OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 19, 2023

ERNEST OUELLETTE JR.

SIDNEY- Ernest “Ernie” Ouellette Jr., 87, passed away on Saturday, December 24, 2022, at Maine­General Med­ical Center, following a brief illness. Ernie was born February 6, 1935, in Madawaska.

He was the husband to Rena (Michaud) Ouellette with whom he shared 64 years of marriage.

He was a graduate of Madawaska High School, class of 1953, before joining the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served during the Korean conflict and achieved the rank of sergeant.

Ernie’s true devotion was spending time with his family. He especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren. He was a talented carpenter, skilled at remodeling churches, building homes and creating beautiful cabinetry and furniture. He began doing carpentry with his dad at the age of nine. He also enjoyed caring for his vegetable and flower gardens.

In addition to his wife Rena, Ernie is survived by his children Gary (Cheryl) Ouellette, of Sidney, Karen Ouellette, of Lewiston, Janice (Roger) Plante, of Wales, Tracy (Boyd) Snowden, of Sidney, and Donna (Kurt) Foster, of Fairfield; eight grandchildren Amy Ouellette (Matthew) Emery, James (Felicity) Ouellette, Erin Plante (Nate) Rolston, Matthew Plante, Brady Snowden, Payton Snowden, Meaghan Foster (Lucas Cortes) and Brett Foster; five great-grandchildren, Elliott, Collin and Ryan Rolston, and Deacon and Drew Ouellette; sister Lorraine Lippert, of Minnesota; brothers Ray Ouellette, Lee Ouellette, and John Ouellette, all of Lewiston; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ernie was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law Geri and Fred LaPointe and his brother Gerald Ouellette.

His Funeral Mass was celebrated in Saint Augustine’s Catholic Church, in Augusta. Interment with military honors followed at the New Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, Chapel. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.

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 http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers donations in Ernie’s name may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

GERARD A. VACHON

WATERVILLE – Gerard A. Vachon, “Jerry”, 66, passed away on Monday, January 2, 2023, in Waterville, due to respiratory failure. He was born in Augusta, on Dec. 4, 1956, the son of the late Armand and Madeline (Veilleux) Vachon.

He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1975, and from Central Beauty School in 1980. He owned J’ Hairs and worked at Haircut 100 and The Hair Company.

He is survived by his sisters, Elaine (Roger) Albert, of Lewiston, and Del (Peter) Pelletier, of Florida; his son Nathan Michaud; grandchildren Madeline, Rylee, Bella and Brady; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta, on January 16, 2023.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net and www,facebook.com/FALewiston.

LUCILLE I. THIBODEAU

FAIRFIELD – Lucille Irene Thibodeau, 69, of Fairfield, passed on the morning of Wednesday, January 11, 2023, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born Febuary 26, 1953, in Waterville, the daughter of Douglas Davis and Cecile (Tingley) Kiely.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1971. She received her associate degree in accounting from Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield.

She married Stephen A. Thibodeau on March 5, 1983.

For many years, she worked for the state of Maine as an Insurance Coordinator.

Lucy loved her games! Especially Beano, Scrabble, and Gin rummy. You could find her on any given day picking out clothes. She could “shop ‘til you drop!” Lucy was a phenomenal cook, known for her hearty meals and perfect timing to get a hot plate on the table. She was an incredibly talented baker, able to make specialized cakes right from the comfort of her blueberry kitchen! In addition to her love of Elvis and some good ole country music, she knew how to throw one great party!

Lucy is survived by her husband, Stephen A. Thibodeau, of Fairfield; three daughters; Kami Maheu, of Florida, Kathy Alley, of Fairfield, and Janneen King, and her husband James, of Washington State; two sisters; Rhonda Levine, of Waterville, and Colleen Willette Rezendes, of New Hampshire; three brothers, Douglas Davis, of Benton, Gilbert Willette and his wife Kathleen, of New Hampshire, David Davis and his wife Jill, of Clinton; five grandchildren, Savanna Fasulo and her husband Takashi, Makayla Alley, Hunter Mercier, Kennedy and James King; two great-grandchildren, Grant and Joanna; stepmother Gail Davis, of Fairfield; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her mother and father, stepfather, Joseph Willette, and brother, Greg Davis.

A celebration of life was held on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at the V.F.W., 246 Main Street, Fairfield.

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

KENNETH R. FREEMAN

WHITEFIELD – Kenneth R. Freeman, 86, of Whitefield, died Thursday, January 12, 2023, at his home. He was born in Augusta on January 14, 1936, the son of Edward and Lena (Bradley) Freeman.

Ken worked at the MaineGeneral Medical Center, Gardiner, for over 40 years as a maintenance worker and boiler operator. He loved the outdoors, working in the woods cutting and splitting wood and selling it, along with mowing the lawn and he was very picky about how his yard looked. If Ken wasn’t in the woods or his yard, he was in his wood shop making bird houses and other things, and he also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a family guy and enjoyed attending family gatherings. Ken was a loving caring husband, father, grandfather, and brother and will be missed by all.

He was predeceased by his parents; son Kenneth R. Freeman, Jr., and two brothers Edward and Robert Freeman.

Ken is survived by his wife of 62 years, Dorothy “Dot” Freeman; three children Katherine Freeman, Nancy Jacques and husband Charles, Steve Freeman and partner Heather Mundle; four brothers; six sisters; five grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

To honor Ken’s wishes, there will be no services.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 12, 2023

PAUL J. LEVASSEUR SR.

BENTON – Paul J. Levasseur Sr., 76, of Benton, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2022. Paul was born to Edmond C. Levasseur and Antoinette Roy Levasseur, on October 10, 1946, in Waterville.

Paul grew up in Winslow where he also attended school. Paul honorably served in the United States Army from 1966 – 1968.

During Paul’s break he married his best friend and high school sweetheart Camellia S. Thibodeau Levasseur, on September 4, 1967.

Paul enjoyed spending time with his family, however Paul loved nothing more than each grandchild and great-grandchild from the second they were born. He enjoyed the outdoors from campfires, gardening, cutting wood and making maple syrup where he taught his children many trades. Paul loved his sweets, and he loved to feed them to all the children when they walked through the door. He also loved sitting in the screenhouse watching the birds that came to the many bird feeders. Last but not least, Paul loved serving the Lord; and if he could leave a last message to you, it would be to follow Jesus and receive him as your Lord and Savior.

He was predeceased by his baby girl Lisa M. Levasseur; parents Edmond and Antoinette Levasseur; brothers and sisters Conrad Levasseur, Lucille and Jerry Gagnon, Jeanne Rodrigue, Anne and Charlie Merrill, James Levasseur, Marie Levasseur, Donald Levasseur, Phil Levasseur, Mike Levasseur, James Thibodeau, and Joseph Thibodeau III.

Paul is survived by his wife Camellia S. Levasseur; their children and their spouses Paul Jr. and Melissa Levasseur, Scott A. and Tiffany Levasseur, Dwayne Levasseur, Derek and Ashley Levasseur, Donald and Dori Sheets; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Ron and Nicole (Sophia and Madelynn) Miller, Paul III and Kristen (Coraline and Penelope) Levasseur, Kyle and Samantha (Gage, Mykalia, Alivia and Elsie) Metcalf, Katrina Pirtel and Joe (Payton) Nadeau, Brianna Bowring, Anthony and Aneasa (Jayla, Lucas and Everett) Levasseur, Casey and Vinisha Levasseur, Benjamin and Sarah (Michelle) Levasseur, Brice Edgerly, Nathan Levasseur, Isaac and Alexis (Abigail) Manley, Jacob and Maranda (Lucas and Noah) Applebee, Colton Levasseur, Bella O’Brien, Joe Buker and Lisa Levasseur and his grandchild to be (Ellie Mae), Hunter Levasseur, Dakota Sheets, Adonya Sheets; brothers and sisters, Albert Roderique, June Day, Claire Paron, Lorraine Levasseur, Janice and Alan Beane, Arthur and Joy Thibodeau, Gisele Thibodeau, Ginger Levasseur; and many more family members.

A Celebration of Life was held at Living Water Church, Oakland, on January 7.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Living Water Community Church.

FREDERICK J. RUDER

WATERVILLE – Frederick Joseph Ruder, 75, died on Thursday, December 29, 2022.

Frederick lived in many places around the world as a child, and in adulthood eventually settled in Maine.

In 1972 Frederick opened The Sign of the Sun, in Waterville, thus establishing long lasting deep roots in the Waterville area. Sign of the Sun was not only an occupation for Frederick, but also a passion that brought together his skills of artistry, community, and entrepreneurship for 49 years. Frederick will also be remembered for his sense of humor, his eclectic collections, and his love of reading.

Frederick is survived by his wife Lisa; children Nathaniel Ruder (Janalyn), Teague Ruder (Liz), Elsbeth Ebenhoe (Marcus), Maggie Ruder (Paul Dickover); his 11 grandchildren; and his brother Steve (Vicki).

In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Alfond Youth and Community Center.

KRISTIN E. FRENCH

WATERVILLE – Kristin Ellen French, 38, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2022, following a brief illness.

Kristin graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland. She loved cooking and baking cakes. She created beautiful needlework crafts including exquisite lace. Kristin was an avid reader who cherished her Bible. She enjoyed watching movies with her son, phone calls with her granddaughters and doing adult coloring books with her daughter.

Her survivors include her children Hannah Owens and Allen “A.J.” Albert, Jr.; granddaughters Amiya Owens and Layla Arbour; her mother Kelly Lessard, stepfather Raymond “Tuffy” Brickett; grandmother Gail Alexander French; and sisters Carol Brickett Bickford and Rae-Anne Marie. Kristin is also survived by Hal Stratton, Sr. who was a father figure to her for the last 15 years; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Kristin was predeceased by her father, Dennis Hutchings Jr.; grandparents Georgie Gagne, Dennis Hutchings Sr., Frederick French Sr., Amy Bezanson Brickett and Edward Brickett; and brother Peter Brickett.

A celebration of Kristin’s life was held on January 7, 2023, at the Bessey Building, 22 Main Street, Albion.

STEVEN S. GOGAN

SHAWMUT – Steven Stanley Gogan, 65, passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2022.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., on Saturday, January 14, at the Fairfield United Methodist Church , Rt. 201, in Fairfield.

Please visit http://www.lawrybrothers.com where memories may be shared, a full obituary viewed, and an online register book signed.

CHARLIE A. MEANS JR.

WATERVILLE – Charlie A. Means Jr., 101, passed away at Mount Saint Joseph, in Waterville, on Saturday December 31, 2022. Charlie was born to Charlie Sr. and Eunice (Reynolds) Means at the family homestead in Unity Plantation in 1921.

Charlie and his sisters, Juanita and Gertrude, spent many happy hours together there. He learned many trades from his father such as blacksmithing, fixing wagons, wood cutting, farming, and gardening.

He attended the Unity Plantation School until his father became ill and was needed to help run the farm. Charlie met the love of his life, Dorothy Rawley while attending church. They were wed on December 15, 1951, and enjoyed many happy years together until her passing in 2017.

They began their life together in Waterville where they welcomed their children Cheryl and Charlie III. They moved to Winslow in 1960. He was employed for over 30 years at W.S. Pillsbury and Sons, in Waterville, doing sales, installation, and service of farm equipment until they closed in 1983. Next Charlie worked as a Correctional Officer in the Somerset County Correctional Facility, in Skowhegan, for 15 years.

Family time was important to Charlie, he loved taking trips to visit his family and exploring new places. Later he built a camp on East Pond, in Smithfield, with the help of his family to enjoy time with his children. There they enjoyed many family gatherings, going for boat rides, driving the boat for water skiing, and playing cards.

After retiring, Charlie and Dot enjoyed traveling with their camper and was proud to have visited all 50 states. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren watching them participate in sporting, school, and church events. Charlie also enjoyed doing puzzles, working on building projects and could figure out a way to fix almost anything.

Charlie was a very active member of Getchell Street Baptist Church for over 70 years. He taught Sunday School classes and served on the Property and Pulpit Committees. Charlie was honored to serve on the Diaconate Board as a Deacon, a role he held until he met the Lord face to face.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Dot; his son, Chuck; his sisters, Juanita Lanpher and Gertrude Ricker; and several other family members.

Charlie is survived by his daughter, Cheryl McInnis and her husband Dana; daughter- in-law. Tina Means; grandchildren, Craig McInnis and his wife Jennifer, Christopher McInnis and his wife Rachel, CariAnn Means; his great-grandchildren, Cameron, Jaelynn, Cora, Cobie and Charlie McInnis; brothers-in-law, Richard Rawley, David Rawley and his wife Marie; several other nieces, nephews, and their families.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m., on Sunday, January 8, at Getchell Street Baptist Church, 3 Getchell Street, Waterville.

Burial will be held at a later date.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlie’s memory to Getchell Street Baptist Church, 3 Getchell St., Waterville, ME 04901 or a charity of your choice.

RICHARD B. STARKEY JR.

Richard Bert Starkey, Jr., 59, passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2023. He was born October 25, 1963, to Richard B. and Virginia B. (Hearn) Starkey in Waterville, Maine.

He grew up in China, attending China Elementary School and Winslow High School. He was active in scouts, and played baseball, basketball and football. He was full of spirit, and played hard at life.

Richard joined the U.S.Air Force and served as a Munitions Systems Specialist for over nine years with assignments in Alaska, North Dakota, Florida, Korea, and Iraq.

After discharge Dick worked as a construction manager throughout Florida, the Caribbean and South America. While working in the Dominican Republic he met Patricia and they had two sons together.

When the job ended he lived in Florida until he got a call from home. His dad’s health began to fail quickly, so he came home to Maine to live with and help care for both parents. He worked as a handyman around the small town he had grown up in, renewing friendships and making more memories.

Following his dad’s passing, and his mom going into long-term care, Richard returned for a brief time to the Dominican Republic and his family there. Upon returning to Maine he worked for a time at VA Togus Hospital. His battle with alcohol and subsequent declining health made his last few years difficult. Never-the-less Dick was the helpful, playful neighbor at his apartment complex in Farmingdale where he was loved and will be remembered fondly.

In July 2022 he was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer, a battle he was not prepared for, but he fought anyway with whatever treatment he could get. He made it by a few hours into the new year.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, sister Lydia, and brother George.

Richard’s spirit lives on in his two sons, Richard and Danny and their mom, Patricia. He is also survived by siblings Edward and partner Mark Colonna, Sandra and husband Paul Keller, Heide and husband Charles Hotham and sister-in-law Dawn Starkey; nieces and nephews, Amy (and Jamie) Starkey, Nick Starkey, Anna, Aaron (and Sara), and Abby Keller, Summer and Grady Hotham as well as many cousins and great- nieces and great-nephews.

Richard was proud to be a veteran and grateful for the care he received at both the VA Togus as well as the VA Hospitals in Boston. In honor of Richard, find a veteran, make a way to show your appreciation for their service, and bring some joy into their life.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 14, 10 a.m., at the China Baptist Church, with Ron Morrell and Ed Hatch officiating. Family and friends are welcome to come to encourage each other and share memories at the reception to follow.

Burial will be at the Maine Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

JILL D. COLOMY

SIDNEY – Jill D. Colomy, 61, passed away peacefully at Bella Point Nursing Home, on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. She was born on August 3, 1961,, to Kenneth E. Colomy Sr. and the late Jacquelyn R. (Finnemore) Colomy.

Jill graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1979. She then went on to the University of Maine at Augusta, where she received her associates degree in accounting.

In her free time, she enjoyed going to the beach, riding her bike, and spending time with family and friends.

She was predeceased by her mother Jacquelyn Colomy; and her brother, Kenneth Colomy Jr.

Jill is survived by her son, Timothy Colomy; sisters, Karen O’Connor and husband Kevin, of Mt Vernon, Judy Colomy, of Augusta, Debra Colomy and her partner Ed, of Augusta; many nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service was held at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, in Augusta, on Monday, January 9, at 7 p.m.

A private graveside service will take place 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.

ALPHONSE LePAGE

WINSLOW – Alphonse “Babe” LePage, 90, passed away Thursday, January 5, 2023. Babe was born to the late Victoria (Veilleux) and Alphonse LePage, Sr.

He attended Waterville schools. Babe was drafted to the U.S. Army and served his country from 1955-1957.

He married Theresa Thibodeau in 1953 and together they raised four children.

Babe started his masonry business, A. LePage & Sons Masonry in 1964 after learning the trade from other seasoned masons. He retired in the early ’90s at which time his sons took over the business. He loved checking on “the boys” to see how they were doing on their jobs. Babe was a very caring and generous man, often helping those less fortunate.

After retirement you could often find him tinkering in his garage or working on his woodpile. He enjoyed his Sunday rides to the coast, shopping at discount stores in town and having coffee with friends at McDonald’s. His favorite place to be was sitting on his swing at camp on Unity Pond or spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Theresa; children David (Beverly), of Burnham, Denis (Michelle), of Winslow, Daryl (Trish Crowell), of Winslow, and Melissa White (Markus), of Winslow; sisters Jeannette Boudreau, of Waterville, Pearl DeLong (Michael), of Florida, and brother, Raymond (Pauline Maxwell), of Waterville; sister-in-law, Georgette Dwan, of Florida; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, January 12, at 10 a.m., at St. John Catholic Church, in Winslow.

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

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

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

MARJORIE RODRIGUE

WATERVILLE – Marjorie Rodrigue, 87, passed away on Thursday January 5, 2023, at North­ern Light Con­tinuing Care, Lakewood, in Waterville, where she had been residing for a little over a year. Marjorie was born on March 10, 1935, the daughter of Joseph and Carmen (Vashon) LeBrasseur.

While she was educated in Waterville, she attended Sacred Heart Convent, in Jackman, for a short while in 1947.

She was a graduate of the Waterville High School class of 1953. On November 3, 1956, she married Louis Rodrigue and they were married for 53 years before he died on April 6, 2010.

They were blessed with their children Lee, Celeste, Kathy and Linda. She worked most of her adult life at Depositor’s Trust Co. and later Key Bank, both in Waterville, where she held various positions and titles, retiring in 1997.

Marjorie was recently described as having a tough exterior with a marshmallow heart. This is exemplified by her greatest love, being family and family events. She was her happiest when planning birthdays, holidays, especially Christmas, family gatherings such as the “annual lobster feed, going to “camp” on Webber Pond”, and other family events. In her younger days, Marjorie was a great seamstress and made lots of clothes for her three girls. Later in life, she developed a passion for basketmaking and did a great job at this. She loved to share her baskets with family and friends, usually as a gift and they would come filled with all kinds of goodies. She also spent her time reading, playing games on the computer and crocheting kitchen dish towels.

Marjorie was predeceased by her husband; her parents; her brothers Joseph “Junior”, Charles (and his wife Liette) and Robert.

She is survived by her children, Lee and wife, Corinna Rodrigue, Celeste and husband Joe Theriault, Kathy and husband Steve Francoeur, Linda and husband Joel Caron; grandchildren Danielle and husband Jesse Woods, Eric and wife Kristina Theriault and Stacey Francoeur; great-grandchildren Caden and Atley Woods, Olive and Emmitt Theriault; sister-in-law, Lauraly Lebrasseur, Gabriel Marquis, Claudette Starbird and brother-in-law, Gene Rodrigue and his wife Susan; along with several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Corpus Christi’s Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, at 10 a.m., on Tuesday January 17, with burial in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville, later in the spring.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, we would like to ask family and friends to feel free to donate in Marjorie’s memory to the Homeless Shelter, 19 Colby St., Waterville, ME 04901 or to a soup kitchen of their choice.

REMY J. PETTENGILL

CHINA – Rémy Joel Pettengill, 17, died unexpectedly Saturday, January 7, 202, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. He was born in Waterville, on December 29, 2005, a son of Lee H. and Danielle C. (Morin) Pettengill.

Rémy was a student at Erskine Academy, in South China, class of 2024.

He had earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 2019 and was a member of Troop #479, in China. Some of Rémy’s other proudest accomplishments included working at Pine Tree Camp, becoming both an American Red Cross Lifeguard and a BSA Lifeguard, assisting to coach his brother’s middle school track team, working at Camp Bomazeen, and volunteering with China Masonic Lodge #45. He was a member of the Erskine track team, National Honor Society, and the BSA Order of the Arrow – Madockawanda Lodge.

Rémy is survived by his parents, Lee and Danielle Pettengill, of South China; his two brothers: Aiden H. Pettengill and Bryson L. Pettengill, both of South China; maternal grandparents: Joel P. and Francine L. (Gagnon) Morin, of Madawaska; paternal grandparents: Arthur H. and Helen V. (Keany) Pettengill, of Chiefland, Florida; paternal uncle Luke (Trish) Pettengill, of Sharon, Vermont, as well as many extended family members and friends.

A gathering of family and friends (all are welcome!) will be held on Saturday, January 14, from 9 – 11 a.m., at Erskine Academy, 309 Windsor Rd., South China.

A Celebration of Life will follow at 11 a.m. The family asks that casual attire be worn with “crazy socks”. They also request that you bring a pair of socks for donation in Rémy’s honor to homeless shelters and veterans groups.

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

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

KERVIN L. PEABODY

WINDSOR – Kervin L. Peabody, 63, of Windsor, passed at his home, in Windsor, following a long illness. Kervin was born on October 18, 1959, in Augusta, the son of LuRoy Peabody and Carolyn Jackson.

He attended Gardiner school system.

Kervin was an over the road tractor-trailer driver for years. He loved working on vehicles such as mechanical work, restoration, including painting them. He loved sneaking off with his wife Nancy, heading up north to go camping, hunting, and sightseeing for the wildlife. Snowmobiling as well.

Kervin had a big heart and was a very generous guy. Helping anybody out, no matter what he was doing himself or who it was; even a total stranger. Kervin had the kind of personality he could get along with anyone. He loved joking, especially teasing his brothers. Most of all he thoroughly loved teasing his wife Nancy just as much!

Kervin was predeceased by his parents, father LuRoy Peabody and mother Carolyn Jackson, sisters Maida Peabody and Buffy Peabody, brothers Larry Peabody, and Ronnie Peabody.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years Nancy J. Peabody; children, sons Kervin Dowdy, Joseph Swift, Steve Peabody and Eric Peabody; daughter Andrea Veilleux; brother Bobby Peabody, sister Ina Cadwallader, brothers Mike Peabody, Shawn Peabody and Scott Peabody; sister Tammy Abbott; several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring. Notice of celebration will be posted at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 5, 2023

JOAN M. LARSEN

WINSLOW – Joan Marie Larsen, 77, died unexpectedly on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born May 31, 1945, in Waterville, the daughter of Henry J. Ber­geron and Vera Elve (Butler) Bergeron.

Joan graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, class of 1964. She went on to take some college computer courses. In the mid-late 1960s, she worked for C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory and the former Keyes Fibre (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville.

She married her best friend, Arthur N. Larsen, on September 28, 1968, cementing the phrase ‘Arthur and Joan’ in time. They were married for 50 years. Her life was all about her family. On top of always being there for them, she also worked with them, opening a gift store with her husband, Arthur, before their family business, the former Larsen’s Variety, in Fairfield. There, along with her two children, she welcomed every patron with a smile and friendly conversation, ready to cook them a meal from the store’s kitchen.

Joan cherished her children and grandchildren and loved spending time with them gathering to eat, taking day trips to meet up with them, and spending time on her son’s boat.

In addition to her mother, she was predeceased by her husband, Arthur; sister, Carol Bard, and her husband Emile, brother, Clifford Haynes, Jr.; son-in-law, Michael Stanley, Sr.; brothers-in-law, Dana Nelson, Allen Larsen, and Earl Shaw.

She is survived by her son Arthur B. Larsen and his wife Sheri, of Winslow, daughter, Melissa Stanley, of Fairfield; sisters, Linda Nelson, of Albion, and Evangeline Davidson and her husband Robert, of Waterville, sisters-in-law Shirley (Shaw) Huard, of Fairfield, and Joyce Larsen-Lord, of Waterville; seven grandchildren, Joshua Larsen, Samantha Stanley, Jacob Larsen, Michael Stanley, Jr., Shelby Stanley, Katelynn Larsen, and Caleb Larsen; many nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews.

A service of remembrance was held Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Gallant Funeral Home, on 10 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine. A private graveside service will be held in the spring.

A. ROBERT CASTONGUAY

WINSLOW – A. Robert “Bob” Castonguay, 97, formerly of 5 Lee Street, Winslow, died Thursday, December 8, 2022. in Rich­mond, Virginia. Bob was born April 18, 1925, in Waterville, son of the late Alfred and Bernice (Poulin) Castonguay.

A resident of Winslow for more than 82 years, Bob was an active communicant of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and was employed by the General Services Administration and the Internal Revenue Service.

Bob cherished his time with family and friends, and was a devoted Grampy to his four grandchildren. Always on the go, Bob loved his “projects”, from building back yard playground sets for his grandchildren to helping out with home repairs and maintenance. Bob’s boundless energy and enthusiasm for projects were rooted in his love for the people in his life, in shared experiences and companionship.

Upon retiring in 1984, Bob became more active in wider community service that included assisting the elderly and the disabled. In March 1992, he was honored as a Local Winner of the Jefferson Awards for Outstanding Public Service, as one of the “Unsung Heroes” for his lifetime example of achievements and contributions through community and public service.

Bob served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a heavy machine gun squad leader in the European theater with the 20th Armored Infantry Battalion, 10th Armored Division. He returned to active duty during the Korean conflict, serving with the 33rd Infantry Regiment. After his discharge, he served with several active Army Reserve Units, and as a Senior Instructor with the 417th Training Group 76th Division. Over his distinguished military career, Bob’s awards and decorations included the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, among others. Always ready to serve, Bob was an active life member of the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835 VFW, in Winslow, and of the Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, American Legion, in Waterville.

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his wife Maude (Douglass) Castonguay, whom he married July 4, 1951.

He is survived by his brother, Kenneth Castonguay, of Redondo Beach, California; son David (Kathleen) Castonguay, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. and daughter Linda (Thomas) Nicholson, of Richmond, Virginia; grandchildren Benjamin (Erin) Nicholson, Emily Nicholson, Andrew (Jackie) Castonguay, and Samuel (MaryGrace) Castonguay; great-grandchildren (William, Fiona, James Nicholson); sisters-in-law Sandra Macklin (David), of Hampden, and Sally (Peter) Enman, of Bangor; and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow, at 10 a.m., on Monday, July 3, 2023, followed by a graveside service at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, Bob’s family encourages donations in Bob’s memory in support of the Maine Veterans Home, Augusta, http://www.mainevets.org/donate-to-maine-veterans-homes-2/ to the Veterans Services Foundation http://www.virginiaveteransservicesfoundation.org/donation/ in support of the Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond, Va., or to an organization of one’s choice.

BEVERLY A. WHITE

OAKLAND – Beverly Ann White, 92, of Oakland and Edgecomb, passed away on Friday, De­cember 9, 2022. Beverly was born in Hudson, to Mary and Clin­ton Blanchard on June 6, 1930.

Beverly graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland in 1949. It was in Oakland where she met the love of her life Clyde Jack White Sr. They were married in September 1950. They shared a long life together and have two children, Clyde and Linda.

Beverly loved gardening, camping, and traveling around New England with her husband. Most of all she loved her children.

Beverly gave her family many gifts: to her husband her heart and soul; to her children, her love and values; and to those that knew her friendship.

She’s the laughter you hear when you share something silly that happened to you, the one you share your travel adventures, Friday breakfasts, the one that worries about you long after you have left home, the one whose smile brightens a room when you call her to say hello and the hug you feel long after she stops hugging you.

When someone you love becomes a memory the memory becomes a treasure.

Beverly is survived by her son Clyde White Jr, his wife Rachel; her daughter Linda and husband Rick; her sister Mabel and husband Bob Nicholas; her sister-in-law Shirley Kelly and husband Alfred and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Clyde Jack White and several brothers and sisters.

A gravesite memorial at Lewis cemetery will be held at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

WAYNE J. LEMIEUX

BENTON – Wayne J. Lemieux, 76, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, December 11, 2022. Born in Waterville on January 4, 1946, he was the son of Cornelius and Fern (Leathers) Lemieux.

He attended local schools and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1964. After graduation he was employed by Fred’s Coffee, in Waterville, Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, Ron’s Used Parts, Consolidated Auto, RRAS Auto Parts, in North Vassalboro, and finished his working career at Caverly Farms, in Clinton.

He loved fishing with anyone, but especially with his granddaughter, Julia. He was a deer hunter, hunting every year until 2021, and a member of the Vassalboro Snowmobile Club while enjoying snowmobiling and ice fishing. Other pastimes he enjoyed were woodworking, gardening, and building his beautiful stone walls.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents, his father-in-law, Robert Elwell, and his granddaughters, Isabella Lemieux and Katherine White.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Ruth (Elwell); children, Adam Lemieux and his wife Tania, of Illinois, James Lemieux and his partner, Stacey, of Pittsfield, and Sarah Watson and her husband Tyler, of Vassalboro; grandchildren Julia White, of New Jersey, and Nicholas Lemieux, of Winslow; and step-grandsons, Edward and Charlie Cubberly, of Illinois; brothers, Bernard and his wife Pam, of Vassalboro, and Keith and his wife, Karen, of Winslow; sister, Sheila Lemieux, of Vassalboro; his mother-in-law, Erma Elwell, of Benton; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of life was held at St. Bridget Center, 864 Main St., Vassalboro, on Tuesday, December 20.

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 Lemieux family respectfully requests contributions in Wayne’s memory be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, Maine 04901.

MARTHA A. BLODGETT

FAIRFIELD – Martha Ann (Hamlin) Blodgett, 69, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the Sussman House, in Rockport. Martha was born in Waterville and was one of 21 children.

Ronnie Blodgett and Martha were married in 1972 and after having their first son, she primarily focused on staying home and raising her two boys.

Martha was raised in Fairfield where she and Ronnie also lived and raised their two sons, Ronnie Jr. and Toby.

Martha enjoyed going to the coast, crafts and sewing, baking and spending time with her sisters. She looked forward to her breakfast dates with her sisters and her annual weekend Christmas shopping trip to New Hampshire. Because of Martha’s love and desire to help people, she touched the lives of many families in the Central Maine area.
Martha adored her three grandchildren, Madison, Cameron and Olivia and there rarely was a time Martha missed a horse or sporting event of theirs.

Martha is survived by her husband, Ronnie. Her son, Ronnie Jr., his wife Heidi and their daughter, Madison, and her other son, Toby, his wife Shanna, and their two children, Cameron and Olivia.

She was predeceased by her parents, Robert Hamlin, Sr. and Marionette (Desmond) Hamlin, as well as several brothers and sisters.

There will be a celebration of Martha’s life in the Spring.

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

ROBERT D. WOODBURY

WINSLOW – Robert D. Woodbury, 84, died unexpectedly on Sunday, De­c­ember 18, 2022, of natural causes. Bob was born Jan­uary 26, 1938, in Brunswick, to Chester D. and Lauria (Peg) Beaulieu Woodbury.

After attending many schools in Maine, he graduated from Lawrence High School, Fairfield, class of 1956. He was in the Naval Reserve, and served two years on destroyers, Forrest Royal and John Paul Jones. The Royal was one of the fleets that opened the Saint Lawrence Seaway through the Great Lakes all the way to Duluth, Minnesota – Superior, Wisconsin, at the point of Lake Superior. There he met Marion Johnson and began a romance which lasted 65 years. They just celebrated their 62nd anniversary. They have a daughter, Linda Louise.

Bob was the radio voice of sports in Central Maine, while working for WTVL radio for about 20 years. He also worked seven years at channel 5 WABI TV, in Bangor, in many positions. The most fun was as Ringmaster Bob on the Bozo the Clown show. He returned to Waterville radio and sportscasting, and later became a writer and statistician for the Waterville Morning Sentinel.

On his third retirement, he worked nine years in customer service at the L.L. Bean Company. Bob also helped with many sportsmen’s groups like Trouts Unlimited and the Sportsmens Alliance of Maine. He was also named Maine’s Sportcaster of the Year, and to the Maine Basketball Hall of Fame and Thomas College Sports Hall of Fame.

His last few years were spent attending Senior College at Univerisy of Maine in Augusta and his special pride was as a volunteer at Travis Mills Found­ation.

At his request there will be no funeral.

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.

Gifts may be made to Travis Mills or a local animal shelter if desired.

ROBERT GRENIER

BELGRADE – Robert “Bob” Grenier, 85, passed away peacefully at his lakeside home on Tuesday, December 20, 2022. He was born August 5, 1937, in Win­slow, son of Romeo and Alice (Quirion) Grenier. He attended Winslow schools and graduated in 1956. He was enlisted in the Army from 1957 to 1959 and then spent two years in the Army Reserves. He met his life partner, Muriel Reny in 1959 and they wed on August 1, 1964.

In 1963 he began his career working for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a District Manager and in 1974 he became Assistant Circulation Director. In 1982 he was appointed Circulation Manager and took great pride in growing the newspaper working closely with the general manager, and dear friend, Bob Moorehead. In 1994, after 31 dedicated years of service, he retired from the Sentinel and accepted a position with Castine Energy Services as safety director, where he traveled and made lasting memories with wonderful friends until 2008.

Bob was a very active member of St. John the Baptist Parish, in Winslow, and dedicated many hours to teaching CCD classes as well as Pre Cana courses over the years with his wife. He had a passion for local politics and would often campaign and canvas for various friends. He had a great love of sports, especially football and was a devoted New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan. He loved gathering with his best friends for Friday lunches, discussing and arguing over sports, politics, and current events.

His lakeside home on Great Pond was his favorite place to be and many wonderful memories such as fishing for white perch, sunset boat cruises, lobster bakes, happy hours with his “Perfect Manhattans” and spending quality time with his family were made here. He was extremely proud of his family and loved it most when all were present sitting on the deck with him, watching the sunset. He loved to tell jokes, sing songs and was the life of every party and gathering.

Robert is survived by his wife of 58 years, Muriel (Reny) Grenier, of Belgrade; his two daughters, Kelly Phinney and her husband Jay Phinney, of North Berwick, and Nicole Duchette and her husband Andre Duchette, of Brunswick; five grandchildren, James Martin and his wife Jordan Martin, Robert Martin, Matthew Martin, Madelyn Duchette and Eleanor Duchette; one great- grandchild, James “Jimmy” Martin V; his three siblings, Lilian Vashon (Winslow), Jean Bolduc (Waterville) and David Grenier and wife Patricia (Winslow); and several nieces and nephews.

Bob had the most wonderful friends and he thought of them as family. Closest friends include the “entire” Jabar family, his Super Bowl/sailing friends and his lunch buddy, John Kiernan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church (Corpus Christi Parish) 26 Monument St., Winslow. The reception to follow directly after the Mass at Notre Dame Catholic Church Hall, 116 Silver St. Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Robert’s Memory to The Maine Children’s Home, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901 or to MaineGeneral Hospice, PO Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903.

LINDA L. ANDERSON

VASSALBORO – Linda Lee Anderson, 64, of Vassalboro, passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Linda was born on July 20, 1958, and grew up in Hallowell.

She graduated from Hall Dale High School in 1977. Linda was a compassionate, loving, and strong woman that always put others before herself. She spent her entire life taking care of those around her professionally and personally; whether it was taking her daughter to her basketball games after working all day, making homemade cookies, 6 a.m. phone calls, or doing the little things to make those in her life feel special. She was always there.

Linda was predeceased by her mother, Alyce Burns; her father, John G. Burns Jr.; and her brother, Robert G. Burns.

She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Rose Anderson; her fiancé and love of her life for 16 years, Dana Theriault; her sister, Katherine Carll; her sister-in-law, Karen Burns; her brothers, Peter Burns and wife Cheryl, and Richard Burns; and Godfather Gary Burns and wife Carolyn.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was held on December 29, 2022, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 41 Western Ave., Augusta.

PAUL R. LYNCH JR.

ROME – Paul “Coach” Richard Lynch Jr., 79, of Rome, passed away on Fri­day Dec­em­ber 23, 2022. Paul was born in Melrose, Massa­chusetts. to parents Grace and Paul Lynch Sr.

Paul lived in Malden, Massachusetts, until 1954 when his family moved to Topsfield, Massachusetts. He graduated from Masconomet High School, in Boxford, Bridgton Academy, in Bridgeton, and Carthage College, in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

After college he married his wife Patty in 1967. Patty and Paul recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary.

Paul was a physical education teacher and coached football for over 20 years at Lowell High School, in Massachusetts. In 1987 the Lynch Family moved to Rome, Maine, where Paul continued to teach and coach at Skowhegan Area High School for another 20 years.

Paul was a recognized football coach receiving numerous awards for his efforts. Throughout Paul’s coaching and teaching career he made a consistent positive impact on many students, athletes and others he was involved with. Paul had a special way of connecting, motivating and supporting those he was involved with.

After retiring, Paul was devoted to watching his grandchildren participate in many extracurricular activities. Paul rarely would miss a sporting event or a musical concert. Paul could be seen on the sidelines intently watching each event play by play. In addition, Paul always would have a smile on his face when he received a handmade piece of artwork from his granddaughter Muirean.

While living in Maine Paul had a successful carpentry business building homes and camps in the Belgrade Lakes region. Outside their time in Maine, Patty and Paul spent many winters in Anguilla where he continued to make friendships that would continue for many years. He is considered a local by all on the island.

Paul is survived by his wife Patricia (Taft); daughter Cheryl Winkin (son-in-law David), son Paul Lynch III (wife Dr. Heather MacMillan); daughter Sarah Impey (son-in- law Chad); brother Gary Lynch (wife Chirstie, son Tommy); grandchildren Bethany and Hope Winkin, Muirean and Graham Lynch, Catherine, Claire and Sadie Impey.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life in the spring, these details will be shared at a later date.

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

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Travis Mills Foundation, 1002 Watson Pond Road, Rome, ME 04963, (https://travismillsfoundation.org/) or: the charity of your choice.

A scholarship fund in Memory of Paul will be made at Skowhegan High School. Donations may be made in his honor.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, December 22, 2022

FRANCES L. HODSDON

JEFFERSON – Frances Lorraine Hodsdon, 95, of Jefferson, died on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at the Sussman Hospice House, in Rockport. She was born in Portland on December 30, 1926, the daughter of Sumner and Hazel (Woodbury) Hodsdon.

After growing up in Wilton, the family moved to Massachusetts. She attended the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, in Boston, Massachusetts. This was to be her destiny-producing and teaching her passion of the art of printmaking and drawing.

Marriage to Richardson Howe took her to Delaware where she started a family and continued her education. She followed her passion teaching out of the home. Later going to Ohio where she completed her BFA at Kent State University and took courses toward her masters degree. She was on campus in May 1970 when four students were killed during the Kent State peace rally.

Life took a turn after her divorce and passing of her father, and she was once again in Maine in 1975 on the family blueberry farm overlooking Clary Lake. Here she thrived – teaching at the University of Maine and Round Top Center for the Arts, all the while working from a home studio and immersing herself into her environment, producing work from views of the lake, blueberries and later bark on the trees. Never content with plain white she took the lowly resin chair to previously undiscovered places starting with fogging black paint on them. This led to her show in 2004, “Frances Hodsdon, Friends and Family” at Roundtop Center for the Arts.

This was not her first exhibition. In the early 1990s, as she became known in the art world, Frances’ work was featured in both solo and group exhibitions at many well-known galleries throughout Maine. Solo exhibitions include the 1991 ”Verticality” exhibit, at Unity College Art Gallery, “Maui Series” at Le Va-tout Gallery in 1993 (following her trip to Hawaii), “Death & Memory” and “Paper Works” at Maine Coast Artists in 1996 and 1998, and “Etchings” at Uncas Farms in 2002. Her prints were added to collections at the Museum of Fine Arts, Springfield, Massachusetts, Bates College Museum of Art, Lewiston, Farnsworth Museum of Art, Rockland, and the Portland Museum of Art, Portland. Frances was featured several times in the Portland Press Herald and as recently as September 2021 by The Boston Printmakers.

Her legacy will be the many students she taught that will carry on the love of art she instilled in them.

She was predeceased by her brother, James S. and wife, Phyllis Hodsdon; and nephew, Christopher A. Hodsdon.

Frances is survived by sons Jeffrey Howe, of Jefferson, Gregory F. and wife Dianne Howe, Elkton Maryland, Bradley M. Howe, Charleston; and nieces Ann Hodsdon, Hudson, Massachusetts, Cynthia R. Hodsdon, Reading, Pennsylvania; nephew, James P. Hodsdon, of Gloucester, Massachusetts; grandson, Gregory Howe, of Elkton Maryland; two grandnieces and a grandnephew; six great-grandnieces and three great-grandnephews; brother, David M. and his wife, Janette Hodsdon, of Jefferson;

Services at the gravesite in Jefferson will be held in the spring at the convenience of family.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

RAYMOND A. LeBRETON

FAIRFIELD – Raymond A. LeBreton, 92, passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022. He was born April 1, 1930, in Fairfield, the son of Joseph and Clairis (Wilson) LeBreton.

He worked at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, for the majority of his life. He loved the outdoors, sitting in the sun and watching his birds. He was an avid bowler for many years at 1-7-10 Bowling Lanes, in Augusta. When he was unable to bowl anymore, he enjoyed going to watch and chatting with his friends.

Raymond is survived by daughters, Brenda Alley, of Fairfield, and Pauline Pomerleau, and husband Steve; granddaughter, Lisa LeBreton and husband Brian; estranged son, Gary LeBreton; several grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Hazel LeBreton; daughter, Linda O’Neal; and Eugene LeBreton.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 7, 2023, from noon to 8 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, 175 Veteran’s Drive, in Winslow.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Raymond’s memory to The Alfond Center for Cancer Care, Maine General Health Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 828, Waterville ME 04901; Email: philanthropy@mainegeneral.org.

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

ERNEST K. DeCOSTA

PALERMO – Ernest Kevin DeCosta, 72, of Palermo, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 6, 2022. Kevin was born in Boston, Massachusetts, the son of Ernest L. DeCosta and Irene DeFlavis.

Kevin attended Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School and upon graduation served in the United States Marine Corps.

Known as “Ernie” professionally, Ernie retired from Ecolab after 28 years as a service technician. In his retirement Ernie was a driver for Ray Haskell Ford, in Oakland.

Kevin was actively involved in the community, serving as treasurer for American Legion Post #163, in Palermo. Kevin was a member of the Scottish Rite Valley, of Augusta 32-degree. He also served as Tyler and longtime secretary of the Dirigo Masonic Lodge #104, of Weeks Mills.

Kevin was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Aaron.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Janet; his daughter, Jenna, of Sarasota, Florida; his son, Ernie Jr. and daughter-in-law Jennifer, of China; eight grandchildren. He was “Yaya” to Patrick, Joseph, Rose, Simon, William and Clare, of Venice, Florida, and “Gump” to Landen and Logan, of China; his brother, Chris Logan, of Massachusetts;

No services are planned at this time. The family will have a Celebration of Life at Ernie’s log cabin dream home in the summer.

GERALD J. LANGUET

FAIRFIELD – Gerald “Jerry” James Languet, 88, passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, following a brief illness. Jerry was born in Waterville on May 27, 1934, the son of Irene (Cote) and Albert Languet Sr.

Jerry went to Waterville schools and served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He married Margaret “Maggie” (Noel) Languet in 1957 and they had eight children.

Jerry was a skilled mason and self-employed owner operator truck driver. His favorite pastimes were watching football, going to his sons’ and grandsons’ football games, and tinkering on cars. Jerry loved listening to Loretta Lynn and Dean Martin and enjoyed singing Dean Martin songs at weddings. He is well-known for running out onto the field of a high school football game and tackling an opposing player to stop a touchdown.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Albert Languet Jr., Laurier Languet, and Marie Sherrell.

He is survived by his children, Greg Languet and his husband Daniel, Gary Languet and his wife Debra, Melanie Ellis and her husband, Herman, Dolores Douin, Denise Paulette and her husband Paul, Peter Languet and his wife, Tris,; Cindy Languet and her partner, Tobie Labun, Jay Languet and his wife Aimee; 15 grandchildren, Eric Languet and his wife Tabatha, Ben Ellis and his partner, Shannon Dube, Erica Paulette and her partner Joe Hausler, Nicole (Ellis) Fletcher and her husband, David, Casey (Douin) Whitehouse and her husband Lance, James Paulette and his fiancée Hellen Bourque, Alaina Stinson, Sara (Douin) Brown and her husband James, Venessa Languet, Nicholas Stinson, Gabrielle Languet, Keith Languet, Kyle Languet, Isabelle Languet, Noelle Languet; and 15 great-grandchildren: Logan Languet, Dylan Languet, Brooklynn Walker, Ava Walker, Holly Ellis, Annalise Hausler, Erin Fletcher, Meagan Fletcher, Wade Whitehouse, Chase Whitehouse, Orion Paulette, Estelle Bourque, Abigail Brown, Nolan Brown, and Jackson Morales; many nieces and nephews; his sister, Dolores Miller, of Idaho,

A celebration of Jerry’s life is planned for Saturday, January 7, 2023, at 255 Trafton Rd., Waterville, at 3 p.m. A graveside service will be held in the spring.

JAMES W. BOWMAN

BENTON – James Winfield Bowman, 79, of Benton, died at home Thursday, December 8, 2022, following a recent hospitalization. He was born January 5, 1943, and, after a stay at the Maine’s Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, in Waterville, was raised by his mother Ethel Phyllis (McKenney) Pillsbury and step-father Ralph Benton “Barney” Pillsbury, in Benton, in their home on the River Road. He was educated at Benton Grammar School and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1961. He excelled in football and baseball, which he first enjoyed playing with his brothers on the Pillsbury’s Little League team sponsored by his family’s tractor business.

Jim’s early years were notable for travel and adventure. After working in the position of Captain Waiter in the Seattle Space Needle during the 1962 World’s Fair, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at nearby Fort Lewis, Washington. Having tested into the Special Forces, he served in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in the rank of Private First Class. He graduated from the airborne course as a parachutist in 1964. He was married briefly to Roseann Mammoser (Pfiffner), of Minnesota, in 1971, and was a proud father to their son.

He traveled extensively throughout the United States, having worked as a brakeman for the Great Northern and Burlington Northern railways which carried him across the Northwest. He enjoyed sailing in Tampa, Florida, and San Diego, California, as well as gold panning and fly fishing near Boise, Idaho.

Stories have been shared of his travels to the Southwest, Denver, Cocoa Beach and Boston. He went on to earn a degree in Addiction Counseling at Minneapolis Community and Technical College. Attending his 25th Lawrence High School reunion, he and classmate Rita Crosby West reunited and were married in 1986. This was to be the love of their lives, enduring until his death. They delighted in the horses, farm animals and pets they kept together at their home in Benton, where he chose a career as a licensed insurance agent until his retirement.

Jim enjoyed gardening, country drives, agricultural fairs, and local and family history. He and Rita attended the Fairfield First Baptist Church. Gifted with a sharp wit, he was well known for his clever way with words. He shared his loves of watching movies and the craft of storytelling with his son, who would go on to become an award-winning film director in New York City. He especially cherished spending time on school holidays and summer visits with his two grandsons.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Rita, now of Gardiner; his brother Robert Pillsbury and wife Kelly, of Benton; sister Mary Lou “Lucille” Ryan and husband Robert, of Graham, North Carolina; sister-in-law Rosemary Pillsbury, of Unity; his son Ben Bowman and grandsons Wyatt and Felix Hand-Bowman, of Minneapolis; Jody West ,of Benton, Donna Young of Athens; Deborah Ford of Massachusetts; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, biological father Winfield Cornelius “Bill” Bowman and his brothers Byron and Richard Pillsbury.

Arrangements by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield. Condolences may be expressed at www.lawrybrothers.com

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory to the Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, or the Collegiate Recovery Program at Minneapolis College, would be greatly appreciated.

KEITH M. LaPOINTE

SIDNEY – Keith M. LaPointe, 42, passed away on Friday, December 9, 2022, at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor, after losing the fight to a long illness. Keith was born on October 18, 1980, in Dover-Foxcroft.

He attended schools in Sidney and Oakland. Graduating from the New England School of Communication, in Bangor, with an associate degree in communications in 2001.

Keith enjoyed writing creative fiction from an early age. Several novels can be found published under his pen name Soul Tsukino. He was well respected in the anime’ community, running instructional writing panels at local anime conventions; as well as commenting on geek/nerd culture trends and reviews.

Keith was a WWF and WWE Wrestling aficionado. He was an expert at all things wrestling. He loved to share the names and histories of wrestling from the ‘80s to the current day. His all-time favorite wrestler was Rick Flair. Keith’s nickname was “Tough as Nails LaPointe,” and he fought like a champion until the very end.

Keith had a lifelong love for animals, especially cats, and watching wildlife in the backyard. He enjoyed feeding the birds and watching squirrel antics. Keith had a sense of humor and quick wit. He loved a good joke.

Keith is survived by his parents, Arnette and Michael LaPointe, of Sidney; one sister, Brandi Quirk and her husband, Jim, of Hampden; one nephew, Cole LaPointe and his fiancée, Mandy Meade, of Orono; his grandmother, Rachael LaPointe, of Monson; and an aunt, Elly Farrar and her husband Dale, of Morrill; several uncles and cousins. There will be no formal services for Keith.

MANLY L.HILTZ

CHELSEA – Manly L. Hiltz, 87, of Chelsea, died peacefully on Sunday, December 11, 2022. He was known as Red, Pat, and Old Grampy. He was born on August 26, 1935, to Frank and Goldie (Plummer) Hiltz.

He was a lifelong resident of Chelsea. He attended Chelsea School and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta.

He was married to Joan (Mason) Hiltz in 1954 until her death in 2011.

He worked for local area companies as a truck driver and retired to Ocala, Florida, for winter until Joan’s passing. He was an avid outdoorsman and instilled a love of hunting and fishing into his descendants. He loved his country, served in the National Guard, enjoyed playing guitar in the Carole Bailey String Band, and was a faithful member of Farmer Church.

He was predeceased by his parents; wife Joan; siblings; and great-granddaughter Grace Labbe.

Old Grampy will be greatly missed by his four children: Manly Hiltz, Jr. (Wendy), William Hiltz (Jayne), Jill Labbe (Jim), and Susan Hiltz Massey; eight grandchildren: Jim Labbe, Jr (Whitney), Jasmine Dupont (Jason), Jessica Labbe, Charity True (Jake), Jeremy Hiltz (Suzanne), Nick Kelley (Megan), Nastasha Massey, Jonathan Hiltz (Amber); 16 great-grandchildren, Nickolas, Matthew, Benjamin, Mason, Jonah, Zechariah, Samson, Thomas, Lilianna, Gabriella, Braelynn, Kevin, Kaylee, Azariah, Silas, and Phoebe; cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life in the spring.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

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

BETTY F. SMITH

SIDNEY – Betty Florence (Freeman) Smith, 92, of Sidney, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022, following a brief illness. She was born during a blizzard in Oakland, on January 11, 1930, the daughter of Martin Lloyd Freeman and Vera Arlene (Tillson).

Betty graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1949, and married her high school sweetheart, Curtis Arnold Smith, on November 4, 1950.

Betty was a homemaker, mother and grandmother. Family meant everything to her and she always put them first. She enjoyed time spent with Curt and the kids at camp on Lake Moxie and numerous family gatherings and celebrations. S

he had a strong interest in genealogy, taking pictures throughout the years and enjoyed scrapbooking. Her interests included flower gardening, quilting, coloring, and writing poems. In the 1970s she worked as a bookkeeper with her husband at West Sidney Garage, retiring in 2002.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Curtis Sr.; son Curtis “Skip” Smith, Jr.; granddaughter, Devon Smith; parents Martin Freeman and Vera Leavitt; step-parents, Martha Grace (Grindle) Freeman and George Leavitt, Sr.; sisters Beverly (Richard) Smith and Barbara (Raymond) Colwill; brothers George Leavitt, Jr. and Jackie (Michela) Leavitt; and in-laws Henry and Mary Smith.

She is survived by daughters Linda and Carol Smith, of Sidney, Barbara (Smith) Tobey and former husband, Robin, of South China, and their children Ethan, Nolan and Deidre (Christopher); daughter-in-law Mary Smith, of Sidney, and children Laurie (Kerry), Carrie, Jamie (Kevin), and Jeremy (Jaimie); sons Donald and wife, Doreen, of Sidney, and their children Jonathan (Heather), Christina (Shawn), and Justin (Jess); Ronald and wife, Julie, of Rome and their children Jessica (Seth), Amanda (Ben), Renee (Chet), Desiree, and Cassandra (Patrick); Andrew and wife, Lisa, of Sidney, and their children Alyssa and Emily; and Dixon and wife, Laurie, of Sidney, and their children Shane (Krista), Jaclyn (Ben), Kyle, Dominic, and Miranda (Chris); 34 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, in Augusta, on Tuesday, December 20, 2022,

Burial at Springer Cemetery will be in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of New England, 209 West Central St., Suite 207, Natick, MA 01760.

DENIS M. RIOUX

WINSLOW – Denis M. Rioux, 70, of Winslow, died unexpectedly Sunday, December 11, 2022. He was born in Jackman, on July 20, 1952, son of Henri and Hélène (Bernier) Rioux.

He attended St. Anthony School, in Jackman, Mount Assumption High School, in Plattsburg, New York, and graduated from St. Francis College, in Biddeford, in 1974. He played football and ran track.

He worked as a UPS driver for 25 years until his retirement. He was a union steward for many of those years traveling many evenings and weekends performing union tasks.

Denis always enjoyed football, skiing, and the outdoors. He would feed the birds and squirrels that came to the tree at the front of his home. He had an enormous amount of compassion and sensitivity. He gave generously to many charities.

He was predeceased by his parents, aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his brother Marcel Rioux; his sister Marie-Line Rioux, CSJ; a cousin Monique (Henry), and cousin Gerald, as well as an extended family of cousins.

A celebration of Denis’ life was held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Tuesday, December 20.

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, December 15, 2022

CRAIG D. LEIGHTON

CLINTON – Craig D. Leighton, 46, of Clinton, passed away Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at GrayBirch Long Term Care facility, in Augusta, following a long and hard-fought battle with Hunt­ington’s Disease. Craig was born in May 1976, in Augusta. He attended Hall-Dale High School, graduating in 1995 and then completed three years of college at Zion Bible Institute, in Barrington, Rhode Island, where he was studying to be a youth pastor.

He married his wife, Christine (Darling) Leighton, in June 1997, and just celebrated their 25th anniversary this past June.

Craig’s faith was extremely important to him, and he was actively involved in the church he grew up in, Mountaintop Christian Fellowship, in Oakland, where he worked as a youth pastor for several years. Craig also worked as a supervisor at Good-Will Hinckley School , in Hinckley, for over a decade. Craig’s love for working with teens, especially those who were struggling, was known by all who knew him well. One of Craig’s fondest memories was taking a mission trip to Turkey and Bulgaria. He loved the people he met there and hoped to one day go back.

Craig is survived by his wife, Christine (Darling) Leighton, of Clinton; and their two children, Ashley Nichole Leighton, also of Clinton, and Austin Craig Leighton, who is currently stationed in Arizona with the U.S. Army; his parents, Paul and Sandra (Gibbons) Leighton, of Oakland; his brother Derek Nickerson and his wife Michaela (Foster) Nickerson and their two children, Macy and Timmy Nickerson, all of Oakland.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Michael and Troy Leighton.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Centerpoint Community Church, located at 155 West River Road, in Waterville, on Friday, December 23, at 11 am. Following the service, food and beverages will be provided.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine 04901.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America for continued research to find a cure at Huntington’s Disease Society of America, 505 Eighth Ave. Suite 902, New York, NY 10018.

TRACIE E. YOUNG

CLINTON – Tracie E. Young, 55, passed away on Thursday, December 1, 2022. Tracie was born December 12, 1966, in Bangor, the youngest daughter of the late Harold C. Young and Mary V. (Pollard) Young.

Tracie worked for the Red Cross, Unitel, and Colby College, in Waterville. Ultimately, Tracie’s most rewarding “job” was raising her grandchildren, Jordan and Jaiden Roye, as her own at home, in Clinton.

Tracie had a very gracious and generous spirit.

Tracie is survived by her mother, Mary Young; life partner Ernest (Ernie) Tyler; children Melissa Roye and William Tyler; grandchildren, Jordan and Jaiden Roye, Alexis and Noella Tyler; siblings and spouses, Scott Young and wife Bobbi, Michael Young and wife Patty, Kimberly Caswell and husband Kurt, and Bethany Nelson and husband Howard; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A private celebration of Tracie’s life will be held in the spring.

Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

Please consider doing a good deed for a person or persons, known or unknown, in her memory.

HERBERT A. IRISH

FAIRFIELD – Herbert A. Irish, 78, of Fairfield, passed away Friday, December 2, 2022. Herbert was born on August 24, 1944, in Clinton, to the late Glenburn and Seenna Irish.

He graduated from Clinton High School, the class of 1962. Herbert drove a school bus, worked in the woods and volunteered for the Clinton Fire Department and food bank. He worked for Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, for 30 years.

He loved to hunt and fish, and did so for many years with his buddy Lawrence “Hawk” and his granddaughter, Rachel. Herbert, with his dog, Wild Bill at his side, took home the winning coon hunting State line Title, at Lyman.

He was a gruff man whose bark was bigger than his bite as he truly had a heart of gold. Herbert also liked going to concerts, partying, and roller skating.

He was predeceased by his parents; his grandparents; his brothers Eugene Irish, Louis Irish and Sonny Irish and his wife, Bunny Irish.

Surviving are his partner, Rolena Irish; his son, Robert Irish; his grandchildren Ashley Gerry, Rachel Irish (who he raised since she was 2 years old), Tila-Rae Irish, and Seth Irish; his great-grandsons Tex and Owen; and his sisters-in-law Linda, Mary (Hazel), Regina, Cindy and Melissa; and his niece, Glendia Irish-Arrigoni.

A celebration of life and graveside service will be held in the spring. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

KYVELE G. ST. PETER

WATERVILLE – Kyvele Gregory St. Peter, 97, passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at home. Kyvele was born on February 15, 1925, in Anemotia Mytilene, Greece, to George and Sophia Hadidiacos.

In 1946 Kyvele’s parents, together with her brother and sister, came to the United States. Because Kyvele was over the age of 19 years old, immigration laws prevented her from joining them and she was left behind. Kyvele was left without any family as her other two brothers were serving in Germany. This was a difficult time for all. Deeply missing her family, it was to be five years before they were reunited. This became possible when Kostas I. Gregory, a good friend of Kyvele’s parents, offered to marry her. Going to Bermuda, Kyvele was met by her father who introduced her to her future husband. Kyvele and Kostas married in 1951 and stayed in Bermuda for three months until her visa came through.

Upon their arrival to the United States, Kyvele and Kostas settled in Waterville, and had a Greek Orthodox wedding at St. George Church, in Bangor, in August 1952. Together they raised two sons, Kostas and George, while maintaining a successful apartment rental business, which Kyvele continued to run until the age of 94. Coming to the United States and marrying Kostas Gregory improved Kyvele’s life, but he passed too soon. Kyvele had to start a new life once again. Upon Kostas’ death in 1960, Kyvele assumed full responsibilities. She had a difficult time with the English language, raising two young sons and running a business on her own. Because of her education in Greece, attending English classes for several years wasn’t too difficult. Kyvele went on to get her driver’s license and worked in the rental business as a single parent for four years.

In 1964, Kyvele married Sheldon E. St. Peter and life became easier with his help. In 1966, Kyvele proudly received her American citizenship. Together Kyvele and Sheldon raised the boys and shared responsibilities in the business. Sheldon filled the role of father and the boys never thought of him as a stepfather, only as their dad. Kyvele was always helping her tenants any way possible to improve their lives. She worked hard to ensure her sons would have a better life and education.

Kyvele and Sheldon enjoyed snowmobiling with the International Snowmobile Club. She enjoyed her camp with her grandchildren, fishing, boating and swimming. Visitors were always welcome, enjoying cookouts and Greek food. Kyvele donated many hand-knit articles to the church and the needy; and was passionate about gardening (she was a real green thumb) and cooking. Her family, especially her grandchildren, were her life. Kyvele enjoyed traveling, wintering in Jacksonville, Florida, trips to Bermuda and Greece and traveling with friends.

She enjoyed ballroom dancing with private lessons, never missing a Saturday night with friends. Kyvele joined St. George Orthodox Church, in Bangor, in 1951, contributing to services in good standing and was also a faithful attendant of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, of Waterville. For many years she assisted the priest in organizing Orthodox services in Waterville. Kyvele was honored for her work in 2005, receiving the ministry award from the Metropolis of Boston.

Kyvele was predeceased by her parents, George and Sophia Hadidiacos, her brother, Veron and his wife Cleo, her brother Pericles and his wife Artimus, her first husband, Kostas I. Gregory, her second husband of 48 years, Sheldon St. Peter, her brother-in-law, Peter Lee, her Uncle Peter Pericles, her sister-in-law, Elaine Hadidiacos, and nephew-in-law Carl Snow.

Kyvele is survived by her two sons, Kostas C. Gregory and his wife Erna-Sue, of Waterville, and George K. Gregory, of Rhode Island; five grandchildren, Nike Gregory and her partner John Elwell, of Massachusetts, Konstantinos Gregory and his partner Cecilia Avina Lopez, of California, Yorgos Gregory and his wife Erika, of Massachusetts, Burke Gregory, of Massachusetts, Madison Gregory and partner Joy Olson, of California; and two great-granddaughters Emilia and Olivia Gregory, both of Massachusetts; two great-grandsons Konstantinos and Emiliano Gregory, both of California; her sister, Chris Lee, of Winslow; brother Christos Hadidiacos, of Maryland; nieces Betty Lee, of Bangor, Michelle Belski and her husband Gary and son Jordan, of Maryland, Sophia Kavoulas and husband Demetrios, of Greece; and nephews Lewis Lee, of Winslow, Michael Hadidiacos and wife Kristina, of North Carolina, Yorgos Hadidiacos and Demetrios Hadidiacos, of Chicago, and Godchild, Dora Kalfas and husband Christos, of Greece; stepdaughter, Rosemary Drouin; stepsons, Willis and John St. Peter; and several step-grandchildren; many more nieces and nephews in Greece.

Service was at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 60 Eustis Parkway, in Waterville, on Tuesday, December 13..

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

Donations can be made in Kyvele’s memory to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, at 90 Sanford St., Bangor, ME 04401, or to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 60 Eustis Parkway, Waterville, ME 04901.

CLARENCE E. BICKFORD JR.

WATERVILLE – Clarence E. Bickford Jr., 87, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at Nothern Light Inland Hos­pital, in Water­ville.

Services for will be held at a later date. Please visit http://www.gallantfh.com to read the full obituary.

CHRISTIE H. POWELL

SIDNEY – Christie Hutchinson Powell, 64, passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at a healthcare facility, in Sidney. She was born June 25, 1958, to Armand and Arlene (Judkins) Hutchinson.

She grew up in Belgrade, and graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 1976. She attended Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusett, and received her degree from University of Augusta.

Christie spent most of her adult life working in healthcare. Later she worked at LL Bean until health issues caused her to stop working.

Christie enjoyed time spent at the family camp in Weld, Maine; her favorite place to be with family and friends.

Christie was predeceased by her parents, Armand and Arlene (Judkins) Hutchinson.

She is survived by two grandchildren; an aunt, Barbara York, and many cousins and friends.

A graveside service will be held later in the spring at the family plot in Pine Grove Cemetery in Belgrade.

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

JOSEPH W. HERARD

WATERVILLE – Joseph W. Herard, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at Oak Grove Nursing Home, in Waterville, following a long illness. Joseph was born on February 26, 1936, in Waterville, the son of Wilfred and Emily Herard.

“Will’’ as his school friends called him, graduated from Waterville High School in 1955. Upon graduation, he served in the U.S. Air Force for four years until being honorably discharged in 1960.

Upon returning to Maine, he began working at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow. Years later, Joe moved over to the Hinckley SAPPI plant where he retired. He met and married the love of his life, Lucy LeClair, in February , 1963. Together, Lucy and “Junior” raised four children.

Joseph enjoyed watching all of the New England sports teams, working on projects around his house and watching his family enjoy his swimming pool. He loved spending time with his family, taking family road trips and spoiling his eight grandchildren, Cody, Nicholas, Matthew, Scott, Michael, Jack, Olivia and Ashleigh, along with his great-grandchildren Ronan, Celia and Ellyanna.

Joseph was predeceased by his parents Wilfred and Emily; his siblings, David, Raymond, and Teresa; and his first grandson, Christopher Kenneth Herard.

Joseph, aka “Will” “Joe” and “Junior”, is survived by his wife Lucy; his sons, Kenneth and his wife, Monique, of Coventry, Rhode Island, Carl and his wife, Terri, of Bowdoinham, David and his wife, Nancy, of New Hampshire and Paul and his wife, Cathy, of Waterville; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Thursday, December 15, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, with burial services following the funeral at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove St., in Waterville.

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 Herard family.

KATHLEEN LAI

WATERVILLE – Kathleen “Kathy” “Kat” (Smith) Lai, 73, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, following a protracted battle with Multiple Sclerosis. She was born on March 5, 1949, in Boston, Massachusetts,

Kathy is survived by her son, Christopher; grandson, Nicholas Dumont and his wife Sara; great-granddaughters Diana and Camille; brother, Ricky Smith and his wife Mary; sisters Peggy Violette and her husband Lucien, and Darlene Chamberlain; nephews Dale, Joshua and Ming; and nieces Tabitha, Heather and Kitty.

Kathy was predeceased by her husband, Sun Lai; mother, Gloria Smith, father, Montague Smith; brother, Robbie Smith; and best friend, Flo Welch.

A graveside service was held at St. Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, in Waterville, on Wednesday December 14. Family and friends are invited to attend.

A full obituary is online and a guestbook may be signed, and condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation: http://msfocus.org/Home.aspx.

MADOLYN E. HOSEA

OCALA, Florida – Madolyn Enid (Closson) Hosea, 86, of Ocala, passed away on Thursday, December 8, 2022, at Hospice of Marion County. She was born in Vassalboro, on September 15, 1936, the daughter of Wyman and Lillian (Dolley) Closson.

She was the fourth of six children, was blessed early on with the gift of discernment, and delighted many with her talent for cooking, baking and painting. She attended culinary arts courses as a young woman and became a skilled cake decorator.

Madolyn met the love of her life, Mark Tingley Hosea, at Advent Christian Church, in Waterville. Not long after, they married August 6, 1955, when she was 19 years old. Together they had four children, Rhonda, Marcia, Mary and Joel, whom they raised in their North Vassalboro home, the White Haven, that doubled as a boarding house for seniors.

Throughout her 20s and 30s, Madolyn was not only a devoted wife and mother but simultaneously worked as the sole manager, chef and caretaker for the White Haven residents.

When Mark moved the family to Florida in 1975 to serve at Forest Assembly of God Church, in Silver Springs, Madolyn remained the ever-stable and constant cornerstone for her family. Madolyn worked long bakery shifts at the Kash n’ Karry and Publix, and she made their little house in the forest a home in her spare time.

Madolyn was a deeply faithful, practical, observant, honest, dependable, consistent, hard-working and selfless woman. She had a keen, sharp sense of humor that could make a stony-faced person burst out in deep belly laughs when you’d least expect it. She loved deep maroon and grayish blue, red birds and mallard ducks, oil painting and Chinese checkers.

Madolyn was a faithful woman of God. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school in most of the churches they attended. Throughout the final years of their life, Madolyn and Mark remained dedicated and active members of their church. They would have celebrated 67 years of marriage in August.

Madolyn is survived by her children, Rhonda Drusendahl, Marcia Stevens, Mary Box and Joel Hosea, all of Ocala; her sisters Esther Pierce of Jaffrey, New Hampshire, and Sheila Patten-O’Leary of Boston, Massachusetts; six grandchildren, Robert Cray, Rachael Phelps, Jarrod Stevens, Shane Stevens, Jenna Box Sarkissian, and Mason Box; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.

A service for Madolyn was held Monday, December 12, 2022, at Good Shepherd Memorial Gardens, 5050 SW 20th St., in Ocala, Florida.

LAWRENCE I. FINLEY

WINDSOR – Lawrence I. Finley, 62, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, December 11, 2022.

Larry was a self employed farmer and co-owner of Windsor Vault Company for 40 years. He was a friend to all who knew him. He loved to ride around and visit friends. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and mostly spending time with his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Joanne Finley; son Travis Finley; and grandson Liam Finley.

He is survived by his significant other Holly Lasselle; son Justin Finley and wife Jessica; brothers Dan Finley (Karen) and John Finley (Julie), sister Sally Gower (Bud); grandchildren, Kaden, Lukas, Lilianna and Leah Finley.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at the Finley Family cemetery, on the Choate Road, in Windsor.

GAIL I. WASHBURN

CLINTON – Gail Iris (Steeves) Washburn, 75, of Clinton, passed away at home following a long illness with Parkinson’s and Dementia. She was born in Waterville on June 20, 1947, to Willard and June Steeves.

She graduated from Clinton High School and then went on to receive a degree in history and English from Bob Jones University, in Greenville, South Carolina. After college she became a teacher and taught in Boothbay Harbor.

She left teaching to take on a few part time jobs including delivering mail for the post office as well as working at McDonald’s. She ended her career by retiring from the post office after many years of service as a full time carrier in Oakland.

Gail was a funny, lively and intelligent person with a love of adventure, whether that was learning a new skill or craft or taking road trips with family for picnics in old forgotten graveyards or to “just get lost”.

She loved reading and studying. She mapped out her family’s genealogy meticulously by visiting graveyards and town halls across the region. She loved riding to Lobster Lane Book Store to see if she could find her favorite authors.

She had a great passion for children and shared her excitement for life with them through books as well as her love of horses. She spent many years working with children and horses at Camp Fairhaven, in Brooks, where she was able to minister to them through counseling and horseback riding. She was an active member of Clinton Baptist Church where over the years she taught many Sunday School classes as well as coached the volleyball team for the Christian School.

Gail’s love for children was evident in the way she doted on her nieces and loved them like they were her own children. She shared her excitement for life with them by sharing her love of books, movies, horses, and late night swimming adventures in the summer. She was sometimes strict and firm, but she also had a very tender and sensitive side.

Gail is survived by her husband of 31 years, Scott Washburn; son, Joshua Washburn and wife Andrea and their children, Aiden and EveLynn, of Yorkville, Illinois; her daughter, Lacey Kilby and her son, Michael Kilby J.,r of Edmunds TWP; her three sisters, Dale “Tootsie” Morin and husband Steve, of Falmouth, Jill Sprague, of Lincolnville, and Anne Lowe and husband Craig, of Unity; four nieces, June “JJ”, Erin, Ina, and Morgan and their families; including many great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother, Woody Steeves; father, Willard Steeves; mother, June Kaska; and son-in-law, Michael Kilby Sr.

A celebration of life will be held at the Clinton Baptist Church, on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 11 a.m., with visiting from 10-11 a.m., including a light lunch and gathering following the service.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Clinton Baptist Church, PO Box 1, Clinton, ME 04927.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, December 8, 2022

DENNIS FERRIS

WINDSOR – Dennis Ferris, 77, passed away unexpectedly at his home, in Windsor, on Saturday, November 12, 2022, following a brief battle with cancer. Dennis was born on November 8, 1945 in Sanford, the youngest of five children born to Alice Mae Baker, of Sanford, and John Marshall Ferris, of Ireland.

Dennis spent many hours working around his house and in his garage with “honorary” son and neighbor, Lance Mitchell, and “honorary” grandson, Lucas Mitchell.

After high school, Dennis enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served as a ship fitter on the USS Severn. Following his tour with the Navy, he continued serving his country in both the Naval and Army Reserves.

Dennis retired from Togus VA Hospital, in Augusta, in 2009 after 30 years of employment.

Dennis was an avid reader and had an extensive book collection, particularly books about sailing or history. In retirement, Dennis enjoyed fishing, hunting and tinkering in his garage. He and Judy enjoyed traveling within the U.S. and they especially enjoyed their Navy reunion trips.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 48 years, Judy (Moore) and their two daughters, Lisa Soucie and her husband, Tom Soucie, aka, “Mr. Wonderful”, of Vassalboro, and Stacy Taatjes and her husband, Scott, aka, “The Favorite” of Brookfield, New Hampshire. His greatest joy was being a “Papa” to Shawn Soucie and wife Loren, of Moscow, Cameron Taatjes, of South Boston, Massachusetts, and Tristan Taatjes, of Brookfield, New Hampshire. Dennis was eagerly looking forward to meeting his first great-grandson, Weston Tyler, due in April 2023.

Dennis was predeceased by his older brothers, John, Robert, Russell Ferris and sister, Lucille Pendexter.

No services are planned at this time. The family will have a celebration of life in the spring.

MARIE A. STEVENS

SOUTH CHINA – Marie Antoinette (Gleason) Stevens, 92, passed away on Sunday, November 13, 2022, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Care (Glendridge), in Augusta. Marie was born October 4, 1930, in North Belgrade to Alice Gleason.

She carried many fond memories through the years of growing up there. After meeting her future husband, Merle Stevens, she moved to South China where they raised their family.

Marie was a hard worker throughout her life and instilled that work ethic in her children. She ended her career at Farrington’s Clothing store, in South China, where she made many friends.

After her retirement, she cared for her grandchildren, Logan and Kyra, until they started school. She was an avid reader her entire life, often reading a book or two per week. But what Marie enjoyed most was her family and friends. Her favorite thing to do was to visit with them at her kitchen table. Cooking and taking care of everyone else gave her such joy.

Marie was predeceased by her husband Merle; two sons, Merle, Jr. (Butch) and William; mother Alice; two brothers, Frank and George, and son-in-law Dewey Baker.

She is survived by daughters Judy Baker and children Lisa Glidden (Avery) and Robbie Baker (Melissa), Kelly Stevens (John) and children Logan Merrithew (Ali) and Kyra Merrithew; son Brian Stevens (Kathryn) and children Jack Stevens and Emma Stevens; many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; her sister Georgette Moore (Joe); and nieces and nephews. Following Marie’s wishes, there will be no services at this time.

SHERRI R. BEAULIEU

WATERVILLE – Sherri R Beaulieu, 58, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. Sherri was born in Lynn, Massa­chusetts, on November 3, 1964, the daughter of Penny Verdigan and Joseph Beaulieu.

Sherri graduated from Nokomis High School, in Newport, in 1983, and later earned an administrative office technology sssociates degree from Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield.

Sherri loved driving, traveling, camping, cooking, swimming, music, singing and dancing to many songs and even writing some of her own. She loved creative art through music and dance. She enjoyed being with friends either joining them or hosting for them. Being with friends was always very important to her. She was very social and loved to get people to laugh.

She would always offer a hand up to others in need. She wouldn’t hesitate to help any of her friends like they were family in any way possible. She immensely enjoyed Disney movies, reading books and playing card games. She had one son, Wayne Beaulieu, who she loved and cared for greatly. She worked for the State of Maine with plans of retirement to see more of the world using a camper. She fought bravely while in the hospital. Sherri was very thankful and joyous to those who visited her during her last months.

Sherri is survived by son, Wayne Beaulieu; mother, Penny Verdigan; brother, Shane Beaulieu; half-brother, Robbie Beaulieu; long-time partner, Tony Snow; step-mother, Brenda Beaulieu; and step-brother, Ronnie Courtney, Richard Courtney and his daughter, Jessica and her children; uncles, Larry Kimball, Terry Frost, Roger Frost, and Kim Frost; aunts: Linda (Earl) Newhouse, Valerie McDougal, Bonnie Stone and Felicia Frost.

Although Sherri did not want a funeral, there will be a private celebration of life at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Sherri’s memory to a local humane society of choice.

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

DOROTHY F. DUTIL

WATERVILLE – Dorothy Frances (Currier) Dutil, 64, passed away peacefully at home on Wed­nesday, Nov­ember 16, 2022. She was born in Wil­mington, North Carolina, on December 1, 1957, the daughter of Armand J. Dutil and Donna M. Grant.

She attended Winslow High School, graduating with the class of 1976. She attended Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, and achieved a business administration associates degree in 1997.

A single mother of four boys she worked in various capacities in the food service and catering field throughout the years. Her true joy was cooking for her family and friends. Often her children’s friends became her “adopted” children, many calling her “Mom.”

She loved watching football, the ocean, camping, decorating for holidays and most of all, cooking for everyone. She adored her late Mémère Simonne Dutil and was inspired to recreate her family-famous dishes. Her family meant everything to her.

She was predeceased by her father and mother; widowed by Albert Bellows Jr.; her youngest son Justin Currier; her sister Pamela Dutil; nephews David Dutil Jr. and Asa York.

She is survived by her sons Benjamin and Bettina Dutil, Joshua Bellows and Brandon Bellows; sister Denise Dutil; granddaughters Sydnie Boudreau and Taylor Bellows; two great-grandchildren; a niece Samantha Moody (Dutil), a nephew Jade Dutil.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 10, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 monument St., Winslow, Maine 04901.

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

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

JOANNE K. HARRINGTON

WATERVILLE – Joanne (Keller) Harrington, 84, the former Miss Augusta 1958, passed away on Friday, November 18, 2022.
She was born August 21, 1938, the daughter of Norman and Gertrude Keller.

As a child, she didn’t have the conveniences or comforts we take for granted, but she and her siblings could always find humor in any situation. She was the second oldest of four children, and she counted her siblings among her best friends.

Joanne attended school in Weeks Mills and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1958. Joni, as she was known by her co-workers, was employed at Central Maine Power Co. after her graduation and continued to work for CMP for over 33 years until her retirement.

Joanne had a huge heart, welcoming hug, and a smile that brightened the lives of all who knew her; she had the best laugh. She enjoyed going to dances, camping, bus tours to various cities and casinos, especially Hollywood Slots in her later years. Joanne demonstrated care and compassion for everyone she met. Her joys were many and her heart overflowed with love for her family.

Joanne is survived by her husband of 63 years, Richard; daughters, Diana (Dwain) McKenney, Holly (Skip) Lemar, Tara Harrington (Peter Howard); grandchildren, Hillary (Rob) Turner, Tory (JJ) Winters, Nathaniel and Nicholas Howard, and Haley Lemar; and five great-grandchildren; her brother, Michael Keller and his wife, Mary, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Joanne was predeceased by her sister Rita and brother Kerwin.

For those wishing to honor Joanne, the family will be hosting a celebration of her life on Sunday, December 11, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Sheepscot Fish and Game Clubhouse, Route 3, Palermo.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to Beacon Hospice, Erskine Academy, the Alfond Cancer Center or a local animal shelter of your choice.

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

JOHN H. FLEURY

OAKLAND – John Henry Fleury “Fluff” passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. John was born in Waterville, the son of Law­rence and Alice (Arse­nault) Fleury Sr.

He attended the Waterville schools and upon graduation joined the United States Navy.

John worked for Pinette Roofing and Jacking after the Navy. He loved spending time with family and friends. John was an avid sports fan, especially the Boston Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics and New England Patriots.

John was predeceased by his parents and nephew Pete Fleury.

He is survived by his brothers Paul Fleury and wife Dottie, and Larry Fleury and wife Dianne; nieces and nephews Ross and Beth Hahn, Jody and Glenn Hoelscher, Aaron and Erin Irwin, Larry and Amy Fleury; and many great-nieces and great-nephews Jackson, Eddie, Kara, Missy, and Mahkayla.

There will be a graveside service at Maine Veterans Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave, Augusta, Maine 04330, on Thursday, December 15, at 1 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be determined at a later date.

In lieu of donations light a candle in his memory.

DAVID R. ST. PETER

WATERVILLE – David Robert St. Peter, 71, of Waterville, passed away on Monday morning, November 28, 2022. David was born on Jan­uary 18, 1951, in Waterville and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated from Waterville High School and immediately joined the workforce at Keyes Fibre Company, later known as The Chinet Company and currently known at Huhtamaki. He spent his 38-year career with them working in every department before eventually becoming a lead supervisor in the lamination department. His extensive knowledge and expertise were an integral part of the development and success of that department. He was the one they called on when no one else could figure out a problem on a machine. His genius mechanical IQ was a gift and one that he was too humble to acknowledge. He took great pride in his work as well as in those who worked for him. He took care of his workers, often taking on extra jobs and shifts himself to help them out.

During his younger years David enjoyed fishing, softball, hockey and bowling. He loved the outside and especially enjoyed summers when he was able to rent a camp for his family or just take long drives. He loved pop-ins from his children just to play a mean game of dice or cribbage. His competitive side allowed no special favors for any of them. As he grew older, his choice to spend more time close to home was respected. He loved his westerns, football games and spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. His love and pride for his family was evident in his eyes during every gathering he went to.

David is survived by his wife of 19 years, Genevieve (Genny) Adams; his three daughters Bridget Jabar and husband Joe, of Belgrade, Nikole Luce and husband Harry, of Fairfield, and Bobbi-Jo Rodrigue, and husband Bob, of Winslow; his son Scott St. Peter and wife Karen, of Waterville; as well as his stepson Jerry Adams and wife Donna, of Fairfield Center; eight grandchildren, Ryan, Justin and Jordan Jabar, Nicholas Comeau, Samuel Whitney, Gabrielle and Sadie St. Peter and Elliot Rodrigue; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Constance (Duperry) St. Peter; his brothers Richard, Danny and Steven; as well as the mother of his children, Bonnie (Kirkpatrick) St. Peter.

At the request of David, there were no visiting hours. The family will hold a graveside memorial and celebration of life in the spring for family and close friends.

For anyone who truly knew David, you knew his heart was big. When he was able, he would do anything for anyone in need. So, for this reason, if anyone would like to donate in David’s memory, to the Gabbie and Alice Food Pantry, a charitable organization his granddaughter Gabbie co-founded years ago. Any donation can be sent to George J. Mitchell School, Attn: Kim Taylor, 58 Drummond Ave., Waterville, ME 04901. Checks can be made to the George J. Mitchell School and note food pantry donation in the memo.

BRUCE K. BOURGET SR.

VASSALBORO – Bruce K. Bourget, Sr., 71, of Vassalboro, died Thursday, December 1, 2022, at his home following a brief illness. He was born in Au­gusta on May 10, 1951, the son of Romain J. Bourget and Mildred A. (French) Bourget.

Bruce graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1971, and immediately enlisted into the U.S. Army with best friend Alton Savage on the “buddy-plan“. Bruce then served honorably in the Vietnam War on “King Cobra” gun truck, where he also received the nickname “Frenchie”.

He was employed as supervisor in the paint shop at Bath Iron Works for many years. He was previously employed by the Veterans Administration at Togus as a pharmacy tech. Bruce enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with family and friends. He was very proud of his Biggest Bucks in Maine patch. And being called “Banky“ by his grandchildren when they were little.

Bruce was predeceased by both his parents; his brothers Romeo (Jay) and wife Judith, Romain (Pete) and sister Sylvia.

Surviving is his wife of 50 years, Nancy (Williams) Bourget; a son and daughter-in-law, Bruce K. Bourget II and Stephanie; a daughter and son-in-law, Sylvia and Romeo Roy Jr; his three grandchildren, Alexis Roy and partner Remington Lessard, Rachel Roy and partner Matthew Wozniak, and Mercedes Bourget; brother Oliver and wife Carol Bourget; sister-in-law Judith Bourget, and several nieces and nephews.

Committal prayers with military honors will be offered at 1:00 p.m., on Friday December 9, 2022, in the chapel at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, ME.

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, December 1, 2022

THELMA J. O’NEAL

OAKLAND – Thelma Joan O’Neal, 89, of Oakland, passed away on Monday, November 14, 2022, at the Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville, following a brief illness. Thelma was born in Oakland on September 27, 1933, the daughter of Harry and Velma (Thomas) Bickford.

She grew up in Oakland and attended the Oakland schools along with 11 sisters and brothers.

Over the years Thelma worked at the Diamond Match Company, in Oakland, Norridgewock Shoe Company, in Norridgewock, and as a housekeeper at the Econo Lodge Motel, in Waterville. But most of all she was a very loving and caring mother. She was a very hard-working person and instilled that into her children. She would always make sure that her children had all they needed and then some, always putting them first in her life before anything or anyone else.

Growing up with so many siblings, there were always many great stories to be told. After all the Sunday dinners she served, there would always be time for her to tell those stories with so much enthusiasm and along with her fiery spirit, she created memories that would last a life time.

Thelma had a passion for growing flowers. She just loved working in her flower gardens and would grow some of the most beautiful flowers every year. She also was an avid bird watcher. She had many feeders in her front yard and would feed the birds all year round. She could tell you all about the different kinds of birds that would frequent her feeders. Her favorites were the beautiful red cardinals and the black-capped chickadees. Oh yes, and the little chipmunks that she thought were so cute, she would put extra seeds on the ground for them.

She also enjoyed going for rides up north in the fall to see the beautiful foliage and down east to see the ocean with the highlight of that trip would be to enjoy one of her favorite foods, the Maine lobster roll.

Thelma was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Velma Bickford; son Merland L. O’Neal Jr.; siblings Harry Bickford, Annie Bickford, Thomas Bickford and his wife Marcella, Blynn Bickford and his wife Juanita, Gary Bickford, Kenneth Bickford, John Bickford and his wife Jane; and daughter-in-law Susan Zimmerman.

She is survived by her children Bonnie Stratton and Gary DesRosiers, Debroah Wentworth and her husband Richard, Joey and his wife Jaime; grandchildren Sydney O’Neal, Tanya Kormann and her husband Eric, Gabe Wentworth and his wife Angie, Jeremiah Stratton and his wife Paula; great-grandchildren, Ben, Abby, and Marley Kormann, Hannah Wentworth, Anthony Whitman, Jack and Poppy Stratton; siblings Lawrence Bickford and his wife Christine, Leatrice Grevois and her husband Roger, Charlene Houle and her husband Paul; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland on Saturday, December 3, at 11 a.m., with a Celebration of Life Party to follow at the residence of Debroah and Richard Wentworth, 298 Hussey Hill Rd., in Oakland. All are welcome to attend.

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

WILLIAM D. LESSOR

WATERVILLE – William “Billy” David Lessor, 81, passed away on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, following a long battle with cancer. Born April 27, 1941, in Waterville, Billy grew up and attended schools in Clinton, graduating in 1959.

He was employed at Clinton Tannery, Hights Auto Body, in Skowhegan, Cooper Weymouth, in Clinton, and held other jobs in a carpentry, cement work, and truck driving, but his favorite jobs were delivering furniture for Value House Furniture, in Waterville, and over 20 years at New Beginning Church of God, in Waterville, as part of the Worship Team playing his guitar, maintenance and security.

Many people knew him as “Shorty” and “Night Hawk’ on the C.B. Radio.

He was predeceased by his parents, William R. Lessor of Fairfield and Eva L. (Doucette) Bartley of Clinton.

He is survived by daughter, Lisa Pelotte and husband, Jeff, of China; granddaughters Erica Jackson and partner, Brandon and their children Brooklyn and Leah, of Benton; Krista Jackson and partner, Manny and their children Jordanna, Kylee, and Jackson, of Winslow; sisters Patricia Bouchard, of Benton, Brenda Prentiss and husband, Skip, of Winslow; and brother, Don Bartley and wife, Carolyn, of St. Charles, Missouri; and special longtime friend, Ida Donnally, of Waterville.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday November 26, at New Beginnings Church of God, 392 Main St., in Waterville. A private family burial will be next spring at Evergreen Cemetery, in Clinton.

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, donations can be made to New Beginnings Church of God in honor of William Lessor.

KATHERINE A. REAY

WINDSOR – Katherine A. (Ballard) Reay, 71, passed away at the Captain Lewis Residence, on Thursday, November 17, 2022, following a lengthy illness. Kathy was born January 1, 1951, in Lincoln, the daughter of the late Donald Ballard, Sr. and Barbara (Conant) Ballard.

She is the wife of Walter W. Reay with whom she shared 45 years of marriage.

Kathy was a graduate of Lee Academy, class of 1969. She went on to further her education, graduating from Husson College with a degree in business, in Bangor.

Kathy worked at VA Healthcare Systems at Togus as a secretary for 36 years until her retirement in 2009.

Kathy loved babysitting her grandchildren and spending time with her family. She especially enjoyed going to the family camp at Madagascal Pond, in Burlington. She also enjoyed walking, reading, doing crossword puzzles and going on road trips with Walter to Florida and the Outer Banks, NorthCarolina, with her family.

In addition to her husband Walter, Kathy is survived by her children Brian Reay and his wife Erika, of China, Pamela Reay, of Pembroke, Massachusetts, and Penny Orsted and her husband Brett, of Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin; her brothers David Ballard and his wife Victoria, of Hampden, Michael Ballard and his wife Karen, of Virginia, and Scott Ballard and his wife Lisa, of Fairfield; her sister Sharon Ballard and her husband Kevin Gross, of Wilson, North Carolina; her grandchildren Lauren and Evan Reay, Rahlo Reay, Alex, Chris and Ben Orsted; her great-grandchildren Vivian and Remy Orsted; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Kathy is predeceased by her brother Donald Ballard, Jr.

Funeral services were held on Monday, November 28, 2022, in the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church Street, Augusta. Interment will be in Coombs Cemetery, Augusta.

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 http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathy’s memory may be made to Captain Lewis Residence, 270 Maine Ave., Farmingdale, ME 04344.

GENEVIEVE D. WENZ

VASSALBORO – Genevieve “Jenny” Dyer Wenz, 82, of Vassalboro, passed away on Thursday, November 17, 2022. She was born in Gardiner on November 4, 1940, to Oville and Vera (Carney) Dyer.

Jenny was loved dearly by all who knew her. She was always willing to help when someone needed it and cared for her grandchildren every chance she had. Jenny enjoyed genealogy, reading, playing cards, assembling puzzles and grew beautiful flower gardens. She loved spending time with family and her doors were always open.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Randall K. Wenz, of New Britain, Connecticut; two brothers, Herman and Terry Dyer; and nephew Kenny Dyer, all of Vassalboro.

She is survived by her children William Zipp, Kathy Young and Kelly Doty; her grandchildren, Rebecca Loden, Samantha Gibbs, Teresa Cash, Neil Young, Cheyanne Young, Collin Doty and Jade Doty; eight great-grandchildren; her brother, Kenny Dyer; nephews Mark and David Dyer, and a niece Tina Strout; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.

A memorial service will take place in the spring 2023. Arrangements are in the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

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

CODY L. McBREAIRTY

OAKLAND – Cody L. McBreairty, 16, passed away unexpectedly Friday, November 18, 2022. Cody was born in Waterville, on October 20, 2006, the son of Nicole Taylor and Ronnie McBreairty Jr.

Cody attended Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

Cody loved anything with a motor. He was a year-round fisherman and always looked forward to ice fishing with his uncle Shawn. He played football and enjoyed hanging out with his friends and family. He would do anything to make them laugh, even if that meant getting a few bruises along the way, it was all worth it if he could make someone smile. He was blessed with his cousins who were more like siblings, and spending quality time with them meant so much to Cody. He loved his trips up to Fort Kent with his Pepe, and everyone knew his love of the “TaylorMade” name.

Cody was predeceased by his grandparents, Ronnie McBreairty Sr., Pam Atkins, and Michael Taylor.

Cody is survived by his mother Nicole Taylor and her partner Andy Tompkins; father Ronnie McBreairty Jr.; grandmother Tina Taylor, grandfather Lenard Schoen, Pepe Mike Bourgoin and his spouse Rona, grandmother Linda Taylor; great-grandparents Hardy and Gloria Taylor; aunts, Mikayla Bourgoin, and Heather Dixon; uncles, Shawn Taylor and his partner Marie Conlogue, Derick Taylor and his partner Catherine Mansfield, Ryan McBreairty, and Chris Sinclair and his partner Nicole Schooler; his sister Trinity Taylor; cousins that were more like siblings, Brandon, Matt, Damian, Katlyn, and Kaleb; his significant other Tiana Webster; many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Wheeler Funeral Home 26 Church Street, Oakland, ME.

CAROLE M. DUPLESIS

ROME – Carole M. Duplessis, 68, of Mountain Drive, died Sunday, November 20, 2022, at UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, following a brief illness. She was born in Augusta on November 27, 1953, the daughter of Gerard Breton and Yolande (Beaudoin) Breton.

Carole was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta.

Prior to her retirement, she was employed as an office assistant at Cives Steel for many years.Carole was a member of Cushnoc Senior Citizens and Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks Lodge, of Augusta. Carole loved summers by the lake and boating with her family.

Surviving is her husband, Leo A. Duplessis, of Rome; two sons, Troy Duplessis, of Rome and Chad Duplessis and his wife Kimberly, of Augusta; five grandchildren, Olivia, Lily, Molly, Maddux and Nikalus; her sister, Diane Breton and her brother, Daniel Breton.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday November 30, 2022, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Augusta. Burial will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta, at a later date.

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

Memorial donations may be made to The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital Philanthropy Department, 22 Bramhall St., Portland, ME 04102.

CHERI M. RONAN

OAKLAND – Cheri M. Ronan, 47, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 20, 2022. Cheri’s health started to decline in April 2020. She was born at Elizabeth Ann Seton Hospital, in Waterville, on May 5, 1975. Cheri grew up in Oakland, attended local schools, and graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1995. She was a huge sports enthusiast. She participated in the Special Olympics for many years and received numerous gold, silver and bronze medals. During her earlier years, she participated in the local T-Ball program and loved shooting hoops.

Cheri loved the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, especially Tom Brady. She enjoyed going to the movies and doing errands around town with mom. When not with mom, Cheri was watching football and baseball games with dad. Going to Fenway Park, in Boston, and JetBlue Park for sproing training, in Fort Myers, Florida, was always extremely exciting for Cheri. She always looked forward to going to the University of Maine hockey games while her brother attended college there.

For 29 years, Cheri attended Pine Tree Camp, on North Pond, in Rome, as one of her favorite activities every summer. Cheri enjoyed riding her bike around the neighborhood and hanging out at Video Tyme. After high school graduation, she worked part-time at Hannaford Supermarket, Governor’s Restaurant, and Mount St. Joseph’s nursing home in the laundry department for many years, all in Waterville. Work for Cheri was always a big social event. She was truly a social butterfly who loved to tease everyone with whom she came in contact. Cheri’s personality is best described as “a character” to say the least.

Cheri traveled with mom and dad to such places as San Diego, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and the Grand Canyon. She enjoyed her annual March excursions to Aruba, St. Thomas and St. John, in the Virgin Islands. When she was not flying to destinations, she enjoyed sitting in the front seat of the truck with dad while he hauled the RV. Camping, fishing and boating were always an important part of her growing years. In recent years, she RV’ed to RainTree RV Resort, in North Fort Myers, Florida, to spend the winter away from Maine. She was never fond of rain and snow.

Cheri enjoyed the “Good Ole Rockin’ Roll” that Nashville, Tennessee, had to offer. Other trips were made to Myrtle Beach, Pennsylvania Amish Country and the Gaspé Peninsula, in eastern Québec, Canada. Other fun trips included Disney World, Harry Potter at Universal Studios, and riding in the police car where the Andy Griffeth show was filmed in Mayberry, North Carolina. Cheri loved animals, particularly her cat ‘Smokey’ who lived with her for 19 years! When not traveling or working, Cheri loved attending special needs programs such as Families Matter and Skills, in Waterville. She enjoyed going out to dinner with her friends from the programs once a week.

Cheri was predeceased by her grandparents Joseph and Viola Morin, from Skowhegan, and Lawrence and Jacqueline Ronan, from Winslow.

Cheri is survived by her parents David and Suzanne Ronan, Oakland; her brother Jonathan Ronan and his wife Alyza Burwood Ronan; niece Izabella, and nephew Christopher, both of Waterville; many uncles, aunts and cousins throughout the United States and Canada.

There will be a Celebration of Cheri’s Life at Governor’s Restaurant, in Waterville, on Thursday, December 1, at 11 a.m., with lunch and beverages provided.

Burial will take place at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove St., in Waterville. Since sports was a meaningful part of Cheri’s life, we ask everyone who attends Cheri’s Celebration of Life to wear some type of sports memorabilia, such as a sports jersey of your favorite team or a team ball cap.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pine Tree Camp, 114 Pine Tree Rd., Rome, ME 04936.

DEBORAH A. BIZIER

FAIRFIELD – Deborah A. Bizier, 67, unexpectedly passed away of natural causes on Sunday, November 20, 2022, while visiting a park in Texas.

Deborah was a retired nurse who worked her career at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. Since her retirement, she has spent her Maine winters traveling the United States, camping at various parks. Deborah enjoyed the simple beauty of life. She had a special love for horses and owned several during her lifetime.

She is survived by her mother, Marcelle Gilbert, of Fairfield; her brother Daniel Gilbert, of Fairfield; aunt Joan Gilman, of Fairfield; and sister-in-law Charlene Chowantec, of Florida; many nieces and nephews

She was predeceased by her husband, James Bizier, of Fairfield; father, Robert Gilbert, of Fairfield; uncles James Michaud, of Arizona, and Roy Gilman, of Fairfield.

Per Deborah’s request, there are no services planned.

SYLVIA A. WINCHENBACH

CHELSEA – Sylvia Anne Currier Winchenbach, 90, passed away on Friday, November 25, 2022, while at Orono Commons Nursing Home. She was born on April 28, 1932, at home in Mt. Vernon, the daughter of Carl W. and Olive Robinson Currier.

Sylvia graduated from grammar school in Mt. Vernon in 1946, moved to Augusta at 13 years old, renting a room and graduated from Cony High School in 1950. She then attended Gates Business College in Augusta and graduated in 1951.

She worked at Fosters restaurant after hours during high school and college, working 33 hours per week at 40-cents per hour.

On September 1, 1953, she married James O. Winchenbach from Waldoboro at the Mt. Vernon Baptist Church.

She worked for the state of Maine for four years and got done for the delivery of her first son, James, in 1955. In 1958, she had her second son, Allan.

Sylvia was room mother, vice-president, secretary and president of the Chelsea PTA at various times while her children attended Chelsea Grammar School.

She went back to the state of Maine and worked for 15 more years for different entities such as the Public Utilities Commission, Maine State Police and Bureau of Motor Vehicle, in Augusta. She retired on April 29, 1992.

She belonged to the Chelsea Senior Citizens, past president of the Goodwill Circle, deaconess of the Chelsea Advent Christian Church, and attended the Weeks Mills Christian Church.

She enjoyed camping with her children and grandchildren as well as having numerous parties with her family, brothers and sisters. She enjoyed doing arts and crafts with her family and friends.

Sylvia was predeceased by her husband James Winchenbach in 2012.

She leaves behind her two sons, James and his wife Susan, from Milford, and their children, Jenny Leverknight, from Delaware, and husband Mike, Brandon Winchenbach, from Milford, Jared Winchenbach and his fiancée Katie Day, from Windham; great-grandchildren Emma and Jacob Leverknight, Allan Sr. and his wife Carolyn, from Sidney, children Allan Winchenbach Jr. and his friend Shaun from Portland and Melissa Winchenbach from Waterville.

Sylvia was predeceased by her father Carl; mother Olive, of Mt. Vernon; sisters Winifred Currier, from Mt. Vernon, Etta Hall, from Wayne, Owena Blac, from Augusta, Ruby Plaisted, from Farmington; brothers Leon Currier, from Monmouth, Walter Currier, from Mt. Vernon, and Frank Currier, from Mt. Vernon; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Sylvia’s funeral service was held at Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church Street, in Augusta, on Thursday, December 1, 2022.

Burial will be at the Old German Church Meeting House Cemetery, located at 235 Bremen Road, on Route 32, in Waldoboro, where she will be laid to rest beside her late husband James.

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.

ANNINE VASHON

WINSLOW – Annine Vashon, 91, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Sunday , November 27, 2022. Annine was born on August 21, 1931, in St. Zacharie, Québec, Canada, the daughter of Camille Chabot and Leo Gagnon.

Annine grew up in Lac Etchemin, Québec, Canada.

She met the love of her life, Gordon Vashon, in Waterville, in 1959, when she came to watch her brother, Roger, play for the Waterville Exchange Club Bruins. They married in July 1960 and moved to Maine, where she spent the rest of her life.

Prior to moving to Maine, she was a beautician, and upon moving, she continued to cut and style hair for her family and friends. She was a stay at home mom and enjoyed raising her family. In her later years, she worked alongside her husband running the family convenience store, C+L Market, in Sidney.

Her hobbies included ceramics, painting, sewing, quilting, upholstery, and camping at Great Pond, in Belgrade Lakes. She self taught her self to speak, read and write in English. She had a great sense of humor, and loved to play cards, fly kites and spend time with family and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents Camille Chabot and Leo Gagnon; her husband Gordon Vashon, her brothers Jarvais Gagnon and Roger Gagnon; along with her son-in-law Charles (Chic) Kowaleuski.

She is survived by her daughters Sylvia Kowaleuski, of Hope, New Jersey, Brenda Lary and husband Jeff, of Hartland; her son Michael, of Richmond; her sister Roberte (Gagnon) Maheux, of Lac Etchemin Québec; her sister-in-law Sandra Brown and husband Richard, of Sidney; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9 a.m., on Saturday, December 3, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow. Burial will take place at the St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, weather permitting. A luncheon will be served after the services, the location has yet to be determined.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org or Alzheimer’s Association, Attn: Donor Services, 225 North Michigan Ave, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601. Please write in memory of Annine Vashon

ROBERT M. HOWELL JR.

WATERVILLE – Robert Michael Howell Jr., 50, passed away in Waterville, on Wednesday, October 12, 2022. He was born on Jan­uary 20, 1972, in Odessa, Texas, to Robert Michael Howell Sr. and Billie Darlene (Key) Howell.

He worked in construction safety most of his working life, after graduating Odessa College Safety Program. He also never met a stranger, as he could make conversation while passing you on the sidewalk, from the time he was a small child.

He is survived by his parents, Robert Howell Sr. and wife Vera, of Odessa, Texas. and Billie Darlene (Key) Seal and husband Glenn, of Ore City, Texas; brothers, Jeffery, Jared, and Kenny Howell; sisters, Melanie Ormsby, Amanda Baker, and Jenny Abreu; stepsister, Jennifer Write; stepdaughters, Megan Nicholas, Amanda Loggins; ex-wife, Renee Jackson; nine aunts and uncles; step-grandmother, Barbara Pate; and innumerable other unofficially adopted family.

He was preceded in death by both sets of biological grandparents; two uncles and one aunt; one cousin; two step grandfathers and one step grandmother.

Memorial services were held on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints Chapel, at 5401 JBS Parkway, Odessa, Texas.

Instead of flowers, please consider donating to these organizations that Michael was an active supporter, Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter of Waterville, Maine, and The Humane Society Waterville Area, Military Veterans of America, food bank, pantries, and soup kitchens.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 24, 2022

JEANNE JACKSON

WATERVILLE – Jeanne Jackson, 69, passed away peacefully following a battle with cancer on Thurs­day, November 3, 2022, in Water­ville. Jeanne was born in 1953 to the late Patrick and Irene Moriscano and was the third born of four sisters.

Jeanne married the late Roger Jackson in 1973 and together they had two children, Christine Austin, married to Bryan Austin, and Michael Jackson, married to Lindsay Jackson.

She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Brady, Brett, Tyler, Charlotte, and Camden; sisters Kathleen, Patricia, and Maureen; along with many family members.

Jeanne professed her life to Christ as a young adult and devoted her life to her family and also serving the Lord through ministries in her various churches, outreach ministries, and just “whatever needed to be done.”

A celebration of her life and memorial service was held at Getchell Street Baptist Church, at 3 Getchell St., Waterville, ME 04901.

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

LINDA VASHON

WINSLOW – Linda Vashon, 76, of Winslow, passed away Sunday, Novembeer 6, 2022, at her home, of Alzheimer’s. She was born in Waterville and attended Winslow High School.

From there she was a stay at home mom, until she moved back to Maine and then went to work at Colby College for 30 years and loved seeing the children every day.

Linda enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She and her husband, Doug, enjoyed visiting and eating out at their favorite restaurants.

Linda was precededin death by her husband, Doug Vashon; her dad, Loredon Vigue, of Vassalboro, her mom, Yvonne McCrater and her stepdad, Hermon McCrater, of Winslow.

She is survived by her daughters Glenda Lessard, of Waterville, Lynette and Mike Bolduc, of Winslow, Sherri and John Brooker, of Palmyra; several grandchildren, Amanda and Mark Bonilla, of New York, Samantha Lessard, of New York, Michael Poirier, of Fairfield, Crystal and Fuad, of Vassalboro, and Chelsea and Haley Morin, of Augusta; sister, Joan and Walter Sward, of Manchester, Connecticut; sister, Joan and Walter Sward, of Manchester, Connecticut; and nephew, John Tweedie.

Services will be held November 26, at 9:15 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, in Waterville. Burial will be December 3, at Saint Francis Cemetery, weather permitting.

FRANK D. MATHEWS

SIDNEY – Frank D. Mathews, 57, of Sidney, passed away in Augusta on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. He was born in Augusta on October 23, 1965, the son of Manfred and Maxine (McFarland) Mathews.

After graduating from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 1984, Frank went on to the school of hard work. He was an expert applicator for several years working for the family business, M.A. Mathews Siding and Windows. He then went into the woods and became a CLP Certified Master Logger for over 30 years. Frank was a true steward of the forest who took great pride in making the land he worked beautiful.

Frank had many varied interests which ranged from his years of motocross racing to taking Noah skiing in the winter and going “upta camp” in the summer. He was a long-time member of the Sidney Masonic Lodge. Frank was a strong man of faith who served as a deacon at Sidney Second Baptist Church for a time. Together with his wife Lisa, they found a home and loving extended family at Kennebec Valley Baptist Church in Waterville.

Frank has shown amazing strength, resilience, and faith over the last five years, proving to the medical community that he had a fire in him that burned stronger than any cancer. He was a champion who quietly and humbly endured and overcame great obstacles while continuing to grow in his faith throughout.

Frank was predeceased by his mother, Maxine Mathews in 2010.

Frank is survived by his wife, Lisa, of Sidney; his son, Noah, of Sidney; and his bonus children, Desiree Libold, of Benton, and Cody Emery, of Knoxville, Tennessee; his father, Manfred Mathews (Jackie Wright), of Vassalboro; his sisters Linda (Raymond) Breton, of Chelsea, and Lisa (Russell) Willet,t of Oakham, Massachusetts; his brothers Mark Mathews, of Readfield, Michael (Peggy) Mathews, of Carmel, and Dale (Crystal) Breton, of Sidney; numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 19, at Kennebec Valley Baptist Church, 91 Marston Rd., in Waterville.

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

SHERRILL E. SMILEY

WINSLOW – Sherill Elizabeth Smiley, 83, of Winslow, passed away on Friday, November 11, 2022. She was born a twin, on November 6, 1939, daughter of Samuel Raymond and Frieda Knauff Smiley, in Waterville.

She graduated from Winslow High School, in 1958. She attended Farmington State Teachers College where she met and married Bradford L. Buker in 1959.

She was a member and past president of Ye Female Society for the Support of the Gospel, 60 years she was a member of the Winslow Congregational Church, Sunday School Teacher, Superintendent-Coordinator of the Sunday School, on the board of the Christian a Education, past deacon of her church. She was in rhythmic choir under the direction of Mrs. Thorne.

She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, Girl Scout Consultant, Kennebec Council and assistant Den Mother. She was past Worthy Matron and past officers of Fort Halifax Grange. She and Brad stared the Heart of Maine Square Dance Club and were presidents.

But to her grandchildren, her greatest accomplishment was being their Mémère. They will forever remember the sleepovers, cooking French toast the next day, sliding parties in the winter and making Barney Google, a personal cheer leader at all school /sport activities, playing endless card games and never letting them win, tree decorating parties, finding the pickle and right family game played every Christmas always getting a phone call on their birthday and a singing of Happy Birthday, made sure all her grandchildren knew they were a priority, singing songs, Donut and You are my Sunshine, and always had a smile on her face.

She was always there for each of them no matter what, they could count on her when they couldn’t count on others, she kept every drawing and note, kept candy on hand, coupon books, and mended clothes. She accepted and loved them as they are and welcomed all their significant others and treated them like family. She would wrap the light of Jesus Christ around them and they knew they were safe. She did her hand sign so all would know they were loved. To her grandchildren, her greatest accomplishment was being MEME!

Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers Samuel Smiley and John Smiley, her twin sister, Dartha Stanley and her older sister, Frances Fulton; one daughter, Natalie Brooks; and a granddaughter, Melissa Hall.

She is survived by her children Elizabeth Chapman and her husband Robin, Raymond Buker and his wife Tammy, Heather Buker and her fiancé Bob, Johnna McCollor and her husband John; her grandchildren Melinda Crawford, Megan Rowe and her husband James, Bethany Gary and her husband Sean, Samantha Buker, Morgan Staples and husband Teagan, Gunner Buker, Raymond Buker, Jeffery Buker, Donna Nickerson, Deanna Buker and her fiancé Zac, Zackery Plaisted and husband O’Brien, and Hunter Farr. She also has 10 great-grandchildren and several more on the way; as well as many other extended family members.

Family and friends may call from 6-8 p.m. on November 25 at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home. A private family service will be held at a later time.

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, a donation may be made to the Memorial Fund at the Winslow Congregational Church, 12 Lithgow St., Winslow, ME 04901.

BEVERLY K. BARRETT

WATERVILLE – Beverly Kathleen Barrett, 87, of Harmony died peacefully on Saturday, November 12, 2022, at Mount St. Joseph Nursing Care Center, in Waterville.
Beverly “Bev” was born, in Waterville, on January 4, 1935, the daughter of Reynold and Blanche (Butler) Burgess.

Bev graduated from Waterville High School in the class of 1952.

Over the years Bev was mainly a homemaker and raised her three sons. On top of the hard work put into raising three boys, she also extended a hand and helped raise many of the other children in her neighborhood. She served the community by working in various places in the Oakland area including Grant’s department store, in Waterville, and Buddies groceries, in Oakland.

In the mid 1970s Bev was able to follow her passion for books and reading when she became the Oakland elementary school librarian. She loved working with the children and loved to share her knowledge and passion for learning. She enjoyed reading to them during the school day and inspired many young students to pursue a love for books. She was known for always setting aside personally picked-out novels for them to take home.

In 1982, she met Earl Barrett, the love of her life, and they were married on November 4.

Together, they opened “Bev and Earl’s” vegetable stand on Alpine Street, in Oakland. The greeting on the vegetable stand read “Thanks for being our Friend, Keep Smiling”. Truly, these were words of wisdom that Bev lived by. Through her entire life, she was known for her kindness, selflessness, and positivity. She always extended a helping hand to anyone and made many meaningful friends along the way.

For many years during the late ‘80s and ‘90s, Bev and Earl enjoyed the summer and fall patrons stopping in to get their weekly fill of vegetables. Bev always looked forward to the opening of the vegetable stand and the return of summer friends. She loved to provide in the community and provide love and support to anyone that stopped in.

Those who were blessed to know and be part of Bev’s life realized very quickly that she was the most selfless person they would ever know. She was an angel of God put on this earth to make others smile and be better people. She had the kindest of souls. She loved being around people and was always there to listen and guide many through the good and not so good times. This quality held strong in her later years even as she battled through dementia; she was always smiling and saying, “thank you for coming to see me” and wanting to always share her ice cream that was brought specifically for her. One of her grandsons recently shared that “she was nicest person he had ever had the pleasure of knowing”, and many in her family and in the community share this same thought.

Surviving are her children, Richard and Deborah Wentworth, of Oakland, Jim and Cheryl Wentworth, of Sidney, Don and Doreen Smith, of Sidney, Roy Barrett, of Augusta, Rick Barrett, of Harmony, Roger Barrett, of Oakland, and Jerrilynn and Tim Levinsailor, of Sangerville; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, .

Besides her parents, Bev was predeceased by her first husband Myron Wentworth, husband Earl Barrett, brothers Reynold Jr. Burgess, Leonard Burgess, Earl Burgess, sisters Madeline Stubbert and Marjorie Burgess, and son Daniel Wentworth.

At their request there will be a private family service. There will be no services at this time.

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers-Wheeler, 26 Church St., Oakland. An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at: http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

Those who would like to donate in her memory, the family asks that you donate to your local school or town library. Books were significant in Bev’s life and donating in her honor may have the power to significantly change the lives of the future generation.

JOANNE L. WILLIAMS

WINSLOW – Joanne L. Williams, 87, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 13, 2022, at Woodlands Memory Care, of Rockland, following a battle with Alzheimer’s. Joanne was born in October of 1935, in Houlton, to Dayton and Virgie (Ross) Vail.

She grew up in Houlton as a true “county” girl, graduating from Houlton High School in 1953. She was a member of the National Honor Society and the high school cheerleading squad.

After high school Joanne continued her education at Eastern Maine General School of Nursing, in Bangor, graduating at the top of her class as a registered nurse, in 1956. It was during that time she met George “Rick” Williams on a blind date. They were married in January 1957 and eventually settled in Winslow where they raised four children together. During the early years of marriage, Joanne worked as an RN at Eastern Maine General Hospital, in Bangor, and Thayer Hospital, in Waterville. In 1971 Joanne found her true calling as a nursing instructor for The Maine School of Practical Nursing which later became part of Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield. There she worked for over 18 years. Later in her career, she was a traveling nurse who visited nursing homes to prepare health assessments.

Joanne was an involved volunteer with many organizations including president of The Waterville Business and Professional Women’s Club, Maine Home for Little Wanderers and MaineGeneral Health Auxiliary. In 1971, she was named one of the “Outstanding Young Woman of America”. She was a life-long learner and earned a degree from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1981, obtained her Certificate in Gerontological Nursing in 1991 and in retirement became a certified grief counselor.

Joanne and George were part owners of Northeast Travel, in Waterville, which gave them the opportunity to travel to many wonderful destinations. Upon retirement, they built a beautiful home in Lady Lakes, Florida, where they wintered for about 10 years. Their family camp on Long Pond, in Belgrade, was a favorite place where they spent many memorable moments with family and friends. They later became part owners of several restaurants including Alfred’s and the Ground Round, both in Augusta.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents Dayton and Virgie (Ross) Vail, her sister Lois Loman, and granddaughter Heather Kornmann.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, George “Rick” Williams; her children, Michael and Valerie Williams, Laurie and Gerry Lizotte, Judy and Zack Matthews, Holly and Ray Caron; ten grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister Joyce London; and brothers Kerry Vail and Kim VaiI.

A private Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, for immediate family.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital which was near and dear to her heart. St. Jude Children’s Hospital Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

CHARLES M. POMEROY

FAIRFIELD – Charles M. Pomeroy, 72, passed away at home on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. He was born in Waterville on December 26, 1949, the son of Charles and Mary (Gerry) Pomeroy.

He graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1968.

Charlie worked at Keyes Fibre/Huhtamaki, in Waterville, for 40 years, where he had many friends. Charlie’s animated stories will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and boy could he tell stories! He could fix “Anything” with a piece of wire or duct tape.

Charlie loved hunting and fishing his entire life, passing that love on to family and friends. Charlie earned memberships into the “Biggest Bucks in Maine”, “The one that didn’t get away”, and “The Maine Skull and Antler” clubs. He was a lifelong member of the Masonic lodge.

He also loved gardening and traveling with Debi. They spent several winters in Bonita Springs, Florida, making many wonderful memories with family and friends.

Charlie was the most happy when spending time with his family, and his dogs.

He is survived by his daughter and her family, Tracy Pomeroy (Doug); granddaughter Miranda (Mike); great-grandson due in May 2023; grandson Ross, great-grandchildren Gabby and Reese; and two step-grandchildren, Maddy and Izzy; his daughter and her family, Darcy Liberty (Rob); two grandsons, Rob (Hannah); two great-grandchildren, RaeLynn and Easton, Connor (Mary); his son and his family Cory (Kirsten); granddaughter Cassidy (Cody); great-grandson Carson; granddaughter Courtney (Jared); grandson Colby (Bodhi); his sisters, Shannon, Sherry, Cindy, Trina, Jodi; and a step-brother Kenneth Charles; brothers-in-law Gary Batey (Cindy), Barry Batey (Sarah); and Aunt Marie Carr,

He was predeceased by the love of his life, Debi, his parents, a sister, and a brother, and his step mother.

A graveside service will be held in the spring, where both Charlie & Debi will be laid to rest together.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville ME 04901.

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

VALMOND H. CABANA

WATERVILLE – Valmond Harvey Cabana, 89, of Waterville, passed away at home on Wed­nesday, Nov­ember 16, 2022, after suffering from Parkin­son’s Disease for many years. Val was born in Waterville on January 31, 1933, to Evariste Thaddeus and Ida May Cyr Cabana.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1951. He then joined the United States Navy and later worked as a Waterville Police Officer and for the U.S. Postal Service.

Val was a member of DAV, American Legion, Elks Club and the VFW. He enjoyed figure skating at Colby College and roller skating.

He is survived by his wife, Anita Cabana; his son, Michael Cabana; and his daughter, Stacey Cabana, of South Portland.

At Val’s request, there will be no visiting hours.

A graveside burial service with military honors was held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, in Waterville, on Tuesday, November 22.

Arrangements are entrusted to Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, please visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your memories and condolences with Val’s family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901.

LEON L. PEAVEY

FAIRFIELD – Leon “Bill” L. Peavey, 91, passed away, Tuesday October 25, 2022, at Maine Veterans Home, in Bangor. Leon was born in Fairfield on October 12, 1931, the son of Joseph and Leona (Pea­vey) Robinson.

He attended Fairfield school. He stopped when he went to work in the woods helping his dad cut wood with a crosscut saw.

He was known as Bill because his dad gave him the nickname Buffalo Bill when he was young. Bill was a Veteran of Foreign Wars, serving in the Army, in Korea. He was a cook in the Army.

Returning home he married Ella M. (Pottle) and he also had a milk route delivering for Fitzpatrick Dairy, of Winslow. Over his lifetime, he had other jobs, cooking, construction, and maintenance man. He loved to fish and hunt with family and friends. He built and helped in the construction of many houses. He loved to cook and was great at.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph, and Leona, his spouse, Ella, his siblings, Joseph Holmes Robinson, Inez (Robinson) Moody, Charles Robinson and his wife Vivian, Sylvia (Robinson) Kidd, and Augustus Runnells and his wife Ida, his brother-in-law, Clyde Spaulding, his brothers- in-law and sisters-in-law, Norman and Glennis Thompson, Nathan and Mavis Chase, Lawrence and Hester Pottle, Ed and Faye Pottle, James and Eileen Pottle, and Dorothy Pond.

He is survived by his daughter, Brenda Meins and her husband Jerry, of Kingman, Arizona; his son, Dana Peavey and his wife Darlene, of Clinton; his sister, Virginia Spaulding, of Sidney; his grandchildren, Dallas Lessard, of Arizona, Kevin Peavey and his wife Katina, of Clinton, and Eric Peavey and his wife Corey, of Clinton; his great-grandchildren, Denasia Call and her husband Gordon, Damien Peavey, and Elijah Clarcq; his great-great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Gordon Call Jr; and many nieces and nephews and friends.

A graveside service was held at Brown Cemetery, in Benton, on October 31.

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.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 17, 2022

STANLEY P. TYKS

OAKLAND – Stanley “Stash” P. Tyks, 70, passed away Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Skowhegan on June 27, 1952, and graduated from Skowhegan High School.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army in December 1971, serving in Virginia and Okinawa, receiving Letters of Appreciation for his “untiring efforts, outstanding knowledge and technical skill, and professionalism” with Battery C 1st Battalion 7th ADA, at Ft. Bliss, Texas. He completed his service in January 1975 with an honorable discharge as an E-5, Section Chief of Engineer Section. He received a National Defense Service Medal and qualified as a Sharpshooter Rifle, continuing his interest in firearms throughout his life. He loved science fiction and history and had a life-long passion for learning about technology and tinkering with gadgets (especially his ham radios), as well as boating and fishing. His curiosity about things and people of all sorts, paired with his candid congeniality, endeared him to folks wherever he went.

In 1976, he graduated from Control Data Institute, in Burlington, Massachusetts, with a diploma in computer technology and began a long career as a computer field service engineer and technician. He earned many certifications and letters of commendation during his employment with Data General, Digital Equipment, Hewlett-Packard, and Alternative Resources Corporation. He had his own business, Custom Computer Solutions, for several years during the mid 1990s.

With his first wife, Barbara Mummey, he welcomed the birth of his daughter, Heather Susan Tyks, in May 1985. The family relocated from Massachusetts to Santa Cruz, California, in 1987. After their divorce, Stan later married Gailiene Egan and they relocated back to the east coast, purchasing a home in Skowhegan in 2017.

While in Santa Cruz, Stan served as head usher for the Saturday evening services at Santa Cruz Bible Church. He was baptized in July 1994, and cherished participating in Bible study with a group of fellow Christian men on Saturday mornings.

He is survived by his brother Stephen L. Tyks, D.C., of Skowhegan; daughter Heather Tyks, of Oakland (recently relocated from California); cousin Sonya Clothier and her daughter Monique Johnston and family; cousin Mark Merrill and family; stepdaughter and husband Charlene and Jason Miranda, and their children Jacob, Katelynn, and Mia Grace.

Stan was predeceased by his second wife Gailiene Egan, his parents Stanley T. Tyks and Madora Pomerleau Tyks, sister Carolyn Susan Tyks Davis.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service (Adams Chapel), 445 Waterville Road in Skowhegan. There was a brief military honors service at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, in Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the non-profit Dialysis Clinic, Inc., PO Box 2231, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

STEPHEN F. BEAUREGARD

WINSLOW – Stephen Francis Beauregard, Jr. passed away, in Winslow, on Friday, October 28, 2022. Born in Waterville on January 5, 1942, he was affectionately nicknamed “The General” by his parents, Stephen F. Sr. and Louise Marie (Newbert) Beauregard.

He was raised on the family farm in Benton, graduating high school in 1960. In 1961, he married Arlene Beale, in Skowhegan. He continued living and working on the farm in addition to working full-time at The Eastern Packing Company, in Waterville.

He moved the family to Clinton in 1970 and in 1973, he began operating The Pine Tree Diner, on Main Street. He was known as a great short order cook, never turning away a customer that couldn’t pay.

In 1978, he moved to Worcester, Massachusetts, where he was employed for several years at the Norton Grindstone Factory. He later began working for Bob Courtney Antiques, where he honed his already extensive knowledge of all things collectible.

Around this time, he reconnected with Patricia (Richards) Drouin, whom he had known since high school. Upon their return to Maine, the couple was employed by PB Guide Service and spent many years together.

In 2002, he and Sally purchased a property in Hinckley which they named The Spider Web. He made hundreds of friends over his lengthy antiquing career, earning a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and fairest wholesalers in Maine.

General was a man of many talents. Always an avid sportsman, in his younger years he supplemented the family income by trapping. He was an adept storyteller, using his skills to entertain many a hunter at bear camp or at the shop. With his easy-going nature, he made friends wherever he went, accepting and treating all fairly. What’s more, Steve was a kind, loving and generous man, lending a hand to anyone who needed him.

Stephen is survived by his daughters, Sheri L. Dodge and Sally J. Gorman, both of Winslow; his siblings, Marie (Bob) Philbrook, of Clinton, Betty Spencer, of Benton, Thomas (Kathy) Beauregard, of Squires, Missouri, and Paul (Val) Beauregard, of Skowhegan; grandchildren, Matthew (Danielle) Gorman and son James, of Waterville, Heidi (Brandon) Harnish and children Wesley, Lilian and Adelyn, of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Joseph Gorman, also of Waterville.

He was predeceased by his parents, his first wife Arlene and his long-time companion, Pat.

A celebration of life will be held at VFW Post #6924, in Fairfield, on Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 1- 4 p.m., with a short memorial service at 1:30 p.m.

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

PATRICK V. DEXTER

WATERVILLE – Patrick Vernon Dexter, 50, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 28, 2022. Patrick was born in Waterville, on September 6, 1972, to Dianne (Barter) Christensen and Vernon Dexter.

Patrick graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 1990. He was the youngest of three children. Patrick had a love for the outdoors, hunting, fishing and ice fishing with family and friends. Patrick worked for Bisson/Bekins Van Lines for many years until he left to begin his own business, Dexter Construction.

The loves of his life were his children, in which he shared many memories of football, baseball, swimming, Wrestling and his construction business with his sons working by his side.

Patrick was predeceased by his father, Vernon Dexter; stepfather, James Christensen; Aunts, Uncles and many beloved friends.

Patrick is survived by his mother, Dianne Christensen; stepmother, Tena Dexter; children, Christopher Knowles (Tabitha), Zackery Dexter, Colby Dexter (Ashley Tinsman), Kristen Dexter (Ethan Matthews) and Gabrielle Dexter; grandchildren, Zaydin Knowles, Lauren and Logan Munson, Myles Matthews, and Owen Dexter; brothers, Ronnie (Lynn) and Andrew; stepsister, Maegan Coffin;many nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later time to his family and closest friends.

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

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

ELIZABETH K. SERWIN

VASSALBORO – Elizabeth K. Serwin, 90, died Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at home, following a brief illness. She was born in Lebanon, South Dakota, on January 4, 1932, a daughter of the late Maurice and Elizabeth Kinsley.

She graduated from Henager Business School, in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she met her future husband, Edward Serwin. They were married on September 8, 1951, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She was a mother and homemaker, supporting the family as they made their way to Charlotte, Memphis, Houston, Kansas City, Chicago, and then back to Charlotte, North Carolina. Upon Ed’s departure from Libby, McNeil and Libby, she helped him operate his next venture, K.E.S. Inventory Services, Inc., until they sold the business and retired. After several years, they relocated to Vassalboro to be closer to their youngest daughter MaryAnn.

Mrs. Serwin was a communicant of St. Mary of the Assumption, in Augusta.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edward Serwin; a daughter, Linda Armstrong; a grandson, Andrew Armstrong; three brothers: Ronald, Donald and Maurice Kinsley and two sisters: Clara Bolte and Evelyn Heki.

Mrs. Serwin is survived by four of her children, Loran Serwin and his wife Christy Zieres, of Merritt Island, Florida, Theresa Broomhead and her husband Alan, of Roxborough Park, Colorado, Stephen Serwin and his wife Kecia, of Cary, North Carolina, and MaryAnn Carter and her husband Dean, of Vassalboro; 12 grandchildren: Kimberly, Diana and Brian Serwin, Christopher, Timothy and Collin Broomhead, Hannah Serwin, Luke, Jonathan, Patrick, Michael and Nathanael Carter; 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

At her request, there will be no public visiting hours.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, November 14, at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville. Following cremation, Elizabeth will be reunited with her husband, daughter, and grandson in Charlotte, North Carolina, at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations in Elizabeth’s memory may be made to: Beacon Hospice, 45 Commerce Dr., Augusta, ME, 04330.

RICK JANDREAU

OAKLAND – Rick Jandreau, 62, passed away on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. Rick was born on New Year’s Eve 1959, in Fort Kent. The son of Donald R. and Pauline Oullette Jandreau.

He lived in “The County” (Aroostook County) until he was four and his family moved to Waterville in the ‘60s. He grew up in a large family of eight children, he had amazing memories at Jandreau’s family camp on Messalonskee Lake where many great family times were spent and many wonderful memories of listening to bluegrass. He attended Waterville High School.

Rick worked numerous jobs throughout his life, and always took great pride in his work. He always spoke of working at Diamond Match, in Oakland. He spent many years at Marden’s, in Waterville, and owned his own business, Jandreau’s Jacking. To Rick, no one was a stranger – people gravitated to him as he had a kind and compassionate heart.

His joys were simple and abundant. He enjoyed working around his East Pond camp and his home in Belgrade, spending time at camp on Great Pond, fishing, hunting, painting, reading, cooking, gardening (of which he shared with all our neighbors), throwing wood in the cellar, taking a cruise on his motorcycle, and snowmobiling with his buds. He regularly spoke of one of his favorite trips, which he took to Alaska, and wanted to return someday.

He was predeceased by his parents, sister Nancy Jandreau Johnson, and my brother Ricky Damren.

He is survived by fiancée Judy Hallowell, of Belgrade; daughter Britney Jandreau, of Waterville; sister Judee Jandreau, of Kennebunk, Peter (Carol), of Soldier Pond, Donald Jr., of Waterville, Kevin (Janice), of Benton, David (Kristy), of Winslow, Brian, of Norridgewock, and Jimmy Johnson, of Sidney; nephews and nieces, Christopher Jandreau, Nicole King, Jared Jandreau, Brent Jandreau, Kenny Jandreau, Sabrina Jandreau, and Nathan Jandreau; his aunts and uncles; a great-niece and nephews; he also leaves behind my sister Susan Damren, niece Desiree Damren (Jeremy), nephews Jeremy (Thomas), Scott (Kate), and Conrad.

Rick wishes for no funeral, there will be a graveside service to be determined at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Waterville Humane Society, 100 Webb Rd, Waterville, ME 04901. It is where we got our fur baby, Willow, who he loved so much; or to the charity of your choice.

TODD H. FLETCHER

SIDNEY – Todd H. Fletcher, 63, passed away Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born Jan­uary 4, 1959, in Water­ville, the son of William A. and Minnie L. (Morrill) Fletcher.

He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1977. On July 13, 1984, he married Cynthia Dufour, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville. He was employed by a number of companies over the years including New Balance 2004-2019, Unity College 2003-2004, Newark Paperboard 1998-2003, Scott Paper, in Winslow 1986-1998, and Dufour’s Construction 1984-1986. Todd enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling and spending time with family and friends.

Todd is survived by his wife of 38 years, Cynthia (Dufour) Fletcher, of Sidney; siblings, Nancy Fletcher and husband Robert, of Albion, Margaret Lehay, of Skowhegan, William Fletcher and wife Elizabeth, of Thorndike, Marion Ewen, of Windsor, Penny Fletcher and husband Michael, Mike Fletcher, and Mark Fletcher and wife Melissa, all of Albion.

He was predeceased by sisters, Betty Fletcher, Janet Davis and Elaine Dionne.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, November 25, 2022, from 2 to 4:00 p.m., at MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow.

In lieu of flowers friends wishing may make donations in Todd’s memory to the Kidney Foundation of Maine, 470 Forest Avenue, Portland ME 04101.

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

LOUISE M. A. STAPLES

SIDNEY – Louise Marie Allarie Staples, 70, passed away peacefully in Sidney, on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. Louise was born in Augusta, on April 25, 1952, daughter of Albert and Rita Allarie.

Born and raised in Maine, Louise lived in Augusta and graduated from Cony High School. After high school, she married her first husband, Jerry Reynolds and together they were blessed with four children. Louise worked for many years as a certified nurse’s assistant at Graybirch Nursing Home and kitchen manager at the Augusta Civic Center. Louise had a passion for caregiving and healing others and attended school for nursing.

She demonstrated the utmost love, compassion and commitment when she took on her healing spiritual work instead in order to be a fulltime caregiver for her mother for several years. In the mid-’90s, Louise married the love of her life, Bruce. Together, they had many adventures, but they both loved the peace and serenity of their home where they lived happily in Sidney, for 26 years.

Louise was a spiritual life coach to many near and far. She was well known and loved for her generosity and kindness toward everyone. She was small but mighty and had an enormous capacity to love. She was a woman of many talents, an herbalist, a gardener, and seamstress. She loved spending time with her family, teaching her children and grandchildren to cook and preserve food, crochet, paint, and above all else, to love and accept others with open arms. Louise was a kind soul and had a great sense of humor. She had an amazing gift and used it to help many find courage and self-love. She was our earth angel.

She was predeceased by her parents Albert P. Allarie and Rita M. Allarie.

She is survived by her husband, Bruce Staples; son Jason Reynolds and his wife Kelly, of Vienna; daughters Sarah Merrow, of Sidney, Christina Carter and her husband Jeremy, of Winthrop, Sherie Knowlan and her husband Troy, of Winthrop; stepdaughter Lacey Studholme and her husband Shawn, of South China; and stepson Nick Staples and his fiancée Megan, of Lewiston; 12 grandchildren, Kahleb, Dakota, Cheyenne, Zachary, Jacob, Aiden, Jason Jr., Gabriel, Madison, Owen, Sophia, Dayton; and one great-grandchild Lila; two sisters, Lucille Gosselin and her husband Paul, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Suzanne Dowling and her husband Steve, of Augusta; and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to join on Saturday, November 19, from noon – 3 p.m., at Le Club Calumet, 334 W. River Road, Augusta, Maine 04334, to share memories and celebrate Louise’s life. She loved her beautiful scarves, if so inclined, please join in wearing a scarf to remind everyone of the beauty she saw in all.

Arrangements are in the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, Maine, 04330.

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

LINDA BRESLIN

WINSLOW – Linda Breslin, 80, died Thursday, November 3, 2022. She was born on April 26, 1942, in Steubenville, Ohio, to Helen Lang and Charles Barr.

Her mother and father met while Charles was stationed in Brooklyn with the U.S. Army. They moved shortly after to Ohio where Linda was born. Her sister Gail was born after that in Brooklyn, New York. Charles and Helen were divorced and Helen moved back to New York. Helen remarried William O’Sullivan.

Linda graduated from New Dorp High School and went to Hunter College from which she graduated with a BA in political science. Linda subsequently obtained a master’s degree from Fordham University. After working as a social worker for several years she left the field to study painting full-time at the Brooklyn Museum Art School and studied with Reuben Tam.

Linda was persuaded to return to social work and subsequently began a career in mental health administration. She served as an associate commissioner for the New York Department of Mental Health before moving to Maine to become superintendent of Augusta Mental Health. James and Linda had vacationed for several years prior to this at their camp in Liberty. James and Linda had one son, JB, who died from a seizure at age 30. Linda left AMHI and became director of Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, and eventually retired.

Mrs. Breslin also served as president of the Liberty Lakes Lake Association for 20 years from which she recently retired. She had a deep interest in ecology and lake preservation. Her hobbies were reading and working with stained glass. She loved dogs, especially her Standard Poodle, Annie.

Linda is survived by her husband James; her sister Gail Judson and her husband Roger; two nephews Jon and Chris; and a great-nephew, JJ.

She elected to be cremated with no funeral but a memorial service will be planned in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, Linda would have wanted donations to be sent her memory to Goodwill Industries of New England at https://goodwillnne.org/donate/.

DENISE D. BOURQUE

WATERVILLE – Denise (Davis) Bourque, 65, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 4, 2022, at her home, in Waterville, following a brief, but valiant battle with cancer.

Denise was born in Millinocket on April 26, 1957, the daughter of Chester H. and Jeannette (Forand) Davis. Denise attended schools in Old Town and graduated from Old Town High School in 1975. Denise attended Beal College, in Bangor, and graduated in 1978 with an associate’s degree in business management.

Denise spent most of her career working in retail and retired from Hallmark as supervisor in 2019. She spent her spare time working on various crafts like crocheting, cross stitch and plastic canvas. She also loved researching her family’s genealogy and traced her family’s ancestry all the way back to the Mayflower.

Denise is survived by her husband of 14 years, Fern; stepchildren, William Bourque and his wife Rhonda, Lynn Berry and her husband Mitchell; brothers Chester Davis, and Jeffrey Davis and his wife Karen; brothers-in-law Stephen Bourque and his wife Lois, and Terry Anthony; nieces Natasha, Rose, Frannie and Celeste; and many great- nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents.

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

A committal service will be held at Morses Corner Cemetery in Corinna on Saturday, November 12, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, at http://www.hswa.org.

TAMMIE V. STROUT

WINDSOR – Tammie V. Strout, 58, of Windsor, died peacefully at her home Saturday November 5, 2022. She was born March 11, 1964, in Alma, Georgia, the daughter of Claude Earl Smith Jr. and Martha Brann.

At age 9, Tammie and her family moved to Chelsea, where she would go on to meet her future husband and have two children, Brett and Natasha.

Tammie had a passion for life. She loved scrapbooking, knitting and sewing. She also had a love for the outdoors, flowers and long walks. She loved to make people laugh and was always the center of attention with her jokes, contagious laugh and smile.

Tammie had a heart of gold and will be missed by many.

She was pre deceased by her father Claude Earl Smith Jr.

Tammie is survived by her mother Martha Brann; her son Brett Strout and daughter-in- law Tamra Strout; daughter Natasha Strout; granddaughters Briana and Makenzi Strout and Alisha Wilson; her brothers Earl Smith and Jerold Smith; nephew Jared Smith; and niece Jessica Smith.

Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

VIVIAN F. BROCHU

WINSLOW – Vivian F. Brochu, 77, of Winslow, formerly of Bingham, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 6, 2022, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor, following a brief illness.

Vivian was born in Passaic, New Jersey, on April 20, 1945, the oldest daughter of Weldon and Edith Caldwell. She graduated from Madison Memorial High School with the class of 1963, and attended Una’s Academy where she received her cosmetology degree. She owned and operated Vivian Hair Fashions from her home for 50 years, retiring in 2014. Vivian married George Brochu on April 27, 1968, and they were married for 53 wonderful years. Following George’s passing, she relocated to Winslow to be closer to her daughters.

Vivian enjoyed spending her summers with her beloved husband George at their camp on Embden Pond where they would enjoy boating, fishing, campfires, playing cards and listening to country music. She loved to watch the races on TV and visiting with friends and family. She was an avid viewer of the Hallmark Channel especially during the holiday season. Christmas was her favorite time of year. Vivian loved to decorate her home for Christmas with her vast collection of Christmas Carolers and her beautiful Christmas village. She also loved to read in her spare time and had several favorite authors.

She was predeceased by her parents, as well as her husband George, who passed on March 21, 2021.

Vivian is survived by her daughters, Tonya Smith and her husband Rick, of Winslow, and Donna Lewis and her husband Chad, of Fairfield; five grandchildren, Kristopher Smith and his wife Jillian, Kaitlyn Smith, Trevor Lewis, Tyler Lewis, and Alexis Lewis; her sister Joyce Gagne and her husband Robert, of Florida. Her brothers-in-law Dick Brochu and his wife Patricia, of Montana, and John Brochu and his partner Judy Daviau, of Florida; her aunts, Esther Bell, of Delaware, and Barbara Vivian, of Greene; as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in Robinson Memorial Cemetery, in Moscow, on Saturday, November 19, 2022, at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to join at St. Peter’s Catholic Church for light refreshments immediately following her service.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Peter’s Food Pantry, c/o Alieta Belanger, P.O. Box 391, Bingham ME 04901.

DANIEL GORGONE

WINDSOR – Daniel Gorgone, 91, passed away on Monday, November 7, 2022, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a brief illness. He was born in Queens, New York, on June 19, 1931, to Juiseppe and Sambastiana Gorgone.

He was raised in New York with his seven brothers and sisters. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, which brought him to Maine, where he met his soon-to-be wife, Mary Shinay, in 1951. They raised their family and eventually built their dream home in Windsor.

Dan worked as a mechanic while serving in the Air Force, then went on to be employed at Togus VA hospital, in
Augusta, for over 20 years, before retiring. Throughout his life, he participated in harness racing. He owned, trained, and drove horses in the sport for over 50 years; he loved his horses, especially Homeboy Van, and valued the lifelong friendships he developed because of the sport.

When he wasn’t at the track, there was no telling where he could be. Dan loved to live life and experience everything it had to offer. Whether it was searching for an authentic Italian restaurant, attending a seasonal festival, or just exploring. He always looked forward to breakfast with his granddaughter Corey and outings with his grandson Garret joining in on his plans. Dan always loved when his family and friends were all together, whether for a holiday or the decades spent together at the Windsor fair.

After losing his wife, Mary, he was fortunate to meet and spend 22 years with his companion Anita Reynolds. Regardless of what life gave him, he took every day as a gift and every hardship as a challenge to overcome.

Dan was pre-deceased by his parents, five brothers and sisters, and two grandchildren.

Dan is survived by his his daughters Ann Marie Ulrich, of Wiscasset, Bette Barajas, of Windsor; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother Salvatore Gorgone; sister Theresa Reimer; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, November 15, at St. Denis Catholic Church, 298 Grand Army Road, Whitefield. Burial will be in the spring in Rest Haven Cemetery, Windsor Road, Windsor.

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

GUY J. BROCHU

WINDSOR – Guy J. Brochu, 82, of Brochu Lane, died Friday, November 11, 2022, following a brief illness. He was born in Thet­ford Mines, Province of Québec, Canada, on April 3, 1940, the son of Romeo and Leah Brochu.

Guy was self-employed as the owner of Brochu Foundations for many years before starting Techno Metal Post. After retiring from Techno Metal Post, he always made time for hunting and fishing, it was his idea of the perfect retirement. When he wasn’t fishing, you would find him working in his garage to repair and repurpose anything with a motor. Guy was always lending a helping hand to his children and grandchildren, as his way of taking care of them in any way he could. He was also a member of the Maine Harness Horseman Association and enjoyed horse racing for many years with his wife Louiselle. Guy was a devout member of St. Michael Parish at St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Guy was pre-deceased by his wife Louiselle Brochu, and his brother Claude Brochu.

He is survived by his only daughter, Linda N. Pepin and her husband Jerry, of Windsor; two sons, Michael J. Brochu and his wife Wendy, of Manchester, and Gocelyn (Joey) Brochu and his significant other, Laurie Tondreau, of Augusta. Although Guy had two sons, Jerry is thought of as a third son; grandchildren, Chelsea Moore and her husband Shawn Moore, of Clayton, North Carolina, Lucas Brochu and his wife Ashley, of Sidney, Lyndsey Lee and her husband Dalton, of Windsor, Cameron Brochu and his significant other, Courtney King, of Oakland; great-grandchildren, Louiselle (LJ) Marshall, Landon Marshall and Joey Brochu; his sister, Yolande Brochu (Mike Roy), of Ste. Valerien Québec, Canada; his brothers, Jean Denis Brochu (Georgette) Augusta, Robert Brochu (Marielle ), René Brochu (Joanne), all of Beloeil, Québec, Canada, Gatean Brochu (Marie), of Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada, and Aurelle Poulin (Denise-deceased), of Yalesville, Connecticut; nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, November 19, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street, Augusta.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m., at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 75 Northern Ave., Augusta, followed by a gathering at the Manchester Lions Club. Following cremation, a private burial will be held at Holy Family Cemetery, Augusta. Condolences, photos and memories may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

OTHERS DEPARTED

LISA M. GAGNE

BRUNSWICK – Lisa Marie Gagne, 61, of Brunswick formerly of Oakland, died on Thurs­day, November 3, 2022, following an almost three-year courageous battle with cancer. Lisa was born in Waterville on March 25, 1961, to Normand and Jeannine Bard, of Winslow. Lisa, along with her siblings, Peter Bard, Linda Bourque and Andrew Bard grew up and attended Winslow public school.

Lisa was a Junior in High School when she met her true love Randall Lee Gagne after talking on a CB radio. Upon graduation from Winslow High School, Lisa moved to Huntsville, Alabama, for six months to attend cosmetology school studying under the prestigious instructor, Ann Bray.

Lisa is survived by her husband of 41 years, Randall Gagne, of Brunswick; her son Eric Gagne, his wife Laura and their son Aidan, of Wellesley, Massachusetts; her daughter Ashley Obptande, her husband Jeremy and their sons, Bryce and Burke, of Brunswick; her father and mother, Normand and Jeannine Bard, of Winslow; her brother Peter Bard, his wife Joanne, of Milford, Massachusetts; her sister Linda Bourque, her husband George, of Burnham; her brother, Andrew Bard, of Winslow.

She was predeceased by her twin brother and sister Michael and Michelle Bard, her maternal grandparents Vital and Ernestine Albert, her paternal grandparents Henry and Modeste Bard as well as several aunts and uncles.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 18, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (www.give.ovarian.org) or to your local animal shelter in Lisa’s name.

DEATH NOTICES

WENDY A. PERKINS

JEFFERSON – Wendy A. Perkins passed away Sunday, November 13, 2022, at her home, in Jefferson. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 18, 2022, from 5 – 7 p.m., at Hall’s of Waldoboro, 949 Main Street, in Waldoboro.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 19, at 1 p.m., at the West Washington Cemetery, Highway 206, in Washington. Hall’s of Waldoboro has care of the arrangements.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 10, 2022

MELISSA A. MILLER

ROME – Melissa Ann Miller, 48, of Rome, passed away on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, following a lengthy illness. She was born Melissa Ann Rodgers to Leo and Suzanne Rodgers, of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, on April 22, 1974.

Melissa grew up on her family’s farm, and attended Tamaqua High School, in Tamaqua, graduating in 1992. She then attended Messiah College, in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, from which she graduated magna cum laude in 1996. She served for many years as a decorated schoolteacher in Bethlehem and Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and in Waterville and Belgrade, primarily teaching fifth grade which was a favored age for her.

After her children were born, Melissa became a full-time homemaker, devoting her life to raising her family, though she also found time to volunteer in the local schools, at her church and for many years at a Christian summer camp, in Farmington.

Melissa was a charter member of Living Water Community Church, in Waterville, and Oakland, where she worshiped for over 20 years. She was a long-time leader in the church, serving especially in the children’s ministry and in women’s ministry. She was able to minister to hundreds of children over the years, teaching them the fundamentals of the Christian faith, but she also was adept at discipling adults and inspiring them to seek greater spiritual maturity in their lives.

Throughout all of her roles of service over the years, Melissa’s life was marked by her humble, gracious way of giving to others, always focusing on their needs over her own. One of Melissa’s great passions for over 15 years was serving during the summers at the Girls Camp, at Farmington. She served in many positions over the years, eventually as a co-director of the camp. At camp, she was able to influence an entire generation of young women, encouraging them to grow in their Christian faith while also enjoying a fun-filled week of camp activities such as archery, swimming and kayaking, as well as arts and crafts and personal worship times. And, of course, she got to teach the girls a lot of silly camp songs and perform in crazy skits. The enduring camaraderie between both campers and staff was a major source of pleasure in Melissa’s life.

In her personal life Melissa enjoyed many pursuits, including baking and cooking, gardening, kayaking, hiking and camping among other interests. She was a capable artist working in several media over the years, and she enjoyed blessing her friends and family with the fruits of her creations and especially with the gift of her time. Her greatest passion, however, always was serving her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She studied the Bible diligently and continually sought to apply its truths in her life on a daily basis. She always would be the first to admit that she was not perfect and was ever in need of a loving savior, but she never ceased trying to become as Christ-like as possible in her attitudes and actions. She lived her life as simply as she could, without putting on airs or seeking wealth or power, and she sought to live her life “deeply and meaningfully” by pursuing personal holiness in every aspect of her life.

Melissa is survived by her husband Todd Miller, of Rome; a son Ethan and a daughter Lydia, also of Rome; her father Leo ‘Butch’ Rodgers, of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania; her brother Keith Rodgers and his family of Barnesville, Pennsylvania; as well as numerous other relatives in Pennsylvania and Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her mother Suzanne Schock Rodgers, her grandparents Peter and Ella Rodgers, and Elmer and Rita Schock, all of Barnesville, Pennsylvania; as well as numerous other relatives.

Arrangements are under Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 ELm St., Waterville. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Miller family.

The family suggests that donations in honor of Melissa may be directed to:

The Girls Camp at Farmington, c/o The Farmington Conference Center, P.O. Box 148, West Farmington, ME 04992.

RONALD M. LeCLAIR

WINSLOW – Ronald M. LeClair, 64, passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2022, following a battle with cancer. Ron was born in Waterville to Robert and Noella (Gilbert) LeClair, in August 1958, just minutes before his identical twin brother, Don.

He attended Winslow area schools, where he and Don were known for their twin hijinks. Ron married JoAnn, his wife of nearly 36 years, in December 1986. They had their only son, Brandon, in 1989.

After spending time in the restaurant business, Ron began a career in sales under the guidance of his longtime mentor, Walter Simcock, at Colonial Distributors, in Waterville. Ever the consummate salesman, he built an impressive resume with Pine State Trading, in Augusta, Northeast Coffee, in Skowhegan, and finally, Levesque Pools, in Fairfield. Over the last several years, he owned and operated Limo Services ME, providing luxury transportation to a host of clients, notably Colby College, with whom he developed a wonderful working relationship.

His true passion, though, was community service. Ron served as chairman of the Winslow Family 4th of July Celebration for 15 years, cultivating one of the largest parades and fireworks displays in the state of Maine until his retirement from the committee in 2010. Many around town would affectionately call him “Mr. 4th of July,” or “Mr. Mayor”, titles he was not-so-secretly proud to wear.

Ron was predeceased by his parents Robert and Noella; and brothers John and Paul.

He is survived by his wife JoAnn; son Brandon; identical twin brother Don (Dametri); brothers Luxy (Marie), Tony, Peter (Karen); sisters Susan and Rose; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to remember and celebrate Ron as the life of every party, get together, and occasion. He was full of life and vigor – a tirelessly hard worker who possessed an inexplicable amount of energy, unmatched by all who tried to keep up. He was fiercely proud of his and JoAnn’s property, particularly his landscaping and his “beautiful backyahd.” He’d show off his flowers to family, friends, and strangers alike. Ron made sure that no one ever left the house hungry, or thirsty – try as you might to resist his offers. His spirit was infectious and welcoming to all.

At his request, no formal funeral will be held. The family invites all to celebrate Ron on Saturday, November 12, at the Schair-Swenson-Watson Alumni Center, at Colby College, Mayflower Hill Drive, Waterville, from 1 – 3 p.m.

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 invites donations to: the Make-A-Wish foundation of Maine, with whom Ron was a proud transportation partner.

LILLIAN GOUTHIER

WATERVILLE – Lillian Gouthier, 72, of Waterville, passed away on Friday, October 28, 2022, following a short battle with cancer. She was born in Macon, Georgia, in 1949, to Ulysses Willis, and Louise Willis, nee Owens.

Lillian attended Haverhill High School, and graduated from Whittier Vo-Techs 1977 Licensed Pratical Nurse Program.

Lillian worked as a LPN, at Oxford Manor, Hale Hospital, nursing services and private duty, in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Florida, and Maine, until she retired in the mid 2010s. She loved the Lord, family, gospel music, singing in the choir, bingo, and shopping for a bargain.

She is preceeded in death by her mother, Louise Pearce, father, Ulysses Willis, a sister, Christine Johnson, and a brother, Steven Willis.

Lillian is survived by her partner of almost 30 years, Karl Chabot; her children, Leon Willis, Chani Parent, Shirleyann Jones, Talcum Beckett and her spouse, Michael Beckett, and Kadesphadina Gouthier. She loved Roseanna Berry, Shawn Parent, and Marco Mazariegos as her own. Lillian leaves nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

She did not want visiting hours or a funeral. A Celebration of Life gathering is being planned for the near future.

RICHARD W. DAMREN JR.

BELGRADE – Richard W. Damren Jr., 66, known to most as “Rick”, passed away after a three-year battle with pulmonary hypertension on Friday, October 28, 2022. Rick was born on December 29, 1955, a son to Richard W. Damren Sr. and Mayna Damren.

Rick spent most of his life dedicated to the citizens of Belgrade, whether it was being a lifelong member of the Belgrade Fire Department, a school bus driver, or serving as a frugal Selectman for the Town of Belgrade.

Later in Rick’s life, he and Tammy Damren raised three boys, Conrad Shaw, Jeremy Damren and his partner Thomas Stinson, and Scott Damren and his wife Kate Damren, all from Belgrade. All three boys grew up in the passenger seat of his pick-up truck, whether going to fire and rescue calls, plowing snowy roads and driveways with him after winter storms, or riding with him around the state fixing everything from tractors, lawn mowers, and chainsaws. Rick also had much love and fondness for his niece, Desiree Damren. Rick also had several four-legged grandsons that he was very proud of.

Rick served on the Belgrade Fire Department since his teenage years, serving as chief from 1987-2000. Public service became a strong family tradition as his three sons are also dedicated members of the fire department. Amongst many other accomplishments, one of his most proud was working alongside his Deputy Chief Bill Pulsifer, as they brought the Belgrade Lakes Fire Department, the Belgrade Depot Fire Department and the North Belgrade Fire Department to what is it known today, a whole entity, the Belgrade Fire Department. During his time on the department, there were very few fire or rescue calls that he missed. Rick was also a member of the Oakland Fire Department for many years.

Among other things such as his snow plowing and firewood businesses, Rick spent many years as a school bus driver, becoming a father figure to many of the children. Rick also spent many years on the Town of Belgrade’s Selectboard. There was never a doubt that people didn’t know his position on town matters, always keeping a careful eye on his taxpayers’ dollars. Most currently, Rick helped manage his sister Judy and predeceased brother-in-law’s company, Dave Hallowell Construction. Rick leaves behind an incredible legacy of being a loving father, an extremely hard worker, and great man many could count on.
Prior to Rick’s passing, the Belgrade Fire Department voted to dedicate the North Belgrade Fire Station in his honor. A dedication and memorial will be held later.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Rd., Farmington, ME 04938.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association, P.O. Box 404, Belgrade, ME 04917, which will make it possible to purchase lifesaving equipment for the citizens of Belgrade.

DANIEL C. QUIRION

WINSLOW – Daniel Charles Quirion of Winslow, passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2022, following a long and valiant fight with medical health challenges.

Dan was born in Waterville, but was raised as a Winslow Black Raider. Dan was the son of Joseph George Quirion and Mary Jane Butler.

Dan graduated from Winslow High School in 1971 where he lit up the basketball court with his deep corner shots. He attended American International College and later transferred to the University of Maine where he earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education.

Dan worked at the Waterville Boys and Girls Club and went on to serve for over 30 years at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital. He also served as an assistant basketball coach for the University of Maine at Augusta, Thomas College, and Colby College, both in Waterville. During retirement, he worked as a substitute teacher. Dan often voiced how it was an honor meeting and working with many courageous people over the years.

Family was at the core of who Dan was as a man. He met the love of his life, Kimberly Kittredge, at the age of 13. Kim and Dan were married for 49 years. Dan had been a tough young man with some life battle scars at an early age. Kimberly saw his caring and loyal soul, and they shared a beautiful love story that is now the foundation of new generations. Dan’s most cherished roles were as husband, father, and grandfather. There was no other place he would rather be than watching his children and grandchildren do what they love; they were his pride and joy.

Dan had the heart of a champion. He was a fierce competitor who encouraged himself and those around him to strive for excellence. Dan was both a player and a coach, and (if you were lucky enough to be in his inner circle) he was one of your biggest supporters in pursuit of your dreams.

Dan loved new adventures. Dan was a beautiful blend of opposites: he was tough as nails and yet unapologetically sentimental; he was a straight shooter, a no non-sense sort of man who also had tremendous capacity for tenderness and a depth of love that is rare. Dan had both a warrior spirit and a gentleman’s heart.

Dan was predeceased by his parents Joseph Quirion and Mary Jane Butler; brother-in-law Lieutenant Colonel John Story, and his sister-in-law Gayla Cassidy.

Dan is survived by his wife Kimberly Quirion (Kittredge); daughter Amie Lyn Hasham; son Nathan Daniel Quirion; grandchildren Savannah and Malik Hasham and Dean and Brynn Quirion; sisters Gene Bard and Bernadette Phair; son-in-law Dr. Muneer Hasham; daughter-in-law Nicole Quirion; sisters-in-laws Colleen Story and Kathy Drouin; brothers-in-law Conrad Bard, David Phair, Paul Drouin, Mike Cassidy and Roger Gagnon; and nieces and nephews Jeff, Cammie, Chad, Roxie, Shelley, Mariann, Angela, Matthew, and Mariah; his great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Dan’s life will be held on Saturday November 26, 2022, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main St., in Fairfield, with readings and stories of remembrance beginning at 2 p.m.

JOHN C. RASTROM

WATERVILLE – John C. Rastrom, 58, passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2022, following a brief stay in the hospital.

After graduating from Winslow High School he joined the U.S. Navy for five years. He became a union welder and worked throughout New England .

He leaves behind his son Johnny; mother Sally Rynne; brother Jim Quinn; sisters Jill Turner (Mickey) and Donna Morrin; and stepsisters Michelle Labbe (Mark), Paula Walker, Jeanne Rynne, and Michele Rhodes (Jim).

Interment will be held on Friday, November 18, at 2 p.m., at Veterans Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Rd., Augusta.

ISAAC J. POLLARD

PALERMO – Isaac (“Ike”) James Pollard, 22, son of Jerry and Stephanie Pollard, passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2022. He was born on March 18, 1990 at Belfast hospital.

He took his time coming into this world, but to his mother and father he was worth the wait.

Isaac grew up in Palermo, on the farmstead of his great-grandparents. From the time he was just a boy he loved the woods. Isaac was a hunter at heart, and spent many seasons hunting with his father.

He attended Palermo Consolidated School, K -8th grade and maintained high honors throughout those years. He was a bright young man. Ike graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, and continued with high honors. During high school Isaac played varsity baseball as well as varsity golf. He became quite a fan of golf, as well as disc golf.

After high school he learned the roofing trade and became quite accomplished in this field. He had a good work ethic and he was always ready to help out. One of his roofing customers said he was a most polite young man who’s work was outstanding.

Isaac was a die hard New England Patriots fan as well as a big Boston Red Sox fan. Many hours were spent watching the games with friends and his father. He loved disc golf, even scoring a hole in one. Another passion was fishing, especially ice fishing, and just spending time with his good friends. He was a kind and gentle soul with a big heart. Always ready to pitch in when needed.

Isaac was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Nathalie and Vernon Clark and paternal grandparents Edward and Helen Pollard.

He is survived by his parents Jerry and Stephanie Pollard; as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Isaac’s burial will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 20, from noon until 3 p.m., at the Sheepscot Fish and Game clubhouse, on Rte. 3, in Palermo.

BRIAN G. MOODY

SIDNEY – Brian Gene Moody, 50, died unexpectedly on Saturday, October 29, 2022, following a brief illness. He was born in Augusta on March 31, 1972, the son of Clyde and Marcia (Hinckley) Moody.

He lived most of his life in Sidney and attended Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

He was employed at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, for several years.

Brian enjoyed helping his family, friends and neighbors lending a hand whenever it was needed. He enjoyed playing poker, disc golf, hunting, camping and just making others laugh with his sense of humor. He especially liked spending time with his son and best friend, Nickolas. Brian leaves behind an incredible legacy of being a loving father, extremely hard worker and a great man many could count on.

He is survived by his wife, Melissa “Lisa” Moody; son, Nickolas Moody and his fiancée Ashlyn Cook; grandson, Everrett Moody; mother Marcia Moody; brothers Wayne Moody and his wife Tina and Richard Moody; sisters Lorraine Skidgel and her husband Sheldon, Elaine Smith, Sharon Smith and her husband Brent, Sherry Libby and her husband Dwayne, Tammy Gagnon and her husband Jeffrey, Pam Libby Decker and her husband James; sister-in-law Tammy Desjardins and her husband Mark; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., at Reynolds Cemetery, Reynolds Hill Road, in Sidney, on Saturday, November 12. A celebration of life will follow where all are welcome at his niece Sabrina’s home in Sidney (address to be announced at service).

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to wife Lisa to help with funeral and other expenses.

JOYCE A. ROWE

CLINTON – Joyce A. Rowe, 89, of Clinton, passed away on Sunday October 30, 2022. Joyce was born in Burnham on July 21, 1933, in the home of her grandparents, Edward P. and Lillian (Young) Hunt. Joyce was the daughter of Lloyd and Francis (Miles) Hunt.

Joyce attended Burnham schools and graduated from Maine Central Institute (MCI), in Pittsfield, 1953. Joyce went on to Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1954.

Joyce married Albert E. Rowe Jr. on December 30, 1955.

She was employed by the Burnham Chair Factory, then went on to work at Cooper-Weymouth until retiring in 1995.

She was an active member of the Eastern Star #103, where she held many offices and truly enjoyed the fellowship and being an active member.

She was also a member of the Brown Memorial Church, in Clinton, and the Brown Memorial Methodist Women. Joyce was an avid reader and a long patron of the Brown Memorial Library, in Clinton. Joyce was very thoughtful and always one of the first to visit anyone in need, and to send cards for all occasions always with a personal note in each.

After retirement, later in life, Joyce met Mason, Richard Gary. Joyce and Richard traveled to Alaska and Las Vegas, Nevada, and the Grand Canyon. Joyce and Richard also went on a number of very special family trips to Disney World.

Joyce’s greatest joys were family gatherings and especially those with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Joyce loved being surrounded by family and friends.

Joyce was predeceased by her father Lloyd and mother Francis, brother Edward, husband Sony and her companion Richard Gary.

Joyce is survived by her daughter Ellen Faulkner and husband Ken; grandchildren Hannah Marcia and husband Travis, and Jacob Faulkner and Jade Parker; great-grandchildren Carson, Westyn, Kendal and Nash; sisters, Charlene Call, Rebecca McKenney, and Crystal Cyr; and many nieces and nephews.

A private burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton in the family plot 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.

OTHERS DEPARTED

JANICE L. PELLETIER M.D.

ORONO – Janice L. Pelletier M.D., 65, passed away on Sunday, October 23, 2022. Jan was born on May 15, 1957, the second of six children of Raymond A. Pelletier and Jeanne I. (Poulin) Pelletier, of Winslow.

In 1983 she married Dr. Leonard J. Kass, together with whom she raised two children, Nigel and Eleanore “Elea” Kass.

Jan attended Winslow High School, class of 1975, and Harvard University, class of 1979, with a degree in psychology. Jan was accomplished both as an athlete and a scholar, and also pursued a wide range of other interests.

In high school she engaged in field hockey, track, gymnastics, band, and cheerleading (some in the same season), and at Harvard she participated in the crew team and played soccer (again in the same season).

After Harvard Jan attended the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, in New York City, New York, graduating in 1984. She completed her medical residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and her fellowship at the Hospital for Sick Children, in Toronto, Canada. She was a clinical professor at Tufts, the University of Vermont, and the University of New England, in Biddeford, and an ad hoc professor at the University of Maine. She was a prolific writer and contributor to medical research, having authored, co-authored or otherwise contributed to more than 20 grants and 50 publications. Jan’s resume, spanning a full 11 pages, evidences the tremendous breadth and scope of her professional career and may be viewed along with other details from her life at the CaringBridge website assembled by her family.

Jan is survived by her husband of 39 years, Dr. Leonard Kass of Orono; her two children, Nigel Kass of Anaheim, California, and Eleanore Kass of Austin, Texas; her brother, Ronald Pelletier and wife Ning Sawangjaeng, of Lincolnville; her sister, Karen Pelletier and partner Anu Makynen, of Portland; her brothers, Mark Pelletier and wife Leslie King Pelletier, of Winslow, Dominic Pelletier and wife Beth Audet Pelletier, of Raymond, Jeffrey Pelletier and wife Lilly Ampai Chiu Pelletier, of Carlsbad, California; and her father’s partner and fiancée of 30 years Martha (Grindall) Audet, of Winslow.

Janice was predeceased by her parents Raymond A. Pelletier and Jeanne (Poulin) Pelletier, her father- and mother-in-law, Adolph and Eleanore (Klein) Kass; and her sisters-in-law Nancy (Willey) Pelletier, Ingrid (Renken) Kass, Eileen Kass, and Patricia (Fitzgerald) Kass.

JOAN M. McEACHERN

HOLLISTON, Massachusetts – Joan M. McEachern, 92, of Holliston, Massachusetts, passed away on Friday, October 28, 2022, at the Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Natick, Massachusetts. Joan was born in Waterville, on March 15, 1930, and was the daughter of the late Edesse (Guerrette) and Leon Dugal and one of 14 children.

She was the wife of 52 years to Clinton P. McEachern, who predeceased her in 2020. She attended public schools in Winslow.

Joan loved country music. In her teenage years, she and her sisters could be heard on the local radio station singing their favorite songs. Joan spent many years as a waitress in Maine. She was a favorite among patrons, who often requested her service and enjoyed her efficiency and quick wit. Although Joan retired to Massachusetts to be closer to two of her children, her love of her home state of Maine remained and she would return often to visit.

Joan loved to travel and spent many winters, along with her husband Clint, in their favorite place, Las Vegas, Nevada. She would often recollect other favorite trips to Spain and the Kasbah in Morocco. Joan loved to bake, and was famous for her homemade whoopie pies, caramels, and peanut butter fudge. Joan grew up in a devout Roman Catholic home and was herself very devoted to her faith and spirituality.

Joan is survived by her brother James Dugal, of Benton; five children, Scott McEachern, of Bowdoin, Debora Pendexter and her husband, Curtis, of China, Clinton “Chuck” McEachern, of Waterville, Mark McEachern and his wife Agatha, of Holliston, Massachusetts, and Brenda Bernard and her husband Steve, of Holliston, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Ian McEachern, Jodi Beckwith, Amy Bryant, Erica McEachern, Ashley McEachern, Aidan and Gavin McEachern, Nicholas, William and Danny Bernard; eight great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Clinton McEachern and her first husband John Dunphy; her siblings Lorenzo, Alyre, Alfred, Robert, Richard, Johnny, Adrienne Jones, Irene Fortin, Emelienne Reny, Germaine Hachey, Connie Pelletier, and Theresa Muzzerole; her son, Michael McEachern; and granddaughter, Scarlett McEachern.

At this time no memorial services will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date and interment will take place at the Veterans Cemetery in Augusta, Maine. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, http://www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.