REBECCA J. WEBSTER

BELGRADE – Rebecca (Becky) Jane Webster, 85, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, succumbing to the ravages of 15 years of Parkinson disease. Becky was born on February 13, 1935, in Winthrop, The daughter of Leroy and Evelyn (Frost) Barter.

She graduated from Winthrop High School class of 1953. Following graduation she packed her bags, hopped a bus and struck out on her own to Washington D.C. She worked as a telephone operator but after a few months learned the big city was not what she thought and returned to Maine. Eventually she met and married Maurice Webster.

After marrying, the couple settled in Belgrade Lakes to raise their family.While her children were young, Becky worked at the Locust House, cleaned many of the seasonal camps and worked as a pyschiatric nurses aide at the Augusta Mental Health Institute. She enjoyed the nursing profession, decided to make that her career and began her nursing education.

In 1966 an industrial accident left her husband paralyzed. She abandoned her dream to care for him. When her father-in-law died suddenly just a few months later, she finished out his contract as USPS rural mail carrier. She continued as mail carrier for several years and finally went to work at the State of Maine Revenue Services as a tax examiner.

Becky loved music and dancing. She was a season ticket holder for the Maine State Music Theatre for almost 30 years, attending each show with her daughter and daughters-in-law. She and Maurice square danced and traveled all over New England and Canadian maritimes to dance at different gatherings and conventions until his health prohibited him from dancing. She was a founding member of the Downeast Country Music Association, a member of the Good Sam camping association, and a member of the Union Church of Belgrade Lakes.

Becky was a champion horseshoe pitcher, and ranked in the top 20 women players in New England. She took pride in competing against and beating men without taking the distance advantage given to women players.

Her greatest joy was her family. She taught her children the importance of family, the value of hard work, the necessity of resiliency and was a living example of what it meant to care and nurture. She loved to have family gatherings, hosted great parties, took camping trips with each of her grandchildren, made everlasting memories, and celebrated birthdays and holidays heartily.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Maurice, brothers Edward, Charles, and Warren, and her sister Sharon.

Survivors include sons Charlie Webster and his wife Vicki, of Farmington, Harold “Jim” Webster and his wife Kelly, of Belgrade, daughter Kim Haggan and her husband Frank, of Belgrade; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, Ashley and Adam Nau and their sons Seth and Bodi; Amanda and Matt Dickey and their children Owen, Ellis and Jenny; Erin and James O’Connor and their sons Cody and Rory; Ryan Haggan and girlfriend Courtney; and Alyson Webster and boyfriend Mike; three sisters Geraldine French, Dianne Christensen, Lois Daggett and her husband Arnold; a brother Roger Barter.

Becky’s memorial service was held on Monday, June 29, 2020, in the Union Church of Belgrade Lakes.

Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop, where condolences to the family may be shared on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

ELSIE V. DOUIN

SIDNEY – Elsie Vera Douin, 89, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2020, at home. Elsie was born in Saginaw, Michigan, on February 14, 1931,the daughter of John and Vera Marko.

She was educated in Saginaw schools. Elsie met the love of her life Norman A. Douin while he was serving in the Navy, married in 1949 and had three children, Larry, Paula and Rodney.Throughout her entire life, she held an unwavering faith in God and devoted her life to her husband and raising her children.

She was an exceptionally talented artist and a lover of all artistic things and in her teens was offered a position with the famous Walt Disney Co. She absolutely loved and was always attracted to anything shiny, glittery or bling, thus her nickname became Gypsy. Elsie was a passionate painter, seamstress, loved needlework, macrame, ceramics and stained glass to name a few. She participated in many art and craft shows with her daughter and was a member of Tole N’ ME and The Society of Decorative Painters. She often talked about working at a local hospital in Saginaw helping in labor and delivery at a young age.

In addition to raising her family, she and her husband owned and operated Douin’s and Sons Garage, Elsie’s Variety and Douin’s Electric while her husband worked full time at the MCRR. Once her children entered high school she went to work at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, and Mary’s Ceramics, both in Waterville.When she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found in the kitchen cooking, baking or canning her delicious family recipes for her family and friends.

She was an incredible loving, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and she will be sorely missed by all her knew her.

Elsie was predeceased by her parents John and Vera; her husband Norman; son Joseph; sisters Mary Marko and JoAnn Bonenfant, brother Stanley Markol and grandson Ian Scott Douin.

She is survived by her sister Helen Egbert, of Pennsylvania; and brother Robert Marko, of Michigan; her three children Larry Douin and his wife Shirley, Paula Stevens and her husband Wayne and Rodney Douin; her four grandchildren, Chris Douin, Haley Stevens Arnold, Sara Douin Brown and Casey Douin Whitehousel her seven great-grandchildren, Ian Douin, Greyson Stevens Arnold, Grant Henry Arnold, Abigail Brown, Nolan Brown, Wade Whitehouse and Chase Whitehouse.

Services will be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, to be announced at a later date.

HILAIRE M. PAQUETTE

BENTON – Hilaire Maurice “Moe” Paquette, 87, passed away Friday, June 5, 2020, at Oak Grove Nursing Center, in Waterville. Maurice was born Dec­ember 2, 1932, in Winslow, to Emile and Florence (Masse) Paquet.

He attended Winslow schools and graduated from Winslow High School in 1950. He married Claudette Elliott, of Fairfield, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary church, in Fairfield, on February19, 1955.

He was a decorated veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, receiving three commendation medals for meritorious service and outstanding achievement. He was promoted to master sergeant in February 1970. During his service, he was stationed at a number of Air Force bases across the country including, Dow AFB in Bangor, Westover AFB, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, Otis AFB, in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and McLellen AFB, in North Highlands, California.

After his honorable discharge in 1972, he joined the US Postal Service where he worked as a mail carrier/supervisor until his retirement in 1992. Maurice enjoyed boating and fishing at his camp on Great Pond, in Belgrade, playing his accordion, his piano and his banjo. He and Claudette loved dining out at the Taste of Maine, Anglers and Governors restaurants where he enjoyed his Alabama Slammer. He was also quite fond of the seafood stew from The Pointe Afta. Everyone knew his favorite weekly treat was an ice cream from the DQ.

Maurice is survived by two daughters, Angela Cairnie and husband Paul, of Winslow, Cindy Paquette, of Benton; four sons, Paul Paquette and wife Joyce, of Florida, Mike Paquette and wife Sue, of Auburn, Jeff Paquette and wife Diane, of Durham, New Hampshire, David Paquette and fiancée Sharisse, of Benton; grandchildren, Aaron, Jason, Nicholas, Kelsey, Elizabeth, Hannah, Jeffrey, Holly, Marissa, Sarah; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews; three brothers, Clarence “Ky” Paquet and wife Yvette, Jean “Lawrence” Paquet and wife Jane, David Paquet and wife Maryanne; and one sister Olivette Letourneau.

He predeceased his brother Leonel Paquette who passed on June 11, 2020.

He was predeceased by his wife, Claudette Paquette; his parents; five sisters, Marie Leavitt and husband George, Dorianne Poulin and husband Robert, Justine Dolham and husband Robert, Lizette Madore and husband Donald, Marilyn Theriault and husband Joseph; two brothers, Marcel Paquet and wife Margaret, Camille Paquet and wife Shirley; along with his sister-in-law Adeline Paquette and his brother-in-law Richard Letourneau; three nephews, John Paquet, Reggie Poulin and Terry Leavitt and five nieces, Rachel Paquet, Kathy Madore, Jean Poulin, Betty Paquet, and Brenda Paquet.

A family graveside service was held on June 29, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville, officiated by Father Jim MM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations in Maurice’s memory to your local food pantry, or Winslow Community Cupboard, 12 Lithgow St., Winslow, ME 04901, or Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry, 23 Lawrence Avenue, Fairfield, Maine, 04937, and/or the MaryKnoll Missionary.

NORMA F. BERRYMAN

OAKLAND – Norma F. Berryman, 93, died on Saturday, June 6, 2020, at Oak Grove Nursing home, in Waterville. Norma was born in Paterson, New Jersey, and lived for many years in Denville, New Jersey, before moving to Maine with her husband, William, in 1980.

She attended Oberlin Conservatory of Music, in Ohio, for two years and was a graduate of Syracuse University. She taught third grade in Denville for many years.

In retirement, Mrs. Berryman operated a business that made men’s neckties and women’s handbags throughout New England.

She was active in the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church for many years including many years as a choir director. Norma volunteered at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, for about 30 years, making dolls for children undergoing procedures or surgery.

Surviving are two sons, Robert, of Weld, John and wife Shannon, of Whitehorse Yukon Territory, Canada, and a daughter Kathryn Bosse and husband Robert, of Ellsworth; three granddaughters, one grandson; and six great-grandchildren.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation P.O. Box 515 Northampton, MA 01061-0515.

MICHAEL M. NAWFEL, DMD

WATERVILLE – Michael M. Nawfel, D.M.D., 97, husband of Dolores N. Nawfel, of Waterville, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2020, at the MaineGeneral Long-Term Care Facility at Glenridge, in Augusta. Born in 1923, in Waterville, he was the son of the late Sam M. and Adma D. Nawfel.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1941. He attended Colby College, in Waterville, for his undergraduate prerequisite sciences and was accepted to Tufts Dental School through the United States Army Specialized Training Program. He graduated Tufts Dental School in April 1946.

During the summer of 1946, he worked his first job as a dentist for the Maine Seacoast Missionary Society established by a Baptist church in Maine. He served on a mobile dental unit on a boat named the Sunbeam providing dental care for the fishing and lobstering communities populating the islands along the coast of Maine. Over the next two years, he completed active-duty service in the United States Army at Army Hospital, in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, during World War II. He was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.

It is no accident that his nostalgic attachment to his birthplace would draw him back to Waterville where he would strengthen his deep connection with family, friends and community upon the purchase of his dental office, at 24 Common St., in downtown Waterville in 1948, the heartbeat of the community. For him, downtown Waterville became a sacred space; a place of deep meaning and belonging. He became affectionately known as “Uncle Mickey” to many of the younger patients in his practice. He loved his work and described it as a blessing. “Work is my blessing, not my doom,” as he would often say. He pursued his passion for dentistry for the next 56 years until his retirement at age 81.

Dr. Nawfel was a member of the Colby Alumni Association, Tufts Alumni Association, Maine Dental Association, New England Dental Society, Kennebec Valley Dental Association, and American Dental Association. For years he was an active member of the Waterville Lions Club.

He reveled in activities such as gardening, fishing, scuba diving, carpentry, and music. He was an accomplished violinist. He was an avid gardener throughout his life and rototilled and planted his last garden at age 92. He built, with his own hands, a 64- x 120-foot skating rink with floodlights hoisted upon telephone poles to light the structure by night. What began as a project for the delight of his four boys had a ripple effect throughout the entire community as children from many of Waterville’s diverse neighborhoods slowly found their way to “Dr. Nawfel’s skating rink” where they would skate and play hockey. These activities would continue for years as his welcome home became another focal point of community in his life.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores Nawfel, to whom he was married for 67 years. Together they dedicated themselves to a singular unity of purpose to preserve and strengthen the health and well-being of their four sons, Sam Nawfel, D.O. and his wife Bonnie, Michael Nawfel, D.M.D. and his wife Karen, Nicholas Nawfel, D.D.S. and his wife Penny, and his youngest son, Peter Nawfel; five grandchildren, Nichole Nawfel, Jacob Nawfel and his wife Katie, Alysia Whynot and her husband Colby, Lauren Nawfel, Jena Nawfel; and his great-grandson, Wesley Whynot; sister-in-law Helen Edwards and her husband Ed and sister-in-law Elizabeth (Betty) Fowler and her husband Leon; many nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Adma Nawfel; his four sisters, Laura Nawfel, Amera Nawfel, Zanie Hikel and her husband Gabe, Najla Joseph and her husband Harold; and his granddaughter, Alexa Nawfel.

Because of the restrictions imposed by the pandemic of 2020, a small private graveside service with burial attended by his immediate family was conducted by Father Constantine Sarantidis. He was laid to rest on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at Pine Grove Cemetery, Grove St., Waterville.

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

For those who would like to make a donation in Michael’s name, you are welcome to consider Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 133 Pleasant St., Portland, ME 04101.

THELMA M. DEMPSEY

FAIRFIELD – Thelma Marie (Hawes) Dempsey, 70, passed away at her home, in Fairfield, on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. She was born in Fort Kent, a daughter of Patrick and Nellie (Voisine) Dempsey on October 2, 1949.

She attended Waterville schools. She married her childhood sweetheart Daniel A. Hawes on September 1, 1965.

They shared six beautiful children together. Thelma was a loving, caring woman. She would give the shirt off her back if you needed it. Her doors were always open to all. She devoted her life to her family; she was always helping someone throughout her life and doing so happily. No one was ever a stranger in her home.

Her hobbies included collecting porcelain dolls and figurines. She enjoyed visiting her family and having huge family gatherings. She loved playing Bingo with friends and family. Her children were her reason for living.

She had an amazing bond with her youngest son, her baby boy, Jerry Hawes, who passed too soon, on Monday, April 13, 2020.

She is survived by her children, Sheri LaVerdiere and husband Bryant, of Fairfield, Kelly LaChance, of Fairfield, Randy Hawes and Kim, of Waterville, Kathy Kennedy and husband Terry, of Florida, Daniel Hawes and wife Tonia, of Fairfield; her siblings Bernadette Paradis, of Waterville, Danny Dempsey and wife Tammy, of Burnham, Karen Elliott, of Waterville, and Gayle Workman and husband Larry, of Oakland; 20 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by the father of her children Daniel A. Hawes Sr.; her son Jerry P. Hawes Sr., infant son Toby L. Hawes; her parents Patrick and Nellie Dempsey; and her brother Jerry Dempsey.

At her request, there will be no viewing or public service. Her children will be planning a Celebration of her Life at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Giberson Funeral Home.

ROLAND L. DUPERRY

WINSLOW – Roland L. Duperry, 91, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, June 22, 2020. He was born on February 15, 1929, in Van Buren, son of Leo Duperry and Lizzie Madore.

He attended schools in Van Buren, and graduated from high school in 1949.

He was a communicant of Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville.

Roland apprenticed as a Horologist (clock repair) in Van Buren and continued the business for 50 years from his home. He was a member of the American Watchmakers Institute. He moved to Waterville in 1949 and then to Winslow in 1969. He was employed by Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, for 33 years, 25 of those in security, before retiring in 1986 as Security Chief.

In 1999 he began to winter in Bradenton, Florida. An avid card player, especially Cribbage, he never played a game he wanted to lose. His famous quote, “There are no friends in cards!” will live on forever. He especially loved teaching his grandchildren (the younger generation) the art of playing Charlemagne – a French heritage card game.

Roland married Juliette Martin (d 1988), of Waterville, in 1953.

He is survived by their four children, Daniel and Marla Duperry, of Oakland, Ann Duperry and partner Carol Guerrette, of Frankfurt, Philip and Margaret Duperry, of Sarasota, Florida, Richard and Joette Duperry, of Portland; seven grandchildren, Elizabeth and Jeremy Barnes, Christopher, Nicole and Mac McMurphy, Rebekah, Zachary, Hannah and Ethan; and two great-grandchildren, Hunter and Quinn; brothers, Kenneth and Elsie Duperry, of Dallas, Texas, Carlton and Jeannette Duperry, of East Hartford, Connecticut, Gene and Frances Duperry, also in Dallas, Texas, Donald (Ricky) and Lulrine Duperry, of Fairfield Center; sisters, Louella Bickford, of Benton, Joyce and Sam Green, of Fairfield Center, Francine Duperry, of Centerville, Georgia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

Roland was predeceased by his parents; his wife Juliette, brother Lionel Duperry, of Santa Fe Springs, California, and his brother Rodney Duperry, of Benton.

You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Roland’s guestbook at http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St John the Baptist church, in Winslow, on Monday, June 29, 10:00 a.m.

Burial took place in St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are by Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, ME 04901. (207)872-7676.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at give.mainegeneral.org, Please specify Hospice!

THEODORE H. GRANDMAISON

OAKLAND – Theodore “Ted” H. Grandmaison, 78, passed away Thursday, May 28, 2020, at his home, in Oakland. He was born in Farmington, the son of Roland A. and Hilda (Rood) Grandmaison.

He enjoyed shooting guns, wood crafting, hanging out with his grandchildren, and taking rides in the car.

Ted is survived by two sons, Richard Grandmaison and partner Lisa Hood, Paul Grandmaison and wife Amanda; daughter, Marie Grandmaison and partner Glen Savage; grandchildren, Kiley Grandmaison and partner Bruce Moody, Sydney Grandmaison, Storm Savage, Kelsey Grandmaison, Cearra Grandmaison, Steele Savage and Scott Grandmaison.

He was predeceased by a son, Ted Grandmaison; former wife, Bette Fields; Damon Fountain, Patti Fountain.

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

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

DIANNE E. LEVESQUE

WINSLOW – Dianne E. Levesque, 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2020, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born on October 16, 1943, in Jacksonville, Florida, daughter of William and Louine (Spinney) Cotter.

She was raised in Orrington and was a 1961 graduate of Brewer High School. She most recently resided in Winslow.

Dianne graduated college from Husson University, in Bangor. She held multiple office positions at Wyandotte Mill, W.S. Emerson, Myerowitz Chiropractic, Kennebec Behavioral Health, Morning Sentinel, and Dr. Rosalind Waldron.

As a loving wife, mother, Aunty Di, and nana, Dianne enjoyed spending time with family playing games, singing songs, and telling many stories. She had a fondness for knitting, sewing, singing, and playing piano, along with cooking many delicious family meals.

Dianne was predeceased by her parents, husband, Robert, and brother, Richard.

She is survived by her sons, Michael and wife Sibel, Monte and wife Jessica, Matthew and wife Joan, and Benjamin and wife Tomi; grandchildren, Michael Jr., Melanie, Angela, Nicole, Laura, Colby, Emily, Brenden, Jackson, and Madison; great-grandchildren, Chloe, Isabella, Colin, Zoey, Alexander, and Jonah; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Per Dianne’s request, there will be no memorial services. There will be a private family interment scheduled at a later date. Memories and condolences can be shared on Dianne’s Facebook page.

BEATRICE D. POULIN

WINSLOW – Beatrice Delores Poulin, 94, passed peacefully of natural causes on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, at her home. Beatrice was born in Waterville, January 4, 1926, the daughter of Gertrude Mae (Jolicoeur) and Francois Joseph Berard Sr.

Beatrice attended St. Francis de Sales school and graduated from Waterville High School in 1942. Beatrice also attended fashion school in New York City for one year but fell in love with her future husband, Donald, and returned to Maine.

Beatrice had a full-time job raising 11 children. During those years she gained experience in nursing, cooking and psychology, always caring and supporting her children.

Beatrice would spend every moment she could with her husband Donald, who nicknamed her “Queen Bea”. They managed to find time to go dancing, fishing and hiking. Beatrice was seen more than once wading up to her knees netting a five-pound Brook trout or a three-pound Salmon at the Belgrade Lakes dam.

Beatrice was a loving, caring person who enjoyed spending time with her family. Cribbage was a family game and Beatrice looked forward to playing with any family members or visitors. The cribbage tournaments at Goudreau’s Retirement Home, in Winslow, were always a highlight of her week.

As a long time, standing member of the St. Theresa Guild, she devoted her time to the church. Bea’s prayers and love for God is above no other love. A strong belief in religion and prayer, her faith in Jesus Christ helped bond her family together.

Beatrice was predeceased by her parents; her husband Donald; two sons, Peter and Marc; as well as brothers, Frank, Ralph, Fred, and Wallace Berard, and her sisters, Germaine Berard, Theresa Bunker, Ruth Totten, Gertrude Gagnon, and Charlotte Doucette.

She is survived by a brother, Arthur and wife Jean Berard, of Winslow; a sister, Honorine Lafreniere, of Lewiston; her children, Diane Poulin (Peter`s spouse), of Skowhegan, Paul and wife Betsy, of Tujunga, California, Phil, of Sidney, Pam and husband Pat Kearney, of Scarborough, Tom and wife Kim, of Oakland, Ted and wife Carol, of Merrimack, New Hampshire, Tim, of Sidney, Trudy, of South Portland, Meg, of Scarborough, Mat and wife Becky, of Oakland; 19 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a private church service held for immediate family.

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

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

Those who wish to make a donation may contact Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Services at shelterme.org or Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen at corpuscristimaine.org/sacred-heart-soup-kitchen.

TAMARA L. SCHRIVER

WINDSOR – Tamara L. Schriver, 56, died Friday, June 5, 2020, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a brief illness. She was born January 15, 1964, in Gardiner, the daughter of Paul and Dora Dolan Schriver.

She attended Gardiner schools and graduated from Gardiner High School in 1982. She attended cosmetology school, then worked for U.S. VA Togus, and was there for the last 25 years as a sensory and physical rehab therapist. While at Togus, she served on several committees including the Native American committee for veterans.

Tammy loved the ocean and being on the beach. She attended pow wows, enjoyed arts and crafts, shopping and motorcycles. She worked at the Windsor Fair for many years.

She is predeceased by her parents, a daughter Tabitha Luczkowski; brother, Todd Schriver and half-brother, Stephen Schriver.

She is survived by two sons, Adam Schriver and wife Stephanie, of Gardiner, Anthony Luczkowski, of Windsor; daughter Vada Luczkowski, of Windsor; half-sister Lynn Schriver, of Florida, and several cousins and nieces and nephews.

A private burial be will held in Mount Hope Cemetery, South Gardiner.

A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 1 p.m., at Tammy’s Home, 16 Barry Lane, Windsor.

Arrangements are by Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

MICHAEL D. TAYLOR

OAKLAND – Michael D. Taylor, 59, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2020, at his home, in Oakland. He was born July 15, 1960, in Waterville, the son of Harland and Carol (Furbush) Taylor.

He attended Messalonskee High School, class 1979. On August 9, 1997, he married the former Linda Pooler. He worked most of his life in the family owned business, A.L.Taylor and Son, in Oakland. His favorite pass time of all was hunting, whether it be on his own, with friends or teaching someone in the family. He also enjoyed fly fishing, anything outdoors, and tinkering on anything with a small engine.

Michael is survived by his wife of 22 years, Linda E. (Pooler) Taylor, of Oakland; two sons, Shawn L. Taylor and partner Marie, of Oakland, and their children, Brandon, Matt, Damian and Trinity, and Derick M. Taylor and partner Haley, of Oakland, and their children, Katlyn, Kaleb, Kayleb and Camren; daughter Nicole L. Taylor and son Cody, of Oakland; stepson Christopher G. Sinclair and partner Nichole, of Fairfield ,and children Brittany, Summer, Ally, Ava; stepdaughter Heather Dickson and partner Walter, of Norridgewock; Harland Taylor and stepmother Gloria, of Oakland; Jeff Taylor and wife Linda, of Oakland, Dan Taylor and wife Cathy, of Oakland; brother-in-law Mike Eller, of Benton; several step grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his mother, Carol (Furbush) Taylor; sister, Susan Eller; and nephew, Ryan Taylor.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 20, 2020, at 11 a.m., at A.L. Taylor & Son, 12 Heath Street, Oakland.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family may contact Nicole at (207) 314-7962. Please leave messages.

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

DONNA M. LIBBY

AUGUSTA – Donna M. Libby, 83, of Winslow, passed away Monday, June 8, 2020 at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, of organ failure. Donna was born August 19, 1936, in Waterville, daughter of Dana and Arlene (Bolduc) Morin.

She graduated from Mt. Merici Academy, in Waterville, class of 1954. Donna met her sweetheart, Leonel Libby, while working at JB Friel in 1955. They were then married on September 15, 1956.

Donna and Nel had three children, Melissa Routhier, Celeste Dechaine and Mark Libby. Donna and Nel truly enjoyed their card playing and cribbage games.

Donna worked at JB Friel Insurance Co., Waterville Hardware, and was a local Avon representative. Most of her life she worked as a homemaker.

She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow. She enjoyed doing cross stitching, visiting coastal Maine, going out to lunch with friends and family, and shopping. She made sure all family birthdays, anniversaries, etc., were celebrated.

Donna was predeceased by her husband, Leonel and her parents, Dana and Arlene Morin.

Donna is survived by her children, Melissa Routhier and husband James, of Vassalboro, Celeste Dechaine and husband Bruce, of Elm City, North Carolina, and Mark and wife Lynn, of Vassalboro; her grandchildren, Jason Rodrigue and partner Adam Smith, of Saco, Nichole Hawkins and husband James, of Baltimore, Maryland, Ryan Deschaine and wife Alison, of Clinton, Stephanie Marcoux and husband Brad, of Fairfield, Brett Libby and girlfriend Jordyn, of Waterville, Jamie Routhier and wife Amy Starkey, of Winslow, Jessica Routhier, of Winslow, Danielle Dechaine, of Little River, South Carolina, and Cassandra Dechaine and fiancé Stefan Larose, of Somerville, Massachusetts; her great-grandchildren, Cooper Starkey and Aria Marcoux; her only sister, Annette (Morin) Bosse, of Pennsylvania; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial was held, by invitation only, on Saturday, June 13, 2020.

Please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share your condolences and memories with Donna’s Family.

DIANE D. KASLAUSKA

WINDSOR – Diane (Doyon) Kaslauskas, 74, of Ridge Rd., passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2020, following a brief illness, at Androscoggin Hospice House, Auburn. Diane was born on March 1, 1946, at Maine General Hospital to Hercules and Yvonne Doyon.

Diane grew up in Chelsea with sister Nancy, attending Chelsea elementary schools and graduating from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1956.

Following graduation, Diane began working for the state in the Department of Transportation. She worked her entire career, of over 30 years for the State of Maine.

Diane will be remembered for her hours of dedication to both the Cub Scouts and Little League foundations for her sons, Mike and Delmar. Diane would often say that she had high cholesterol from eating “all the hot dogs from the concession stand every night of the week,” because she was always at the fields supporting her boys.

As a dedicated Den mother, Diane, despite her fear of heights, marched a pack of Cub Scouts up a mountain in Camden Hill State Park.

Diane loved guiding for Mary Grove at the Poland Mining Camps, where she and Butch mineral hunted for many years. Diane was also very proud of her gardens. You would often see her outside in the mornings weeding and trimming to beat the heat. Diane would always get stopped at the local store by other Windsor residents commenting on how nice her flower beds looked.

Diane’s other joy was her many fur babies, including her two cats, Garfield and Daisy.

Diane will be remembered for her spunk and tenacity. For her five-foot frame, which was no match for even the biggest foe or any unsuspecting cashier who may have mistakenly forgotten that she was owed a penny.

Diane loved her weekly shopping trips with her best friend, Lucy Mills. Always a family woman, Diane was most proud of her two grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Coleman. Diane loved having family to her house for any holiday to celebrate with her loved ones.

Diane is survived by her husband of 28 years, Lynwood “Butch” Kaslauskas; her two children, son Delmar Cooper, wife Jen and grandchild Coleman; and son, Michael Cooper, wife Lisha and granddaughter Kaitlyn; her sister, Nancy Berg; niece Diane York and nephew Tom Gousse and families.

A private burial will be held at a later date in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

RAYLEEN COULOMBE

SIDNEY – Rayleen E. Coulombe, 58, of Sidney, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 11, 2020, following a valiant, hard-fought battle with multiple myeloma blood cancer and secondary plasma cell leukemia. She was born in Gardiner on November 19, 1961, the daughter of Raymond Hanning and Eileen (Bryant) Hanning.

Rayleen graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in the class of 1980. Rayleen commenced her work career as a nanny for a local family with whom she remained close right up to until the end of her life. She then worked for many years at Photo Finish, in Augusta, as a lab technician processing photographs and finished her career at KV Federal Union, in their Augusta and then Oakland offices, until she was stricken with cancer in October 2019.

Rayleen was a woman of numerous interests with which she was avidly involved with. Her favorites were her family, photography, gardening, crafting, animals, travel, Christmas, and reading being of primary note. Rayleen was extremely passionate and loyal to her family, friends and interests and noted for being prepared for any contingency.

Rayleen married Peter Coulombe, the love of her life, on September 19, 1992. Rayleen and Peter had two children, Thomas Coulombe and Jennifer Coulombe.

Rayleen was predeceased by her father, Raymond Hanning, her maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents.

She is survived by her husband Peter; children Thomas and Jennifer; her mother Eileen Hanning; siblings, Michael Hanning, Stephen Hanning, Coleen Hanning, Greg Hanning and wife Melissa; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces.

There are no public visiting hours planned.

A Celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Augusta.

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

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

Memorial donations may be made to either: Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903 or, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02215.

JAMES J. LODER SR.

ROME – Stephen James Loder Sr., 72, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2020, at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born Sep­tember 24, 1947, in Massa­chusetts, the son of Alfred and Esther (Bean) Loder.

He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1965, and as a commercial truck driver for Fred’s Coffee, of Waterville, from 2009 to 2019.

On May 26, 2001, he married the former Cynthia Colson, in Bangor.

He was a member of the Elks Club and enjoyed playing darts, pool, and helping people with whatever they needed.

Stephen is survived by his wife of 18 years, Cynthia (Colson) Loder, of Rome; three sons, Tobey Loder and wife Heidi, of Fairfield, Stephen Loder Jr., of Clinton, Jeramy Loder and wife Tammy, of Clinton; two stepsons, Mark Rancourt and wife Pauline, of Oakland, Peter Rancourt and partner Audra Fleury, of Winslow; stepdaughter, April Rancourt and partner Jamie Webster, of Belgrade; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two sisters, Adrienne Loder, of California, Ruth Armstrong, of Fairfield; mother-in-law, Beverly Furbush; three sisters-in-law, Lori Kopaz, of Louisiana, Lisa Colson and partner David Conley, of Waterville, Diane Colson, of Benton; three brothers-in-law, Richard Colson, of Portland, Dana Colson and partner Laurie Clement, of Mercer, Lawrence Colson, of Ellsworth.

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 Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may makedonations in Stephen’s memory to the Waterville Elks Lodge, 76 Industrial Street, Waterville, ME 04901.

ROBERT ROWELL

LITCHFIELD – Robert Rowell, 94, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2020, following a more than 30-year battle with cancer. His death was not due to Covid-19. Bob Rowell was born on June 18, 1925, in Waterville. He was a world traveler who lived his entire life within 50 miles of Waterville.

In 1990, Bob Rowell was on the second cruise ship to ever visit Yemen. The Prince of Yemen greeted the passengers. Over his lifetime, Bob traveled to 63 countries including India, China, New Zealand, and Russia. His favorites were the Black Forest of Germany and Austria, where he traveled with his second wife, Marion. Bob passed on this love of travel to his children, taking them on trips throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

As a boy he worked on the family farm, in Fairfield Center, and at the Rowell’s Cash Market, a small grocery store, on Main Street, in Waterville. He was a graduate of Higgins Classical Institute and Colby College, in Waterville, class of 1949, where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.

Bob served in the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean War. Employed by Boothby and Bartlett Insurance Agency, in Waterville, for over 40 years, he was vice president and general manager and a frequent member of the Aetna Million Dollar Roundtable.

Active in civic affairs, he volunteered to serve the Waterville community. Bob served as president of the Waterville Red Cross, Waterville Boys’ Club, Kiwanis Club (his sister-in-law, Arline Berry Julia, spoke at his installation), and Waterville Chamber of Commerce. He served as trustee for Thayer Hospital, Mid-Maine Medical Center, Colby College, Hinckley School, and Good Will. He was a director of the Depositor’s Trust Company, Key Bank, Waterville Area Community Chest, and Waterville-Kennebec Valley Girls’ Club, all in Waterville. He was a former councilman and a former alderman for the city of Waterville. He was a member of the Waterville Country Club, Masons, and the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church. In 1958, at the age of 33, Bob was named the area’s Outstanding Young Man of the Year by the Jaycees.

At the age of 89, Bob moved from Camden to Granite Hill Estates, in Hallowell, where he had many friends. June 2019, at the age of 94, Bob joined five other veteran friends from Granite Hill to fly to Washington D.C. on the Maine Honor Flight. At Granite Hills he inspired his grandchildren by being awarded “Athlete of the Month.” He walked several miles daily.

Bob was predeceased by his wife, Pauline Berry Rowell; by his parents, John Enoch and Olive Bristol Rowell; his brothers, Howard, Willard, and Stanley, and his sisters, Eleanor, Ruth, and Margaret.

He is survived by his five daughters, Patricia “Tricia” Rowell Webb (John), of Litchfield, Margaret “Meg” Rowell Anderson (Steve), of Millersville , Maryland, Elizabeth Rowell DiPrima (Randi), of Gainsville Georgia, Barbara Sue Rowell, of Westminster, Maryland, and Joanne “Jody” Louise Dixon (John), of Severna Park, Maryland; his 12 grandchildren, Katherine Webb Read, Nathan Webb (Michelle), Laura Webb, Sarah Steinpfad (Micah), Mark Anderson, Matthew DiPrima (Carrie), Heather Vanner (Patrick), Robert DiPrima (Miranda), Jennifer Wirth, David Wirth (Hayden), Jack Dixon and Mike Dixon; six great-grandchildren, Corbin and Logan Vanner, Ethan, Isabel, and Charlotte Steinpfad, Alexandra Webb; his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic there will be no visitation or funeral service. There will be a celebration of his life at a later time.

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

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

WILLIAM H. OSWALD

WATERVILLE – William “Bill” Henry Oswald, 90, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2020. He was born on April 19, 1930, in Sunshine, Pennsylvania, son of Augustus and Maria (Euglebier) Oswald.

Bill was proud to serve his country as an Airman 1st Class, during the Korean War where he served as a mechanic. He received recognition for medals for National Defense Service and Good Conduct.

He met his first wife Rose Barbera at a dance in Brooklyn, New York, and they were married in 1956. They were blessed with two sons, Kurt William Oswald, of New York, and Garret Joseph Oswald, of New Portland. Bill moved his family to Maine in 1986 where he enjoyed retirement. He lost his wife Rose in 2002 following 46 years of marriage. He married his second wife Susan Froehlich in 2004 with whom he enjoyed 16 years. He loved his role as “Pops” and “Mr. O” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He will be remembered as a faith-filled man who loved the Lord dearly. He attended the Tabernacle of the Congregation for 18 years, as a member of the Body of Christ. He will be remembered as a kind, gentle spirit who gave selflessly to others. He loved flying his model airplanes, the Blue Angels, and his passion for teaching others how to make stained glass creations. He enjoyed traveling, attending Air Force reunions, trips across the country as well as to Italy and Ireland.

Bill is survived by his wife Susan, of Waterville; his sons Kurt and friend Kenny; of New York, Garret and wife Valerie; of New Portland; sister Janet, of Cape Cod, Massachusetts; many nieces and nephews in Maine, New York and Las Vegas, Nevada.

He was predeceased by siblings August and Hilda and first wife Rose.

There will be a small private graveside service to be determined in the near future due to COVID-19.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Bill’s memory to Togus Springs Hospice Unit, 1 VA Center, Augusta ME 04330.

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

PATRICIA P. BIZIER

FAIRFAX, Va. – Patricia Powers Bizier, 87, passed away from complications of COVID-19 on Sunday, May 24, 2020, in Fairfax, Virginia. Patricia was born in Presque Isle on June 22, 1932, and is a 1949 graduate of Mt. Merici Academy, in Waterville.

Patricia married Dominique C. Bizier, of Winslow, in 1955. She graduated from the University of Maine at Orono with a B.S. in education in 1956.

Patricia resided in Maine for a few years following her graduation and in 1960 moved to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. where she made her home and served as a kindergarten teacher at Lady Isle School. Her husband’s career took Patricia to Washington, D.C. in 1965 and she resided in the Washington area for the remainder of her life, living in Alexandria and Fairfax, Virginia, for over 50 years.

She was first and foremost an educator. She worked as a kindergarten teacher for Fairfax County public schools for several years. After her children were grown, Patricia returned to graduate school at Catholic University and earned an M.S. in library science in 1982. Patricia went on to a long and satisfying career as a librarian at Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas Campus, from which she retired in 1995. After retiring from NOVA Manassas, she shifted easily back into the role of grandmother and caretaker.

Patricia devoted herself to her family and her passions for gardening, cooking, reading and genealogy. She will be remembered for hosting many family gatherings including “Grammy’s Summer Camp,” where her grandchildren swam, played games, and did craft projects together. Patricia always had time to spend with her children and grandchildren. She met you with an open heart, a ready smile, open ears, and a caring nature. Patricia never passed up an opportunity to read a book, go for ice cream, or play dominoes with her family.

She was a long-time parishioner at both Good Shepherd Catholic Church, in Alexandria, Virginia, and St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church, in Fairfax, Virginia, and was a 12-year resident of The Virginian Retirement Community, also in Fairfax, where she served as treasurer of the Virginian Association of Residents.

Patricia’s family and friends will remember her determination, belief in education, but especially her undying love and support.

Surviving are her four children, Nancy Bizier Adams, of Fairfax, Virginia, Steven Bizier, of Leonardtown, Maryland, Karen Bizier Smith, of Falls Church, Virginia, and Michael Bizier, of King George, Virginia; and nine grandchildren.

Patricia was predeceased by her parents, Gertrude Pinette Powers and Dennis Joseph Powers; her husband, Dominique Clement Bizier; younger brother, Richard Powers, of Santa Ana, California, and two stepsisters, Dorothy “Kate” Pelletier and Mildred Massaria.

Interment will be at Fairfax Memorial Park. [Streaming service information St. Ambrose Church and Fairfax Memorial Park when available].

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia.

BERNADINE A. DUTIL

NORTH VASSALBORO – Bernadine Arlita Dutil, 88, of North Vassalboro, died at Glenridge Nursing Home of Augusta on Sunday, May 24, 2020. She was born April 23, 1932, a daughter of the late Bernard and Yvonne (Bovin) Poulin.

Bernadine attended local schools then proceeded to get her Med Tech and CNA certification. She worked at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville, and Volmer’s Nursing Home, in Vassalboro, retiring from Volmer’s.

Bernadine was a parishioner and Eucharistic Minister at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, in North Vassalboro, until the closing of St. Bridget’s. She then became a parishioner of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow.

She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, needlepoint, crochet, music and family time.

Bernadine is survived by three daughters, Mary Sadulsky and husband Patrick, of Clinton, Angela Burns, of Manchester, and Yvonne Dutil, of Vassalboro; one son, Anthony Dutil and wife Kelly, of Vassalboro; six grandchildren, Michael Robinson and wife Megan, of New York, Bernard Robinson, of Bangor, Jennifer Gorman and husband Mike, of Fairfield, Arlita Trahan and husband Brian, of Monmonth, Nichole Dutil, of California, and Tasha Dutil, of Vassalboro. Bernadine also loved 12 great-grandkids, Madison Brow, Vincent Robinson, Colton Robinson, Mackenzie Robinson, Jacob Owen, Trevor Robinson, Landen Robinson, Evan Simon, Mycah Gorman, Gracelynn Gorman, Josephine Trahan, and Emmaline Trahan; her sister, Vondell Mairs and her brother, Bernard Poulin; her two brothers-in-law, Norman Dutil and wife Theresa, and Marlin Dutil; her sister-in-law, Dorothy Romano; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Bernadine was predeceased by her husband, Arthur; her parents; her sister, Rosalie Palow, brother-in-law, Harley Mairs; one nephew, Michael Mairs; and sister-in-law, Pasty Dutil.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow, by invitation only.

Committal followed at Village Cemetery in North Vassalboro, also by invitation only.

RODNEY McCASLIN

WINSLOW – Rodney John McCaslin, 61, passed away on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2020, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, due to liver and kidney failure. He was born October 20, 1958.

During his hospital stay family and friends were able to stay by his bedside in shifts 24 hours a day so he would not be alone. Rodney was a kind and generous man who would do anything for his family and friends. He loved to play golf, a game of pool and hang with his beloved dog, Sadie. He was a graduate of Winslow High School and Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, and worked for years as a Merchant Marine until his retirement.

He lived on the Heywood Road, in Winslow, with his wife Judy, and his home was the residence for numerous family and friends who needed a place to stay. Although he hardly ever would be seen in the pool himself it was a gathering place. Downstairs, the pool table could sure tell some stories and most days he enjoyed a game of pool with his good friend Chad. He loved the game of golf and his unorthodox way of teeing off could be seen every year at the Collier Clash, and Randy and nephew Nate always had something to say to him. He enjoyed the after-golf pig roast at the Colliers. He loved the New York Giants football team and would rub it in if they ever won against the Patriots or Dolphins The “Rocket Man” was so great and helpful to his mom when she lived alone and he was first in line to help his family. He could tell a story and start things rolling and then step back and watch the fireworks.

Those that got to share his company when they went on a road trip sure have stories to tell. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Judy; and siblings Edward and Ruthanne, Carl and Annette, Barbara and David, Bruce, Colleen and Didin, Andy and Heather; sister-in-law Brenda; nephews Jonathan and Brian; niece Kalena; and was the godfather to his great-nephews Aidan and Connor; other nieces and nephews; Jeff, Julia ,Rachel, Jeremy, Jennifer, Brandon, Nate, Tyler, Corey, Kyle, Lindsay, Nicole and Stephanie.

Rodney was predeceased by his Mother Marjorie and his dad Harvey and his brother Ken .

A gathering will be held Saturday, June 6, 2020, at 6 p.m., at the family homestead on the Eames Road, in Winslow, on the back lawn maintaining social distancing as Rodney would want everyone to be healthy and safe. Be prepared to share stories, laughter, and we will even accept tears. For those unable to attend, please check Bruce McCaslin’s facebook page for a Zoom link.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Almost Home Rescue, P.O. Box 9421 # 377, South Portland, Maine 04116 (Almost Home Rescue.net).

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

DONALD J. VEILLEUX

OAKLAND – Donald J. Veilleux, 81 of Oakland, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, following a short stay at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born August 10, 1938, the first child of Paul and Grace (Tondreau) Vigue, in Waterville.

Graduating in 1958 with high honors from Waterville High School. He married the former Mary MacDonald on August 29, 1959. Mary passed away in 2018 following almost 60 years of marriage.

He owned and operated Don’s Pool Hall for several years in the early 1960s in the South End of Waterville. He worked as a cost accountant for Edwards Manufacturing, in Pittsfield, Bates Woolen Mill, in Lewiston, and Lipman Hatchery, in Augusta, and Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, as a CNA.

Don and Mary operated Veilleux’s Foster Home for 20-plus years in their home, in Oakland. He also owned Don’s Sporting Goods and Snowmobile Parts, in Oakland, for many years.

Don enjoyed building numerous barns and sheds that still stand today. He enjoyed Maine’s changing seasons for fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, four-wheeling and camping. He also relished RVing with his wife, bringing their grandchildren regularly, and enjoyed two winters in Florida. Don spent a considerable amount of his life around North Pond, in Smithfield, even meeting Mary at the Smithfield Roller Rink in 1957.

Don was a cherished pépère to his grandchildren and great-granddaughters. His optimism was endless. His smile and laughter were infectious, his humor was priceless. Don’s positive attitude and support gave strength to those around him. If you had met Don, you were his friend.

Don is survived by two children, Richard Veilleux and his wife Cathy, Candis Veilleux and significant other, Ed Papsis; four grandchildren, Michael Veilleux, fiancée Jess Labbe and son Mason; Kelsey Veilleux, fiancé Elbridge Hardy; great-granddaughters, Raegyn and Devyn; Anthony Papsis, girlfriend Ariel Kane and Nick Papsis; two step-granddaughters, Desiree Thompson and Danielle Papsis; his brother and lifelong best friend, Gerry Veilleux; his only sister, who was precious to him, Sandra Saucier; in-laws, Barbara and Roger LeClair.

A Christian Mass will be held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, to be announced.

A Service of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, ME 04901. (207) 872-7676.

CHARLES P. SISSON

PORTLAND, TEXAS – Charles P. Sisson, 99, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 29, 2020, in Portland, Texas. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on February 24, 1921.

He came to Maine, living in South China and Windsor at the age of 10, upon the early death of his mother. He lived with his grandmother for a year until she passed away. He then lived out his childhood time with the Henry and Annie Kenoyer family where he was raised as one of their own. He attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and Colby College, in Waterville.

He met his first wife,Virginia Lucille Scott, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, and they lived in Nederland, Texas, for 39 years. Charles was a resident of Nederland, for over 60 years.

Upon her death, he rekindled his relationship with his Maine family and it was upon a visit there, that he saw his high school sweetheart, Stella Glidden Farrington, at a high school reunion. They were married on June 14, 1992. They spent their summers in Maine on China Lake and wintered in Texas until they sold their home in Maine and Nederland and shortly thereafter moved to Portland, Texas, in 2013.

He retired after 30 years of employment with Gulf Oil Corporation as a chief engineer. He traveled all over the world. He was also employed by the Hartford Steam Boiler and Insurance Company for seven years as a district inspector.

He was a veteran of World War II, having served with the USMM in all theaters. He was a member of Nederland Masonic Lodge #1368 and of the Dirigo Lodge #104, of Weeks Mills. He belonged to the Scottish Rite Consistory of Galveston, Texas. He attended church both in Nederland and South China before his move to Portland, Texas, where he attended Country Bible Church while his health permitted him.

Charles was preceded in death by Virginia Lucille Scott and her two daughters, Exilee Barnett and her husband, and Margaret Ann Hatch as well as her husband, Reginald Winston Hatch. He was also preceded in death by his step-son, William “Bill” Farrington.

He is survived by his wife, Stella May Sisson, of Portland, Texas, and her two sons, Neil (Doreen) Farrington, of South China, and Wayne (Gloria) Farrington, of Zephyrhills, Florida; his grandchildren, Dixie (Ed) Johnson, of Deweyville, Texas, Susan (Ludie) Sherrer, of Leander, Texas, Lisa Turner, of Portland, Texas, Teri (Tom) Mayo, of Taft, Texas, Ashli (Robert) Hussey, of South China, and Ashley Farrington, of South China; 14 great grandchildren and 18 great-great-grandchildren. Survivors also include many descendants of the Henry and Annie Kenoyer family, of Winsdor.

Memorial contributions can be made to Country Bible Church, 9849 CR 3755 Taft, Texas 78390, or a charity of your choice. Memorial Service will follow at a later date.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass, Texas.

BARBARA C. DOWE

SOUTH CHINA – Barbara C. Dowe, 88, of South China, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at the Alzheimers’s Care Center, in Gardiner. She was born the only child to Ralph and Madeline Cushman, in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 15,1931, the same year the Empire State Building was completed and opened.

She was an innocent, petit, blue-eyed beauty. As an infant she didn’t know the great challenges ahead: The U.S. was in the midst of the Dust Bowl Years, The Great Depression was worsening, and food prices and unemployment were going through the roof. She was sheltered living in Westwood, outside Boston, until her family moved to China.

During her childhood she inherited a true love of music. Her father, Ralph Cushman, had been a union musician in the Boston area and played drums for some of the big-name bands of the times, and her mother, Madeline Sampson Cushman, had “barnstormed” throughout New England with him before Barbara was born. Barbara never took up an instrument, but she was an accomplished singer performing at local minstrel shows, weddings, and her church choir. Musicals were her love!

On July 22,1951, she married Richard E. Dowe, of South China, and was instantly welcomed into the larger family that she had always wished for with five “sisters” and three “brothers”! Their support was so important when Richard left for military duty in Korea six months later because Barbara was pregnant with their daughter, Linda. When Richard returned home, the family headed to Tennessee for two years before returning to Maine in 1954 where they would settle down, buy a house and raise four children: Linda, Sherri, Rhonda and Rick.

A good many of the “Mom Years” were a time of struggle but also of a defined character. After all, she was a child of the depression. People remembered the hardship of the 1930s and the rationing of the war years, and she grew up to be “thrifty” and resourceful often adding to the family income by helping in Richard’s electronics business, raising dogs to sell, gardening, sewing and whatever else she could think of. That’s what it took to get by in China, in the 1950s with four kids, a mortgage and self-employment that provided a service and relied on people paying their bills.

She could stretch a dollar! Mom lived by JFK’s, “ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” She – as so many others of her generation – believed in commitment to country, church, and community. There was Eastern Star, American Legion Auxiliary, China Food Pantry, South China Community Church, the list goes on. Even the hardware business that Richard and she started – Dowe’s True Value Hardware – was to fill a need for the community. It was a thriving business up until they retired.

Always at Richard’s side at American Legion events, Memorial Day parades, and numerous patriotic causes, she was committed to service for others. Whatever Barbara was involved in, she gave 110 percent to the cause.

As cruel as Alzheimer’s is, the lost loves of her life never vanished in the mist of the disease. During her final years she always waited for the arrival of daughter Rhonda, who had died in 2002, her husband Richard, who passed in 2016, her mother and best friend, Madeline, and her beloved pet, Kodi. She left a legacy of love and a challenge to others to continue helping those in need. Barbara was predeceased by her two parents, Madeline and Ralph Cushman; her youngest daughter, Rhonda Dowe; and her husband of 64 years, Richard E. Dowe.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Poulin and her husband, Don; her daughter, Sherri Glidden and her fiancé, Bill Gamble; her son, Rick Dowe and his wife, Mary; her four grandchildren, Stacy Westfall, Jesse Glidden, Tiffany Ranalla and Chelsea Dowe; and her eight great-grandchildren, Caleb Westfall, Joshua Westfall, Nathan Westfall, Nevaeh Ranalla, Peyton Dowe, Aubrey Ranalla, Liam Dowe, and Adaleigh Glidden.

Due to Covid-19 and the current health restrictions, a date for the service will be determined later.

Arrangements are under the care of Direct Cremation of Maine, in Belfast.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Barbara’s church, South China Community Church, South China Community Church, and mail to Ronald Emery, 267 Alder Park Road, South China, ME 04358.

FRED CURTIS

CHINA – Fred Curtis, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 3, 2020.

Fred lived a full and happy life and his legacy will forever endure in the hearts of family.

He had a special way of making anyone who came into his life feel like his family, particularly within the China community and in his church community. Fred was one in a million – a man who poured so much love into this world.

Fred bravely served our country in the Vietnam War, and further served the Pan Am Railroad, in Waterville, from which he proudly retired. Upon retirement, Fred faithfully attended to a service that was needed within the China community. He was a local businessman for many years, lovingly referred to as the “Trash Man.” Fred also served the Lord by, and through, the Winslow Baptist Church, where he helped with the youth group. His former Pastor described Fred as follows, “God used Fred in a wonderfully unique and amazing way. Every teen who entered that ministry knew that Fred cared for them. Fred was the most faithful servant in the youth ministry. He loved the Lord and he loved seeing kids step into faith and grow their walk with God.”

Most often, you could spot Fred driving around with his wife spending quality time together laughing; he always had such a witty sense of humor. They loved to drive around all day, enjoying each other and all the beautiful sights that Maine has to offer. Fred Curtis was first and foremost a family man, the glue that held it all together. He was kind and loving, but most importantly, he was a man of faith. He will forever live on in our hearts.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trust, always hopes, always preservers. Love never fails.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.

Fred is survived by his wife of 49 years, Terry Curtis; his children, Larry Curtis, Tony Curtis, Chris Curtis and Fred Curtis; two sisters, a brother, many grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces. He will be greatly missed by all.

KIM P. BUCKLEY

CHINA – Kim Pamela Buckley, 63, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2020, at her home on China Lake.

She was the wife of John Knizeski. Kim was born on December 1, 1956, in Albany, New York, to her loving parents, Julia (Norma) Townley and William Buckley. She graduated from Enrico Fermi High School in 1974, where she participated in several activities such as chorus and theater to the ski club. Kim was an accomplished life underwriter and pioneered telecommuting (working from home) for several companies.Kim will be missed by the China Village community. She was a valued and active member of the China Baptist Church. She was a beautiful alto as a choir member. In addition, Kim served on the Board of Trustees of the Albert Church Brown Memorial Library. She was also an animal lover for all creatures big and small.Kim will be remembered by her family and friends as the most generous and caring woman you could ever meet and the greatest wife and mother anyone could ask for.

In addition to John, Kim leaves behind two daughters, Tess and Heather, and a grandson, Alexander; her mother; and a sister, Gail Warnok and her family, from Enfield, Connecticut.

Due to the current circumstances, there will be a service at a later date.

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

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

CHRISTOPHER J. KINNEY

FAIRFIELD – Christopher James Kinney, 48, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020, following a long, courageous battle with terminal cancer. He was born October 1, 1971, in Calais, the son of James E. and Elizabeth M. (Davies) Kinney.

He graduated from Averill High School in 1990. He was employed for many years as a welder and has worked for the Morning Sentinel from 1991-2001, Cives Steel from 2005 to the present, Quick Lube, in Augusta, from 2000 to 2002, Jay’s Garage, in Oakland, from 1998 to present and Live Action Garage from 2014 to the present.

Christopher was a member of the Grace Bible Church, in Oakland, South Gardiner Baptist Church, and the Maine Mud Bog Association. He enjoyed mechanics, woodworking, ATV riding and helping others.

He is survived by Linda Hewey; two daughters, Gloria Kinney, Seairha Badger and husband Paul, two sons, Jason Works, Derek Todd; son-in-law, Mark Prosper; mother, Elizabeth Kinney; grandchildren, Brittney Works, Kristina Prosper, Lincoln Prosper, Mark Badger, Tyson Badger, Hailey Badger, Keairha Badger, Brandon Badger; daughter-in-law, Delani Bannett; adopted mother, Diane Bickford; brother, Jon Loisell; uncle, Jay Boulette; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to the coronavirus restrictions, a celebration of life and burial will be postponed until further notice.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Christopher’s memory to the Restoration of “Big Red,” c/o Jason Works, P.O. Box 24, Hinckley ME 04944O, or Gloria Kinney,34 Summit Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.

JOHN J. JACKSON

OAKLAND – John “Jack” Joseph Jackson, 58, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2020, following a brief stay at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation at Gray Birch Drive, in Augusta. He was born in Camden June 14, 1961, the son of John Hollis Jackson and Yvonne Mary (Bellmore) Jackson, who both predeceased him.

Jack had many friends who were very dear to him as they were able to look beyond his disability and see him as the person he was. Having been born into the world with the challenge of Cerebral Palsy, Jack lived his life with courage and a stubborn determination to never let his handicap get in the way of living life to the fullest, making his own decisions and always having as much fun as possible. Jack was a life-long fan of the Boston Red Sox, WWE and all things Star Trek.

He is survived by his brothers Jeffery Bellmore and wife Laurie, of Owls Head, Scott W. Jackson, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; and his sister Rhonda Lilly, of Vassalboro; his nephew and nieces John Scott Lacasse and wife Crystal, Abby Garrison and husband Kelly, Kate Bellmore and Emily Philbrook and husband Justin; as well as many extended family members including four great-nieces and a great-nephew.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be scheduled at a later date.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, we ask donations to be made to: The United Cerebral Palsy Association.

RONALD W. CHRISTIAN

WINSLOW – Ronald “Ron” Wayne Christian, 38, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2020, due to medical complications. He was born July 29, 1981, in Waterville, the son of Yvonne Christian and Ronald W. Safford.

Ron graduated from Winslow High School. He had a care-free outlook on life and always willing to help a friend. Those who knew Ron got to hear some of his fabulous, unique stories, and inventions. Putting a smile on your face and some that made you go hmmmm….Ron was a great brother and friend to many. His big smile, big laugh, and outlook will be forever missed.

He is survived by his sisters, Sharon Christian (who he had a special relationship with, that will be forever missed) and Rachael Washburn.

MILTON F. HUNTINGTON

HALLOWELL – Milton F. Huntington, 88, of Stickney Terrace, died Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at Maine­General Rehabilitation and Long Term Care at Glenridge Drive following an extended illness. He was born in Belfast on February 11, 1932, the son of Arthur Huntington and Josephine (Mansfield) Huntington.

Huntington graduated from Augusta’s Cony High School in 1950, and he attended the University of Maine at Orono following two years of active duty in Korea with the U.S. Army as a Military Police officer and regimental honor guard.

Prior to his retirement in 1992, he had served for 28 years as lead representative for the American Petroleum Institute. He was previously employed in Maine government as executive director of the Maine Highway Safety Committee and as a publicist for the Maine Department of Economic Development. Prior to state government employment, he served as a reporter and photographer for Augusta’s Daily Kennebec Journal and the Waterville Morning Sentinel.

A longtime resident of Augusta, he was the author of A Lifetime of Laughter and Things That Make You Grin (And Maybe Tick You Off). The books were based partially on his “Milt’s Musings” columns that appeared in Augusta’s Capital Weekly newspaper over a five-year period. He was also a long-time, regular contributor to the Pages in Time section of The Town Line newspaper, in South China, during his later years.

In addition, he recently published Celebrities, Politicians, and Me (Plus Korean Capers) and a book of poetry for children titled Poems with a Plot.

Milt was a past president of the Maine Publicity Bureau and the former secretary-treasurer of the Maine Highway Users Conference.

His community activities include service as scoutmaster and deacon for Augusta’s South Parish Congregational Church, and as a fundraiser for the Kennebec Valley United Way, Kennebec Valley YMCA and MaineGeneral Medical Center, where he also served as a reception desk volunteer for four years. He was president of the Augusta Kiwanis Club in 1965, and he is a former president and current Secretary Emeritus of the Kiwanis Past Presidents Club. In 2011, he was named Augusta Kiwanian of the Year.

In April 2019 the Maine Health Care Association selected him as one of the 35 Mainers honored in the annual Remember ME photography exhibit and recognition ceremony at the Augusta Civic Center.

Surviving is his wife of 62 years, Lillian M. (Munn) Huntington, of Hallowell; two sons, Charles Huntington, of Newcastle, and Thomas Huntington, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania; and daughter Susan Harley, of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania; four grandchildren.

There are no public visiting hours and no public service planned. Burial will be in Wilton at a later date.

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

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

JANICE G. STETSON

WINSLOW – Janice Gibbs Stetson, 83, passed peacefully Saturday, April 18, 2020. She was born March 24, 1937, to Kenneth and Muriel Gibbs.

Janice lived her entire life in the Waterville-Win­slow area. She worked as a bookkeeper most of her life. She was proudest of her volunteer work at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Augusta, and the Muskie Center, in Waterville. She was also a long time member of the United Methodist Church, Waterville.

She was an exceptional seamstress, homemaker and knitter. Her famous socks kept many a family’s feet warm! She has endured many illnesses in her lifetime, coming to be known as a warrior to friends and family. Her surviving family members include Brenda Stetson, Craig and Debra Stetson, Marsha and Timothy Higgins, Bruce and Beth Stetson and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband Milton G. Stetson; brother Kenneth Gibbs Jr.; sister Merlena Matthews; her son Kevin Stetson; and granddaughter Crystal Stetson.

Graveside committal service will be held at Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, at a date to be determined.

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 www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to: Maine General Hospice Hospice P. O. Box 828 Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

NATALIE R. TERRY

WATERVILLE – Natalie Rines Terry, 96, died of natural causes on Wednesday, April 22, 2020. Born in Portland on July 14, 1923, Natalie was the daughter of Herman and Mabel Canning Rines.

The family moved to Waterville in the early 1930s. Natalie’s twin brother, Don Rines, describes a happy childhood saying, “We couldn’t have had a nicer set of parents.” Natalie and Don graduated from Waterville High School in 1941. She went on to attend Thomas College and later to work at Keyes Fibre Company, both in Waterville.

Natalie married George F. Terry III (known as Tim) in October 1952 at the Colby College Chapel, in Waterville. In March 1954 their first child, George F. Terry IV (known as Geof in his youth) was born at the Portsmouth Naval Hospital, in Virginia. Their daughter, Sarah Ann Terry was born in May 1957, in Waterville, and was brought home to the family’s newly purchased house that Natalie cherished and in which she lived independently until her death.

A natural athlete, Natalie competed in varied sports during her youth, including figure skating, diving, and golf. She was one of the original skiers of Sugarloaf, skinning up with Amos Winter and others in the early 1950s and skiing down the only trail on the mountain at that time, now known as Old Winter’s Way. She was passionate about the sport, having an illustrious career teaching skiing with the Sugarloaf Ski School that spanned 50 years. She was a Level III Certified instructor with the Professional Ski Instructors of America, received an award from them for Life Membership of Outstanding Service to the Education of Snowsports, and had been recognized by Ski Magazine as one of the top 100 ski instructors in America. She was inducted into the Maine Ski Hall of Fame in October 2012. An award is given each year in Natalie’s name for the most requested instructor at Sugarloaf, though during her career it was given to the second most requested since she claimed the top spot for many years. A few springs ago the Birches trail was renamed “Natalie’s Birches.” Her last year teaching was the season of 2018-2019 at the age of 95. The Sugarloaf community was central to her life and the Carrabassett Valley brought her much joy, from the small cabin the family rented in Bigelow Village in the 1960s to her condominium overlooking the Bigelow Range where she lived every winter for over 40 years.

Known as Gran/Grandy by her grandchildren, Natalie was extremely proud of all four of them and their accomplishments. Her athletic prowess and love of time spent in the mountains and around lakes was clearly passed down through the generations as the whole family enjoys varied outdoor physical activities. She hiked to Bash Bish Falls to attend grandson Carter’s wedding, rode on her first snowmobile at the age of 90 to attend grandson Jence’s wedding at the Stratton Brook Hut, and traveled three miles by boat on Shin Pond to granddaughter Emma’s wedding.

She followed granddaughter Rachel’s through-hikes on both the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail with great interest and admiration. Last runs at Sugarloaf were shared with her daughter and two of her grandchildren and their spouses just over a year ago.

The family gathered this past Christmas as four generations, including her great-granddaughters Alice and Eleanor Terry, enjoyed sharing time together in Rockland.

Natalie is survived by her daughter Sarah Carlson, of Farmington, twin brother Don Rines, of Waterville, daughter-in-law Pamela Terry, of Rockland; grandchildren Jence Carlson and his wife Katherine, of New Vineyard, Emma Carlson and her husband Jake Risch, of North Conway, New Hampshire, Carter Terry, his wife Emily and daughters Alice and Eleanor, of Milton, New Hampshire, Rachel Terry and her partner Dan Lechner, of Portland, along with several nieces and nephews.

Natalie was predeceased by her older brother Fred Rines; her son Geof, her son-in-law Barry Carlson; and her husband Tim.

Plans for a gathering in Waterville will also be formed as soon as the situation with Covid-19 subsides.

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

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

For those who would like to make a donation in Natalie’s name, please consider the King’s Kids Fund through the Sugarloaf Ski Club or a charity of your choice that suits your passion.

Donations may be sent to King’s KidsSugarloaf Ski Club, 9008 Main St. Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947 or at: https://www.sugarloafskiclub.org/king-s-kids.

STEVE R. ALBERT

WINSLOW – Steve Richard Albert passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, April 23, 2020.

Steve loved spending time with his family, taking rides to clam bake, and playing with his grandbabies.

He leaves behind the love of his life Stacey; his mother Jean and stepdad Bruce Wadleigh; sister Evelyn and brother-in-law Steve Conrad, stepbrothers Matt and Billy, stepsister Starr; his daughters Angela and Brad, Vannah, Alyssa, Alysson and Abigail Albert; his grandkids Cassidy and Carlee, Copper and Brantley, Vannah, Kameron, Landen and Jaelyn Armstrong; and friend Tanya.

He was predeceased by his father Carl Albert, uncle Wayne; cousin Danny; and three infant granddaughters.

There will be no service.

Donations in his daughters’ names can be sent to Stacey Albert, 155 Smithfield Rd., Oakland, ME 04963.

RICHARD L. LEWIS

WATERVILLE – Richard L. Lewis, 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 24, 2020, at his home. Richard was born in 1929 in Randolph, the son of the late Jesse Lewis and Nora Gerry-Lewis.

He married the former Minnie E. Hutchinson on December 24, 1951. They were married 60 years at the time of her passing. Together they raised six children.

He served the country proudly in the U.S Army where he received the Purple Heart for combat in the Korean War from 1949-1952. His work career was in the poultry business working 35 years for Lipman’s Poultry.

Throughout his life he enjoyed walks to Capital Park, drinking ice cold beer, an occasional cigar, scratch tickets and camping with his family. Richard had a love of the Boston Red Sox and waited 74 years to see them win the World Series in 2004.

Richard was predeceased by his wife, Minnie Elizabeth Hutchinson-Lewis; daughters Debra A. Fish and Barbara L. York, stepson Robert Hutchinson; his three brothers Ralph, Joseph, Jesse, and his sister Virginia Lewis.

Richard is survived by daughters Nancy A. Perkins and her partner Reginald M. Bilodeau, of Augusta, Catherine M. Nguyen and her husband Hien D. Nguyen, of Winslow, and stepdaughter Cookie Gallagher, of Augusta; 13 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held at a later date. Richard will be laid to rest at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt Vernon Road, in Augusta.

SANDRA L. GAGNE JOLER

WINSLOW – Sandra Lee Gagne Joler, 71, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2020. She was born on April 23, 1949, the first child, and only daughter to Antonio (Tony) Gagne and Constance (Connie) Michaud Gagne.

She was a lifelong resident of Winslow and a communicant of Corpus Christi parish (St. John the Baptist church, in Winslow). She was soon followed by two brothers Roger and Thomas Gagne.

She attended St. John Regional Catholic School, in Winslow, and graduated Mt Merici Academy, in Waterville, in 1967. She then attended E.A. Seton school of radiology, graduating in 1969 and thoroughly enjoyed her career for over 30 years. She met Earl Joler on a blind date. They were married April 4, 1970, and spent over 50 years together. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Craig and Jennifer.

She truly enjoyed her family and later her four grandchildren. Spending time with family and friends, gardening, BBQ by the pool, shopping, going to a friend’s camp, were special times. She especially enjoyed impromptu lunch dates or trips to Acadia National Park with her husband.

She is survived by her husband Earl; her son Craig and his wife Tonya Joler; her daughter Jennifer and her husband Steve Kiander; her four grandchildren, Kassie and Kiana Joler and Alex and Meredith Kiander; her brothers Roger Gagne, and Tom and his wife Ruth Gagne; and several nieces and a nephew.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated and a celebration of life to be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 25, 2020, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Alfond Cancer Center, 361 Old Belgrade Rd., Augusta, ME 04330, Corpus Christi Parish, 70 Pleasant St., Waterville, ME 04901, or Winslow Public Library,136 Halifax St., Winslow, ME 04901.

KIRBY A. ROBBINS

CLINTON – Kirby Allen Robbins, 63, passed away Saturday, April 25, 2020, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. He was born June 21, 1956, in Fort Kent, the son of William Robbins and Rose (Hughes) Tozier.

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. On September 22, 2002, he married Roseanne Vigue, in Clinton. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge. He enjoyed music, singing, going to the lake, swimming, reading, and going to lawn sales.

He is survived by his wife, Roseanne (Vigue) Robbins, of Clinton; two daughters, Ashlee Robbins and partner Adam Chabot, of Hartland, Vermont, and Faith Robbins, of Clinton; step-son, Donald Thibodeau and wife Stephanie, of DeBary, Florida; four sisters, Wendy Lamothe and husband Gerry, of Belchertown, Massachusetts, Eleanor Warren and husband Bob, of Waterville, Lynn Sabine and husband Steve, of Lewiston, Vanessa Raymond and husband Danl, of Webster Plantation, and Lori Tozier, of Benton; three brothers, Clinton Robbins and wife Donna, of Topsham, William Robbins and wife Sonja, of Clinton, and Wesley Robbins and wife Kelli, of Canaan; step-brother, Donald Tozier and partner Noel, of Fairfield; step-sister, Mary Penney, of Burnham; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by father, William Robbins and mother, Rose (Hughes) Tozier.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends and family wishing may make donations in Kirby’s memory to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, 269 Hanover Street, Hanover, MA 02339.

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

ANDREW O. COOPER JR.

WINDSOR – Andrew O. Cooper, Jr., 48, of Reed Road, died unexpectedly on Saturdday, April 25, 2020, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born in Gardiner on March 28, 1972, the son of Andrew O. Cooper, Sr. and Karen W. (Woodcock) Cooper.

Andy was a graduate of Gardiner Area High School and Central Maine Technical College, in Auburn, with an associate degree in applied science in architectural and civil engineering technology.

Andy’s best love was spending time with family and close friends. He loved cookouts, watching sports, fishing, boating, hunting, snowmobiling and camping with family. One of his favorite past times was sitting outside on his back deck listening to peepers, birds singing and observing nature’s beauty. He would demand family to enjoy it with him but to sit quietly and listen to the sounds of nature.

Andy was predeceased by his father, Andrew Otis Cooper, Sr.; his uncle, Frank Cooper and wife Aunt Hazel Cooper; paternal grandmother, Betsy Robbins-Cooper and grandfather, Iris Otis Cooper; maternal grandmother Clara Newell Woodcock and John Franklin Woodcock, Sr.

Surviving is his wife, Stephona G. (Forney) Cooper, of Windsor; his mother, Karen (Woodcock) Cooper-Thomas and husband Ralph Thomas, of Windsor; his son, Wyatt Andrew Cooper, of Farmingdale; sister, Valerie (Cooper) Sprague, of West Gardiner; nephew (aka lil’ brother), Josh Andrew Cooper and his wife Kayla Casoria-Cooper, of Augusta; nephew Gavin Ira Cooper, of Livermore Falls; grandnephew Bailee Casoria-Cooper and grandniece, Sophia Casoria-Cooper, of Augusta, and step-granddaughter, Emma Robbins, of Waterville; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

There are no public visiting hours planned.

A graveside service will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery Extension, Randolph, at a later date.

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

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

IRVING P. KNOWLES

VASSALBORO – Irving Paul Knowles, 77, of Vassalboro, died peacefully Saturday, April 25, 2020, at Togus Springs VA Hospice. He was born in Gardiner on March 4, 1943, the son of Heron and Mary (Farrington) Knowles.

Irving proudly served in the United States Marine Corp. from 1962 to 1966 and obtained the rank of sergeant. After his service he took to the open road as a long-haul truck driver. This was a wonderful opportunity for him to show his children the country and made many wonderful memories. He was a member of the American Legion Post #2, in Augusta, the National Rifle Association, and a volunteer for the American Red Cross.

Irving enjoyed traveling for pleasure as well. He was especially fond of the West with its deserts, ghost towns and historic sites. He enjoyed working in his workshop, playing golf with his cousin and grandson at the golf course he worked for after retiring, attending dances at the American Legion with his friends and occasionally his daughter and her spouse. He loved the outdoors and camping with his family. He especially enjoyed spending time and getting to know his great grandchildren. He claimed that they made him feel young.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother Rance Knowles, brother Bryan Knowles and sister Audrey (Knowles) Irish, all of Manchester; and his firstborn grandson, James “lil Skippy” Michael Donovan Jr.

Irving is survived by his three children, Martha Donovan, of Litchfield, Charlene Brown and her husband Mark Brown, of Vassalboro, and Michael Knowles and his wife Jennifer, of Casco; four grandchildren, Jenifer Smith and her husband Blayne, of Tampa, Florida, Timothy Schriver and his wife Laura, of Saco, Khaila Donovan, of Portland, and Kortnee Vannah, of Winthrop; his four great-grandchildren, Baylor Donovan, Penelope Smith, Madilyn and Mason Schriver; and several cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held in the Manchester Forks Cemetery at a later date.

The family will announce a Celebration of Life Gathering at a later date.

Arrangements are by Staples Funeral and Cremation Service, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website familyfirstfuneralhome.com.

DIANE FAWCETT-OHLSON

WINSLOW – Diane Fawcett-Ohlson, 71, passed away in the early morning hours of Monday, April 27, 2020, at her home in Winslow, following a courageous battle with cancer. Diane was born on November 12, 1948, in Buffalo, New York, the daughter of Deloris (Younglove) and Hugh Bartlemus.

Diane’s life always involved helping others wherever she lived and worked. Family building started in Connecticut, Florida, and Vermont. Political action as a democrat started in central Massachusetts and continued with a move to Fairview, Oregan, returning east to Amherst, New Hampshire, and in her final home in Maine.

She organized students, faculty and staff while at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, in Worcester, Massachusetts, into an extended family. In Oregon, she was active in the Watershed Council and volunteered with the local police department. In New Hampshire she became involved in health and fitness and took leadership in local chapters of TOPS – continuing this work in Maine. The people she touched became part of her life. Her need to bring love and support to her family through large gatherings and holidays extended to neighbors, coworkers, and friends as she nurtured those in her vicinity with the same importance and care.

Diane loved to cook and often could be found dancing in her kitchen, singing to Barbara Streisand, Adele, or Michael Bublé. She loved her plants and her garden (especially her lilacs) and was an avid photographer. Her beautiful photographs traced the path of her life and travels from central Massachusetts, to the Oregon coast, across Europe and Asia, to the woods of New Hampshire, and the coast of Maine.

She is survived by her husband, Mark Ohlson; children, Elaine Fawcett, John Fawcett (Pam), Laryssa Hiller (Scott), Nicole Swain; grandchildren, Molly, Emily, Mike, Brandi, Tyler, Roscoe, Oak; and great-grandson, Marco.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her sisters, Lindsey and Elaine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Snell Foundation for support of cancer patients at New England Cancer Specialists, in Scarborough, in Diane’s memory. Snell Foundation, P.O. Box 6304, Scarborough, ME 04070. (https://www.snellfoundationmaine.org/).

ANSEL A. GRINDALL

WINSLOW – Ansel Albert Grindall, 96, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2020, following a brief illness, while a resident of Lake­wood Con­tinuing Care Center, in Waterville. Ansel Grindall was born on August 23, 1923, in Winslow, to Harry Stillman Grindall and Myra Anne (Booker) Grindall.

Being a proud son of Winslow, he lived there almost his entire life supporting and working for the town he loved. He was the only surviving member of the Class of 1940 of Winslow High School. He was a Boy Scout leader, a member of the School Board of Education, and a volunteer of the Winslow Fire Department for 43 years, eight of which he served, and retired, as chief. He worked in the buildings and grounds department at Colby College for 40 years, having worked his way up from driving buses and sanding roads to the position of Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. Because he knew the college so well, he was often lovingly referred to as “Mr. Colby.” Ansel was the first person to be awarded an honorary bachelor’s degree from Colby College conferred at Commencement in 1985, prior to his retirement in August.

Ansel joined the Waterville Lodge of Masons in 1944 and was awarded an honorary Thirty-Third Degree on September 26, 1979. Ansel enlisted in the Navy at the onset of World War II and was medically discharged after boot camp due to contracting tuberculosis.

He was an avid reader; and at any time, his library would consist of biographies, Biblical history, war stories, and military heroes. A born-again Christian, he was an avid reader of the Bible and an active, faithful charter member of Kennebec Valley Baptist Church, in Waterville, since 1974. He served as a deacon, an usher, a custodian, and an occasional speaker. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and singing. He enjoyed carving decoys, and his family has been gifted with prized samples for years. Most of all, Ansel was a very devoted husband, father, and “Papa” to his family. He became “Papa the Great” to his great-grandchildren. He lightened many moments and provided many memorable occasions where he bestowed unconditional love on his family.

Ansel was predeceased by his first wife of 41 years, Mary Estelle (Lindie) Grindall; his granddaughter, Ellen Lea Grindall; stepdaughter Vonda Bronson (Steven) Porter, of New Brunswick, Canada; his parents; and his brothers and sisters and spouses, Everard, Willard, Harry, Jr., Faylene, Myra, Evelyn, Mary, and Florence.

He is survived by second wife of 33 years, Dorothy (Bronson) Grindall; his son Richard (Kay) Grindall, of Oakland, his daughter Kathy Rhodes, of Rockland; four grandchildren, Lisa Grindall (Bobby) Dunmon, of Galloway, Ohio, Kelly Grindall (Chris) Oaks, of Milton, Florida, Rebekah Rhodes (Matt) Hale, of Alexandria, Virginia, Josiah Rhodes, of Rockland; and great-grandchildren, Ella and Aiden Dunmon, Juniper and Liam Hale; three stepsons, Brian (Carrie) Bronson, of Fairfield, children Eric (Becky) Bronson, of Madison, (Levi, Sawyer, and Kyle) and Denise (Ryan) Lilly, of Hampden (Bronson and Oliver); Bruce (LeeAnn) Bronson, of Franklin, New Hampshire, children Scott, Sara, and Seth; Blaine (Tabitha) Bronson, of Abbott, Ethan (Ali) Bronson, of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Kayla Bronson (Matt) Bowers, of Litchfield; many nieces and nephews; special brother-in-law who lived in their home for a time in the early 1950s, William A. Lindie, of Waterville.

A graveside service will be held at the Howard Cemetery, Augusta Road, Winslow. A memorial service will be held at Kennebec Valley Baptist Church at a date to be announced later this summer, with Pastor Rev. Dr. Kevin Grant, officiating.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to distribute Bibles, dad’s favorite book, around the world. Checks may be made payable to The Gideons International, PO Box 2086, Waterville, ME 04903-2086.