BETTY K. MASON

ALBION – Betty K. Mason, 102, passed away on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Betty Knowlton Mason was born, in Albion, on July 11, 1918, the daughter of Cleve and Gladys Knowlton, of Albion.

She graduated from Besse High School, in Albion, with the class of 1937. She married Robert Mason; they were married for 61 years and raised two children, David and Valerie.

Betty was the cook for many years at Albion schools. Later she was cook at Bethany Nursing home until she retired. Betty was famous for her pies and biscuits. Meals without homemade biscuits were rare at the Mason home. She was all about family and her happiest times were family gatherings at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and whenever the family could get together.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; and her brother, Robert Knowlton.

She is survived by her son, David and his wife Margaret, her daughter, Valerie; her grandchildren, Monica Bennett and her husband Paul; her great-grandchildren, Noah and Elizabeth; her grandson, Andrew Mason and his wife Caralee and daughter Kaley; and her sister-in-law, Joanne Knowlton.

She held the Boston Post cane as Albion’s oldest citizen for nine years.

Burial will be at No. 4 Cemetery, in Albion. A celebration of her life will be held in July.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

GWENITH N. GEE

WASHINGTON – Gwenith Neal Gee, 91, passed away Thursday, March 25, 2021, at Pen Bay following a period of declining health. She was born October 19, 1929 in Dexter, to Joel Neal and Doris Martin Neal; she was the youngest child.

After graduating from Hartland Academy, class of 1948, she married her high school sweetheart, Thomas B. Gee. Devoted wife, wonderful mother to her five sons and adoring grandmother to her five grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gwen and Tom moved to Marblehead, Massachusetts, and raised their young boys. During the 20 years they lived in Marblehead, Gwen enjoyed playing softball with the women’s softball league and bowling with the women’s bowling league.

Gwen and Tom returned to Maine and operated their own business, Gee’s Egg Farm, in Washington, for many years. Family and home were the loves of her life and she took many family photos.

Monthly, she made sure to decorate her home for holidays, especially for Christmas with extensive decorations and lots of presents for all.

In her retirement, Gwen took pleasure in living on the lake, feeding birds, watching wildlife, and the arrival of ducks every spring. She enjoyed watching her grandson, Cale, playing in basketball games and watching many dance recitals of her granddaughter, Curry, and great-granddaughter, Avery Wing.

She is survived by her sons, Timothy Gee, of Union, Scott Gee and Julie Sells, of Rockport, Douglas Gee and his wife Joy, and Brian Gee, all of Washington; sister-in-law, Kitty Gee, Chesterville; five grandchildren, Thomas Gee, Adam and his wife Dawn, Katie Wing, Curry Jo Gee, and Cale Gee; five great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her husband, Tom Gee; son Randall Gee and daughter-in-law, Cindy Gee; infant brother, Harland, and three sisters, Velma “Binga” Sawyer, Geraldine Plummer and Pauline Stark.

a private graveside service will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home, 949 Main St., Waldoboro.

Condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

MARGARET A. MARDEN

BELGRADE – Margaret Ann Bowzard Marden, 83, passed away on Saturday, March 27, 2021.”Miss Ann”, was born December 11, 1937, to Lee Bowzard and Mae Bowzard, in North Charleston, South Carolina, where her father was employed in the Charleston Naval Shipyard.

At the end of World War Il, the family moved to Holly Hill, South Carolina, for Lee to become a dairy farmer and Mae to become an inspector in a sewing factory providing inventory for J. C. Penney. After graduating from Holly Hill High School, Ann entered the Or­ange­burg County Regional Hospital School of Nur­sing, acquiring her Registered Nurse diploma in 1958. Invited by Ann’s roommate’s mother, a German National, and her stepfather, a U.S. Army Major, to come to Germany and work as nurses for the Department of the Army, the girls moved to Wurzburg. During the few months to find clinical nursing openings, they organized and managed the first Army dependent Wurzburg Day Care on the military base. They then became employed at the U.S. Army’s 97th General Hospital, in Frankfurt, Germany.

During her service at the 97th, she had the pleasure of caring for Elvis Pressley, a victim of tonsillitis. At the Hospital Officer’s Club, Ann met Lt. Don Marden where they “Carolina shagged” the evenings away. She married Don in December 1961 during his first year in Boston University School of Law.

While in Boston, Ann continued her career as an operating room and ICU nurse at the US Public Health Service, Brighton Marine Hospital. They moved to Waterville upon Don’s graduation from law school where she spent the next nine years caring for the family of four sons. In June 1976 she acquired her BS degree, (summa cum laude) in Professional Arts, from Thomas College, in Waterville. Ann was a State Nursing Supervisor, Sales Representative and Nurse Examiner for Hooper Holmes/Portamedic during 1982-87. She was an agent for Dennis and Beedy Real Estate in 1987-89. In 1990 she was appointed Director of the Governor’s Office of Volunteer Services by Governor John McKernan. In 1993 she became Director of the Edmund N. Ervin Pediatric Clinic of the Thayer Hospital, located at the former Seton Hospital, in Waterville, a position from which she retired in 2003.

Along the way she, along with a group of friends, formed an Antique Club, a group which continues to meet, subject to the pandemic, on a regular basis. Ann was active in Republican Party activities working to support her husband’s successful campaigns for Mayor of Waterville and then Kennebec County Attorney.

She organized the first governor’s inauguration ball for Governor McKernan. While serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Waterville Area Boy’s/Girl’s Club, she established a thrift shop to increase revenue. While her husband was a member of the Board of Directors of Good Will-Hinckley School, she originated the Festival of Trees as a Christmas celebration.

For many years Ann was a Docent at the Colby College Museum of Art. Her book Personal Records: The New York Times Book of Lifetime History, was published in 1979. In 1981, DownEast published her Shopper’s Guide to Northern New England and in 1983 her Shopper’s Guide to Southern New England.

She conducted extensive research on “coin silver” but was not published. Commencing in 2003, she fabricated and sold women’s jewelry under the name of Classic Jewelry by Ann Marden, primarily using imported and domestic beads.

Through it all, she was a true “southern lady.”

Ann was predeceased by her parents and brother, John Bowzard, of Holly Hill, South Carolina.

She is survived by her husband, of Belgrade; sons Lee, of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, Don, Jr., of Marblehead, Massachusetts, David, of McLean, Virginia. and Ken, of Arlington, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Sean, Josh, Hannah, Jamie, Lindsey, Courtney, Milica, Mateja and Bailey; sister Carolyn, of Vance, South Carolina; sister-in-law, Libby; and daughters-in-law, Bonnie, Kristen, Mirjana and Laurie.

Private family graveside services will be held when appropriate. Memorial activities at the Pleasant Street Methodist Church at a later date.

An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are by Wheeler Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 26 Church St., Oakland.

MARGARET F. STRAFFIN

WATERVILLE – Margaret Frances Doherty Straffin, 79, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 27, 2021, at Country Manor Nursing Home, in Coopers Mills, following a long illness. She was born in Brockton, Massachusetts, on December 2, 1941, the daughter of John Henry Doherty and Alma A. Moquin Doherty, both deceased.

Marge leaves behind her husband of 45 years, Norman I. Straffin, who shared a long and happy marriage. Marge also leaves behind a sister Kathleen Ann Bunar, of Bridgewater, Massachusetts, and a brother, John Michael Doherty, of Carver, Massachusetts; and many nieces and nephews.

Marge attended schools in Abington, Massachusetts, and at Massasoit Community College, in Brockton, Massachusetts, where she earned a degree in the field of accounting. This accounting degree served Marge well as she moved up the ladder from clerk to accounting and management. Marge used to kid around and say that she never met a job she did not like and this was the truth.

Marge met her future husband, Norman Straffin, at his Straffin’s Coffee Shop, located in Brockton, Massachusetts. This is the coffee shop she visited each morning for her coffee to sip on her drive to Boch Motors where she was employed as office manager. Prior to that Marge was employed in Boston, Massachusetts, by Industrial Finance Corporation.

In 1975, Marge and Norm left Brockton, Massachusetts, in a 31-foot Holiday Rambler travel trailer and traveled for several months extensively throughout the United States and Canada before settling in Hemet, California.

In Hemet they opened a restaurant called the “Bostonian” which became one of the busiest at that time in Hemet. After a few years of operation the property came for sale and they purchased the property which also included another fast food restaurant. They resided in Hemet for a few years while building their scenic mountain home in Idyllwild, California.

Marge loved to cook and over the many years many friends and family dinners were held at their mountain home in Idyllwild. They almost lost their mountain home in 1996 from one of the many wildfires that strike California during the dry and windy months. The home was evacuated for five days until the fires were brought under control. The fire came within one half mile of their home.

After operating the restaurant for several years the Bostonian Restaurant was sold and leased.

Marge obtained her California real estate license and sold real estate in Idyllwild for years. Meanwhile, Norm obtained his general contractor’s license from the state of California and was building homes in the Palm Springs/Coachella Valley area. Marge worked for a local broker in the Palm Springs area for a while until Norm obtained his broker’s license. A mortgage company was formed under Norm’s broker’s license which was called “Inland Cities Mortgage,” which provided new purchase loans and re­financing and this office was located in San Jacinto, Caliornia. This worked well for Norm and Marge and provided the buyers of homes with in-house financing. Over the years real estate holdings were acquired.

In 1999 Norm and Marge decided to make changes to the commercial property in Hemet. The Bostonian Restaurant was modernized and the fast food restaurant was taken down and rebuilt as a modern restaurant called “Frogs”.

This restaurant was set and operated by Norm and Marge for a short time before selling the business. This restaurant had a large assortment of ice cream products and a fast food restaurant with a drive-through. This became one of the most attractive restaurants on Florida Avenue, in Hemet. In 2004 the entire property was sold to a San Diego real estate broker who owned the property where the new San Diego Stadium now stands.

Between 2003 and 2004 Norm and Marge started to sell out of California and returned to the New England area, settling in Maine. A state they long cherished. This was accompished by 1,031 real estate exchanges of like kind properties. Rental properties were acquired throughout the Kennebec and Androscoggin counties. Marge was a member of “CAHA,” Capital Area Housing Association.

Norm and Marge loved boating and were active members of the Wiscasset Yacht Club. Marge was not a lover of the open ocean but with the yacht club located on Wiscasset Harbor and adjacent to the Sheepscot River, traveling the river and visiting Boothbay Harbor was always enjoyable. A common trip throughout the summer was going to Five Islands near the mouth of the river and ocean and enjoying the food from the Five Islands Lobster Company. A Five Islands yacht club mooring always seemed to be available when arriving. After taking a short dingy ride to the wharf a delightful meal was always enjoyed. If after a nice meal and watching the local lobstermen and other boaters coming and going sometimes they just spent the night there. Another ride they enjoyed was traveling the Sheepscot River and a narrow waterway over to the Kennebec River and a nice meal at the Kennebec Tavern, with docks on the river for tying up.

Norm and Marge owned time shares at the “Winner’s Circle”, in Solana Beach, California, and traveled throughout the United States, Hawaii and Canada with trading of their time share. An annual trip to the Lake Tahoe area every fall was most enjoyable. Which always included a little gambling on the Nevada side.

After returning to Maine, Marge became a licensed realtor in the state of Maine.

A private memorial service will be held later and burial will be in Melrose Cemetery in Brockton, Massachusetts.

Cremation services have been entrusted to Brookings-Smith, in Bangor, Maine.

RONALD L. ALBAIR

OAKLAND – Ronald Lee Albair, 65, passed away Monday, March 29, 2021, at his place of work. He was born November 8, 1955, in Waterville, the son of Levi W. Sr. and Mona E. (Higgins) Albair.

He graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 1975. On May 17, 1986, he married Nettie Albair, in Skowhegan.

He worked the last 17 years for Hammond Lumber, at the Belgrade sawmill. From 1996 to 2004, he worked at Lucas Tree Company and from 1990 to 1996 he was at Tukey Brothers Sawmill, of North Belgrade.

Ronald enjoyed hunting and fishing. Whenever there was a family gathering, he would enjoy playing corn hole. When his wife was alive, they enjoyed camping. Every Sunday he looked forward to having coffee with his sister, Connie. He also enjoyed 4-wheeling and just using his side-by-side for yardwork.

He is survived by his daughter, Sara Borelli and husband James, of Oakland; three sisters, Connie Hartsgrove, of Oakland, Debbie Koss, of Newport, Trudy Albair, of Oakland; two brothers, Levi “Sonny” Albair Jr. and wife Lorraine, of Corinna, Bruce Albair, of Oakand; many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the South Side Cemetery, in Skowhegan, at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Ronald’s memory to the American Cancer Society New England Division, One Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham, ME 04086-1240.

NICHOLAS S. DUDLEY

SOUTH CHINA – Nicholas S. Dudley, 33, passed away on Thursday, April 1, 2021, at Maine­Gen­eral Medical Center, in Au­gusta, due to a severe case of pneumonia. He was born on April 5, 1987, in Augusta, the son of Raynold L. Dudley, of Vassalboro, and Suzanne J. Dudley, of South China.

He loved listening to music, drawing (very talented) and junking (metal) like his uncle Roger. He loved hanging out with his friends. Mostly, he loved running the roads – he could never sit still. Nick had a huge heart and was very passionate of those he loved.

He is survived by his mother and father; his brother Joshua Dudley; nephew Conner; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A gathering in his honor will be held in late spring.

FRANCES ROY

WINSLOW – Frances (Rafferty) Roy, 84, passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020, at her home. Fran was born in Bangor in 1926, the only daughter of Francis Xavier Rafferty and Emma (Nina) L. Rafferty.

Fran was very proud of her French-Irish Catholic heritage. Fran attended schools in Bangor before moving to Fairfield where she attended Lawrence High School. She remained active on committees for class reunions over the years.

After graduation, she began her nursing career and training via a World War II program, enrolling in the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps, at Sisters Hospital, in Waterville. Part of Fran’s training occurred at other sites, including Children’s Hospital, in Portland, Brady Maternity Hospital, in Albany, New York, and hospitals in Baltimore, Maryland, that covered psychiatry and pediatrics. Upon graduating as a Registered Nurse, Fran became the lead nurse for various companies in Maine and Connecticut, including C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, and G. Fox Department Store; and then as an I.V. Team nurse and nurse supervisor at Hartford Hospital.

Fran returned to Maine and to Sisters Hospital as the 1960s approached and became the assistant head nurse of the Medical-Surgical Unit. She worked in the vaccine clinic when the new polio vaccine was developed. Fran quickly became head nurse on the Obstetrical Unit and assisted on many committees. She was chairman of the Employee Campaign to Raise Funds for the new Seton Hospital and arranged many fundraisers. For several years, Fran helped coordinate the hospital Christmas parties that were held for all employees and physicians, and she later became chairman of the Auxiliary Charity Balls.

Fran worked in all areas of the hospital over the course of her outstanding career, overseeing various departments as the hospital went through its many changes. She was deeply involved when Seton and Thayer hospitals merged to become Mid-Maine Medical Center. She oversaw the Emergency Department for many years. She was very perceptive and one always knew where he or she stood as Fran did not often “mince words.” She was highly organized and strove for excellence and perfection in both her work and home lives.

In the early 1980s, Fran was promoted to vice president of nursing for MMMC until her retirement at the end of the decade. During that span, she was honored many times for her insight and hard work throughout the hospital and for her commitment to the highest standards, successfully leading the hospital through three Joint Commission Surveys.

Always active, in her retirement years, Fran engaged with the Muskie Community Center and ran monthly blood pressure clinics. She received many awards, among them the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Fran joined the Waterville and Fairfield bridge clubs and became an avid and formidable player, winning a few championships for fun. Continuing to learn constantly, she was unrelenting in her grasp for knowledge. She was also an ardent believer in living healthy with exercise and a proper diet.

Fran continued to share her nursing and hospital management knowledge, consulting at Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, and Penn Bay Medical Center, in Rockport.

Fran was blessed with a keen eye for style which she claimed was from her mother’s influence as a buyer for high-end stores wherein she traveled frequently to Boston and New York. Fran was a “classy dame” with confidence and a sense of fearlessness about her. She loved the Coast of Maine, any beach she could lay on, and lobster of any kind. Her biggest enjoyments were watching and talking sports, especially basketball, football and tennis; and her trips to Hawaii, Las Vegas and Walt Disney World, which she enjoyed with her family and friends.

Fran lived a long and fulfilling life, leaving behind many old friends with whom she remained in contact and new friends she met along the way in her busy life. She especially enjoyed her nursing school classmates with whom she kept in contact as often as possible along with those who called to check on her. She had fond memories of all the “hospital family” with whom she worked, especially Rose Caporale and Norma Nivison.

Fran is survived by her daughters Deborah Benton, of Nevada, and Jane Roy, of New York, New York; granddaughter Joy Beckerman, of Seattle, Washington; two great-grandsons, Phoenix and Spiral Horn, both of Seattle, Washington; and niece Janis Pollitt, of Virginia.

Fran was predeceased by her parents and by her brother Andrew “Red” Rafferty.

In keeping with Fran’s wishes, no services will be held.

Those who wish may donate to the Muskie Community Center at: Spectrum Generations Muskie Community Center, P.O. Box 2074, Waterville, ME, 04901 or by calling (207) 873-4745. Checks should be made payable to “Spectrum Generations” with “Donation to Muskie Community Center” in the check memo line.

BRIGITTE WOOD

WATERVILLE – Brigitte Wood, 84, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, March 12, 2021, following a long, nine-year battle with cancer. Brigitte was born in Oppau, Germany, on October 18, 1936, the daughter of Freidrich and Lina (Wick) Walter.

Brigitte was the love of Robert’s life. She became a U.S. citizen and was a true patriot. She was Catholic and worked for the sisters of St. Joseph at their center, in Winslow. Prior to that, she worked for 20 years at Keyes Fibre Co. (Huhtamaki), in Waterville, and ended her employment there as an inspector.

Her favorite place in all of Maine was Pemaquid Point. She was the strongest, yet most gentle, person. She was loving and caring of everyone. She will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her husband of 19 years, Robert M. Wood “Woody”, the love of her life; three children, Michael Bouchard, of Gorham, Sonja (Bouchard) Boyle, of Norway, and Kristine (Lanphier) Rush, of Oklahoma; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.

Let it be known that she loved all of her children and grandchildren alike. That said, Brigitte and Robert raised her grandson, Nason Lanphier, of Waterville. He was like another child to her and needs special mention.

She was predeceased by a grandchild, Stephen Bouchard.

There will be no funeral service.

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

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, One Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham, ME 04086-1240, or the Alfond Center for Cancer Care, MaineGeneral Health, Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

SAMUEL J. WRIGHT III

CLINTON – Samuel Judd Wright III, “Joe,”78, passed away on Friday, March 12, 2021, at his home in Clinton. Joe was born on September 17, 1942, in Middletown, Connecticut, the oldest child of Samuel J. and Elizabeth (Faulkingham) Wright II.

His family lived in all six New England states before their final move to Clinton, in the early ’50s, living for a year in the town of Poland, then settling in Clinton, at the old Gerald Farm, known from then on as The Wright Place. As a youngster Joe helped his parents with the care and management of 6,000 laying hens and a small herd of Jersey cows. It was here that he learned his work ethic and stewardship for the land and livestock.

Joe was a graduate from Clinton High School and the University of Maine. While he was attending U. Maine, he rekindled a friendship with Nancy Torrey who he met in the sixth grade while living in Poland, Maine.

Joe and Nancy were married in Poland, Maine, in 1963. They settled on the Horseback Road, in Clinton, with a picture-perfect view of The Wright Place. Together they raised their four children there and watched the sunset over the family farm, where Joe was a partner with his parents and his brother Thomas. They grew the farm from a dozen Jersey cows to 600-plus milking Holsteins, raising each one from birth there on the farm. Joe was very proud of the success of the farm, but the pride he felt for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren topped it all.

Joe and Nancy raised their children with their farmer work ethic and strong sense of community. Joe belonged to many community organizations, including the Clinton Jaycees, he was the Cub Scout Pack Master of Pack #408. He joined the Clinton Lions club in 1980 and was a member the rest of his life. Joe served as the Agricultural Superintendent for the Clinton Lions Agricultural Fair Association for many years and could always be found within a stone’s throw of the livestock barn during the fair. Joe was awarded Outstanding Young Farmer for Maine, earning him a trip to Kansas for the national convention.

Joe enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with his children, taking them camping, snowmobiling, fishing and hiking. One of his favorite hikes was Borestone Mountain. Joe was always up for a road trip. In his younger years he and Nancy traveled to the Gaspé Peninsula, in Canada, on his Harley Sportster. He had visited his good friend, Jake, in Hawaii, taken Amtrack to the west coast to visit family and friends in California. He hauled his camper to Florida and tried the life of a snowbird on a couple of occasions. He liked taking the backroads and finding out “where does this road go?”

Joe retired from the family farm in 1993. He worked many jobs after leaving the farm including salesman for Kramer’s Tractor, and mowed the interstate in the Bangor area for Steve Roach Excavation. He drove tractor trailer, and hauled milk for Harding’s Milk Transport. While living one winter in Sebring, Florida, he worked at Tractor Supply. Joe enjoyed mowing the fields “on the hill” for the Clinton Lions Club, along with mowing his own lawn with his 1950 Gravely tractor.

Joe is survived by Nancy, his wife of 57 years; his sons, Brian Barney (Bridget) Wright, Stephen (Tina) Wright, all of Clinton; his daughter Bethany Wright, his son-in-law Andy Hodgins, of Kingfield; four granddaughters Tasha (Josh) Crowell, Caleigh (Andrew Miller) Wright, all of Clinton, Chelsea Wright, of Hartland, and Penelope Hodgins, of Kingfield; our greatgrandchildren Teagan and Mason Crowell, and Torrey and Henry Miller, all of Clinton; his brother William (Polly) Wright, of Detroit; and his sister Janet (Val) Bard, of Fairfield; brother-in-law John (Muriel) Torrey; and his sisters-in-laws Cindy (Robert) Whiting and Glenna (Max) Bermann; many nieces and nephews.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Samantha Jo, and his brothers Thomas and Raymond Wright.

Celebrations of Joe’s life will be held at a later time yet to be determined.

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Clinton Lions Agricultural Fair Association care of Coleen Bean, P.O. Box 522, Clinton, ME 04927 or to Maine Mountain Children’s House, in Kingfield, in care of Beth Wright, 667 W. Kingfield Rd., Kingfield, ME 04947.

ROBERT J. VIOLETTE

WINSLOW – Robert James Violette, of Winslow and Fairfield, passed away on March 15, 2021. He was born in Belmont, Massachusetts, to Louis N. and Eva Brilliant Violette.

The family soon returned to Fairfield, where Bob would reside for the next 54 years. He attended Lawrence High School, where he excelled at athletics and was the captain of the football team.

Upon graduation in 1945 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. While in boot camp, World War II came to an end. Bob was assigned to a transport ship that brought supplies to the troops in now occupied Japan.

Upon his discharge, he joined his father and brothers in the family business, L.N. Violette Co., in Fairfield, where he learned the ropes building numerous homes, streets and subdivisions; all of which were built for returning GIs. These streets include Military Avenue, Cottage, Crosby and Weeks streets in Fairfield, and Violette Avenue and Mathews Avenue, in Waterville. In the 1960s and 1970s, Bob was instrumental in the growth of the business; commercial construction became its mainstay. Numerous schools, churches and banks built in the greater Waterville area and beyond, were constructed under his direction and as a result of his ingenuity and tenacity. Often times engineering firms would call upon him for advice, his knowledge and practical experience.

Bob was also very civic minded, and was an active member of the Fairfield School Board and Kiwanis Club. He served on the Board of Directors of Goodwill Hinckley School, in Hinckley, and the Waterville Homeless Shelter. He supported the Lawrence High School football program, in Fairfield, for many years, and later was honored to be a recipient of the Bulldog Award.

To Bob nothing was more important than his family. He gave his unconditional love and support to his seven children; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Many fond memories remain of time spent together at the Sugarloaf chalet and at his beloved camp on China Lake, and vacationing in the Bahamas.

Bob leaves behind a son, David (Sandy), of Winslow, Gary, of Norridgewock, Kevin (Kathy), of Fairfield, Joel (Patty), of Fairfield, Peter (Jean), of Clinton, Todd (Lisa), of Winslow, and daughter Donna (Pat), of Falmouth.

He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Ethel McBeth Violette.

A private family Mass will be held in Bob’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to the Children’s Home for Little Wanderers Christmas fund, or a local food bank of your choosing.

CHRIS A. KILLAM SR.

BENTON – Chris A. Killam Sr., 70, died peacefully on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. He was born on April 8, 1950, the son of Francis Killam and Shirley (Peavey) Inman, and was the oldest of 10 siblings.

Chris worked many years as an auto body mechanic and loved spending time with his many siblings. He was a jack of all trades and any time someone needed advice on something, they went to him. His advice was always honest, whether they liked it or not.

He loved playing old country songs on his guitar and working in his gardens. He held such pride with how nice his yard and gardens always looked.

He was predeceased by his parents, Francis and wife Joan, and Shirley and husband Charlie; siblings, Barry, Mike, Kevin, Pat, Gary, John, and Bruce.

Chris is survived by his wife of 48 years, Beverly; sons, Chris Mattson and partner Candy, Raymond Killam, and Chris Killam Jr. and wife Mindy; grandchildren, Taylor, CJ, Alissa, Dominic, Miranda, Natalie, Abigail, Brianna, Hannah and Ryan; great-grandchildren, Kenna, Kinley, Callan and Alexis; siblings, Steve Killam and wife Robin, Lindy Killam, and Paul Killam Sr; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service in the spring at Benton Falls Cemetery with a celebration of life to follow.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brother’s Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

PAULA M. FISHER

WATERVILLE – Paula M. Vashon Fisher, 65, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor, following a brief illness. Paula was born on March 29, 1955, the daughter of Armand and Adeline Vashon.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1973. She then attended Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, graduating as a Certified Nurses Assistant. She worked at Oak Grove Center, Mount St. Joseph and Northern Light Inland Hospital, all in Waterville, and the St. John Food Pantry, in Winslow.

Paula loved playing cards with friends.

Paula was married to Darrell Fisher for 35 years. They had many happy years together.

Paula was predeceased by her parents, Armand and Adeline Vashon, and her younger brother, Peter Vashon.

She is survived by her siblings, Michael and Susan Vashon, of Vassalboro, Norman and Sherry Vashon, Claire Young, Estelle and David Bucknam; sisters-in-law Janet Vashon, Sharon Clement, Cecile Goodno and Darlene Fisher; brothers-in-law Conrad and Joanne Fisher, and Lionel and Linda Fisher; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held later this spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. John Food Pantry, 26 Monument St., Winslow, ME 04901.

CLARENCE W. HANNAN

SOUTH CHINA – Clarence W. “Sonny” Hannan, 75, of South China passed away at his home on Monday, February 22, 2021.

Sonny retired from Huhtamaki, in Waterville, after 37 years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, camping with friends and family, spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, chihuahua Sweetie and close friends Dennis McKenney and Joe Pilsbury.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elaine; son Todd, of South China; daughter Tina and husband Daniel, of South China; grandchildren Stephen and Jenn, Elizabeth and JJ, Ashlie and Brian; great-grandchildren Jayden, Melodie, Rylee and Scarlett; sisters Genevieve Bulmer, Viola Fuller, Betty Stratton; sister-in-law Gloria Russell; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Jake and Anna Hannan; his sisters Ruth Hannan, Roberta Warner, brother Buddy Russell; and grandson Dennis Quigley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Avian Haven Rehabilitation Center, 418 North Palermo Rd., Freedom, ME 04941.

FREEMAN A. HIGGINS

ALBION – Freeman Arthur Higgins, 72, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at his home. in Albion. He was born September 11, 1947, in Waterville, the son of Clarence G. and Laura (Rowe) Higgins.

He graduated from Besse High School , in Albion, in 1966. In 1968, he married Rebecca Piper, in Albion. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge. He was employed for many years as a mechanic at Lee Brothers, Inc., in Albion. He was a member of Mason’s Central Lodge #45 and enjoyed gardening and woodworking.

Freeman is survived by his wife of 53 years, Rebecca (Piper) Higgins, of Albion; two sons, Lance Higgins and wife Valerie, and Adam Higgins and wife Melissa, all of Albion; two granddaughters, Abigail Higgins and Hannah Higgins, both of Albion; five brothers, Winston Higgins and wife Rebecca, and Clayton “Joe” Higgins and wife Geraldine, all of Albion, Wayne Higgins and wife Elaine, of Fairfield, Jeff Higgins and wife Raye, of Smithfield, Ronald Higgins and wife Linda, of Portland; three sisters-in-law, Wanda Boivin, of Clinton, Sharon McPhail, of Belgrade, Linda Weeks and husband Robert, of Fairfield.

He was predeceased by his parents and bothers, Clyde, Mike, and Clifton.

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

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 4445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine, 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Freeman’s memory to Veterans Voluntary Services, c/o Robert Weeks, 22 Savage Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.

SHIRLEY E. IBBITSON

VASSALBORO – Shirley “Mimmy” Ibbitson, 95, passed peacefully Thursday, February 25, 2021. She was born May 1, 1925.

She was a 1945 graduate of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School. After graduating, Shirley met and married the love of her life, Howard, on December 18, 1948. They left Hanson, Massachusetts, to reside in Vassalboro where she worked as a bookkeeper at the Vassalboro Woolen Mill. Later Shirley worked for the Gables House and also as a chambermaid at Howard Johnson’s.

After retiring, she and Howard traveled across the United States, always returning to Maine for the summers to be spent in their camp. Howard, with help from the family, built a modest camp at the top of their property so that they could look over their family, or what the kids referred to as “scooping it out”.

Shirley enjoyed knitting, painting, puzzles, sewing and her animals. She and Howard always had a dog, most recent one being a rescue named Bo, referred to as the Big Black Dog, and although she was unable to pick him up, she loved her guinea pig Sandy. Sadly Shirley had to make the decision to lay Bo to rest in January and Sandy has gone to live out his remaining days with a close family friend.

At one time she attended Pins and Needles at the old St. Bridget’s Church, in Vassalboro, and enjoyed field trips with the Muskie Center, in Waterville, when she was able to go. Shirley loved to go. It didn’t matter where, as long as she was in the car. Russell would often bring her to town whether it was for her shopping, a ride around the lake, or just an errand that he may have. She looked forward to breakfasts with Matthew, Cathy and the girls and she also looked forward to her weekly trip to the Winslow VFW with Paul and Lisa, where she was a lifetime member and also part of the Women’s Auxiliary. She was always greeted by the regulars as she was escorted in to have her one “toddy” made by her favorite bartender Peter, with whom she formed a special bond with and would exchange trinkets and gifts.

Shirley also loved her yearly trips with Bimp to Cabbage Island, a tradition that Crystal was able to continue for a few more years. Even though the trips had to end for Shirley due to her ailing legs, Crystal substituted them for Girlz Dayz and Ladies Lunches, a new tradition that Shirley loved just as much. Casey will always be able to cherish the last two trips to the ocean with her Mim.

There was no way that she was going to leave her home and for the last nine years, her family has made sure of it. Although her declining health, Shirley made her own meals and kept her home up until her last days, with some extra help.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Howard, her only daughter Cindy Douglass, and daughter-in-law Belinda Ibbitson.

She is survived by her four sons, Russell, Paul and wife Lisa, both of Vassalboro, Mickey and wife Tina, of Waterville, and Tommy and companion Crystal, of Lebanon; her first granddaughter Crystal and husband Ed Drake, of Vassalboro, Misty and husband Fernando Barrios, of San Diego, California, Jenna Poulin and husband Adam, of Whitefield, Brittney, of Winslow, and Shari and husband John Bryant; of Caanan; great-grandchildren. Casey Starratt and companion Roy Prue, of Gardiner, Matthew Starratt and companion Cathy Batchelder, of South China, Nicholas Olivera, of Miami, Florida, Kai Barrios, of San Diego, California, Paislee Poulin, of Whitefield (who is going to be a big sister to a new little), Devon and Justin Brown, both of Portland; great-great-grandchildren. Milayna and Letty Starratt, children of Matthew and Cathy.

There will be no funeral at this time. A burial and celebration will be later in the spring.

SAMUEL A. BARTLETT

WHITEFIELD – Samuel A. Bartlett, 89, of Mills Road, died Thursday, February 25, 2021, at V.A. Maine Healthcare Hospital at Togus, following a brief illness. He was born in Somerville, on July 7, 1931, the son of Samuel L.A. Bartlett and Grace (Jones) Bartlett.

Mr. Bartlett served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a salesman and mechanic at Bartlett’s Auto Sales for several years.

He enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family.

He was predeceased by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Surviving are two sons, Samuel L. Bartlett and Kenneth Bartlett, both of Whitefield; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Road, Windsor, Maine.

A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, March 12, 2021, at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, Maine.

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

GEORGE JOSEPH

WATERVILLE – George “Tony” Joseph, 89, of Waterville, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. Tony was born on February 1, 1932, the youngest son of David and Tamamie (Karem) Joseph. He was one of 22 siblings.

Tony was raised at the Head of Falls and Front Street, in Waterville. He graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1950. He was active in sports excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. Tony was a proud participant on the 1949 state champion basketball team. He also was vice president of the class of 1950.

Tony joined the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduation from high school. Upon his return from serving time in the Korean War he attended and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, on a GI bill, with an associate degree, in 1957. While in the Air Force he received many honors, the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

After graduating from Thomas, he worked at Joseph’s Billiard Academy, he opened Tony’s Italians on the rotary, and then enjoyed a career at the post office, all in Waterville.

Tony was active socially. He was a member of the Elks Lodge #905, Bouque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, and the Lebanon Youth Society, all in Waterville. Tony loved the family camp on China Lake, where there are so many memories from family reunions, weddings, christenings, and class reunions. Anything to do with family usually started at China. Tony was the “draw” and had so many stories to tell.

Tony was an avid sports fan. He followed his children’s and grandchildren’s sports teams, always supporting and cheering them on. He also followed and loved the New York Yankees and Notre Dame University. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. He was drawn to the water and enjoyed trips to the coast.

Tony was predeceased by his brothers, Joe Dave, Elias, James, Alfred, Naseeb, John and Phillip; brother-in-law, Douglas Day; sisters, Lena Fotter, Julia Campion, Selma Thompson, Celia John, Madeline Joseph, and Marianne Perry.

Tony is survived by his wife, Joyce (Day), to whom he was married to just one month shy of 69 years; his children Ricky and his wife Cindy, of Decatur, Illinois, and their daughters, Caitlin Pellitier and husband Zach, of Sierra Vista, Arizona, and Antonia Joseph, of Boise, Idaho; daughter, Lisa Joseph, of Maine; son, Kevin Joseph, of Waterville, and his son Tyler Joseph, of Portland, and daughter Kayla Joseph, of St. Thomas, USVI; sister, Josie Laflay, of Virginia; sister-in-law, Lolita Day; many nieces and nephews.

A memorial Mass and celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

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/.

Tony was proud of his lifelong church. He was schooled there until he moved to junior high. He was the son of parents who were part of the building of the church and lifelong communicant.

Donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville, ME 04901.

GAIL NOBLE

CHINA – Gail Noble, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021. She was born August 3, 1945, the daughter of Elden and Myrtle Pullen.

She grew up in Sidney and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1964. Soon after she married and had three children. She worked various jobs and owned and operated Our Place restaurant for 14 years with daughter Julie. She enjoyed gardening cooking hooking rugs friends family. Gail loved her dog Lu Lu Belle.

Gail was predeceased by both parents, Elden and Myrtle Pullen; sister and brother-in-law Ethel and Cecil Phair, brother George, and granddaughter Alyssa Savage.

She is survived by son Phillip Mckenney; daughter Naomi Savage and daughter Julie Mckenney; son-in- law Billy Mayberry; grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

No services were requested.

ELIZABETH J. CUNNINGHAM

WINDSOR – Elizabeth “Betty” Joan Cunningham, 76, of Windsor, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021, following a long illness. She was born in Waterville on August 13, 1944, the daughter of Harold Glen Dale and Helena Davenport Tibbetts.

She lived in South China as a child and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. She worked for the state of Maine and retired from AMHI after 25 years.

Betty loved to sew and made most of her children’s clothes. She made matching Easter dresses for her three daughters and many shirts for her son. She also made several wedding dresses and brides-maid dresses for her children and other family members. Betty was truly a master seamstress. She began quilting over the past 20 years and made countless quilts for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She participated in local craft fairs for years with many repeat customers who were always looking for her to be there.

Betty was an avid gardener and passed her love for this to her children. Her favorite flower was the yellow rose. She loved to go camping with her husband and family and was part of the Good Sam Club. She loved to travel to Tennessee and Florida and the Great Smokey Mountains were her favorite destination. She also enjoyed going to Dollywood and listening to gospel music.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Clinton and her brothers, Sherwood and Ronald Dale.

She is survived by her son, Ronald Peaslee and his wife Rhonda, of Windsor; her daughters, Judith Eugley and her husband Raymond, of Windsor, Jessica Gunning and her husband Mark, of Old Town, and Julie Ferguson and her husband Mike, of Sandy River Plantation; her sister, Beverly Dale, of Augusta; her grandchildren Raymond, II, Joshua and Richard Eugley, Ronald Peaslee, Jr. Zachariah Peaslee, Sharon Gunning and Hank Gunning; and her great-grandchildren, Kassidy and Silas Eugley and Vada-Leigh Yvette Peaslee; and was looking forward to the arrival of another great-grandchild in August.

A celebration of life will be held at her residence, 171 Legion Park Road, in Windsor, Saturday, May 22, at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street Augusta, ME.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

Those who would like to honor Betty can donate to Christian Life Fellowship, 1158 Eastern Ave., Chelsea, ME 04330.

MARISA A. GRIFFIN

WATERVILLE – Marisa A. Griffin, 64, of Waterville, died unexpectedly, on Sunday February 28, 2021. She was born on March 20, 1956, in Fairfield, the daughter of Ross and Marguerite Griffin.

She was raised in Waterville and educated in the Waterville school system. Over the years, Marisa enjoyed working for her father in his asphalt paving company, The Maine Dept. of Transportation, and eventually the health care field where she found work at local nursing home facilities providing care and comfort to others.

Marisa was a person that was known for her outgoing and playful personality. She could make anyone laugh and had a great sense of humor! She loved to go out and socialize. She participated in dance classes, and enjoyed listening to music and singing to the radio. Marisa also liked to cook and this was one of the ways she showed her love to people. She enjoyed travel and had opportunities to visit France and Sweden.

Marisa lived out of state in Colorado and New Hampshire for a number of years after graduating from high school. She eventually moved back to Maine to be closer to her family and raise her children.

At some point, Marisa’s health began to decline and took her away from many of the things that she loved doing. However, during the last few years of her life, Marisa found great enjoyment in her five grandchildren. She will always be remembered for being “Grammy Marisa”, her generosity and for her ability to make people find laughter and humor where others could not.

Marisa was predeceased by her mother, Marguerite Griffin and father Ross Griffin Sr., infant son, Marion Benoit, and her sisters, Marjorie Chase and Marguerite Bickford.

She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Albert, husband Jeff Albert and their four children, Joseph, Anna, Elizabeth and David Albert, of Wayne; son, Damien Benoit and wife Becka Benoit and their daughter, Anaya Benoit, of Waterboro; siblings, Mary Chase and Ross Griffin, of Waterville; nieces and nephews, Jeri Hume-Cole, Chris Cole, and Christian Trott, of Waterville, and Bobby Young, of Portland. Marisa is also survived by extended family members including many cousins.

A spring burial will take place at the Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, with a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the High Hopes Club House, 26 College Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

BEVERLY J. RICHARD

OAKLAND – Beverly Jean Richard, 86, passed away peacefully, on Monday, March 1, 2021, at home. She was born on March 28, 1934, in Hallowell, the daughter of Adjutor Pare and Alma Childs.

She graduated from Hallowell High School class of 1952. She married Leon Omer Richard, on February 12, 1955. Beverly and Leon resided in Vassalboro, where they raised their six children.

Beverly was a caregiver to many. After she raised her children she went back to school. She graduated from Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, in 1982, as a medical assistant. She worked for Dr. J. Stephen Anderson for many years.

She loved making a difference for people in need. She enjoyed working at Levine’s Department Store, in Waterville, during the holidays. Beverly was a remarkable woman, who took great pride in her role as a nurturing wife, mother, grandmother “Mimi” and great-grandmother. She loved her husband, six children, 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, wholeheartedly and unconditionally. She could often be heard saying “I love you” to each of them, and she gave the gift of many hugs.

She was very proud of her family and loved to be surrounded by them whenever she could be. Next to her family, Beverly loved sports. She so enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Bruins, and the New England Patriots.

Beverly’s love for her family and life, as well as her strength and her selflessness were inspiration to all who knew her. She was a strong woman who “loved all ways, always”, and will forever be admired and cherished.

She will be sorely missed, but her infinite love and her legacy will live on, through her loving family.

She is survived by her six children, Pam Jacques and husband Joe, of Rotonda West, Florida, Ammie Breton and her husband Alan, of Oakland, Tammie Richard and her sweetheart Tim Warren, of Smithfield, Leon Richard and wife Liezl, of Nikiski, Alaska, Carla Caron and husband Keith, of Winslow, Gene Richard and wife Alicia, of Rome; sister Patricia Chase and husband Walter, of Lewiston; sister-in-law Emily Loiselle and husband Leo, of Fort Myers, Florida, sister-in-law Maureen Richard, of Camden; grandchildren, Brian, Kelly, Jeffery, Jessica, Ashley, Casey, Derek, Justin, Jacey, Louise and Leon; great-grandchildren, Brian-Alan, Anthony, Bailey and Kannon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Adjutor Pare and Alma Cain; sister Edith (Bunny) Shirley; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Maine Street, Fairfield.

RICHARD J. VERZONI

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – Richard John Verzoni, 69, of Schenectady, New York, passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2021. Richard was born in Waterville on July 7, 1951, to Angelo and Estelle Verzoni.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1970, where he excelled in track and field. He graduated from the University of Maine Farmington with a bachelor’s degree and continued his education in Caracas, Venezuela. He was a teacher before working as a sales executive for Anheuser Busch until his retirement.

He enjoyed attending his sons’ various sporting events and was an avid football and horse racing fan. He loved gardening, spending time in the outdoors, spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Willie.

He was predeceased by his father, Angelo Joseph Verzoni; his stepfather, Louis Barnes; and his brother, Stephen Verzoni.

He is survived by his mother, Estelle Verzoni Barnes; his sons, Richard A. Verzoni and Ian Verzoni; his brothers, Peter Verzoni and Angelo Verzoni and wife Lisa; his nephews, Angelo J. Verzoni and Anthony Verzoni; his former wife, Kathy Burgess, and his partner, Jackie Grady.

A celebration of Richard’s life is to be determined at a later date.

CATHRYN HUGHES

VASSALBORO – Cathryn “Katie” Hughes, 57, passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2021. She was born on July 2, 1963, the daughter of the late Myron and Carol (Csengery) Hughes.

She was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, class of ’82.

Her love of children led her to a job with SKCDC which she held for a number of years. Prior to her illness, which forced her to give up working, she was employed by Hannaford Bros., in Waterville. A job she truly loved. She took great pride in being able to assist the elderly with their groceries.

Katie was a hard worker. She was a kind-hearted person who loved children and had the gift to gab. She spent countless hours playing Sudoku.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her brother, William Hughes.

Katie is survived by her partner, Wayne Picard and stepchildren, Jamie Mercier, of Manchester, and Jason Picard, of West Gardiner; sister, Cynthia St. Peter and Bob Bower, of Monmouth; brothers, Stephen Hughes and his wife, Lisa, and Tim and Karen Hughes, all of Vassalboro; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no service. Burial and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

DONALD J. FORTIN JR.

WINSLOW – Donald Joseph Fortin Jr., 73, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 5, 2021. He was born in Waterville on July 8, 1947, the son of Donald and Priscilla (Violette) Fortin Sr.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1967, he enlisted in the Navy and served for four years on the USS Saratoga. He worked at Bath Iron Works his entire career, building Navy destroyers, recently retiring in July 2020. He also ran a van transportation service for commuters going to work at Bath.

Donald had a passion for cars, often entering them in car shows around the state of Maine, snowmobiling and riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed family gatherings at his sisters’ homes.

In addition to his parents, Donald and Priscilla Fortin Sr, Donald was predeceased by his brother Michael Fortin and sister Elizabeth Coonon.

Surviving are his children, Sherrilynn Violette Fortin and husband Craig Steiner, of Chula Vista, California, Kimberlee Johnson, of Anderson, South Carolina, and Ryan Fortin and partner Karrie Davis, of Winslow; six grandchildren, Jeanna, Erich, Jakob, Arianna, Desiree and Miriah; one brother, Richard of Alexandria, Virginia; four sisters, Beverly (William) Rhoades, of Clinton, Deborah Dubois, of Waterville, Theresa (Robert) Macklin, of Winslow, and Jennifer (Steven) Harrison, of Albion; several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will take place at a later date and will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Donald’s memory may be made to the Travis Mills Foundation, 747 Western Avenue, Manchester, Maine 04351; travismillsfoundation.org/our-retreat.

JAMES E. HUBBARD SR.

UNITY – James E. Hubbard Sr., 79, of Unity, passed away Saturday, February , 2021. He was born August 21, 1941, the son of Edison Sr. and June Rose (Roepelle) Hubbard and lived his life in Unity in the home he grew up in, eventually raised his family in, and cared for his many animals.

Jim attended Unifree High School and after completing his education he went to work for George and Beverly Murdock’s (DeCoster Poultry) farm, in Unity. From 1982 to 2007 he worked in the maintenance department at Unity College. He walked five miles to work every day, regardless of the weather. He had a big heart and a big smile and always thought of others. He was loved by generations of the college faculty, staff and students, many of whom joined him on his retirement day to make the final trek together.

He had a unique laugh that matched his sense of humor. He loved his collection of statues and the Patriots. He was also known for his love of animals and cared for and nurtured many exotic and domestic pets, including peacocks, a bobcat and an arctic fox.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Beverly Knowles and brothers, Harold Hubbard, Frank Hubbard and Timothy Hubbard.

He raised three children that survive him, Jean Salley, of Waterville, Linda Humphrey, of Liberty, and James Jr., of Unity; brothers, Edison Hubbard, of Waterville, Stanley Hubbard, of Machias, Larry Hubbard, of Albion, Ronnie Hubbard, of Unity, and sister, Joan Hubbard, of Unity; six grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider helping the family with final expenses. They may be sent to the town of Unity, PO Box 416, Unity, Maine 04988, with Jim’s name on the memo line.

JEANNE G. NORMANDEAU

WATERVILLE – Jeanne Georgianna Talbot Normandeau, 80, died at Woodlands Senior Living of Waterville, on Thursday, February 11, 2021, following a long illness. She was born July 19, 1939, in Winslow, the only daughter of the late Cyril and Carmeline Talbot.

Jeanne attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, and upon graduation, attended nursing school at St. Mary’s, in Lewiston, for three years, where she became interested in teaching. She worked for one year at Sister’s Hospital, in Waterville, before deciding to attend Boston College, where she received a baccalaureate and master’s degree in nursing.

She moved to Portland and worked for the state of Maine as a community health nurse for two years before accepting her first teaching position at Mercy Hospital. After only a year she was offered a full time teaching position at the University of Southern Maine, where she taught for 27 years, during which time she also completed her doctoral degree at Boston University.

Jeanne and Roland were married in 1976 and lived in Portland until moving back to Winslow in 2004. When they weren’t traveling around the U.S., Canada and Europe, they enjoyed having horses, dogs, spending time in their garden and getting reacquainted with her 26 first cousins.

Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by her husband, Roland Normandeau.

She is survived by her brothers, Jim Talbot, of Carabassett, and John Talbot ,of Concord, North Carolina; and two nephews, Peter and Cameron Talbot.

Jeanne’s memorial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

SCOTT S. SIMPSON

WATERVILLE – Scott Stephen Simpson, 55, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, February 14, 2021, following a long illness. Born on February 3, 1966, in Gardiner, he was the son of Donald and Nancy Simpson.

Scott graduated from Waterville High School in 1985 and went on to attend Central Beauty School, in Augusta. He graduated with his cosmetology license in 1991. His career was not a job, it was his passion. He was a very talented hair stylist and worked in various salons in Maine and New Hampshire.

He grew up in Waterville but moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, in 1997, and made it his home. He loved Manchester and all the people he met there. Eleven years ago, after his diagnosis, he moved back to Maine to be closer to his family.

Scott loved spending time with his dog, Frankie. The two of them were inseparable and he brought so much comfort to his Daddy in his final days. Scott got so much joy from doing hair and making people feel good about themselves. He enjoyed hanging out by the pool, taking care of his flowers, drawing, and spending time with the ones he loved.

Scott lit up a room when he walked in. He had a big smile that radiated. He always knew how to make everyone laugh with his crazy sense of humor and his knack for telling stories about his many adventures in life. Scotty to hottie with his signature stomp and hand in the air dance move was always the life of the party.

Scott was predeceased by his best friend in life, his grandmother, Yvette Doyon; his special uncle, Ronald Doyon and aunt, Gloria Simpson, and several other aunts and uncles.

Scott is survived by his parents, Donald and Nancy Simpson, of Waterville; his sister, Wendy Aucoin and her husband Gerard along with their son Cameron Scott Aucoin, of Waterville; his aunts, Pat Doyon, of Winslow, and Joyce Simpson, of Waterville; as well as several cousins.

There will be no services at this time. The family will hold a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life, in the spring that will be announced at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Scott’s name to the Ryan White Program/Maine General Horizon Clinic, in Augusta. Donations can be made via the link provided: https://give.mainegeneral.org/program-support—horizon-program.

JOHN F. VETTER

JEFFERSON – John Frederick Vetter, 77, of Jefferson, passed away Monday, February 15, 2021, at Togus VA Medical Center, following a brief illness.

He was born March 27, 1943, the first child of Juanita M. (Gillham) and Arthur F. Vetter.

He married Beth L. (Fellows), of Bangor, August 27, 1963. They had one daughter, Jeanne L. Vetter, of North Smithfield, Rhode Island.

John was educated in the U.S. and England. He attended St. John’s School, Northwood, England, and several schools in the U.S. He graduated from Fairview High School, Dayton, Ohio, in 1960, and The University of Iowa in 1972 with a B.S. in math. His entire professional career was in IT.

He served in the U.S. Air Force for seven years with duty assignments in Texas, Maine, California, Spain, England, and Missouri. He was honorably discharged in 1969. John was very proud that he had served his country.

John was a very loving, caring, kind, and generous husband, father, and friend. He loved domestic and wild animals that visited his home. Over the years, he had several indoor cats. His Siamese, Rumford, was an extra special friend. He cared for several outdoor kitties with shelter, love, and food, and when necessary, veterinary care.

He had been a participant in the Cornell Project Feeder Watch for many years. He was doing his weekly 2020-2021 count up to the last week of his life. He was especially pleased with the variety and number of birds he tracked around his home on Damariscotta Lake.

John participated in bowling leagues and golf leagues. His hobbies included coin collecting, reading, and boating. He was a member of Coastal Senior College and enjoyed taking CSC courses.

In addition to his wife, Beth and his daughter, Jeanne, he is survived by a brother, David (Cheryl) Vetter, of Warsaw, Indiana; two sisters, Nancy Perea, of Brooklyn, New York, and Barbara (Robert) Miller, of San Diego, California; and cousins in Iowa; his Maine family, Lucille Fellows (William), Augusta, Caroline Fellows (Oscar), Raymond, Sandra St. Germain (Albert), Bangor, Michael (Lisa) Fellows, Readfield, Lorraine Fellows, Chantilly, Virginia, Laura Fellows, Pittston, Cheri Walton, Eastport.

There will be a burial service at Silver Lake Cemetery, Bucksport, at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: http://www.StrongHancock.com.

The family suggests memorial donations to Togus Fisher House, Togus VA Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service, 1 VA Center (135), Augusta, ME 04330, or to the charity of your choice.

TOM COREY

WATERVILLE – Tom Corey, 81, of Waterville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 15, 2021. Tom was born October 29, 1939, the son of Joseph T. Corey and Elizabeth (Nedoff) Corey.

He graduated from Caribou High School in 1958.

Tom enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1961. He was honorably discharged in 1965.

He worked for Bell Atlantic Phone Company and had over 32 years of service before retiring as a manager. In 1974 he met the love of his life, Joan M. (Gravel) Corey. They were married for 42 years.

Tom was a past president of the Kennebec Councile, Telephone Pioneers of America, past president of the Lebon Youth Club, past senior councilor UCT, life member of the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, house committee member of the Waterville Elks Lodge and life member of the Waterville American Legion Post #5.

Tom loved to travel and was very passionate about playing cards. Put Tom at a poker table and he would spend hours playing with his friends. He loved to watch football on Sundays with his wife. He volunteered a lot of time helping out at the Waterville Elks Lodge doing whatever was needed.

His immediate family includes his wife, Joan; and daughters, Kimberly Cormier and husband, Greg, of Waterboro, Melissa Brown and husband Nick, of Winslow; grandchildren, Kristen Egdorf and husband Eric, Ryan Cormier, Lindsay Cormier, Dylan Brown, Kaylin Brown; and one great-grandson, Noah; son, Kevin Miller and wife Kristie and granddaughters, Brianna and Bailey; brother-in-law, John Gravel and his wife Phyllis Gravel, and son Eric Gravel; sister and brothers, Jacqueline and husband, Jerald Anderson, of Arizona, Wanda Rose, and Michael Corey, both of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Morning Sentinel website at: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mainetoday-centralmaine/

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

In lieu of flowers please send donations to MaineGeneral Homecare & Hospice, 10 Water St., Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901.

VIRGINIA L. COST

WATERVILLE – Virginia Lemon Cost, 72, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late John Russell Lemon and Ida Jenks Lemon.

“Gini”, as known by her friends and family, graduated from the Canandaigua Academy, and from the Community College of the Finger Lakes, both in Canandaigua, New York, Roger Williams College, in Bristol, Rhode Island, and a master’s degree from American International College, in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Always with a smile on her face, Gini will be remembered for her enthusiasm and love for writing and photography.

She was predeceased by her son, Bennett Stephen Cost.

She is survived by her sisters, Patricia Lemon Hess and Mary Lemon Latessa, both of Rehoboth, Massachusetts; and her niece and nephews.

Graveside services and burial will be private and held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

RITA A. DESCHENES

WATERVILLE – Rita A. Deschenes, 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February16, 2021. She was born in Madison to the late Archile and M. Emma (Thébeau) Mercier.

She was married to Leo R. Deschenes for 69 years who predeceased her.

Rita graduated from Madison High School and received her degree as a U.S. Cadet Nurse at the Elizabeth Ann Seton School of Nursing, in Waterville, class of 1948.

After graduation she worked as a registered nurse and an operating room supervisor at Seton and Thayer Hospitals, both in Waterville.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Ann and husband David Vashon; grandchildren, Greer Vashon and Evan Vashon and wife Phina; and her great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her brothers, Arnold and Richard.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday, February 25, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Arrangements were 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, the family requests donations be made to Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

DOREEN L. SCOTT

FAIRFIELD – Doreen Lyn Scott, 60, passed away suddenly on Friday, January 8, 2021. Doreen was born in Waterville on September 23, 1960. She was the daughter of Norman and Gwendolyn Scott.

She attended Fairfield schools and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1978.

Doreen loved to shop and was on a shopping excursion when she passed away. She loved Christmas and started her next year’s Christmas shopping the day after Christmas and shopped all year long for her family and friends.

Doreen was predeceased by her parents, Norman and Gwendolyn Scott; and an uncle, Don Adams, of Winslow.

She is survived by a sister, Penny, and brother, David, both of Fairfield; a brothers, Danny, of Canaan, and Steven and wife Cynthia, of Winslow; nieces and nephews, Chris, Brian, Kevin, Bradley, Rose, Bobby, Heather, and Rory; as well as many great-nieces and nephews; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Doreen’s name to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

JOHN L. WRIGLEY

OAKLAND – John L. Wrigley, 53, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, January 11, 2021. John was born February 16, 1967, where he resided most if his life at his family farm with his late mother, Alice L. Wrigley, and his late aunt, Beverley O. Wrigley.

He graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 1986. He worked for Fabian Oil, in Oakland, for approximately 10 years and Hammond Lumber Co., in Belgrade, for approximately 25 years.

John enjoyed spending time with his family and friends as well as camping, attending races and four-wheeling. He also took great pride for the last 15 years restoring his grandfather’s 1946 Red Chevy pickup truck.

He is survived by his stepdaughter, Maila E. Couture, of Oakland; and his brother, Jason Meade and his family, of Skowhegan; his uncle Dana and aunt Marie Wrigley, of Oakland, aunt Betty and uncle Tom Pierce, of Belgrade; his cousin, Bill Wrigley and Heidi Otis and family.

In honoring John’s wishes there will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of the 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.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

LOIS M. STARBIRD

CLINTON – Lois M. (Gibson) Starbird, 87, of Clinton, passed away on Saturday January 23, 2021, following a long illness. She was born February 4, 1934, the daughter of J. Holman Gibson and Freda (Dixon) Gibson.

Lois grew up on the Gibson and Son Dairy Farm, in Clinton, where she was no stranger to hard work. She not only delivered milk by horse and buggy, but also picked beans and hayed the fields alongside her parents and brother.

Lois graduated from Clinton High School and then married Donald Starbird, also of Clinton. Together they built and sold homes in the community. Lois also was employed in the offices of Skiland Woolen Mill, in Clinton, Harris Bakery Co. and Marden’s store, both in Waterville.

She found great enjoyment in gardening, selling Avon products, being a charter member of the Evening Extension, fishing, camping and traveling. Lois traveled to many places in New England as well as California, Alaska and Kamloop, British Columbia, Canada. She went on many bus trips with friends, Virginia and Phyllis, enjoying every minute and had the stories to prove it.

In her later years Lois looked forward to camping and fishing with her longtime companion, Gordon Flewelling, and his family. Their adventures took them from the light houses on the coast of Maine to the back woods beyond Greenville.

Lois was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Donald Starbird; and most recently her brother, Wendell Gibson.

She is survived by her companion, Gordon Flewelling; her children, Joyce (Smith) Starbird, Leslie Starbird, Linda Starbird and her partner, Celena Ranger, and David Starbird; several grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; and a special “sister cousin” Ellen (Humphrey) Russell and her husband, Neil.

At Lois’s request no services will be held.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

IRMA W. SIMON

CHINA – Irma Wilcox Jones Simon, 92, passed away from natural causes on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville.

Irma was born on December 3, 1928, in an old stone cottage on the campus grounds of the (Quaker) Friends’ Central School, in Overbrook, Pennsylvania, to (Headmaster) Dr. Barclay L. Jones and Esther L. (Coffin) Jones.

She had three older sisters, Louise, Frances and Hoylande.

A love for nature began at an early age as she was known to spend hours after school in neighboring fields playing, exploring, and studying the flora and fauna of the natural world around her. In the summers, Irma and her parents and sisters vacationed in South China, where a family cottage was built above the shores of China Lake. Here, she fell in love with the lake and time spent with cousins and many Quaker Friends and relatives. Irma always called South China, her “home”.

Irma attended Earlham College, in Indiana, graduating in 1950 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. There she met Stephen W. Simon, her future husband of 19 years. Upon their divorce in 1971, Irma and her five children moved to Maine to stay. As a “Maine-iac”, she once worked as an assistant teacher in Waterville High School’s science department where she was affectionately known to her students as “Mother Nature”. She was involved in a federal program called Project Tree at the elementary school, and for many years passed on her knowledge and love of nature as a volunteer working with counselors and campers at the (Quaker) Friends’ Camp, in South China, establishing a pond and the Woods Trail. Irma also became the first laboratory employee for Northeast Laboratory Services, in Winslow, was a histologist at the former Mid-Maine Medical Center, and an inorganic chemist and bacteriologist in the Department of Environmental Protection lab for the State of Maine which she loved until her retirement.

As a life-long Quaker, Irma attended her beloved Vassalboro Friends Meeting, in East Vassalboro. As a member of the Peace Committee for several years, she promoted peace-making endeavors and activism, and participated in peaceful demonstrations across New England.

In her retirement years, Irma enjoyed traveling out of state to visit family and friends, looked forward to summer gatherings of family, and Jones and Coffin cousins at the family cottage, and time spent on the shores of China Lake.

She was a lover of nature, birds and cats and an active member of several national and local environmental and wildlife organizations including the Natural Resources Council of Maine, the Maine Wolf Coalition and the China Lake Association. She was strong willed, never one to miss an opportunity to express her opinion regarding politics and the environment, believing world peace was possible and climate change can be fixed. This trait also served her well in overcoming several health crises in her lifetime.

In passing, may her spirit now run with the caribou in Alaska, howl with wolf packs, canoe the wild rivers of Maine, enjoy the waters of China Lake, and fly with all her feather friends. May she know that good people continue to work hard to end hatred and violence, to protect our earth, and to save our wildlife.

Irma is survived by her five children, Sylvia (Robert) Eppig, Andrew Simon, Peter (Melinda) Simon, Esther (James) Emmert and Emily (Russell) Poulin, as well as 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be hosted at a later date in Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to either The Vassalboro Friends Meeting, the China Lake Association, or the Natural Resources Council of Maine.

ALBERT R. BOYNTON

WHITEFIELD – Albert R. Boynton, 94, of 98 Mills Rd., died Sunday, January 31, 2021, at his home. He was born May 18, 1926, in Whitefield, to Chester A. Boynton and Addie F. (Knight) Boynton.

He was the youngest of seven children. He was born at the mill house across the road and moved to his current address one year later.

Albert was very much influenced by his mother who died when he was six years old. He always referred to her as “Mama”. He spoke of how she baked big pans of molasses cookies and raisin squares and took the responsibility to open the church and played the piano there. She had a marble top table full of African violets and took all the kids with her in the car to collect bills for his father’s sawmill business.

After she died his father kept their family together through the Great Depression even after losing his lumber business. Albert thought of him as a hero. It was a hurricane in 1938 that brought their family out of the Depression, when they were able to take a portable sawmill to Peterborough, New Hampshire, to clean up downed trees for wealthy families. Albert called it an “act of God”.

He went to Peterborough High School for two years. When the family moved the sawmill to Plainfield, Massachusetts, Albert went with his brother, George, to East Hartford, Connecticut, and attended school there for a semester. He then returned to Whitefield with his family and finished high school at Erskine Academy, in South China, graduating in the class of 1943.

After starting classes at the University of Maine at Orono, Albert decided to enlist in the Navy because he wanted to choose the branch he served in. He chose the Navy because he liked the blue uniforms rather than the olive drab. He entered boot camp in May 1944, on his 18th birthday, and served for two years on the USS Goodhue.

It wasn’t until later years that he shared with great emotion what it was like to have his ship hit by a Kamikaze and witness the loss of many of his shipmates. When he came back from serving in World War II, he returned to UMO, finishing with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering.

He graduated in 1950 and got a job at Togus as an orderly to be able to pay for equipment for dairy farming. He met his wife Carolyn there who was an RN at the facility, and they married in 1954. She was the first and last girlfriend that he ever had. Albert worked for 30 years as a rural mail carrier in Whitefield, Coopers Mills and Somerville. He went the extra mile for his customers and enjoyed working with many special people. The job of mail carrier suited him to a “T”.

Albert went out of dairy farming when his barn burned in 1967 but always maintained a small herd of dairy cows. He accepted Jesus as his Savior on Palm Sunday 1971 which was the defining moment of his life. His faith influenced every aspect of his life from then on.

In retirement Albert cared for Carolyn for 12 years until her death in 2003. He was a member of Calvary Bible Baptist Church, in Whitefield, and later South Somerville Baptist Church. He enjoyed being in God’s House and reading and studying His Word. He passionately wrote letters to local papers on issues of life and morality. He was an avid reader and was always singing.

Albert was predeceased by his wife, Carolyn Tarbox Boynton; three daughters, Jeanne, Nancy and Mary Anne; and a grandson, Taylor Kittner, his mother and father; and six siblings, Virginia, Alden, Marcia, George, Dana, Shirley and their spouses.

Albert is survived by a son, David Boynton and his wife Melissa, of Whitefield; a daughter Beverly Cronkhite and her husband Rick, of Whitefield; a daughter Janet Kittner and her husband Wilfred, of Charlotte, North Carolina; grandchildren Kate Parker and husband Joe, of Augusta, Sam Boynton and wife Julie, of Walpole, Massachusetts, Meg Dyer and husband Jeff, of Palermo, Sawyer Maldovan and girlfriend Taylor Hickey, of Whitefield, Miranda Proud and boyfriend Josh Grenier, of Fairfield, Justin Cronkhite and wife Courtney, of Whitefield, Addie Joslyn and husband Jeremy, of Jefferson, Olivia Finnemore and husband Brendon, of Rockland, Jonah Cronkhite and wife Lydia, of Waldoboro, and Natalie and Brigitte Kittner, both of Charlotte, North Carolina; great-grandchildren are Cora and Ivy Parker, Ilyda, Vivian, and Ruby Dyer, Mia, Riley, and Izzy Proud, Abe Cronkhite, Brennan, Grayson and Haven Joslyn, Afton Finnemore, and Makiyah and Mitchell.

He was also the guardian to Larry Sturges. Albert was very much looking forward to meeting three more precious great-grandchildren this year. Albert also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends.

The funeral service will be private. Spring burial will be in Highland Cemetery, in Jefferson.

Arrangements were by Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pine Tree Camp, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome, ME 04963; Zoe A. Women’s Center, 1056 Commercial St., Rockport, ME 04856; or Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19104.

MICHAEL J. COYNE

FAIRFIELD – Michael J. Coyne, 51, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Thayer campus, in Waterville. He was born December 2, 1969, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the son of Michael G. and Rosanne M. (Beaudreault) Coyne.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1988. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United State Marine Corps from 1988 to 1989 until his honorable discharge.

He was employed as a cook for 20 years at Belanger’s Drive-In, in Fairfield, Thomas College, in Waterville, as head chef for 10 years and Camp Pinecliffe as head chef for the last five years.

He was a member of the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Post #14, in Fairfield, the women’s Auxiliary and the United Bikers of Maine. Michael loved to cook, tell dad jokes and spend time with his granddaughter, Gracelyn. He enjoyed Harley-Davidson, Bald Eagles and the Marine Corps.

Michael is survived by three daughters, Makayla Coyne, of Augusta, Victoria Blaisdell , and boyfriend Matthew Quinn, of Fryeburg, Kyrrah Guerin, of Waterville; granddaughter, Gracelyn; twin brother, Gregory Coyne and wife Lori, of Natick, Massachusetts; brother David Coyne and life partner Shannon Cortois, of Waterville; niece and nephew, Adam and Katherine Coyne; father, Michael G. Coyne and wife Marlene, of Augusta; second family, the Blaisdells, Kelly, Lori and Roger.

He was predeceased by his mother, Rosanne Mary (Beaudreault) Coyne; stepsister, Sheila White.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Michael’s memory to the American Legion Post #14, 86 Main Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.

EMMA Z. DRYSDALE

WATERVILLE – Emma (Zeffer) Drysdale, 97, recently of Waterville, passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at Lakewood Northern Light Continuing Care, in Waterville. She was born in Edison, New Jersey, on August 3, 1923, the daughter of Peter and Juliana (Tompa) Zeffer.

Emma lived in the Metuchen and Edison area of New Jersey most of her life, marrying Gordon W. R. Drysdale and raising her family there. Family was most important to Emma.

She was a member of The Ascension Lutheran Church, of New Brunswick, New Jersey, and worked at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital for many years, retiring in 1994. She moved to Sarisota, Florida, in 1998 and then to Waterville in 2005.

She is survived by a daughter, Bonnie Cohen and husband Paul, of Orono; son, Gordon R. Drysdale and wife Nancy, of Fairfield; grandchildren, Danette Baltutis and husband Tony, of Azle, Texas, G. Edward Drysdale and wife Rebakah, of Auburn; three great-grandchildren, Emma and William Drysdale and Kate Kirchner; many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Gordon; four sisters, Julia Kalman, Edith Bascelli, Margaret Margolis and Irene Anderko.

At Emma’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral services. Interment will be at the convenience of the family at Franklin Memorial Park Mausoleum in North Brunswick, New Jersey.

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

DONALD SCHILLING JR.

BENTON – Donald Schilling Jr., 40, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2021. Donald was born at Central Maine Medical Center, in Lewiston, on January 5, 1981.

He had numerous close friends who can attest to his heart of gold. Donald loved listening to music, watching game shows, drawing and doing puzzles. He was very proud of his children who gave him great joy. Fly high superman.

Donald was predeceased by his mother, Kathy Lynn Schilling and his maternal grandparents.

He is survived by his three children, Gavin, Alivia and Danica; his father, Donald Schilling Sr.; his sister, Melissa and her spouse, Jeremiah Musselman; his companion, Christine Berryman; many aunts and uncles; and lots of cousins.

No services will be held at this time.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

NANCY L. RODRIGUE

WINSLOW – Nancy L. (St. Pierre) Rodrigue, 76, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. She was born November 22, 1944, in Brunswick, the daughter of George and Georgette (Johnson) St. Pierre.

She was educated in the schools of Brunswick and on December 27, 1976, she married Joseph Rodrigue. She enjoyed reading and crocheting.

Nancy is survived by daughter, Nancy Clowes, of Waterville; granddaughter, Terri Clowes, of Waterville; two brothers, James St. Pierre, of Portland, LonAllen St. Pierre; two sisters, Linda St. Pierre and Betty St. Pierre.

She was predeceased in 2020 by her husband, Joseph Rodrigue.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

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

MARLENE A. HARRIS

WINSLOW – Marlene Amber (Ham) Harris, 81, passed away on Monday, February 1, 2021, at her home, in Winslow, following a lengthy battle with ovarian cancer. She was born in Waterville on July 1, 1939, to Amber (Jakins) and William E. Ham.

Following graduation from Winslow High School in 1957, Marlene became employed as a private secretary to Miss Pearl Fisher at the former Thayer Hospital, in Waterville. She met and married Richard E. Harris on February 1, 1958, exactly 63 years ago. They raised three children in the home they built together in Winslow. Later, they built a summer cottage at Prince Edward Island which they enjoyed for over 45 years.

Marlene achieved her medical assistant certification and was proud to work with several local physicians, including over 25 years as Dr. John W. Towne’s medical assistant. After retirement in 1997, she and her husband spent winters at their home in Fort Meade, Florida. Both in Maine and Florida, she was very active in the Order of Eastern Star and was a Past Matron of Martha Washington Chapter #15.

Marlene was talented, creative and industrious. She was an artist and restored many antiques with her husband. She loved art, music and was an accomplished knitter and quilter, making quilts for all her family. An active person, she especially enjoyed square dancing, country dancing and clogging, and roller-skating. She and her husband rode motorcycles together for many years and owned and showed antique automobiles.

Marlene had a busy, happy life and will be remembered by her family for her independence, stamina and sheer determination, especially during her illness. Throughout her life, she shared her love and care for many people, and for many animals, both wild and domestic.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Richard; a daughter, Allison Watson and her husband Michael; a son, Martin Harris and his partner Rhonda Kennedy; three grandchildren, Melissa Audet Stewart, Brian Audet and his wife, Sydnee, Benjamin Audet and his fiancée, Felicia Paradis; two great-grandchildren, Cameron and Abigale Stewart; a brother, Wayne E. Ham and his wife, Peggy; and two nephews, Jason Ham and Christopher Ham and his partner, Sarah Austin.

Her eldest son, Dana R. Harris, predeceased her.

A celebration and remembrance of Marlene’s life will be held at a later date in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent in her memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.