several local businesses until her retirement in 2001 from Four Seasons Janitorial.

In her spare time, she enjoyed antique hunting and watching the Montreal Canadiens. Later in life, Lucille became an avid genealogical researcher. She left behind many detailed and organized volumes of meticulously researched and documented family genealogical records.

Lucille is survived by her husband, Gerard J. Talbot; and their three children, Donald and his spouse, Edward Bell, of Lisbon Falls, Angela and her husband, Jerry Bickford, of Sidney, Brenda and her husband, Mark Gosline, of Waterville; a grandchild, Hannah Gosline; one brother, John Viens, of Vassalboro; brother-in-law, Roland Talbot and sisters-in-law Jane (Talbot) Paquet and Suzanne Talbot; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph and Wilfrid Viens, two brothers-in-law, Brother Roger Paul Talbot and Roger Talbot and a sister-in-law, Orita Couture.

Friends and family are invited to attend visiting hours that will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, February 3, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Graveside services will be held in the spring at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville.

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

LOU ANN TUCCI

WATERVILLE – Lou Ann Tucci, 85, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2023. Lou Ann was born on January 14, 1938, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Mary Cathryn Hoke and Leo Paul Zentz.

She attended the University of Maine and Frederick Community College to study art.

Lou Ann moved to Maine in 2007 after the passing of her late husband. In 2020 she married Anthony Tucci and together they started their new lives together.

Lou Ann spent much of her life connecting with her spirituality which also helped her with her sobriety for 53 years. Lou Ann was a mother figure in many of the AA groups she participated in. She was there to support and sponsor many on their respective road to recovery as well. With her many years of AA she was honored to be a guest speaker at various group meetings. In many of her speeches Lou Ann spoke of spirituality, and those who helped her on her sobriety journey with their wise words, their kindness and support over the years. When she wasn’t helping others, she was out gardening her African violets and being a loving grandmother and great-grandmother.

Lou Ann was predeceased by her parents; her daughter, Jeanne; and her first husband.

She is survived by her widower, Anthony; her sons David, Charles, and Michael; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; and her three sisters.

A Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, February 2, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 60 Eustis Parkway, Waterville, ME 04901. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Tucci family.

In lieu of flowers, in memory of Lou Ann, donations can be made to AA of Maine, 47 Portland St. Portland, ME 04101.

MADELINE B. DOWE

CHINA – Madeline B. Dowe, 83, passed away peacefully at her home on Sun­day, January 22, 2023.

Madeline was the fifth of 14 children. She worked many jobs throughout her life. Finally settling down, She and Robert built, owned and operated Dowe’s Variety Store, in South China, for 20 years.

She was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Robert C. Dowe; and grandsons Justin Hatch and Dennis Dowe; her parents and several siblings.

She is survived by son, Robert C. Dowe II, and wife Jennifer; daughters, Julie Finley and husband John, Kelley Warren; sons, Glenn Dowe, and Donald Dowe and wife Melissa; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; several sisters and brothers; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring. After the service a gathering of family and friends will be held on the back lawn of the Dowe family home where everyone can celebrate the life of this most special woman!

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home, 130 Pleasant St., Richmond, ME 04357.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to: The South China Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 325, China, ME 04358, or The American Legion Post #179, in China, 79 Legion Memorial Dr., South China, ME 04358.

MARIE A. CARR

WATERVILLE – Marie A. Carr, 96, passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at the Alfond Center for Health, following a brief illness. She was born in Dexter on July 1, 1926, to the late Albert and Avis (Nelson) Ronco.

Marie was a graduate of N. H. Fay High School, now Dexter High School, and was a communicant of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church. She was a former member of the Daughters of Isabella, in Dexter.

Marie enjoyed her travels to Florida, New York, and Cape Cod, Massa­chusetts, and loved spending time with her family. She had been employed by D. W. Adams and Service Merchandise.

She was predeceased by her husband, Merle E. Carr; daughter, Lana Wintle, sons-in-law Calvin Wintle and Thomas Foye; stepmother, Gertrude (Firth) Ronco; sister, Beverly Batey and half-brother, Richard Ronco.

Marie is survived by her son, Peter Carr (Jane), of Manchester; three daughters, Shawna Foye, of Sidney, Judy Bryant (Wayne), of The Villages, Florida, and Jane Haskins, of Westport, New York; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews; and cousins.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Burial and committal prayer was held in the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, after the service.

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

ANTHONY F. MARPLE

WHITEFIELD – Anthony “Tony” Field Marple, 75, passed away peacefully at home on Tues­day, January 24, 2023, following a short struggle with ALS. Tony was born in Nor­walk, Con­necticut, on August 18, 1947, to the late William and Jean (Sutherland) Marple.

He was the husband of Marianne (Burton) Marple, with whom he shared 49 years.

After high school in Wilton, Connecticut, and the Berkshire School, in Massachusetts, he attended Bucknell College and the University of Richmond, where he received his bachelor’s degree in psychology and mathematics. He later received an MBA in finance from the University of Connecticut and a graduate certificate in health care finance from the University of South Carolina.

Tony moved to Whitefield in 1984 to take a position as vice president of finance for the Kennebec Valley Medical Center (KVMC), in Augusta. He was proud of his role in keeping the hospital system profitable every year, making it possible to avoid employee layoffs. After the merger of KVMC with Mid-Maine Health System, Tony became executive vice president and treasurer of MaineGeneral Health. He retired in 2006 and in the same year was appointed director of MaineCare, where he worked to introduce a patient-focused managed care approach to Medicaid. Finally, he served as the CFO of Mercy Hospital, in Portland.

Tony loved nature, hiking, running, and farming. He and his son, Keith, hiked all 48 4,000-foot peaks in New Hampshire, and he made hiking trips throughout Maine and in Mexico, Canada, and the Rocky Mountains. He worked to establish a system of hiking trails in Whitefield.

Tony and Marianne’s farm grew to include a 30-acre wild blueberry field, apple trees, a vegetable garden, and woods, all managed by Tony using conservation practices. He practiced what he preached, outfitting his house with solar panels, driving electric cars, and using electric tools as much as possible in order to reduce his own carbon footprint. In 2019 the Marple farm was named Conservation Farm of the Year for Tony’s efforts to preserve the habitat of wild bees and other pollinators.

Tony was an excellent photographer of people and nature. He participated in a number of photography shows and won prizes at the Kodak International Newspaper Snapshot Awards, the AMC photo contest, and the Maine Photography Show.

For many years Tony served the Town of Whitefield in various ways – as a Selectman and on the School Board and the Planning Board. In these roles he helped to install solar panels on the fire station, create road signs to keep Amish horse and buggies safe on Whitefield roads, establish the Whitefield Trails Committee, and started the first town newspaper. He also served on the boards of various environmental or health-related groups in Maine, such as the National Resources Council of Maine, Lincoln Health, OnPoint Health Data, and the Maine Health Access Foundation.

Tony worked to protect the Maine wilderness he loved by supporting conservation and efforts to slow down climate change. He served as treasurer of the Mid-Coast Conservancy and lobbied for connecting the Hydro-Québec hydroelectric dam with Maine, which he argued would reduce the state’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Tony was beloved by friends and family as someone who was hardworking and driven but also generous, down-to-earth, and self-deprecating.

He leaves behind his wife, Marianne; his son, Keith Marple, of Princeton, Massachusetts, and Keith’s daughters Beatrice, Anna, and Kate; his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Pei Yi Marple, of Cuddebackville, New York; his four siblings, Anne James and her husband Rob, Allen Marple, all of Richmond, Virginia, Harriet Plehn, of Worthington, Massachusetts, and Sara Templeman and her husband Bob, of Charlottesville, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial services for Tony will be private. A memorial service is to be held at a later date.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home (www.khrfuneralhomes.com).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Mid-Coast Conservancy (https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/) or the Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org).

PHILIPPE F. HEBERT

WATERVILLE – Philippe F. Hebert, 85, died on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. He was born on November 15, 1937, in Waterville, the son of Alphie and Isabelle (Dufour) Hebert.

Philippe graduated from Waterville High School in 1957 and from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1959, with a degree in accounting.

He worked for Noyes Stove Company, in Waterville, for 13 years and then moved on to work for Bragg’s Auto, in Winslow, from 1973 until he retired in 1995.

On June 27, 1986, Philippe married the love of his life, Patty. After nine years, they moved to Florida and lived there for 23 years. Patty and Philippe shared a wonderful life together for 33 years. She died on October 27, 2017. Following Patty’s death, Philippe returned to Waterville and lived with his sister, Mary Jane Poulin and her husband, Charlie.

He was involved in civic organizations including the Lions Club and Rotary Club. In 1985 and 1986, Philippe was elected Governor of the Lions Club International. He also belonged to the Knights of Columbus, in Waterville, and in Florida, where he served as Grand Knight for two years.

Philippe was an avid bowler. He was a league member and traveled to many tournaments throughout New England. Philippe was also a softball umpire here in Waterville. He coached Little League baseball for the Waterville Boys Club.

He was predeceased by his parents Alphie and Isabelle Hebert; his sisters Eva Poirier, Jeanette Breau, and Lucille Bates, and brothers Edgar and Albert.

Philippe is survived by his sisters Marie Pelotte, and Mary Jane Poulin, both of Waterville; his brother, Robert Hebert, of Los Angeles, California; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, P.O. Box 97007, Washington D.C. 20090-7007.

BARRY C.B. BLACKINTON

SOUTH CHINA – Barry C.B Blackinton, 61, passed away on Wednesday January 25, 2023, at home. He was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, on August 28, 1961, the son of the late Walter and Edna Blackinton.

He is the husband of Jodi (Ellis) Blackinton with whom he shared 36 years of marriage.

He was a graduate of Pilgrim High School, class of 1979. Barry resided in South China for the past seven years and previously in Rhode Island.

He was a US Navy veteran, held the rank of ASM3 and served on the USS Nimitz.

Barry was a small engine mechanic and worked at Bryan’s Lawn Mower Service for many years until having to retire due to ill health.

Barry took great pride in taking care of his wife Jodi. Blessed to have a beautiful grand baby. He also enjoyed being a homebody and puttering around his home. He loved yard work, snow blowing and listening to music. He was an avid New England sports fan especially the New England Patriots. He was a former member of the American Legion Post #43, in Rhode Island.

Barry is survived by his wife, Jodi; son Barry C.B. Blackinton II and his wife Kexuan, of North Carolina; his granddaughter Bethany Blackinton; a niece, and a nephew.

In addition to his mother and father, Barry was predeceased by his siblings Bruce Blackinton, Beth Lourenco and Bonnie O’Keefe.

A graveside service with military honors will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, in May 2023, day to be announced.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral home, 1 Church St., Augusta, where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting www.khrfuneralhomes.com.