OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 14, 2024

JOSEPH R. LeBLANC

BANGOR – Joseph Robert LeBlanc, 83, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at a Bangor Hospital. He was born on May 20, 1940, in Waterville, the son of Joseph Wilfred LeBlanc and Jennette Beatrice Richards LeBlanc.

Bob served in the U.S. Army, the Army Reserve, and the Air National Guard. One month after Alaska became a state, Bob was stationed there. His career included being a photographer, a forest ranger, a Kennebec County deputy sheriff, a computer salesman, and he held a variety of positions on the railroad.

When personal computers and hard drives first become available to purchase, Bob taught himself how to build computers from scratch. As a member of the Central Maine Linux Users Group, Bob taught people how to install Linux software, and how to use it. Amateur radio was his passion; Bob got his Ham license over 40 years ago.

Bob’s parents Joseph Wilfred LeBlanc and Jennette Beatrice Richards LeBlanc, and his brother, Mark LeBlanc, predeceased him.

He is survived by his daughters Janet L. LeBlanc and Rebecca L. Yong; his grandson, Alex Young; his niece, Sara Tulley, his nephew, Brian LeBlanc; and three step-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, March 4, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville.

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

GALEN LANPHIER

VASSALBORO – Galen “Lucky” Lanphier, 76, peacefully passed away on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at his home. “Lucky” was born on February 1, 1948, son to Lewis and Louise (Tyler) Lanphier. He was born and raised in Camden, where he created many memories.

He was a proud veteran who served in the U. S. Navy from 1965-1971. He was a devoted father, husband, grandfather and friend. Lucky enjoyed golfing, spending time with family, and working in his garden.

He was predeceased by both his parents and his brother Stephen.

He is survived by his wife Belinda “Sissy” Lanphier, who he spent 41 years with; children Jamie Mayhew, Diane Coleman, Max Lanphier, Brandi Mayhew and Tammy LaBelle; grandchildren Nason, Denali, Alecia, Leticia, Allen Michael, Alisha Dawn, Amber Rose and Alexa; great-grandchildren Chloe, Cyrus and Claire; siblings Clinton, Clayton and Joanne; brother Bobby Talbot; and close friend Melanie Sanborn.

A Celebration of life was held on Saturday, March 9, at Fairfield VFW.

BRADFORD L. THORPE SR.

WATERVILLE – Bradford Leigh Thorpe Sr. “Brad”, 68, of Waterville, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. Brad was born on March 25, 1955, to parents Robert and Marianne Thorpe.

Brad was a cherished husband, father, and papa. He was known for his selfless nature and always extended a helping hand to those in need. Brad had a rewarding career at Dead River Company for 28 years. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, camping, solving puzzles and problems, and spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Thorpe; his mother Marianne Thorpe; his children, Benjamin Thorpe, Jennifer and husband Charles Alley, Bradford Thorpe Jr., Kelley and husband Ben Plaisted, Katherine Thorpe, Nicole and husband Ian Haywood, Ashley and husband Michael Allen, Miranda and husband Carlton Prime, Matthew D. Thorpe, and Pete and wife Mindy Mass (who were like children to Brad), Kloee and and husband Nelson Bradley; his grandchildren, Patrick, Nevick, Capri, Myles, Zephelin, Mallory, Carlan, Weston, Logan, Theodore, Isabella, Lola, and Vivienne; great-grandchild Sarrese; his siblings James Thorpe and wife Gai, Steve Thorpe and wife Dixie, Diana McKeen and husband Daniel, Andrew Thorpe and wife Amy, and Thomas Thorpe and wife Kimberly; aunt Linda Thorpe; as well as many nieces, nephews.

Brad was predeceased by his father Robert Thorpe; son Matthew A. Thorpe; and uncle Douglas Thorpe.

A funeral will be held at East Benton Christian Church on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 11 a.m. A gathering will be held immediately afterward at the church for family and friends to gather and celebrate Brad.

MARGO J. VINCENT

WATERVILLE – Margo J. Vincent, 75, of Waterville, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at Oak Grove Center, Waterville. She was born to Leon Vincent and Bertha Vincent Swanson, on November 21, 1948, at Madison Avenue, Redington Memorial Hospital, Skowhegan.

Margo attended the Clinton Elementary and Waterville school systems. Following her schooling, she was employed by Harris Bakery, in Waterville, for a brief time and then worked at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, as a dietary aid and laundry assistant, retiring in 2014 after 40 years of service to MaineGeneral Hospital, inWaterville.

She was a former member of the Waterville Business and Professional Women and member of the Getchell Street United Baptist Church, in Waterville, where she served as Sunday School secretary.

Margo was an avid fan of the Boston Bruins, Red Sox, and Celtics. She enjoyed putting puzzles together, knitting, and playing solitaire. Current issues of latest Seek and Find, Sudoku and Jumbo books waiting for her enjoyment.

Over the years she had two furry friends Precious and Lily keeping her company at her home.

Margo was predeceased by her parents, Leon Vincent and Bertha V. Swanson; sister Nancy L. Lizotte; stepfather Lawrence Swanson; and stepsister Eleanor Hunter.

She is survived by her sister Marilyn V. Ladd, of Oakland; and stepbrother Ted Swanson, of Unity; nieces and spouses Elizabeth Medema (Ed), of Mukilteo, Washington, Terri Suchar (Russell), of Pittston; grand-nieces and -nephews Joel, Corey, Rebecca, Evan, Luke, and Sarah Suchar, all of Pittston; and several cousins.

A celebration of Margo’s life was held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Getchell Street United Baptist Church, 3 Getchell Street, Waterville, with former Pastor Ronald Corey officiating.

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

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

NAPOLEON J. ROY

AUGUSTA – Napoleon J. Roy, 99, passed away peacefully while in residence in the Memory Care unit at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Napoleon was born in Waterville on April 22, 1924, the son of Aglae and Paul Roy

Napoleon, aka “Nappy” to all his caregivers at MVH, proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine during World War II. During the conflict, Napoleon was stationed in the Panama Canal, protecting ships using that vital link for naval and supply vessels. When pressed about his service, “Nap” would recall spending nights in the jungles with his guard dog to ensure the safety and security of ship traffic.

Napoleon was predeceased by his three siblings, Harold, Lionel, and Theresa. All three boys served in World War II, each in a different service branch.

At the age of 39, Nap married his beloved Juliette and they enjoyed more than three decades of adventure, travel and fostering new friendships as they resided in their castle, on Summit Street, in Fairfield.

Nap’s love of gardening was the envy of many, as he took great pride in manicured grounds. Upon Julie’s passing, Napoleon returned to the family home on Nudd Street, in Waterville, where he would engage neighbors with his wit, contagious flirting, and uncanny ability to repair anything. As a product of the Great Depression, Nap was mindful not to waste and be frugal with what he earned. He doted over Theresa’s three children, Peggy, Donald, and Larry, which he considered his own.

While Napoleon fell a few weeks short of turning 100, his life was filled with a twinkle in his eye and debonair charm. Nap was a lifetime member at the Waterville Elks Lodge, where he always enjoyed a game of pool along with dining and dancing. He also had lifetime memberships with the Waterville Forrest J. Pare Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1285, and Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5. Nap’s longevity in life, outliving all his immediate family and friends, was the result of constantly being “on the move” and living life to its’ fullest.

Napoleon’s final years were spent cultivating a new family, a wonderful array of caregivers at the Maine Veterans Home. It was there that “Nappy” and his endearing personality led to many staff hugs, activities, and smiles. During his time at the Maine Veterans Home, he was blessed to participate in Honor Flight Maine, where he witnessed firsthand the World War II memorial in the nation’s capital.

A service was held the next morning, Saturday, March 9, at Gallant Funeral Home, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

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

CECIL B. HALL

UNITY – Cecil B. Hall, 89, died Thursday, March 7, 2024, at his hom. He was born in Marsardis on February 16, 1935.

He graduated and joined the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War 1954 to 1957.

Cecil retired from Ames at the age of 62. He continued to work after “retirement” for American Greetings part time until he was 80.

Cecil was a gentle soul. His kind hearted ways, smile and laugh will never be forgotten. When he saw you his beautiful blue eyes would light up as he would say “Hi Honey” to his girls. His love was pure and unconditional. He will be truly missed.

He enjoyed making birdhouses, small furniture and puttering in his workshop. He loved being outside working in the yard, garden, raking leaves and shoveling snow. We enjoyed his funny stories about growing up in the county… from picking potatoes to walking miles to school through 2 feet of snow during snow storms.

He is survived by his wife, Gabrielle; daughter, Jo Ann Ponsant; stepdaughters Gisele Castonguay, Ginger Raymond Stevens and their extended families; sisters Diane David and Elaine Hall; brother, Arlo Hall.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Jannie Lee Hall; brother, Charles Hall and sister, Yvonne Brewer.

Cremation arrangements are by Dan and Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services, Farmington, 207-779-9008, or Skowhegan, 207-474-0000)

Date of internment at the Maine Veterans Cemetery to be determined.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) https://www.dav.org.

OTHERS DEPARTED

STACY A. GRONDIN

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Stacy A. Grondin, 49, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away at Vanderbilt Hospital following a short battle with aggressive cancer, on Mon­day, February 19, 2024. Stacy was born on February 21, 1974, to Robert Grondin and Gail Champine (Whitter) in Augusta. A few years later they moved to Winslow where Stacy graduated from Winslow Senior High School class of 1992.

Stacy met the father of her three daughters, Jeffrey Gush, shortly after graduating. Stacy and Jeff relocated to Tennessee in the fall of 1997. She worked at Toys R Us until the store closed. She then worked for Aldi’s for many years in different positions for the company. Most recently she worked at Sprout’s Farmers Market. While down there she met her boyfriend of 20 years, Christopher Richardson.

Stacy absolutely loved spending time with her grandchild, she spent as much time as she could with them right up to the last weeks of her life. Stacy loved animals and frequented the Nashville Zoo often. She leaves behind her two dogs Bella and Polo and her two cats Koala and Fat Cat. Outside of spending time with her daughters and grandchildren she loved escaping the Nashville heat and visiting home (Maine) as often as she could.

Stacy was predeceased by her daughter Jaime Ann Gush (Ashley’s twin); both sets of grandparents Armand and Evelyn Grondin and Stanley and Irene Whittier both of Augusta; her uncle Stephen Grondin.

Stacy is survived by her father Robert Grondin (long time girlfriend, Tina Wellman), of Mt Vernon; her mother Gail Champine (spouse, Timothy), of Waterville; her three daughters and four grandchildren Samantha Gush, Ashley Gush (granddaughter Ashlyn Clinard, grandson Leo Gush and granddaughter Aurora Cartelli) and Emily Grondin (grandson, Kaiden “KK” Grondin), all residing in Nashville; her sisters Jessica Grondin (nephew and niece Dylan and Madison Yakimchick), of Waterville, Carly Champine, of North Attleboro, Massachusetts;her aunts Alice, Joyce, Pam and Jane, and her uncle David; along with many cousins.

A celebration of life will be on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at 2 p.m., at the Pointe Afta, 252 China Rd., Winslow, ME 04901.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, P.O. Box 32141, New York, NY 10087-2141, orcahope.org.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 7, 2024

DANIEL E. CASSIDY

WINSLOW – Daniel Edward Cassidy Jr, 83, passed away on February 29, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Dan was born in Portland, Maine on June 28, 1940, to Daniel E. and Odell (Thibodeau) Cassidy. In 1946 the family moved to Winslow to open Cassidy’s Market on Augusta Road.

Dan graduated from Winslow High School in 1960. An avid music lover, Dan was an accomplished violin player and played the timpani and snare drums for the high school and traveling bands. He performed all over Maine, sitting as second chair for the violin with the Maine State Orchestra. He enjoyed many of those band trips, including travels to New York City and Nova Scotia, with his future wife, Jean. After graduating, Dan joined the Air Force Reserves, completing his basic training at Lackland Air Force in Texas and was stationed at Dow Air Force Base in Bangor.

Dan began his 33-year-long career at the Central Maine Morning Sentinel in 1966, working his way up from the composing room, to selling advertising, to the co-op and special sections’ manager, and then ended his career as the sales manager at the newspaper. His second “job” was a labor of love. For over half a century he was at the wheel of a school bus driving junior and high school ski clubs to area mountains, sports teams to meets, races, and games. In what little spare time he had, he also volunteered for the Winslow Fire Department.

An ardent outdoorsman, Dan relished and loved Maine. He indulged his love of the outdoors at the Cassidy farm in Bingham, snowmobiling with his brother Francis and nephews, sledding down Mahoney Hill, taking a dip in the deep hole, fishing, hiking, and mowing acres and acres of land. Dan’s greatest passion was skiing, taking to the slopes across the United States, Canada, and five countries in Europe, tackling over 120 mountains. Ensuring he would always have ski buddies, he had his three children and two grandchildren on skis all by the age of two, passing the joy of skiing along to them. Following his retirement, he found a way to turn that love of nature into a third “job” and wrote articles for four publications (Including INside the OUTside, for The Town Line newspaper). While his column, Ski Tracks focused mostly on skiing, he also wrote about camping, hiking, and biking. He was a member of several writer organizations including the Eastern Ski Writers and the North American Snowsports Journalists Association. He was an active member of the Carrabassett Valley Outdoor Association, and he also served as President of the Ski Museum of Maine. He was a proud Sugarloafer since 1962. To say the man lived to ski would be an understatement.

The ultimate family man, Dan always looked forward to friends and family gatherings. He enjoyed many holidays, parties, and travels including annual 4th of July vacations to Cape Cod with close family friends, reunions with family in Lake Tahoe, tours of Europe with extended family, and trips to Gorham to support his grandchildren with their achievements. His retirement also allowed him to fulfill his love of travel when Dan and Jean jumped in the Jeep and toured the country. Dan very much enjoyed and treasured these adventures and we certainly have the photographs to prove it!!

Dan was predeceased by his parents, Daniel E. and Odell, his brothers Lionel and Francis, and his sister Agnes. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Jean (Mathieu), his son Sean and his partner Gerry Logue, daughter Kathleen and her partner Beth Alsberg, and daughter Erin and her partner Jonathan Shardlow, his two grandchildren, Andrew and Courtney Rent, as well as several brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and of course, Kitty.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 12, at 10 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument street, Winslow. A memorial service at the gravesite for family and friends will be held at a later date in the summer.

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

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the WinterKids of Maine at WinterKids Education Foundation, 506 Main Street, Suite 10, Westbrook, ME 04092, and/or Compassus Hospice at 163 US Route 1, Scarborough, ME 04074.

CARLENE ROY

CHINA – Carlene Roy, 86, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, peacefully in her sleep. She was born in Caribou on February 2, 1938, to her parents Ulysses and Lena (Santere) Lagasse.

She was educated in the Skowhegan school district and went on to work in the shoe and textile industry for 20 years. After that, she worked as a bank teller for 20 more years before retiring.

Carlene was an excellent seamstress, quilter, needle pointer, and knitter. She was always a good cook and was particularly good at making pies. She loved to travel, go camping, and gather with friends and family.

She was predeceased by her parents, her daughter, Debra Pomelow, her brother and his spouse Roland and Bunny Lagasse, sister and spouse, Francis and Fred Pottle, and sister-in-law and spouse, Jackie and Richard Bouffard.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Lucien Roy; her daughter, Lisa Guilbert; stepdaughter, Kim Roy; son-in-law, Rick Pomelow; grandchildren Shame Pomelow, Angie Nelson, and Lauren Guilbert; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Matte, and Alecia; her great-great-grandchild, Alexis; as well as all her nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Holy Family Cemetery, on the Townsend Road, in Augusta. It will be followed by a gathering of family and friends.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville.

WILLIAM BELL

BENTON – William “Billy” Bell, 93, passed quietly into heaven on Sunday, February 18, 2024. He was born in Fairfield on July 11, 1930.

He first worked for Arthur Brown, in Benton, on the farm and then driving trucks, tractors, and equipment. He then worked for Warren Brothers, which became Tilcon. During the winter he drove oil truck for Peters Fuel Service, in Fairfield, delivering oil.

Billy retired in 1983 after an accident caused him to lose the full use of his left arm.

In his early years, for leisure, he enjoyed roller skating at the Winslow Roller Rink. After retiring, he spent his winters in Florida with his wife, Euleta, and many local friends from the area.

He is survived by his son, Rusty and wife Selena; his granddaughters Sadie Trask and her husband Matt, Betsy Nielsen and her husband Matt, Molly Bell and her companion Dan Armiger; as well as two great-granddaughters, Payton and Rylie Trask.

During the last years of his life, he enjoyed the company of his friend, Lynn Ware, they went for long rides and enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy together.

He was predeceased by his wife of 43 years, Euleta K. Bell; his parents; his sister, Mary Bell, and brother, Murchie Bell.

There will be a graveside service in the spring.

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

As a thank you for the excellent care Bill received, the family is asking that donations in Bill’s name be sent to Gentiva Hospice, 24 Stone St. #106, Augusta, ME 04330.

EDWARD E. COUTURE

WATERVILLE – Edward “Ed” Edmond Couture, 93, of Waterville, died peacefully at his home on Monday, February 19, 2024. Ed was born on July 15, 1930, in St. Cecile, Québec, Canada. Ed is the oldest of two children to the late Wilfred and Roseanne (Bolduc) Couture.

Ed married Cecile Bernadette Roy Couture in 1955 and they were married for 61 years before her death in 2016. After they married, Ed moved his family to the United States in 1957 and settled in Winslow. Ed had many jobs throughout his career but had been employed by the Town of Winslow for 35 years before his retirement in 1995.

Ed enjoyed playing cards with his wife and friends as well as camping. For 27 years, after his retirement, Ed and Cecile wintered in St Petersburg, Flaorida, and returned home to Maine in the spring and summer. Ed was a man of many skills. He was resourceful and could fix anything mechanical.

Ed leaves behind three daughters, Joanne and her husband Dana Jordan, of Vassalboro, Lisa and her husband Dave Hauser, of Casco, Sylvia and her husband Claude Hallee, of Waterville, and a son, Peter Couture, and his wife Shelly, of Augusta; five grandchildren, Christopher and wife Nicole Couture, of Turner, Nicholas and wife Lacey Couture, of Vassalboro, Ryan and Renee Hallee, both of Waterville, and Tim Cusick Jr., of Augusta; as well as eight great-grandchildren.

Ed will be cremated, and a graveside service will be held on Friday, June 7, at 1 p.m., where his ashes will be laid to rest with his wife at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville.

In memory of Ed’s wife and her battle with ALS, the family requests, in lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the ALS Foundation, 10 Ferry St., Suite 309, Concord, NH 03301.

DARYN C. DYER

PALERMO – Daryn C. Dyer, 58, died unexpectedly Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Millinocket Regional Hospital. He was born on June 4, 1965, a son of David J. and Brenda J. (Hannan) Dyer.

Daryn was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, class of 1983.

He had been employed for over 40 years at JS McCarthy Printers, in Augusta, and will be sorely missed by the entire JSM family.

Daryn loved hunting, fishing and all things outdoorsy but his favorite thing was to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He was an amazing Grampy or “Bampy”, a loving husband, and the best dad.

Daryn is survived by his wife of 37 years, Leslie A. (Tesseo) Dyer, of Palermo; three children, Tyler Dyer and his wife Felicia, Ethan Dyer and his wife Callie and Nikki Dyer; two brothers, Daniel Dyer and his wife Bethany, and Jamie Dyer and his wife Andrea; a sister, Kelly Kramer and her husband Eric; three grandchildren, Easton Dyer, Olivia Dyer and Marigold Dyer; as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A gathering of family and friends was held on Sunday, March 3, at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor.

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

RICHARD A. STAPLES

PALERMO – Richard Adam Staples, 60, of Palermo and Thomaston, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Richard was born March 27, 1963, the son of Warren Sr. and Thelma (Fuller) Staples.

Richard grew up in Palermo, attended Palermo Consolidated School, and Gardiner Area High School, and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China. He worked many jobs, the last 20 years he was a caregiver to his nephew until he couldn’t do it anymore.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Basil, Warren, and Joseph and his wife Sharon, his sisters Norma Staples and Louise Keane, brother-in-law, Andrew (Steve) O’Brien, and sister-in-law, Jean Staples.

Surviving are his daughter, Kayla Lilly and her two children, Dakota Carter and Brooke Doucette, of Old Town; his six brothers, Forrest, James “Red”, Rhama and Ephraim, of Palermo, Larry, of Thomaston, Henry and his wife Linda, of Caribou; three sisters, Grace O’Brien, of Palermo, Ann Bako and her husband Peter, of Weeks Mills, and Martha Staples and her companion Barry Swift, of Somerville; brother-in-law, Steve Keane, of Georgetown; sister-in-law, Glanis Staples, of Palermo; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of his life will be held on June 22, at 3 p.m. at his home on the Colby Road, in Palermo.

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

ANNA MARIE GERALD

WINSLOW – Anna Marie Gerald passed away on the morning of Saturday, February 24, 2024, following a brief illness. She was born on September 9, 1940, the youngest of five children born to Donald R. and Carlene M. (Ellis) Finnemore, in Houlton.

The family lived in Danforth and Hodgdon, before settling in Unity. She graduated from Unity High School, in 1958, as one of 12 students and went on to attend Pierce Secretarial School, in Boston, Masachusetts.

Stephen L. Gerald took Anna to be his wife of September 2, 1960, and she moved to Clinton. For 30 years they worked side by side at L.L. Gerald and Son, in Fairfield, and created a thriving business that served the community well. Together they retired and enjoyed their home (camp) on Unity Pond. Anna enjoyed ice fishing up to Moose Camp, in Lily Bay, snowmobiling, cards with friends and family, and entertaining at the lake. She was involved with the Clinton Evening Extension, Town and Country Trailriders snowmobile club, and the Jaycee Wives.

Anna was an accomplished cook, which aided Steve in getting his projects done. Their son, Scott, only had to put out the word that Anna was cooking an eye of the round, complete with fixings, and friends would come running. Before you knew it, a 10-yard loam pile was spread before the roast hit the table. Anna was amazed at how well Steve’s methods worked.

She quite often had plans and schemes for the camp, to which Steve would state, “that’s for you and your second husband to do.” Whether that was premonition or joking, the love of her life passed away in July 1994.

Anna was blessed again to find another love in Richard Beale. They never married but they spent the next 25 years pursuing a different life; one filled with traveling extensively, enjoying auto racing, retirement, and above all, time spent with family. Unfortunately, Richard passed in 2019. Though Anna sorely missed Richard, she was blessed to have a large “Bonus Family” which encompassed Richard’s six children.

Anna was predeceased by her parents, husband, Stephen, partner, Richard, and bonus son, Robert Mark Beale. She was the last remaining sibling, having lost brothers Donald E. Finnemore Sr. and Lewis Finnemore as well as sister, Loralie Higgins and Marjorie Drake.

She is survived by her only son, Scott L. Gerald and his wife Michelle, of Fairfield Center; her grandsons Blake L. Gerald and Alex S. Gerald; her great-grandsons Elliot and Jack Gerald; many nieces and nephews; and sister-in-law, Barbara Finnemore; her bonus family, William (Mike) Beale, Laura Hatfield, Richard (Rick) Beale, Mailissa (Lisa) Cavanaugh, Mary Dowe, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren from clan Beale.

There will be an informal celebration of life with refreshments held Saturday March 23, 2024, at 1 p.m., in the Brown Memorial Methodist Church fellowship hall, 36 Church St., Clinton.

An interment service at Greenlawn Rest Cemetery, in Clinton, will be announced at a later date.

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

LORETTE LEIGH

FAIRFIELD – Lorette Leigh, 83, of Fairfield, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Mount Joseph, in Waterville.

In 1974, Lorette married Robert Leigh. They were married for 35 years until Robert passed away in 2009.

Most of Lorette’s working days were spent at the Diamond Match Factory, in Oakland. In her retirement, she enjoyed many hours of talking on her CB radio with her friends and was known to many as “Chipper Girl.” Lorette was also a member of the Benton Grange, where she made many more longtime friends.

She is survived by her two stepchildren, Randy Leigh and his wife Ruth, of Fairfield, and Wendy Yor,k of Washington; three grandchildren, Jenny Boyden and her husband Matthew, of Clinton, Tracy Jacques and her husband Joe, of Waterville, Lacey Leigh and her partner Nicholas Philbrook, of Matinicus Island; three great-grandchildren, Storer and Jillian Boyden, both of Clinton, and Eli Philbrook of Matinicus Island.

A private family spring burial beside her husband will take place at the Maplewood Cemetery in Fairfield.

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

SUSAN H. BOUTHOT

OAKLAND – Susan Helen (Patrick) Bouthot 71, passed away on Monday February 26, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a long seven-year courageous and hard-fought battle with ovarian cancer. She was born in Greenville on February 18, 1953, the daughter of Charles and Theresa Patrick.

Sue attended schools in Waterville. Sacred Heart School for eight years and Waterville High School where she graduated in 1971. Susan and Arthur were married at the Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville, on July 1, 1972, and lived in Oakland since 1978.

Sue was primarily a home maker, and full-time mom but did work at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory and The Curtain Shop, both in Waterville when the children were older. She earned an associate degree in Mental Health and Human Services from the University of Maine at Augusta in 2004. She liked to knit and crochet and was very good at her craft.

She is survived by husband of 52 years, Arthur Bouthot; son Robert Bouthot and wife Andrea, and daughter Jasmine McEachern and husband Dan; three grandchildren, Arianna McEachern, Levi Bouthot and Evan Bouthot; sisters, Lynn Burke, from San Antonio, Texas, Donna Wescott and husband Kyle, from Sidney; and brother, Alan Patrick and wife Sookie, from Massachusetts; along with several nieces and nephews. She very much-admired Melissa and Casey Wescott whom she babysat for several years. She wasn’t just an Aunt, she was a special “Tante”.

There will be no visiting or public viewing hours. Funeral Mass will be held at St. John Church, in Winslow, at 10 a.m., on Friday, March 15, followed by a funeral luncheon at St. John cafeteria. Interment at the VA Mount Vernon Road Cemetery, in Augusta, will be scheduled at a later date in the spring.

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

DARRELL L. CROMMETT

VASSALBORO – Darrell Lee Crommett, 65, passed away peacefully at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, following a long battle with dementia. He was born May 29, 1958, a son of Theda (Tompkins) and Leslie Crommett Sr.

Darrell grew up in Weeks Mills and was one of 14 brothers and sisters. He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1977. In 1979 he welcomed his only son, Derek, with then wife, Karen Perry. He retired in 2018 after over 25 years of service as a dedicated delivery driver for Suburban Propane.

Darrell was full of life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed playing softball for most of his adult life in various leagues, and especially loved playing alongside his son.

On warm summer days Darrell could be found cruising on his Harley, whether it be a quick trip to the store or a long-distance ride. He spent a lot of time “working” around his property with his Kubota tractor. He loved the outdoors and spent a lot of time snowmobiling or four-wheeling with family and friends. He enjoyed hauling his camper to various locations, especially down to the Fryeburg Fair.

Darrell enjoyed trips up north to his nephew, Shane’s hunting lodge, as well as trips to a camp he built and owned in Springfield for many years. He loved hunting and ice fishing. He could often be found in his ice shack on Three Mile Pond and was most happy to spend a day fishing with his grandson, Liam. He enjoyed his property on the lake, in Vassalboro, and held many fond memories of the neighbors who he considered family.

He loved spending time with his grandchildren and would light up when they would come to visit Grampy. His granddaughter Aly gave him a run for his money and was affectionally called his “little pistol”.

Darrell was predeceased by his parents; and his siblings, Leslie Crommett Jr., Myrtie Nowlan, Joanne Shorey, Mary Davis, and Herbie Crommett.

He is survived by his son Derek Crommett, his wife Amanda and their two children Liam and Aly; siblings Clayton Crommett, Vincent Crommett, Grace Davis, Barbara Mayberry, Vicki McPhee, Dianne Demerchant, Beverly Smith and Mariette Field; his life-long best friend, Ed Haskell; several nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Visiting hours will be held at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, on Saturday, March 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held this summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

DORIS B. DAVIDSON

FAIRFIELD – Doris B. Davidson, 94, passed away peacefully at Mount Joseph, in Waterville, on Monday, January 15, 2024. Doris was born in her family home, in Waterville, on November 12, 1929, the daughter of Wilfred and Corinne Boucher.

She met the love of her life, Robert, and together they raised their daughter, Debra.

Doris enjoyed spending time with her family. She especially loved listening to her grandson read to her when he was little. She was active in her church and enjoyed the company of her friends.

Doris was predeceased by husband, Robert N. Davidson; and her daughter, Debra A. Chessa.

She is survived by her grandson, Anthony Chessa; son-in-law, John Chessa; and sister, Jeannine Roy.

A funeral Mass will take place at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville, with interment following at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, later this summer.

RITA BOWMAN

BENTON – Rita Bowman, 80, passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, following a long battle with Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s. She was born October 11, 1943, in Brunswick, to her parents Mildred (Gerald) and Delbert Crosby.

Shortly after, they moved to the 200-acre dairy farm, in Benton, that she grew up on and where her parents lived out their lives. Her love of animals in all forms was born on her family’s farm. She was active in the 4H and a true farm girl. She spent her childhood exploring the farm on the back of her first horse, a Paint named Beauty.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1961. She was the salutatorian of her class. She attended college for one year in hopes of becoming a teacher. But, it wasn’t meant to be, life had other plans for her. While back home on the farm, Rita met her first husband, David West. They were married in 1963 and soon after they purchased their own 100-acre farm on the same road as her parents where she lived for the next 48 years.

She filled her barn with countless animals of every shape and form who she lovingly cared for. Her house was oftentimes overflowing with her beloved cats and dogs over the years.

Gardening was also a love of hers. She always had a huge vegetable garden that she would soon lose the battle of the weeds. But not before she managed to can and freeze for her family and sell the extra on the roadside. Her flower gardens also brought her great joy. Year after year she planted her dahlias, cannas, and gladiolus bulbs in the spring and enjoyed them all summer.

Rita was also sometimes known to kick up her heels on a Saturday night with David and their friends at the local dance halls of the day.

They were also proprietors of a store in Benton for a time called West’s Variety. It was not her dream and when the store was sold she did not shed a tear.

While owning the store, Rita attended the reserve police officer academy with David and that propelled her into the next chapter of her life. She worked as a reserve officer for Winslow Police Department for many years and started her 26 years as a security officer along with a few other jobs at Colby College, in Waterville.

She met her second husband, James Bowman, at her 25th class reunion, who she remained married to until his passing in December 2022.

Rita’s passion in life was her love of horses. She had a lifelong love affair with them. She enjoyed taking her grandchildren to riding lessons and horse shows. This brought her great joy in her life. She passed this love on to some of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rita was predeceased by her parents; husband; brother Ronald, sister, Diane; and her grandson, Owen Hotham.

She is survived by her daughters, Donna and Jay Young, Deborah and Sean Ford; son, Jody West; stepson Ben Bowman; and brother, Roger and Sharon Crosby; grandchildren, Alli Hotham, Quentin Hood, Amanda Gheorghe, Adam West, Peter Bryant, Bianca and Beorn Brueckner, and Tuesday and Torin Ford; great-grandchildren, Hailie and River Hotham, Carter Grenier, Lincoln Rideout, and Daxton and Ryker Bryant; nieces Tammy Crosby and Bonnie Crosby Dersham who spent most weekends, school vacations, and summers with her; her former daughter-in-law of many years, Amy Doody; her granddaughter-in-law, Ashley Ferris; her ex-husband, David West.

There will be no service per Rita’s request. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at Directcremationofmaine.com.

Anyone wishing to honor her can make a donation to Charley’s Strays, in Clinton.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 29, 2024

Remembering Bill Gemmill

The Lincoln County Historical Association (LCHA) recently lost long-time volunteer and trustee Bill Gemmill when he passed away recently. Bill and his wife Sally have been active and respected LCHA volunteers for many years; his passing is a great loss to LCHA as an organization, but more importantly to the many members of the LCHA community who counted him as a friend.

William Gemmill, 79, of Wiscasset, passed away peacefully at Togus Springs Hospice, on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Born on October 2, 1944, in New York City, he was raised by his parents Huber and Marion Gemmill in Short Hills, New Jersey.

Bill arrived in Wiscasset after retirement and became involved not only with LCHA but also shared his time and talents with the Maine Maritime Museum and Historic New England. We were all fortunate to benefit from his deep interest in decorative and folk arts, his experience as a collector and researcher of historic objects – particularly schoolgirl art, and his love of maritime history.

As he became more invested in the Wiscasset area, he began to add historical artifacts from the region to his collections and generously shared his growing knowledge of local history with LCHA. A faithful and active member of the Stewardship Committee that cares for our Old Jail and Museum in Wiscasset, Bill was instrumental in the production of the 2018-19 exhibit there, Sails on the Sheepscot. This exhibit was a wonderfully educational and carefully curated show that reflected Bill’s particular interest in nautical history. Bill also contributed to LCHA’s mission by both arranging and giving presentations of his own to the public. His knowledge and kind demeanor always meant his presentations and friendly conversations alike were educational and interesting.

Bill’s contributions to LCHA also included sitting on the finance and investment committee, where all looked to him as a leader with both extensive knowledge and sound judgment. Likewise, as a trustee, Bill demonstrated leadership that helped set the board on a path toward well-considered decisions that kept the organization on track for growth and success. Staff and trustees valued his input and looked for his advice and approval on organization-related decisions.

As Bill stepped back from board activities in recent months, his absence was notable, with several trustees expressing that they missed his guiding presence. Trustee George Keyes wrote, “Bill was a man of great wisdom which he expressed in an understated way with the result that his points or thoughts were of a very soothing nature in shaping further discussion at our trustee or committee meetings… Bill took his responsibilities very seriously and his contribution was of inestimable importance.”

The association was truly fortunate to have Bill among its organization’s leadership and he will be greatly missed. LCHA staff and trustees extend their condolences warmly to Sally at this time.

LEE-PAUL VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Lee-Paul Veilleux, 52, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024. He was born on November 25, 1971, in Waterville, to his parents Jean-Paul Veilleux and Gabrielle F. Veilleux (Rossignol).

Lee attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, until the sixth grade and continued to Lawrence Jr. and Sr. high schools, in Fairfield, class of 1990. During one summer vacation while in elementary school, Lee became “Youth of the Year” at the Waterville Boys and Girls Club, winning a 10-speed bike which he was very proud of, for his participation/activity efforts for that summer.

Lee, along with his brother Normand, served as Acolytes at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville.

He worked at Goodwill-Hinckley School, in Hinckley, helping at-risk youths finding their way in life. Lee had worked at other jobs such as in accounting with Wal-Mart, advertising for Uncle Henry’s and as an associate at Bull Moose music.

Lee had developed an early love for reading, which led him to write his own short stories and novels and was in the process of getting published. Moreover, Lee had expanded his talent to photography for the illustrations of his writings, and received an online certificate from, “New York State of Photography” course, which furthermore helped him in opening his own photography business. With his creativity, he also received his cosmetology license from the State of Maine. As anyone who knew Lee, he was an enamored a die-hard Superman fan, relating to anything Superman – movies, TV series, and comic books, also becoming a collector of all of these.

Lee will be missed by many of his relatives and friends, including Ron Reynolds and Ethan Pierce, from Central Maine. Lee liked going camping, spending time outdoors and taking road trips with them, and spent much time creating special memories with their families, playing pseudo uncle to their children, who will also miss him dearly.

Lee-Paul was predeceased by his father Jean-Paul Veilleux, and his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Marie-Louise Veilleux, from Canada, and maternal grandparents, Phillip and Louise Rossignol, from Waterville.

He is survived by his mother Gabrielle Veilleux; brother Normand Veilleux; and nephew Tresten Bergeron and wife Tiffany; his Godparents, Raymond and Yvonne Lefebvre, from Winslow; many uncles, aunts, and cousins from Canada and in the U.S.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. There will be light refreshments at the family’s residence, in Fairfield, shortly after his services for those wishing to attend.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lee’s name to the National Kidney Foundation, at Attn: Gift Processing at National Kidney Foundation HQ, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016, or online at http://www.support.kidney.org.

RICHARD McPHAIL

FAIRFIELD – Richard “Dickie” McPhail, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 6.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Saturday, March 16, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, on 26 Monument St., Winslow, followed by a celebration of life at the St. John Catholic School, 15 South Garand St.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home. A full obituary can be viewed at http://www.lawrybrothers.com and memories and an online guest book can be signed.

GAIL M. DAVIS

FAIRFIELD – Gail Marie Davis, 86, a longtime resident of Fairfield, died on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, in Augusta. She was the daughter of Mary and Joseph Leonard, born on November 6, 1937, in Camden.

She attended Vassalboro schools. At age 18 she married Douglas Davis and together they raised three children, Rhonda, Greg, and David. Dougie and Lucille Davis were also Gail’s two stepchildren. Gail was a house wife and personal care assistant for the elderly.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Doug; brother Jimmy, sister Mary; and her eldest son Greg. When Gail was a child, she also lost two of her brothers in a tragic drowning accident.

She is survived by her children Rhonda Levine, David Davis and wife Jill; grandchildren Nicole Levine, Gregory Davis, and Haley Davis; brother Martin and his wife Evelyn and daughter Tiffany; great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A spring graveside service and celebration of life will be determined at a later date.

JEANNINE GENEST

OAKLAND – Jeannine Genest, 78, of Oakland, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024.

Although Jeannine had many health ailments over the years, she courageously battled her illnesses with every fiber of her being. Instead of focusing on herself, she devoted her energy to her family and friends, which resulted in a home that was welcome to all. Over the years, she and Bob hosted many people at their lakefront home, playing one of their favorite board games “tocks”, taking boat rides, chatting, laughing, and cooking large meals for everyone. One thing was certain, anyone who came to visit never left with an empty stomach.

Celebrating holidays with her children and grandchildren was a tradition of utmost importance to her. She maintained close associations with her many relatives and traveled from Fort Kent to Connecticut, visiting with them while spending time reminiscing, playing cards, or visiting a casino. She had a very special lifelong relationship with her aunt Cecile, cousin Louella, and dear friend Pat. On occasion her travels took her to Florida, Las Vegas, and a once in a lifetime cruise to Bermuda.

Jeannine was known for her commitment and dedication to doing what’s right and had a strong work ethic. Prior to her retirement she worked for the Maine DOT Maintenance and Operations, in Fairfield, as an office manager, then moved on to an administrative role in Augusta. Before that she worked at Keyes Fibre Co. (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, and Scott Paper Company, in Winslow. She was also a member of the supervisory committee at KSW Federal Credit Union, in Waterville. Another personal accomplishment, one she was very proud of, was the fact that later in life she was able to continue her studies and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, with a degree in business administration.

Because of her caring and generous nature Jeannine will be deeply missed, however her memory will live on through those who loved her.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years Bob; her daughter Renee and husband Rick, son Bob and wife Sacha; granddaughters Chantel and husband Dylan, Lexi, Rylie, Jaidyn; grandson Wyatt; and great-grandson Lucas; her siblings Lulu and Marie; sisters-in-law Susan, Paula and husband Don, Cheryl and husband Steve; brothers-in-law Dale, Mike and wife Peggy; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother Regina and father Renie; her sisters Rita and Jackie, her brother Gil; her mother-in-law Blanche, father-in-law Vincent; and sister-in- law Joan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Notre Dame/ Corpus Christi Parish, 116 Silver St., Waterville. All are welcome and invited to attend a Celebration of Life in the church hall immediately following the Mass.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to carry on Jeaninne’s loving nature and pay it forward with a random act of kindness at https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-ideas.

ERIC B. FOGG

WATERVILLE – Eric B. Fogg, 67, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Eric was born on December 8, 1956, in Waterville, and was the youngest son of Leo and Avena Fogg.

Eric spent 15 years in Connecticut before settling in Vassalboro at the age of 17 where he remained until his passing.

Eric worked for several companies including; Cives Steel Co., in Augusta, Diamond International Co., in Oakland, and Northern Country Concrete before settling in the town of Winslow.

Eric was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman. You could always find Eric outside or spending quality time with his family.

Eric was predeceased by both his parents and his brothers, Dana Fogg and Verdel “Bud” Nash; his lifelong partner Robyn Philbrook, of Clinton, and their daughter Brandy Fogg; his parents-in-law Robert and Marie Philbrook, of Clinton; his brother Bruce Nash, of Dolores, Colorado; his cousin Ruth Woodbury; several nieces and nephews; his daughter Brandy and his niece Shenee Foster, of Clinton,.

There will be a celebration of life which will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating towards cremation and burial costs as family had expected more time with Eric. Donations may be sent to Robyn Philbrook, P.O. Box 274, North Vassalboro, ME 04962.

DAVID B. NEWELL SR.

CLINTON – David B. Newell Sr., 67, passed away at home, on Saturday, February 17, 2024. Dave was born in Fairfield on March 15, 1956. He was the son of Thomas I. Newell Sr. and Marjorie A (Ellis) Newell (deceased).

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and graduated in 1976.

Dave’s career was with Fred’s Vending, in Waterville, where he worked for 25 years. Before that he was a milk delivery man for Fitzpatrick’s Dairy, in Benton. Dave coached the P.A.L. football and baseball teams for more than 20 years. As a true fan he watched the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox every weekend. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He liked the outdoors and camping with family, and he very much enjoyed playing pool and cribbage.

Dave held many lifelong friendships and enjoyed times spent around the campfire telling stories and cracking jokes. Dave was often in charge of safety meetings at camp and encouraged it frequently.

Dave is survived by his wife Tina (Short) Newell of 36 years; son, David and his wife Nicole and their children; daughter, Katie-Lyn and her husband Josh and their children; brothers Tommy and his wife Dru and their family, Danny and his wife Maureen and their family; his sister Mary and her husband Timmy Tinker and their family; his brothers-in-law Dana and girlfriend Liz, John and wife Ali and family, David and girlfriend Jaclyn; his sister-in-law Debbie Short.

Public visitations took place at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, at 107 Main Street, in Fairfield, on February 24, and a service was held following.

CLARA HUSTUS

FAIRFIELD – Clara Hustus, 99, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024. She was born on June 4, 1924, to Bliss and May Lawrence, in North Abbington, Massachusetts.

She was a long time member of the Clinton Baptist church and enjoyed singing in church and in the choir. She loved her church family. Clara lived a long and full life and was looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday in June.

Clara was an avid reader and spent many hours crocheting. She gave many crocheted doilies to her friends and family. She entered her handiwork into local fairs and was very proud of the ribbons they garnered.

She was predeceased by her husband, Louis Violette, who died in 1963. She then married Henry Hustus, who died in 2003, her sisters Ruth Lawrence, Marie Hart, and brothers, Paul Lawrence and Bliss Lawrence Jr.

She is survived by her children Louise Violette Dudley (Tim), of Clinton, Laurel Gustafson (Greg), of Clinton, Anthony Violette (Kay), of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Larry Hustus, of Dover, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Melissa, Amy, Meagan, Andrea and Nathan; great-grandchildren, Jaxson, Owen, Natalie, Wyatt, Quinton, Gus, Francis, Luke; and many nieces and nephews; her sister Barbara Witham; brother Robert Lawrence (Linda); and sister-in-law Carol Lawrence.

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, March 1, at the Clinton Baptist Church, at 2 p.m., with refreshments to follow in the fellowship hall.

Burial will take place at a later date at the Pittsfield Village Cemetery.

IDA-JOYCE LEVINE

BOSTON, Massachusetts – Ida-Joyce Levine, 81, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024, in Boston, Massa­chusetts, where she had been living for the past few years after spending most of her life at her home in Waterville.

Ida-Joyce’s life revolved around family. She was a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, great-aunt, great-great aunt and friend. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary of those she loved, and she rejoiced in the joys of her family. She had a sharp mind and an excellent memory. She was a valued source of family history, including dates and events, and was appreciated for her caring attention to the details of the lives of her wide circle of family and friends.

Ida-Joyce always made enormous efforts to attend all family milestone events, and they brought her great joy. She excelled at staying in touch with all those she loved and was a wonderful correspondent via phone and written notes. Ida-Joyce graduated from Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and attended Boston University.

She worked for many years as a librarian, first at the Social Law Library, in Boston, and then at the Maine State Library, in Augusta, for decades. She loved her work and her colleagues there who became lifelong friends.

She was an active member of Beth Israel Synagogue, in Waterville, and especially enjoyed events, educational opportunities, and services led by Rabbi Rachel Isaacs, who became a dear friend as well. Ida-Joyce was also active in and supported a Holocaust remembrance group in Maine and attended many Holocaust lectures over the years.

Ida-Joyce loved her home state of Maine and also loved to travel. She traveled to many countries throughout her life and recounted those trips with great detail and enthusiasm. She loved music, had a wonderful singing voice, and was a very talented piano player who played beautifully by ear.

Ida-Joyce is survived by her siblings Judith L. Brody (the late Judge Morton A. Brody), Robert A. Levine (Tobie) and Frederick E. Levine; 11 nieces and nephews; 32 great-nieces and -nephews; and one-great-great-nephew.

She was predeceased by her brother, Julius B. Levine, and by her parents, Lewis L. and Celia G. Levine.

The funeral for Ida-Joyce Levine was held at the Jewish Funeral Home, at 471 Deering Ave., Portland, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Burial followed at Mt. Sinai Cemetery, Portland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ida-Joyce’s memory to Beth Israel Congregation, P.O. Box 1882, Waterville, ME 04901.

ANNETTE M. UEBELHACK

OAKLAND – Annette Marie Uebelhack, 66, of Oakland, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024, at home. She was born in Waterville on August 7, 1957, to Ernest and Violet Pelotte and has lived in Oakland her whole life.

Annette was known by different names such as Ma, Mimi, and Mrs. Maples, which she got from the local restaurant she loved. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting, but most of all, enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all the friends that came with them. She absolutely loved to crochet for the community; whether it be mittens or blankets, she always wanted to help whenever she could. She was so generous and caring that she would give whatever she had, whether it be coffee or a home cooked meal to anyone she met. She really knew how to make everyone feel welcome and loved.

Annette is predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Violet Pelotte, brothers Alan Pelotte and Robert Pelotte, son Benjamin Uebelhack, grandson Connor Trask, and great granddaughter Leah Wentworth.

She is survived by her husband Russell Uebelhack; sons John Hippler Jr. and wife Cami, of Oakland, Alan Hippler, and wife Melanie, of Augusta, and Neil Uebelhack, of Waterville; daughter, Samantha Allen and husband Jeffery, of Sidney; grandchildren, Rajel Hippler, Michael Hippler, Kaia Trask, Caden Trask, Steven Anthony, Taylor Hippler, Dylan Hippler, and Emily Hippler; two great-grandchildren, Reigan and Caysen Wentworth; her brother and sister; nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring.

For more information, please reach out to her family members.

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

ROLAND J. GAGNON

WHITEFIELD – Roland J. Gagnon, 88, died Thursday, February 22, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a brief illness. He was born in Augusta on January 24, 1936, a son of the late Eugene Gagnon, Sr. and Valeda (Caouette) Gagnon.

Mr. Gagnon attended Augusta schools and was a communicant of St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta.

He had been employed for over 30 years with the State of Maine, Department of Improvements and had previously worked for Pare and Liberty Painters.

Mr. Gagnon enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, archery, outdoor photography, winning prizes for some of his pictures.

In his late teens, he began bodybuilding to help with his asthma.

He was a former member of the Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, Capitol Sportsman’s and Archery Club and area snowmobile clubs.

Mr. Gagnon was predeceased by his brothers, Eugene Jr., Ronald and Roger.

He is survived by his wife, Theresa A. (Thibodeau) Gagnon, of Whitefield; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. Burial will be held in the spring.

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

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

OTHERS DEPARTED

IRA SYLVESTER

MELBOURNE, Florida – Ira Sylvester, 97, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Born in Waterville, he was the son of the late Elwood and Eva (Hamlin) Sylvester.

Ira was raised on a small farm in East Winslow, attending local schools and working different jobs, including working in the woods and picking up milk at local dairy farms.

In 1955 Ira began a distinguished military and civil service career that sent him and his family around the globe. After retiring in 1991 he and his wife Isobel moved to Florida where he enjoyed life to the fullest.

He was predeceased by his brothers Fred, Merlon and Ralph Sylvester, and sisters Irene Blomiley and Jessie Brooks.

Ira is suvived by his wife of 65 years Isobel (Murdoch) Sylvester; his son Bruce Sylvester and partner Kim, of Oakland, his daughter Shona Cox, of Melbourne, Florida; and three granddaughters Samantha, Melissa and Adhley Sylvester, all of Oakland; and many nephew and nieces.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday March 3, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 22, 2024

SHEILA M. BONENFANT

WINSLOW – Sheila Marie (Joseph) (Rancourt) Bonenfant, 84, of Winslow, passed away at her home, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, while recuperating from a devastating fall that broke her hip and elbow, and courageously battled cancer for 15 months. Sheila was born in Waterville, August 22, 1939, to Frank and Lucille (Poirior) Joseph.

She graduated from Waterville High School’s Class of 1957 and attended Thayer Hospital School of Medical Technology, in Waterville. She married her high school sweetheart, Alton Rancourt, in May 1959 and together they raised seven children.

Sheila worked as a histology technician at Thayer Hospital until the birth of her first child, when she left her job to raise her first five children. She re-entered the workforce part-time in 1968, at the old Waterville Osteopathic Hospital where she stayed for 16 years.

Between December 1975 and January 1980, Sheila lost both of her parents and her husband, leaving her to raise the six youngest of her seven children. Despite this unimaginable hardship, she persevered with what she referred to as “The Three Fs” – Faith, Family, and Friends.

Happier times visited her again when Sheila met Don Bonenfant (1931-2006) in 1983. They were married in 1985 whereupon they decided to relocate to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they spent the next ten years. While there, Sheila entered a second career as a realtor and, upon moving back to Maine in 1995, she became an associate broker with Plourde Real Estate, in Waterville, where she spent the last 22 years of her career before retiring at the age of 76.

After retirement, Sheila worked part-time at Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville as a childcare assistant, enjoying the children as much as they enjoyed her. She also volunteered at the Soup Kitchen, with American Veterans and at the Muskie Center, in Waterville, helping with the Meals on Wheels program.

Besides a big family, Sheila was blessed with many close friends who enriched her life, helped her through tough times, and spent many joyous moments with her.

She was predeceased by her parents; her first and second husbands; her older brother, Jerry Joseph, and most recently, her cousin, Laya Joseph, sister-in-law Diane Cates; and her beloved granddaughter Alexa Re Rancourt.

Sheila is survived by her seven children, Michael Rancourt, of Biddeford, Kathi Rancourt, of Holiday, Florida, Marc Rancourt, of Bangor, Celeste ( and Don) Clough, of Henderson, Nevada, Lisa (and Jerry) Dittrich, of Westbrook, Matthew Rancourt, of China, and John Rancourt, of Portland; eight grandchildren, Darryl “DJ” Vintinner, Jr. (and Amy Morrissette), of Oakland, Katie (Vintinner) Hewett, of Skowhegan, Courtney Rancourt, of Albion, Miranda Rancourt, of Bangor, Indigo (and Faith) Soncourt ,of New York City, New York, Max Sanborn, of China, and Mikayla Garcia, of Augusta; and eight great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Oliver, Cadence, Teagan, Molly, Quinn, Sparrow and JoJo; her younger brother, Richard (and Laurie) Joseph, of Holiday, Florida; her step-children and step-grandchildren through Don Bonenfant; as well as her in-laws; nieces, nephews; cousins.

There will be a Catholic Mass held at Notre Dame, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, on Saturday, May 18, at 11 a.m., immediately followed by a Celebration of Life in their event room.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sheila’s name to one of her favorite local charities, the Muskie Center Meals on Wheels program, and the soup kitchen.

CHARLES P. GAGNON

WATERVILLE – Charles “Charlie” P. Gagnon, 74, of Waterville, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. He was born on July 22, 1949, in Waterville, to Alexander and Gertrude Gagnon.

He graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1967 and went on to continue his studies at the University of Maine in Orono. After graduating from college, he began his 34-year career as a Licensed Social Worker with the State of Maine, Department of Health and Human Services. Throughout his 34-years with DHHS he held many positions including child protective work, daycare licensing, and interstate adoptions before retiring in 2008.

Charlie met the love of his life, Linda, in May 1977. Excited to start their life together, Charlie and Linda married on October 1, 1977. Together they built a family and life with their three children, Darrell, Michelle, Alex, and grandsons.

Charlie had a great passion for fishing and playing cards, especially bridge. In his retirement, he attended many bridge games and tournaments with his best friend, David Bourque. He also spent countless hours on his wood lot in Belgrade, cutting and hand-splitting firewood. He especially enjoyed many trips to his family-built camp, on Moosehead Lake, in Northeast Carry, either fishing or bird hunting with friends and family.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents, grandparents, several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda; and their children, Darrell Gagnon, of Vassalboro, daughter Michelle Fitts and her husband Scott, of China, and son Alex Gagnon and his wife Michelle, of Saco; five grandsons, Trent, Colby, Owen, Tucker, and Scottie; his sister, Rachel Ferguson and her husband David; brother Francis Gagnon and his wife Carol, and sister Elaine Veilleux and her husband James; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Mass and burial will be held in the spring.

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

DOROTHY A. FISHER

WATERVILLE – Dorothy A. Fisher, 63, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

Dori loved her dogs and working for the Humane Society Waterville Area. She also enjoyed driving the big 18-wheelers traveling all over the country taking her special four-legged fur baby Gert with her. Dori will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her and loved her.

She was predeceased by her father Douglas E. Fisher Sr.; brother Douglas E. Fisher II; grandmother Doris Morang; along with several other uncles.

She is survived by her son Kevin Emerson II and wife Heidi; granddaughter Ceira Emerson Moody; mother Shirley Morang Fisher; sister Debra Fisher; brothers Mark and Michael; nephews Josh and Justin Dunn, and Clay Michael Thibodeau; cousins Margo Morang-Kool, Craig Hall; lots of other nephews, nieces, and many friends.

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

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

PHYLLIS J. CHUBBUCK

WATERVILLE – Phyllis Joan Chubbuck, 62, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Phyllis was born on July 12, 1961, daughter to Edward and Helen Chubbuck.

Phyllis worked as a CNA and enjoyed taking care of those in nursing homes and those with special needs. She loved Walking Dead, playing cards, Bingo, joking with others, and Snapchats with niece Inez.

She was predeceased by both her parents; grandparents Robert and Phyllis Lund; and sister Brenda Sterling.

Phyllis is survived by sisters Inez Dyer with husband John, Belinda Austin with husband Dana, and Laura Dill; brother Robert Chubbuck; longtime partner Darlene Robbins; five nephews and three nieces, one of which took exceptional care of her right till her last moments, Inez Gregor.

Please visit Phyllis’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/phyllis-chubbuck.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the family to help with funeral expenses through Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

ROLAND RANCOURT

SHAWMUT – Roland Rancourt, 84, of Shawmut, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024. He was born on Feb­ruary 6, 1940, in Waterville, having recently celebrated his 84th birthday.

Roland was a loving husband, father and grandfather to his family. As a devout man, he was a communicant of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, and after its closing became a member of Corpus Christi Parish – Waterville/Winslow, and was involved in the church folk group for over 40 years playing guitar. Roland led a life dedicated to service, from his earlier years in the U.S. Air Force, to his volunteer work with the Elks, Knights of Columbus and within the community. As a skilled tinsmith, and handy-man, Roland used his skills working and volunteering to enrich the lives and homes of those around him. Roland worked at various roofing companies after his Air Force service as a tinsmith. He retired from Huhtamaki, in Waterville, then took a part time job as a handyman at the Chore Store.

In his travels to Myrtle Beach during the winters, both Roland and Kay became involved with the Habitat for Humanity Organization utilizing his exceptional skills as a tradesman to give back to the community. In his free time Roland enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Natanis Golf League, in Vassalboro. His passion for golf led him and Kay to meet some fellow ‘snowbirds’ in Myrtle Beach who have become a second family to them both. When not golfing, you could find him tending to his bird feeders, and swinging on his chair in the front yard, admiring the neighborhood pets, always ready with a treat in hand. His easy-going manner and jokester personality made him a friend to everyone he met.

Roland is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kathleen (Frappier) Rancourt; and their four children, Terri Collier and husband Nathan Collier, Gregory Rancourt and wife Judy Rancourt, Amy St. Pierre and husband Matt St. Pierre, and Jodi Goodie and husband Matt Goodie; his grandchildren, Matthew, Christopher, Carson, Patricia and husband Cory, Noah, Carly, and Drake; and his sister Carol Huard and husband Robert Huard, of Winslow.

He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Martha Rancourt; sister Patricia LaMontagne, and brothers Donald, Carl, & Richard Rancourt.

A Catholic service will be held at the Corpus Christi Parish on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 10 a.m. After the service, a reception will be held at St. John the Baptist Hall, in Winslow. A family burial service will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main Street, Fairfield. Memories of Roland can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, Roland requests donations in support of the Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity, ATTN: Treasurer, P.O. Box 1972, Waterville ME 04903-1972.

SUSAN E. ROWE

VASSALBORO – Susan Evelyn Rowe, 65, passed away Friday,February 9, 2024, from complications from pancreatic cancer.

A Celebration of Life will be held on the first weekend in April. Family will update when plans are finalized.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville. A full obituary can be found at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.

RITA M. HEBERT

WINSLOW – Rita M. Hebert passed away on February 10, 2024. Rita was born in Benton to John and Odilia (Pouliot) Hebert.

She graduated from Law­rence High School, in Fair­field, in 1949, and went on to Thomas College, in Waterville, where she learned the skills that would make her the backbone of the customer service office at Central Maine Power for over 36 years.

She was a dedicated member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, where she was a lector, Eucharist minister, and acolyte.

Family was everything to Rita. She was always there when anyone needed her. She often remembered the fun she had at the dances with family and friends.

She was predeceased by parents’ John and Odilia Hebert; two brothers, Renee Hebert and Donald Hebert, three sisters, Sylvia Labbe, Antonette Rice and Yvette Hebert.

She is survived by her sister, Frances Plante, of Winslow; sister- in-law Rita (Price) Hebert, of Madison; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, on Silver Street, in Waterville. A private burial took place at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, Maine.

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

MARGARET P. DENIS

WATERVILLE – Margaret “Peggy” Pauline Denis, 70, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024. She was born in Water­ville on July 5, 1953, the daughter of Dominique and Jeannette (Laflamme) Boulette.

She grew up in the north end of Waterville and graduated from Waterville Senior High School.

Margaret worked for First National/ Shop ‘n’ Save and Colby College, in Waterville, for the dining services. She truly loved her Colby students.

Margaret adored spending time with her family and friends enjoying the many gatherings, watching TV, dancing, singing playing cribbage and camping at Birches Lakeside Campground. She loved the beautiful sunshine on her face any chance she could get.

She adored supporting her children and grandchildren at their sporting and dance events. She was their #1 fan. No matter the pain and suffering she endured she had a bright smile on her face through it all.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents Dominique and Jeannette Boulette; the love of her life Michael Denis; and best friend Jeanie Scripture.

Margaret will be remembered by her daughter Melissa Denis; son Michael Denis Jr.; grandchildren Cameron and Alice Denis; brother Paul Boulette and companion Elaine; sisters Melina Boulette, Lisa Ibbitson and husband Paul; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral was held on Wednesday, February 21, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville. A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, March 16, at 1 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW, in Winslow.

Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main Street, Fairfield. Memories of Margaret can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

JOSEPH J. SUGA JR.

VASSALBORO – Joseph John Suga Jr., 84, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was born in 1939, a son of Joseph J. Suga Sr. and Mary Ann (DiOrio) Suga.

Growing up on a farm, Joe learned at an early age the value of working hard. He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, and went on to earn an associate degree from the University of Maine at Orono. Following school, he worked for a number of years at Sears-Roebuck as a customer relations manager. He then proudly served his country during the Vietnam era as a member of the U.S. Army. He reached a level of E7 before going to OCS (Officer Candidate School) and being commissioned as a second lieutenant.

Throughout his life, Joe has been employed by the state of Maine in multiple departments as a personnel manager. In addition, he was a master electrician, working for himself for many years. A hard worker, Joe was a productive man and could work circles around younger generations. For 29 years, Joe also owned and operated Suga Country Products alongside his wife Adele, in Vassalboro.

A true Mainer, Joe loved the outdoors; whether he was hunting, fishing, raising hay or cutting firewood, he was a true steward of the land. Some of his favorite memories include spending time at camp up north with friends and family.

Joe was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Richard Suga.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 39 years, Adele (Hodgkins) Suga, of Vassalboro; his son, Ryan Suga (Nicole Durkee), of Sebago; his nephews, Dana Suga (Patty) and Richard Suga Jr., both of Vassalboro; his niece, Nancy Sanborn, of Pownal; and his stepchildren, MaryKate Friend (Will), of Winslow, and Jennifer Proffitt (Jay), of Austin, Texas.

A funeral was held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363 .

Interment will take place in the spring at Cross Hill Cemetery, in Vassalboro. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joe’s name may be made to Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance, 907 Ossipee Trail West, Steep Falls, ME 04085.

CAROLE SANDERS

WINSLOW – Carole (Cox) Sanders, 73, passed away peacefully onWednesday, February 14, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a short but hard-fought battle with respiratory illness. She was a resident at Summer Court, in Winslow.

Carole was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend to many. She was a dedicated public servant, advocate for public education, and an avid and skilled golfer, which became her true passion in her retirement.

She grew up in North Monmouth and raised her family in Pittston, where she was first an active member of the PTA and then elected as a member of the MSAD #11 school board, on which she served for a decade, including being elected by her peers to serve as chairman for several years.

She enjoyed time with friends in the Pittston Library Association. She worked for the state of Maine Bureau of Banking for over 20 years, retiring in 2004 and relocating to Brickett Point, on East Pond, in Oakland, where she enjoyed relaxing by the water and kayaking.

Carole was a dedicated and supportive friend and neighbor, who was always available to help anyone in need in whatever way she could. She did not hesitate to become a caretaker for her mother, Lucille, and mother-in-law Barbara when they needed full-time support at the end of their lives.

For over 30 years, Carole brought together her siblings and their many children for the Cox family Thanksgiving, hosting 25-plus guests annually. She was an active member of Waterville Country Club, formerly serving as president and currently as treasurer of the Women’s Golf Association. For the last several years, Carole and Mike enjoyed spending part of their winters on Hilton Head Island, in South Carolina, where she could spend even more time enjoying golf.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Michael Sanders; her son, Eric Sanders; and daughter, Lynn Sanders and her husband Jim Morey; her sister, Shirley Cox Foster; and brother, Linwood Cox; brothers-in-law Myron Jacobsen, Mark and Jeffery Sanders, significant other Wanda Ingham; and many nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

She was predeceased by her parents Walter Cox and Lucille Putnam Cox; siblings Sally Phaneuf, Norma Fides, Richard Cox, Clifford Cox, Arlene Jacobsen, Kenneth Cox; and in-laws Richard Foster and Louise MacDonald Cox.

A celebration of Carole’s life will be held this spring, with details to be determined, and shared by her family.

Cremation arrangements are by Dan and Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services. Please visit Carole’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/carole-sanders where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Carole’s memory can be made to the Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank | Hunger Relief | Maine Food Bank (gsfb.org).

THERESA V. WHITAKER

CLINTON – Theresa Vola (Proctor) Whittaker, 80, passed away at home, in Clinton, on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. She was born in Waterville on June 9, 1943, the daughter of Ray and Vella (Brown) Proctor.

She attended school in Clinton and graduated from Clinton High School on June 8, 1961.

She worked at Ski Land Woolen Mill, in Clinton,, and then Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, retiring after 36 years of dedicated service.

Theresa could always be seen outside maintaining her beautifully decorated yard in summer or shoveling snow in winter. Any friends or family going to the post office could be assured of Theresa hollering hello from across the street. She could be zany, wild, and unpredictable, but she also loved deeply and cared passionately for all those in her orbit. She was fiercely devoted to her family, friends, and her fur grandbabies.

Theresa loved a “quarter dollar deal” and never missed a good yard sale, dragging husband Butch around at all hours of the night, taking friends and family along for the ride, or bringing them back treasures from her own yard sale adventures.

She was predeceased by one son, Allen Rex Whittaker; her parents Ray and Vela (Brown) Proctor; two brothers, Perry and Ray Jr.; and nieces Debbie Gerow and Vanessa Wishart.

Theresa is survived by her husband of 62 years, Myron Butch Whittaker; son, Kevine and wife Kelly, of Clinton; daughter, Kim Holt, of Clinton; her grandson, John T. Holt, Jr. and companion Sam Vanhout, of Fairfield; and too many family members to list – you know who you are.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., upstairs at the Elks Lodge, Industrial Street, in Waterville.

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

OTHERS DEPARTED

EARLE “PETE” COOPER

FAIRFIELD – Earle “Pete” Cooper, 83, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, in Fairfield.

Full obituary and an online guest book is available by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield

PATRICIA A. PAGE

CLINTON – Patricia A. Page, 74, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, following a long illness. Pat was born on October 21, 1949, in Akron, Ohio.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1968. She was employed for many years as a kitchen designer at Fairfield Lumber Company.

Pat is survived by her husband Keith Page; her mom Sherlie Thayer; sons Ken (Angel) Richards and Justin (Crystal) Richards; her brother Terry (Kim) Thayer; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her brother Buddy Thayer and her dad Ira Thayer Jr.

A graveside service will be held in the spring.

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 15, 2024

BEVERLY A. CARON

WATERVILLE – Beverly A. Caron, 86, died peacefully on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a short illness. Beverly was born in Portland on February 13, 1937, the daughter of Melvin and Margaret (Estes) Roma.

She was educated in Westbrook schools and graduated from Westbrook High School class of 1956.

Beverly was a stay-at-home mom until her youngest son was in school, then she began a part time job as a pharmacy technician at Laverdiere’s Drug Store, on Main Street, in Waterville. She loved the interaction with her fellow employees and customers. She stayed until Laverdiere’s closed the store. Beverly then retired to take time to travel with her husband.

Beverly was a marvelous cook and baker and loved hosting holiday and family events in her home. No one ever left hungry.

Beverly was predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Armand; her daughter, Lynn; brother, Ernie Roma; brother-in-law, Conrad Caron; sister-in-law, MaryAnn Caron; and nephew, Mark Caron.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Bartell and husband Thomas, of Windham; sons, Craig Caron and wife Cheryl, of Bristol, Wisconsin, and Eric Caron and wife Jean, of Waterville; two grandsons, Chad and Riley Caron; four granddaughters, Ashley, Megan, Rachel and Katey Caron; two great-grandsons, Xander and Wyatt; and several nieces and nephews.

Per Beverly’s wishes, there will be no visitation or service. A private burial will be held at a later date.

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

LINDA L. LaROCHELLE

WHITEFIELD – Linda L. LaRochelle, 74, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. She was born in Augusta on February 10, 1949, a daughter of the late Ernest F. and Josephene Brown.

Linda lived in the area all of her life.

Her courage, good spirits, and positive attitude sustained her through serious illnesses from a young age. When she was able, she enjoyed trips to the White Mountains, state parks and family gatherings when everyone was together. She and her life companion, Bud Bailey, shared 46 years together.

She is survived by Lyndal “Bud” Bailey; sons Jeff Bailey and Adem Golden; daughters Joan Lavoie and Linda Bailey; granddaughters Morgaine Bailey, Amber Mcdonaldson and Sierra Bailey; grandson, Brad Bailey; and several great-grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor, Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Route 32, Windsor. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

ELIZABETH R. COLE

BELGRADE – Elizabeth “Betty” R. Cole, 72, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, February 3, 2024. She was born in Gardiner on July 26, 1951, to the late Wilfred Labbe and Verna (Rich) Jenney.

Betty was married to Edward F. Cole, of Belgrade, for 36 years until his passing in 2009. Together they enjoyed traveling, fishing, gardening, and their four grandchildren.

Betty attended Hall-Dale, Belgrade Central, and Williams High schools. Following high school, she worked at Statler Tissue, in Augusta, was a bank teller and then eventually worked as a clerk in the Belgrade and Waterville post offices. In 1988 she became the postmaster of the Belgrade Post Office where she happily retired in 2009 after serving 21 years. During her time as postmaster, Betty received several service awards and was very active in the National League of Postmasters, holding several executive positions and attending many conferences both at the state and national levels.

Betty was a long-time resident of Belgrade. In her earlier years, she volunteered her time as a cub scout den mother and as the treasurer for the Belgrade Recreation Association. She also kept the scorebook for her son’s baseball teams and coached her daughter’s softball teams.

In later years, she deeply enjoyed time spent with her grandchildren, including attending their sporting events, even those softball games on cold spring days! Betty loved to travel and visited many places throughout the U.S. and Canada, as well as a recent trip to the Dominican Republic to celebrate her son’s 13th wedding anniversary.

She was also very crafty and often sewed clothing for her children when they were growing up and Halloween costumes for her grandchildren.

She enjoyed reading, gardening, scrapbooking, quilting, doing puzzles, and diamond dotz kits. Betty also loved lobster and her annual birthday trips to Young’s Lobster Pound and the Boothbay Lobster Wharf. She was steeped in family traditions and every Thanksgiving weekend could be seen Christmas shopping with her family. She was an avid fan of Conway Twitty, Gone with the Wind, Gettysburg, and the Outlander book and television series.

In addition to her husband, Betty was predeceased by her parents Wilfred Labbe and Verna (Rich) Jenney, her stepfather, Douglas Jenney; and her brother, Wilfred Labbe, Jr.

Betty is survived by her children, Jason Labbe and his wife, Hazel, of Belgrade, and Jennifer (Cole) Fortin and her husband, Greg, of Vassalboro; four grandchildren, Savannah (Labbe) Clark, and her husband Thaddeus, of Vassalboro, Sarah Labbe, of Belgrade, Emma Fortin, of Vassalboro, and Cole Fortin, also from Vassalboro; her daughter, Ann Truman, of Gardiner; and grandchildren Geoffrey King, of Gardiner, Sarah Truman, of Corrina, Katie Truman, of Gardiner, and Andrew Truman, of Augusta.

A celebration of Betty’s life will take place on Saturday, February 24, at 11 a.m., at the Center for All Seasons, 1 Center Dr., Belgrade, ME 04917, where memories and stories will be shared. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. A reception will follow.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Belgrade-Rome Special Needs Food Pantry, P.O. Box 236, Belgrade, ME 04917.

JERRY R. RIDEOUT JR.

WINDSOR – Jerry T. Rideout, Jr., 53, of Windsor, passed away suddenly Sunday, February 4, 2024, in Massachusetts. He was born in Augusta on August 19, 1970, the son of Jerry Totman Rideout, Sr. and Bonita (Glidden) Rideout.

He grew up in Gardiner, and resided in Windsor with his wife, and two dogs, Zoey and Max.

Jerry had a huge presence in Windsor owning Rideout’s Market and Grille for so many years. It was truly his dream come true. After selling Rideout’s, then his presence showered Facebook selling online. Just us 2 Boutique and Style by Georgene is where he made friends all over the United States. His personality was infectious.

Jerry had a great love for dogs, especially his own. Most of all he loved his wife, children, and grandchildren. His hobbies included cruising, vacations, poolside, sunshine, gambling, tanning and, of course, Dunkin’ Donuts. He always had a coffee in hand and had a love for talking; his phone was never far.

He was predeceased by his father, Jerry T. Rideout, Sr., of Jefferson, and in-laws Eugene and Carol Broughton, of Whitefield; two grandsons, Luke and Matthew Winslow, of Windsor.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Georgene Rideout, of Windsor; mother, Bonita E. Rideout, of Newburg; daughter, Heidi Winslow and husband Shawn, of Windsor; son Steve Wight and wife Laura, of Whitefield; brother, James T. Rideout, of Newburg; sister, Lori A. Hesseltine, of Newburg; three grandchildren, Lexi, Madison, and Griffin; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jerry’s visiting hours were held on Saturday, February 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a brief funeral service following, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

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

VERNALD G. FINEMORE

OAKLAND – Vernal Grant Finemore, 91, of Oakland, passed away peacefully Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Woodlawn Rehabilitation, in Skowhegan. He was born January 29, 1933, in Houlton, the son of Louis Frederick and Mertelle (Grant) Finemore.

He grew up in Bridgewater, and graduated from Bridgewater Classical Academy in 1950, and Ricker College in 1954. He served honorably in the U.S. Army for two years.

In 1957 he started his teaching career in Milo, where, in his words, “I was lucky to find the nicest lady in the world, Joan Harris”. They were married in 1958, and had three sons, Kirk, and twins Brett and Brent.

Vernal’s career in education spanned 32 years, beginning in Bristol, where Vernal taught, coached and was principal at Bristol High School. The family then moved to Belgrade where Vernal was principal of the Belgrade schools. Lastly, the family moved to Oakland where he taught and was athletic director at Messalonskee High School.

Vernal was active in many professional organizations, and in his retirement, he enjoyed his involvement in the Maine Education Association – Retired and Kennebec Retired Educators Association. He felt fortunate to have worked with so many great people, many of whom became lasting friends throughout his career.

Vernal was a very involved member of the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church. He was extremely proud of his family and loved time spent with them, especially while hunting, fishing, and camping at Cathedral Pines in Eustis.

He was predeceased by his brothers Louis, Galen and H.M. Finemore; and his beloved son, Brett Finemore.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joan; his sons Kirk and his wife Sharon, of Oakland, and Brent and his wife Kate, of East Falmouth, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Joseph and his wife Kelly, Philip and his wife Mallory, Kirsha, Andrew, Emily, and Ashley; great-grandchildren, Quinn, Keller, Brielle, Sawyer, Aloni, Anthony, Ashton; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, March 22, 2024, at the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church. Burial in the Maine Veterans Cemetery niche wall with family only, will follow the service.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church.

HARLAND TAYLOR

OAKLAND – Harland “Hardy” Taylor, 86, passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, at home. Hardy was born and lived in Oakland his entire life. He was born to Albion and Marie (Littlefield) Taylor with no siblings.

His first wife was Carol Furbish and they had four children. They are Susan (Michael) Eller, Michael (Linda) Taylor, Jeffrey (Linda) Taylor and Daniel (Cathy) Taylor. Children, Susan and Michael are predeceased; as well as his parents. Hardy later married Gloria Olafson, of Farmington. Gloria’s two sons, Ted (Marlene) Bradley and Tony (Trish) Bradley were a part of Hardy’s life. Hardy enjoyed many grandchildren, including great- and great-great-grandchildren.

Hardy’s passions included motorcycles, four wheeling, trips to Laconia, New Hampshire, the camp in Avon and his backyard ducks and turtles.

Hardy is most noted as the second owner of A. L. Taylor and Son after his father. This was a very popular small engine sales and repair shop on Heath St., in Oakland. Hardy also had much fun working at Port City Auto Auction, in Richmond.

The absolute number one thing Hardy did, from his heart, was to serve his community and those around Oakland, for most of his life. Hardy started helping the fire department at 14, then officially spent 60 years with the department. He started as a helper and ended as deputy chief for years. He was also in rescue service for many years. Hardy will be dearly missed by his family and the Town of Oakland.

A Celebration of Life will be published at a future date.

The family welcomes donations to the Oakland Fire Fighters Association, P.O. Box 187, Oakland, ME 04963.

VINCENT P. DOSTIE

WATERVILLE – Vincent “Vinny” P. Dostie, 83, of Waterville, passed Tuesday, February 6, 2024. Vincent was born in Waterville, August 29, 1940, to Harvey and Violet (Rancourt) Dostie.

Vincent was predeceased by his parents Harvey and Violet Dostie of Waterville; brothers David Dostie, of Waterville, and Ricky Dostie, of Sidney, and sisters Collinette “Connie” Jordan, of Skowhegan, Pauline Bartlett, of Fairfield, Maurine Champagne, of Fairfield, Zilda Champagne, of Waterville; and wives Rebecca E. Dostie and Olive Dostie.

Vincent is survived by his brother, William “Billy” Dostie and wife Sandra, of Sidney; five sons and their families, Larry and wife Kimberly Dostie, of Seabrook, New Hampshire, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; Vincent Jr. and wife Anna Dostie, of Rome, Georgia, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild; Harvey and wife Tracey Dostie, of Standish, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; James and wife Maureen Dostie, of Durham, two grandchildren; David and wife Leah Dostie of Oakland, two grandchildren.

He worked in various mechanical trades throughout his life: HVAC/Sheetmetal, plumbing and pipe fitting before finishing his career as a boiler maker for Maine Central Railroad. He was a member of the Waterville Elks Lodge and Waterville Masonic Lodge. Later in years, he developed a love for his pets, none would go without a treat every time he petted them.

The family will hold a private memorial service.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, http://www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may donate in Vince’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901, or Hospice of Southern Maine, 390 U.S. Route One, Scarborough, ME 04074.

STEVEN E. MONROE

CHELSEA – Steven Eric Monroe, 60, of Chelsea, died Thursday, February 8, 2024, at his home, following a brief illness. He was born, in Augusta, on March 7, 1963, the son of Francis and Dixie (Parlin) Monroe.

Steve graduated from Gardiner High School in 1981 and has worked for Interstate Fire Protection for about 39 years.

He loved to go camping and four wheeling with his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports, and his daughter, Nasya, coach. Steve loved spending time with his friends and family.

He was predeceased by his wife, Tina Monroe; father, Francis Monroe and mother, Dixie Landry.

Steven is survived by two daughters Felicia Ward and fiancé Nate Johnston, Nasya Monroe; four grandchildren Aidan and Dominic Ward, Riley and Jocelyn Johnston; brothers Eugene Monroe and fiancée Mae Mayo and Timothy Monroe and wife Martha; and sister Laurie Monroe; sister-in-law Debby Campbeltown and husband Billy; many nieces and nephews.

Steven’s memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, from noon – 2 p.m., with a service to follow. A family spring burial will be held at a later date.

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

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

OTHERS DEPARTED

JOSHUA D. ELLIOTT

MEXICO – Joshua Dean Elliott, 42, died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, following a short illness. Joshua was born in Waterville on August 19, 1981, to Cheryl (Willette) and Christopher Elliott.

Joshua attended Benton and Fairfield schools. He loved working on trucks, snowmobiling, playing pool and fishing. As a young child he loved being with his grandparents riding the lawnmower or tractor and going to Moosehead with them.

Joshua had his demons he fought, unfortunately in the last battle, the demons won.

Joshua is survived by his mother, Cheryl; his sons AJ, Jedidia, Jace and Jozef; his sister, Kayla and her family Chris, Madelyn and Maxtyn; grandparents Ernest and Carline Willette and Lynda Dunaway; uncles Timothy (Paul) and Earl; his girlfriend, Stephanie Hildings; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was predeceased by his father, Christopher; uncles William and Allen; grandparents Chester Batchelder and Melvin and Shirline Dostie.

Friends and family are invited to share memories with the family at http://www.meaderandson.com.

A graveside service will be held later in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Meader and Son Funeral Home, 3 Franklin St., Rumford.

CONOR B. HUGHES

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota – Conor Barbezat Hughes, 34, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 2, 2024, at his home in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Conor was born April 19, 1989, to James W. Hughes and Debra A. Barbezat, in Northhampton, Massachusetts.

He attended school in Waterville. Conor was an avid musician, learning violin in school, and African drumming from a master African drummer. He then continued to teach himself to play drums, guitar and mandolin. While attending Waterville High School he was a two-time member of the state champion Waterville Science Olympiad team and loved playing drums with his rock band.

Conor was very active in the Alfond Youth and Community Center, in Waterville, where he earned his black belt in Hen Sen Ryu Karate with Club Naha. He earned his B.A. in economics with honors at The University of Chicago and was on the verge of receiving his Ph.D in economics from The University of Minnesota.

Conor is survived by his mother Debra Barbezat, of Falmouth Foreside; father and stepmother James and Rhonda Hughes, of Fredericksburg, Texas; stepsister, Ashley Smith and her husband Jimmy Ngo, of Firestone, Colorado; stepbrother, Clayton Smith and his wife Rebecca Smith, of Fredericksburg, Texas; uncle, John Hughes and family, of Golden Valley, Minnesota; uncle, John Barbezat and family, of Yonkers, New York;

Conor was preceded in death by his grandparents Maurice and Anna Barbezat, of Yonkers, New York, grandparents John and Betty Hughes, of Ormond Beach, Florida.

Conor was buried beside his grandparents February 8, 2024, in private services at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, in Yonkers, New York.

Memorials may be made to the Alfond Youth and Community Center, 126 North St., Waterville, ME 04901.

CHARLES L. SWEET III

WATERVILLE – Charles Leroy Sweet III, 73, passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, at his sister’s home in Gorham.

The full obituary and online condolence messages are available at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, http://www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice.

ROSAMOND BOUCHARD

SEBAS­TOPOL, California – Rosamond Bouchard, 90, passed away in Sebastopol, California, on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. She was born Rosa­mond Eva Keef, on November 12, 1933, in Albion, to William Earl and Dora Christina (Baker) Keef.

She was predeceased by her granddaughter, Maia Rose Bouchard; her siblings Frank Keef, Ferne Boivin, and Carolyn Southard; and her long-time companion, Richard Nelson.

She is survived by her children Richard (Cynthia Cyr) Bouchard, Michael (Colette Letourneau) Bouchard, Linda Bouchard, and Terry (Preston) Dalglish; her grandchildren, Cerise Bouchard (Craig Caudill) and Mireille Bouchard (Thomas Sartin), Paul (Ashley), Michael, and Hanna Bouchard, and Olivia Poulin; her great-grandchildren, Garrett and Remy Caudill, Liam and Ella Sartin, Ayden Stockstill, and Evan, Ella, Carson, and Cooper Bouchard.

She graduated from Besse (Albion) High School, in Albion, in 1951 where she was an honor roll student and active in sports (basketball and softball), drama, and various clubs. She raised her children in Waterville and worked for many years at W. T. Grant and at Diocesan Human Relations Services.

After her children had grown, she moved to California and lived and worked in the San Francisco Bay Area for 40 years. After retiring, she stayed active volunteering for several charitable agencies, including Guide Dogs for the Blind, Marin Center, and Hospice By the Bay Thrift Store.

She was a member of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 8, 2024

ALICE M. HOPKINS

VASSALBORO – Alice Marion Hopkins, 89, of Vassalboro, passed away in her sleep, on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Woodlands, of Hallowell.

A retired school teacher, Alice spent most of her adult life in Connecticut teaching at Woodstock Elementary school, in Woodstock, Connecticut. It was with great pride she shared her passion for learning in the language arts with countless students during her 30-year career.

Alice will be most remembered for her love of her gardens, nature and her talented hand work, especially with rug hooking as well as spending many hours watching nature and all its beauty.

Alice was predeceased by her greatest love Sheldon Arthur Hopkins, formerly from Coopers Mills, with whom she was married for 57 years.

Alice is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Stephen Farrington, of Maine, and Lou-Ann and David Martinez, of Florida; her grandson Nathaniel Farrington, of New Hampshire; “sister”-cousins Holly Clary and Norma Dinwiddie, both of Maine; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the following, Vassalboro Historical Society, Vassalboro Food Bank, Waterville SPCA, Alzheimer’s organization.

A private family gathering will be held during the summer.

ROBERT S. SINCLAIR

JEFFERSON – Robert Samuel Sinclair, 78, of Jefferson, passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at home following a relatively brief illness.

Bob was born on April 30, 1945, in Alexandria, Virginia, the son of the late Rosa Deans Sinclair and Louis H. Sinclair. Bob was the second of four brothers, and dearly loved as a natural caregiver who devoted his life to his family and wide community of friends.

Bob, in his words, led a happy and fulfilling life, made more so by his supreme love for his family, co-workers, and friends. He received his B.S. in business administration from The American University, in Washington, D.C., and played football in college (first string halfback and second-string quarterback!). His love of sports, especially football and baseball, extended past his playing days to work as an umpire in a semi-pro baseball league in Virginia.

Bob celebrated his 42nd year in Maine this past summer. He retired in 2021 as a Human Services Enforcement Agent for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services where he had worked since 2005 and was known for his fair, firm and balanced approach to working with his clients. He was active in his church, St. Giles Episcopal Church, and prior to 2010, served as senior warden, chaired the building and renovation committee, and was elected head of the Vestry. Until recently, he served as the chairman of the Welfare Appeal Board for Jefferson.

A caregiver for his mother, a loyal and generous friend, a confidante and fashion guide for his sisters, charming as all Sinclair men are charming, a lover of journeying and photographing Maine with family and friends (and going to Chick-Fil-A with Tim and food sales and craft fairs with Rosa), a porcupine slayer extraordinaire: all this only begins to describe this wonderful man. His calendars and cards were eagerly awaited each year, and his puns and wit amazed all. Being in his presence meant you could be subjected to a steady, but enjoyable, diet of quips and peculiar sense of humor.

If you were fortunate enough to call Bob “friend,” you were made to feel singularly special, experience generosity on another level and benefit from an unbreakable bond of affection. He was a Godzilla, Dr. Who and original Superman fan. He loved cats (and cats and dogs loved him), trivia and antique cars and had a lifelong obsession with Jeeps. He had a quarterback’s arm, a keen and quick wit, and a unique and generous heart. He was a good man who will be sorely missed.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Louis and Stephen.

He is survived by his brother, Douglas; his sisters Rosa (and her husband Brian), and Elizabeth; numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life memorial service was held at St. Giles Episcopal Church, Route 126, Jefferson, on Saturday, February 3; a reception to celebrate his life followed. There will be a private graveside committal in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Giles Episcopal Church or to the Jefferson Food Pantry, 72 Gardiner Rd., Jefferson, ME 04348

JOSE M. RODRIGUEZ, M.D.

WATERVILLE – Jose M. Rodriguez, M.D., 99, passed away peacefully in Waterville on Thursday, January 4, 2024, in his one hundredth year. He was born on October 24, 1924, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the son of Eudoro and Isabel Rodriguez, the youngest of five brothers each of whom became a physician.

He grew up in Buenos Aires and in the family country house in Rio Cuarto, Argentina. Before attending medical school, he received the prestigious gold medal given to the highest baccalaureate in his college class. He went on to attend medical school at the University of Cordoba, in Argentina, graduating with highest distinction in 1947. Upon graduation, he was offered a fellowship in neurosurgery at Mercy Hospital, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and completed both his internship and residency in 1951. In 1953, he married the former Elizabeth Theresa Doychak.

In 1962, he and his family relocated to Maine where he had been offered a position at the Veterans Hospital, in Togus. Later, he established a neurosurgery practice in Waterville, where he performed microsurgery at the Sister’s Hospital, in Waterville. Later, after the merger of Thayer Hospital and Seton Hospital, he became the Chief of Neurosurgery at Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Waterville, where he practiced until his retirement in 1990.

In 1972, he was elected to the Faculty of the American College of Surgeons. He was a founder of the Colby College summer neurosurgery program which attracted many of the most significant neurosurgeons throughout the world for decades. He also conducted a weekly spinal clinic at Redington-Fairview Memorial Hospital, in Skowhegan. He was a member of the American Medical Association and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

While in Waterville, he was a communicant of Sacred Heart Church and Notre Dame du Perpetuel Secours, as well as a longtime supporter of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament. A lifelong golfer, he was also an enthusiastic member of the Waterville Country Club.

After his retirement, he and his wife split their time between Maine, the Bahamas and Florida, where he indulged his love for golf, swimming and dancing the tango.

He is survived by his daughter, Alicia Benson, son-in-law, Judge Andrew Benson, both of Unity; and granddaughter Eunjae Benson, of Boston, Massa­chu­setts.

He was predeceased by Elizabeth, his wife of 68 years in 2021.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated in the spring.

JANE L. MARDEN

OAKLAND – Jane L. Marden, 67, of Oakland, passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, while vacationing with her husband on a “bucket list” cruise in Antarctica. She died peacefully in her sleep, during the early hours of the morning near Astrolabe Island, Antarctica. Jane was born in Waterville on May 17, 1956, the daughter of Roger and Yvette (Bourassa) LeClair, of Winslow.

She grew up in Winslow, graduating from Winslow High School in 1974. She began college at the University of Maine at Farmington. She finished her two bachelor’s of science degrees, and her master’s degree in food science at the University of Maine at Orono. She was also a registered dietician. Jane was a self-proclaimed “foodie”, enjoying time with her friends in ‘Gourmet Lunch Group,’ and the family called her the food police.

Jane was always up for any outdoor activity. She was passionate about downhill skiing, waterskiing, hiking, and year-round activities on the lake. Jane was especially proud to have passed her outdoor enthusiasm on to her children and grandchildren. Sunday evening family dinners were always filled with laughter and too much food. She was continuously working on sewing or knitting projects for her grandchildren as well as Sew for a Cause and other charities.

Jane was predeceased by her parents and her brother Richard LeClair.

Jane is survived by her husband of 45 years, John Marden; her sister Estelle and husband John Clyde, of Smithfield; her son Jacob and wife Serica, of Vassalboro, their children Caleb and Abigail; daughter Melissa and husband Nathan Mangin, of Farmingdale, their children Owen, Parker, and Cameron; sister-in-law Claire LeClair, of Sidney; and a niece Jennifer Cyr and husband Jason and children Gavin, Allie, and Ben, also from Sidney; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind at http://www.guidingeyes.org or 800-942-0149 or to Sew for a Cause, c/o St. Bridget’s Center, 864 Main St., No. Vassalboro, ME 04989.

COREY R. BURTON

OAKLAND – Corey Robert Burton, 54, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 29, 2024, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, Waterville. Corey was born on February 5, 1969, in Waterville, the son of Jerry A. and Constance A. (Pouliotte) Burton.

He was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, class of 1987, where he met his wife of 28 years, Kathy (Johnson) Burton.

Corey worked in the powerline industry for his entire life. He worked for Security Lighting for 15 years and most recently at Central Maine Power for 22 years. He was proud of the work he did and made an impact on those with whom he worked.

Corey loved camping in the summer at China Lake and vacationing in Mexico and Florida during the winter months. He loved spending time with his family and lifelong friends. Corey was the best husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend and so much more to the people who loved him.

Corey was predeceased by his uncle, Paul Pouliotte and Mémère, Fernande Pouliotte.

Corey is survived by his wife, Kathy; son, Dylan and partner Nathalie St. Pierre, of Scarborough; mother, Constance Burton, of Augusta; father, Jerry Burton and wife Tina, of Chelsea; sister, Ashley Connor and her husband Scot,t of Windham; mother and father-in-law, Stephen and Valarie Plummer, of Hallowell; sister-in-law, Dawn Addy and her husband Brian, of Vassalboro; sister-in-law, Stephany Wiers and her husband Matt, of Lewiston; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St. Augusta. Burial will be at a later date in St. Augustine Cemetery, Townsend Rd., Augusta.

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

KEITH ELWELL

READFIELD – Keith Elwell, of Readfield, and formerly of Vassalboro, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024. He was born February 14, 1932, in Sherman Mills, to John and Pearle (Clockedile) Elwell.

Keith graduated from Sherman High School in 1949, and Aroostook State Normal School (now known as University of Maine-Presque Isle) in 1952.

He taught a year in Blaine and then served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955, in Thule, Greenland. Keith then went back to school and graduated from Bentley School of Accounting and Finance, in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1957.

Keith worked at Central Maine Power Co. for 12 years and then Cives Steel, in Augusta, for 20 years until his retirement in 1988.

Keith married Marion (Gould) Elwell on June 30, 1956, in Dixmont. Keith and Marion have three sons.

He was a member of the Riverside Congregational Church where he had served as a deacon and trustee. While living in Vassalboro he also served as a selectman, planning board member, and appeals board. Keith was also involved in the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts and served on the Advisory Council of Spectrum Generations.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Bob, and a sister, Marilyn.

Keith is survived by his wife, Marion; and sons Brian, Brent, and Kevin; a brother, Pat; and sister, Anita.

A graveside service will be held in the summer.

Arrangements are in the care of the Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com

SHARON R. LEEMAN

PALERMO—Sharon Rose Leeman, 77, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation & Long-Term Care at Glenridge. She was born June 14, 1946, a daughter of Maurice and Lizzie (Chase) Turner.

Sharon grew up in a large family in Freedom and attended local schools. She married Norman L. Leeman on July 3, 1964. The two settled in Palermo and she became a mother to her four sons: Norman Jr., Douglas, Daniel, and Joey.

She was a true Mainer who loved spending time outdoors. Some of her favorite outdoor activities were hunting, fishing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. Her happy place was up to camp near Chesuncook Lake where countless family memories were made, including she and Norman’s 40th wedding anniversary party.

Sharon also enjoyed shopping and visiting friends. She will be remembered for her delicious cooking and outgoing personality.

Sharon was predeceased by her parents; and her siblings, Regina Harriman, Maurice “Elwin” Turner, Meldon Turner, Richard “Dickie” Turner, Winfield Turner, and Raol Turner.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, Norman Leeman; her sons, Norman Leeman Jr. and his wife Robin, Douglas Leeman, Daniel Leeman, and Joey Leeman; 10 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; her sisters, Geneva Peavey, Shirley Peavey, Peggy Cowing and her husband Paul; her brothers, Lester Turner and his wife Sharon, David Turner and his wife Caroline, Willis Turner and his wife Wanda, and Edward Turner and his wife Bea; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at a date and time to be announced in the spring.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge, Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sharon’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org or dementiasociety.org. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

MARK G. DAVIS

CHINA – Mark Gladden Davis, 66, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024, in the comfort of his home. He was born May 28, 1957, a son of James and Martha (Clark) Davis.

Mark grew up in Delaware, graduating from Dover High School and earning a bachelor’s degree from Delaware State University. Mark spent his working years in a variety of capacities: as a contractor for the U.S. Postal Service, farmer, Extension agent for Delaware State University, field support for the USDA-Agricultural Research Service, and prior to retirement he worked at Johnny’s Selected Seeds, in Winslow. He loved working on projects, gardening, and visiting with friends and neighbors.

Mark was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Joyce Davis and his brother, F. Clark Davis.

He is survived by his wife, Caragh Fitzgerald; daughters, Sylvia and Claire, of China; his son, Brandon Davis, daughter-in-law Amanda, and grandchildren Parker and Addy, of Galena, Maryland; his daughter, Stacy Edwards, son-in-law Michael, and grandchildren Chandler and Evelyn, of Camden-Wyoming, Delaware; his siblings, Cheryl Smith (Dale), James Davis III (Susan) and Diane Heesh (Robert); and several nieces and nephews.

A period of visitation will be held on Friday, February 9, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Internment will take place at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, at 4603 Rocks Road, Street, Maryland, 21154, at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to MaineGeneral Hospice, P.O. Bopx 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828, or to the Holy Cross Episcopal Church, in Street, Maryland.

HARVARD E. GAY SR.

VASSALBORO – Harvard (Hardy) E. Gay Sr., 90, of Vassalboro, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024. He was born in Brooks, April 19, 1933, the son of Guy and Ellen (Maddocks) Gay.

Hardy grew up in Weeks Mills, attended China school and Erskine Academy, in South China, before being drafted into the United States Army.

Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Maine to begin a career in the automotive industry. He worked in the public sector many years before being recruited to the Bureau of Public Safety where he spent 23 years making lifelong friends and taking pride in ensuring that members of the State Police had a safe ride. He retired in June 1990.

Hardy enjoyed motorcycling, snowmobiling, camping, and going on road trips throughout the country, even making the trek to Alaska. He especially enjoyed puttering around his yard on his Kubota tractor. Hardy was a jack-of-all trades and a man of many talents, something he no doubt learned from his father. If he did not know how to do something, he pondered it and figured it out. If he didn’t have a tool he needed, he made one himself. One of his proudest accomplishments was designing and building an energy efficient earth-bermed home.

Hardy was predeceased by his parents, Guy and Ellen, sister Guylene Freeman, and brothers Gerald, Darrell, Neil and Dennis Gay, two of his children, Melody and Edward Gay, and granddaughter-in-law Anita Newell.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Christine Gay; son Harvard Jr., of Rumford; daughter Melinda Simon and her husband Peter, of West Gardiner; grandchildren Ryan and Dustin Gay, Nicole Simon and husband Patrick, Matthew Simon and wife Nicole, and Jeffrey Newell; great-grandchildren Emilyn Simon and Jacob and Sophia Gay; brother Roland and wife Hilda, of Weeks Mills; sisters-in-law Jeannette and Kay Gay; and brother-in-law Clarence Freeman, of North Monmouth; several nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service in the spring at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, where Hardy will be laid to rest alongside his daughter Melody.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mid-Maine Cremation Services, Waterville.

LOEL MAE KLINE

CAMDEN — Loel Mae Kline, 76, passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023, at her home, following a courageous battle with dementia. She was born on June 9, 1947, in Monroe, New York, the daughter of Robert Schoonover and Mae Smith Schoonover and the youngest of three siblings.

Loel’s journey through life was marked by boundless love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of children. After completing her high school education in Monroe, she earned her BA in Early Childhood Education from Wheelock College. In 1969, she married the love of her life, Dr. Edgar “Ned “Kline III, and together they embarked on a journey to Maine.

The young couple settled in China, in 1972, and in 1975, Loel founded Frog Hollow Nursery School, a nursery school that became a treasured part of the community for over 20 years. Hundreds of children and families in the region were touched by Loel’s warmth and dedication. Loel also worked with Child Development Services, providing special education services, as well as love and support, to children with special needs and their families.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Loel found joy in family life. She and Ned welcomed two children, Matthew in 1972 and Katie in 1974. The family enjoyed sailing on Penobscot Bay and skiing at Squaw Mountain and Sugarloaf. An avid skier, Loel volunteered on the ski patrol at Squaw in the 1970s.

Loel’s interests extended to literature, and she actively participated in the Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China Village, and China Elementary School. Gardening brought her immense pleasure, and she cultivated both a vibrant flower garden and a bountiful vegetable garden. She loved spending time in nature; birding, hiking, and canoeing. Loel cared deeply for animals and had many adored pets throughout her life.

In 1999, Loel and Ned moved to Camden, where their love for family and adventure continued to thrive. From 2003 to 2007, they were blessed with four grandchildren — Mattijes, Annie, Willem, and Emmett. Loel embraced her role of Nana with great enthusiasm, sharing her passions for swimming, skiing, reading, gardening, hiking, and playtime with her beloved grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Loel and Ned maintained their love for sailing on Penobscot Bay, skiing at Sugarloaf, and spending time with friends and family. Loel’s legacy lives on through the love she shared and the impact she made on the lives of those she touched.

She is survived by her husband, Ned; their two children, Matthew and his wife Marieka, Kate and her husband Tom; their four grandchildren; and her nieces, nephews, and sisters-in-law.

A memorial service is planned for summer, 2024 in Camden.

Condolences may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China Village.

MARGUERITE J. BRACKETT

WINDSOR – Marguerite Jones Brackett, 94, passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. She was born on Oct­ober 19, 1929, to Merle S. and Doris Shuman Jones, educators from the Windsor area who moved around central Maine for their work, spending every summer at the family farm in Weeks Mills.

Margie was athletic and active and played basketball at Walker High School, in Liberty. She studied at the University of Maine and graduated in 1950 with a B.A. in Music. At university, she met Allen Brackett, an engineering student who was several years older, having served in the U.S Army during World War II. They married in 1951 and were rarely apart for the next 71 years.

They moved to Kittery, where they raised two children. Margie enjoyed playing piano and often volunteered at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church where they were steadfast members for nearly 60 years.

Margie always loved sports and followed all the New England teams, especially the Red Sox and the Celtics. She loved to swim and water ski and the family spent many happy hours at their camping spots on George’s Lake, in Liberty, and on Square Pond, in Acton. She and Allen square danced for many years together. Margie became the Kool Aid mom to a street full of kids who played hard in the yard beside the house. She also loved to read and shared that with the kids, even when camping she would read entire books out loud by the campfire.

After Allen retired, they traveled and spent nearly every winter in Zephyrhills, Florida.

Margie was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Allen R. Brackett; daughter Allane Brackett Ball and husband Steve; son Russell V. Brackett and wife Linda; grandsons Benjamin E. Ball and Jonathan A. Ball; four great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson; her sister Edna Mitchell.

A service will be held in Kittery in the spring.

OTHERS DEPARTED

RICHARD M. SUCHAR

CHINA – Richard Michael Suchar, 82, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023, in Scarborough. He was born on September 9, 1941, in New Britain, Connecticut.

He had a degree in agriculture from the University of Connecticut.

He moved to Maine with his first wife in 1967, and ran a beef cattle farm, in China, while working for Central Maine PowerCompany, as a water power stations operator, and he also built substations for CMP.

He is survived by three daughters, and was predeceased by his son John Aaron, in 1998.

ROBERT W. FOWLES

AUBURN – Robert W. Fowles, 87, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the Auburn Hospice House. He was born in Lew­iston in October 1936, a son of the late Henry H. and Velma L. (Baker) Fowles.

He grew up in Auburn, attending local area schools and graduated from Edward Little High School. After high school he went on to obtain his master’s degree in English from Rochester Institute of Technology.

Bob worked as a photographer and an editor for the Waterville Morning Sentinel for 43 years before retiring in 2004.

He enjoyed his cup of coffee and frequented Denny’s, in Auburn, on a regular basis.

He is survived by his daughter, Melinda Howe and her husband Jeffrey, of Rumford; his sister, Barbara Allen Fowles and her husband Doug, of Marcellus, New York.

Interment in Gracelawn Memorial Park, Auburn will be private. Please visit http://www.TheFortinGroupAuburn.com to sign Robert’s guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory can be made to Androscoggin Greater Humane Society, 55 Strawberry Ave., Lewiston, ME 04240.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 1, 2024

KENNETH E. SYLVESTER

WINSLOW – Kenneth (Kenny) Elwood Sylvester, 56, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Kenneth was born November 12, 1967, to Ralph and Julie Sylvester.

Kenny was a lifelong resident of the Abbott Road, in Winslow. He loved to fish, work in the woods, fly kites and always was working. He loved family gatherings.

Kenny was predeceased by both parents, a sister Maryann and his lifelong partner, Cathy Merry.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kelly Joe Sylvester, of Livermore Falls, and Sue Ann (Shaey) Sylvester, of Saco; grandson Thomas, who was born on Kenny’s birthday (November 12). Tom was a dad to Cathy’s children, Tom Merry and Alisha Merry; sisters and two brothers, Marie Osborn, of South China, Joyce (Herb) Hersey, of South China, Brenda (Skip) Cook, of Winterport, Betty (Jack) Hobbs, of Unity, and Wendy (Warren) Cooper, of Lakesville, Danny (Marily) Sylvester, of Deer Isle, and Richard (Beth) Sylvester, of Benton; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, 1 – 4 p.m., at the China Baptist Church, Causeway St., at the head of China Lake. It will be a potluck, so feel free to bring something.

For more information, contact Wendy Cooper (207) 783-2369, or Joyce Hersey (207) 445-2038.

DIANE M. GLIDDEN

SOMERVILLE – Diane M. Glidden, 70, of Somerville, died suddenly at home, on Friday, December 22, 2023, following a one-year battle with lung cancer. She was born in Augusta, on May 1, 1953, the daughter of the late Richard and Jaqueline (Roy) Bouffard.

Diane grew up in Augusta and graduated from Cony High School, while working at Edwards Mill, in Augusta, where she met her husband of 52 years in 1971. They built a home in Somerville and raised two children. Diane worked as an Ed Tech at Somerville School, then worked at Maine State Retirement System for 28 years until retiring in 2018.

Diane enjoyed road trips with her husband, a Florida trip for her daughter’s wedding, and South Carolina trips with her sister. She enjoyed shopping, reading, watching movies, and babysitting her grandson at his home on Pushaw Lake. One of her greatest blessings in life was becoming a “Mémère” to her only grandchild in 2020. Her amazing chocolate chip cookies, calm demeanor, and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by all.

Diane was predeceased by her son, Richard D. Glidden.

Diane is survived by her husband, Raymond Glidden, of Somerville, her daughter, Christie Sickles and her husband Robert, and grandson Kolton, of Old Town; her brother Paul Bouffard and his wife Linda, of Randolph; her sister Elsie Barnett and her partner Danyl Hoague, of South China; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

A graveside service will be held at Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Rd., Augusta, in May, followed by a gathering of family and friends. Details to come later.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Riposta Direct Cremation, 182 Waldo Ave, Belfast, ME.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on Diane’s behalf, to the American Lung Association.

PHYLLIS A. FERNALD

VASSALBORO – Phyllis Alberta Fernald, 92, of Vassalboro, passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2023. She was born March 2, 1931.

Phyllis work­ed at Augusta News, State Police fingerprint Dept., Central Maine Power Co., Maine Yankee power plant, and home healthcare. She enjoyed rides to the river to watch the fish jump as well as rides up to The Forks where she had many relatives. Her hobbies included competitive candle pin bowling, skiing, figure stating which she excelled at all three. She was an avid rock collector and member of Maine Gem and Mineral Society for many years, bottle collector – you could find her in any of the thousands of old cellar holes digging for bottles. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Mayflower Society, Sail and Power and Steam Museum of Rockland. Phyllis looked forward to her Christian programs Sunday mornings and stayed true to her faith until the end.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Peter S. Fernald; son Phillip Fernald, of Vassalboro; grandson Andrew Fernald and wife Victoria, of Florida; great-grandson Theo; granddaughter Brianne Fernald; and great-granddaughter Rosie, of Florida; step-son Paul Fernald Sr., of Clinton; son Paul Jr.; many step-grandchcildren; numerous cousins.

Phyllis’s ashes were laid to rest at the Maine Veterans Cemetery with no service per her last wishes.

ALICIA J. SUTTER

SOUTH CHINA—Alicia Jean Sutter, 43, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at a Boston hospital. She was born on June 13, 1980, a daughter of Donna (Hutchins) and Richard Sutter Sr.

Alicia grew up in South China, graduating from Erskine Academy in the class of 1998. A few years after high school, she became a mother to her two sons, Colby and Caleb. Alicia began working at Tobey’s Groceries, in South China, in 2005, and remained employed there until her passing.

In her spare time, Alicia enjoyed reading (especially James Patterson novels) and knitting. She had many friends and some of her favorite pastimes include karaoke, especially with some Allen’s coffee brandy in hand. She will be remembered for her easy-going personality and good sense of humor.

Alicia was predeceased by her father, Richard Sutter Sr.

She is survived by her sons, Colby Cyr and Caleb Cyr; her mother and step-father, Donna Sutter and Ron Bernard; her siblings, Richard Sutter Jr. and his wife Jenny, Robbie Sutter and his wife, Stacey, as well as step-siblings, Nissa Bernard and her partner Todd, and Kylee Cyr and her husband Nate; her aunt, Debbie Hutchins and her partner, Elaine; and uncle, Darryl Hutchins and his wife Nina; as well as nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on a date and time to be announced in the spring. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

AUDREY A. HEWETT

SIDNEY – Audrey A. Hewett, 90, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024, at her home. in Sidney. Audrey was born on March 8, 1933, to Roy and Edith (Hunnewell) Andrews at their home in Skowhegan, Maine.

Born into The Great Depression, she would tell of living without running water, having no bathtub or bathroom, no electricity, and doing her homework by kerosene lamp. For a time, her family of six lived on the top floor of a potato house which at the time she told was great because she and her family had all the free potatoes they could eat. She told of sliding in the moonlight with her friends and siblings, hanging May baskets, haying the fields with a horse named Prince and her love of a dog named Trixie. Audrey was testament to different and harder times. While living at home she attended Skowhegan Community School, Solon High School and graduated from Skowhegan Commercial School.

In 1953, she married Jerome K. Hewett. Two years later they bought a small farm in Sidney where they would raise their family and reside the rest of their days. Audrey was a stay-at-home mom when her first two children were born and during their early years. Returning to work, she became well known in the community for her 16 years of service as the secretary of the James H. Bean Elementary School. There she assumed many roles. She provided guidance to parents and children, supported teachers, and applied many band-aids and ice packs.

Audrey retired in 1985 and over time traveled the country with her husband visiting family and places of interest. They toured Niagara Falls, visited the San Diego Zoo, and took on Las Vegas to name a few. Her husband passed away in 2001 after 48 years of marriage. During latter years Audrey traveled less and devoted much of her time to her grandchildren. She attended many school events, karate classes, recitals, weddings, and graduations. She frequented Lakewood Theater with her daughter and friends and looked forward to her son and his family from out-of-state coming home to visit.

Audrey enjoyed playing cards, gardening, cooking, sewing, fishing, and loved to eat lobster. She made “the best” chocolate chip cookies and applesauce. Throughout life her biggest joy was her family; her husband, parents, children, brother and sisters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were what she loved the most. She was a hard-working woman whose hands seldom rested and was known to speak her mind. As a devoted grandmother, “Mimi” will be remembered for her love and kindness. As our mom, she will be loved and missed, forever.

She was predeceased by her husband Jerome K. Hewett; parents, Roy and Edith Andrews; brother Odber Andrews; sister Dassie (Alfred) Jackson.

Audrey is survived by her daughter Andrea “Andy” (Timothy) Ames; sons, Mark Hewett and Eric (Patricia) Hewett; sister Dawn (Gerrit) Groen; sister-in-law Mary Andrews; granddaughters, Ashley, Rachel, Sasha, Markiana; grandsons, Kyle, Izaac, Caleb; six great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be announced later in the spring. She will be laid to rest beside her husband in the Lexington Flats Cemetery.

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

FRED DUBE

OAKLAND – Fred Dube, 83, passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2024. He was born on May 13, 1940, in Grand Falls, New Bruns­wick, Canada; later becoming a United States citizen.

Fred was a very hard worker all his life.

Fred was predeceased by his first wife Carlene (Levesque)Dube; six brothers; Kenneth, Edmund, Joe, Edgar, Roger and Steven; and one sister, Anita.

He is survived by his wife Loretta Dube; three children; his daughter Linda of Terryville , Conn.; his son Michael of Bristol, Conn., and his son Gary of Madawaska, and two grandchildren, Stephanie and Kyle of Terryville, Conn.

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

CAROL A. WILLIAMS

WATERVILLE – Carol A. Williams, 75, of Waterville, died on Friday, January 19, 2024, following a courageous 10-year battle with breast cancer, at Glens Falls Hospital, in Glens Falls, New York. Carol was born in Waterville on June 15, 1948, to Raleigh and Albertha (Grant) Williams.

She grew up in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1966. She later attended Kennebec Valley Technical College, in Fairfield, and graduated with an associate degree as an administrative executive secretary.

Carol worked for Grondin’s Cleaners, in Waterville, and then C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, for many years as a Final Inspector in the Finishing Department. In the 1980s, she was a successful sales representative for Home Interior and Gifts. Carol ended her career at the Senior Spectrum Muskie Center, in Waterville, doing secretarial work.

Carol had a zest for life and anytime you saw her she would have the biggest smile. She was always happy and uplifting no matter the circumstances; especially during these past 10 years fighting breast cancer. She was a warm and fun-loving person that loved her family so very much.

She loved her trips to the ocean and the warm sun on her face. She enjoyed walking the rocky coast of Maine searching for sea glass. She loved going for rides with her daughter Wendy and son-in law Kevin to wherever they were going, soaking up the scenery and singing to every song on the radio. She had such fun and wonderful times with her grandson Dylan, watching him play sports throughout his career in high school and in college. Dylan loved taking Grammy Carol for rides in his Chevy Camaro with the top down and going for an ice cream or her favorite coffee.

Carol looked forward to Facetiming her youngest granddaughter Livia almost daily, watching her play games and making her laugh. She also had a love for the casino and buying scratch tickets hoping to win big money. She loved to dance and sing and up until a few weeks before she passed, she was dancing with her family to her favorite songs on the record player. Traveling was one of her favorite past times as she made many trips to visit her daughter Stacy in Naples, Florida, Johnna, in Queensbury, New York, and most recently to visit her brother Raleigh’s family in Texas this past summer.

Carol was a very strong and courageous woman and never wanted anyone to dote on her. She made the best of every day and fought cancer like a warrior for almost 10 years.

She was predeceased by her parents, Raleigh and Albertha, her sister Sharon Crowell, her brother Raleigh Williams, Jr, and her brother-in-law Glenn Leavitt.

She is survived by her daughters, Wendy (Kevin) Hapworth, of Winslow, Johnna (Paul) Bricoccoli, of Queensbury, New York, and Stacy Nourse, of Naples, Florida; grandchildren Dylan, Patrick, Sofie, Livia, Savannah, Ashley, Madison; and great-granddaughter Payson Mae; her sisters, Susan (Skip) Works, of Fairfield, Cindy Leavitt, of Waterville; sister-in-law, Verlene Williams, of Amarillo, Texas; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The celebration of life for Carol A Williams will be held at the O’Brien’s Event Center, 375 Main Street, Waterville, Maine, on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 11:30 a.m.

GEORGE J. VANDEMARK

WATERVILLE – George J. Vandemark, 85, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Jan­uary 19, 2024. He was born on August 16, 1938, in Plain­field, New Jersey, to parents George and Helen Vandemark.

After graduating high school in 1956, George proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He would remind anyone that “once a Marine always a Marine”. George studied education at Rutgers University completing his master’s degree and advanced certificates. He was a pioneer in public education receiving numerous awards over his 37 years of service. George was the founder of Project Stride, in New Jersey, one of the first alternative educational programs in the nation.

In 1979 George and Joan moved their family to Maine where they bought Snowbird Lodge and Camp Bendito, in Harrison. After this successful adventure, George returned to teaching, his true love. His genuine empathy and kindness influenced the lives of his students which was reflected in their frequent visits to his home. George concluded his career creating the alternative program at Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

In 1960 George married his soulmate and love of his life Joan, whom he lovingly referred to as his “bride”. They had been friends since the fourth grade and would go on to enjoy 64 years of marriage. George was convinced that with Joan by his side, anything was possible. He was devoted to his family and was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

George had a love for the outdoors, traveling, celebrating holidays and reading good books. He and Joan enjoyed paddling and exploring quiet waters, or a fall picnic on the coast of Maine. George lived a big life but enjoyed the small things such as a glass of red wine, smoking his pipe, talking to the neighbors, walks in the park and a cup of coffee “ al fresco” .

He is survived by his wife, Joan Vandemark; his sons George and his wife Katie, and Michael and his wife Anne Hermans; his daughter Erin Brown and her husband Eric; his grandchildren, Max and Molly Brown, and Elsa and Neil Vandemark; his sisters-in-law, Tina Lee, Gail Francesco and her husband Greg and brother-in- law Steve Kozik.

He was predeceased by his parents, George and Helen Vandemark; his four sisters, Kay, Sookie, Valerie, Lisa and his brother, Dick.

NANCY C. CUNNINGHAM

VASSALBORO – Nancy C. Cunningham, 64, of Vassalboro, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at home, following a brief illness. Nancy was born on October 15, 1959, the daughter of Richard and Norma (Morin) Carey. She graduated from Bangor High School in 1977.

Nancy was employed by J.S. McCarthy Printing, in Augusta, for 37 years. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, camping with her grandchildren, attending sporting events for her children and her grandchildren, hosting holiday gatherings, and watching the fireworks at Disney World.

She was predeceased by her mother, Norma; brothers Matt and Jimmy; her mother-in-law, Ellen Cunningham, father-in-law, Jr. Cunningham; and her beloved dog Molly.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Montie (Lee);and daughters Amy and Jessica (Jess); grandchildren Aubrie and Camden; father Richard; sister Susan Jacobs and husband Paul; and several brothers and sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville. There will be a reception immediately following at The Waterville Elks Club.

Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main St., Fairfield. Memories of Nancy can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the American Lung Association.

REGINALD G. CHABOT

CHELSEA – Reginald G. Chabot, 63, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. He was born on February 22, 1960, in Augusta.

“Reggie” was a beacon of strength, humor, and kindness. He dedicated his life to being a master house builder and renovator, a profession where his hard work, skill, and creativity were evident in every project he undertook. His talent in transforming spaces was only matched by his ability to bring joy and laughter into the lives of those he met. Known for his sarcasm, Reggie could light up any room with his humor and infectious smile. He had a heart as big as his personality, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, whether through his skilled craftsmanship or his compassionate nature.

Reggie grew up in a large family. He was predeceased by his mother, Germaine; his father, Rudy; his sister, Sharon; and his brothers Ronald and Andre.

He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Julie; his daughters, Kristy, and Nicki; his stepchildren, Matt, and Nikki; several grandchildren; siblings, Mack, Rena, Gate, Sue, Roxanne, and Steve; and numerous other family members.

A celebration of life and reception was held on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at VFW Post #887, 509 Leighton Road, Augusta, Maine.

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

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Travis Mills Foundation (www.classy. org/ give/206843/#!/donation/checkout?, or mail to 647 Castle Island Road, Mt. Vernon, Maine 04352).

DONNA R. COLLINS

BENTON – Donna Ruth Collins, 78, of Benton, (formerly of West Gardiner) passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. She was born in Gardiner on September 13, 1945, the daughter of Donald and Marjorie (Johnson) Grant.

After graduating from Richmond High School, she was employed by Eaton Shoe and Goodwill Industries, to include working 16 years with the Maine State Department of Education. She loved reading, traveling, and being surrounded by friends and family. Her favorite time of year/holiday was Christmas (where she enjoyed putting on her annual Christmas Party where she ensured everyone had a gift).

Donna will be remembered for her kind soul and open-door policy that provided for anyone that needed it. She loved her family well and served the Lord faithfully. Anyone that knew Donna knew that they had found a loyal friend, a woman so caring that she would become a mother/Grammy to anyone who needed extra love.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Wendell Collins; son, Sean; and grandson, Trevor Collins; four siblings, Percy Johnson, Richard Grant, Charlotte Glidden, and Robert Grant.

Donna is survived by Donald Austin and wife Lisa, of Pittston, David and Kathleen Collins, of Roy, Utah, Tim and Shannon (2) Collins, of Farmingdale, Debbie and Steve Cornish, of Lewiston, Wendell Jr. and Mary Collins, of West Gardiner, Mike and Shannon (1) Collins, of West Gardiner, Steven and Jennifer Danskin, of Nashua New Hampshire, Wanda and Dan Phillips, of Benton, and a bonus daughter, Jennie Meyers, of West Gardiner; 32 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Donna’s visiting hours will be held on Saturday, February 3, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

A spring burial will take place Friday, May 31, 2024, at 2 p.m., beside her husband, in Cherry Hill Cemetery, West Gardiner. Pallbearers will be Sean, Marcus, Scott, James, John Collins, and Jared Arnold. A Celebration of Life will follow, Place to be determined.

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

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please donate to the Donna Collins Funeral Fund, c/o Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, ME 04345.

RAYMOND A. DELANO

WATERVILLE – Raymond A. Delano, 80, from Waterville, passed away on November 27, 2023. He was born on May 23, 1943.

A proud graduate of South Portland High School, Raymond’s sense of duty led him to join the U.S. Army, where he honorably served for six years in the 173rd Airborne Division. His time in the military took him to Vietnam, Germany, and Japan, leaving a lasting impact on his character and worldview.

After his military service, Raymond dedicated his career to the Guilford Railroad, where he worked until his retirement in 2005. His retirement years were filled with his passions for cooking and restoring antique cars, activities that he shared generously with friends and family.

Raymond’s legacy is not only in the adventures he embarked upon but in the lives he touched with his warmth and generosity. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Raymond’s life is a testament to the strength and spirit of a true hero, and his memory will be cherished forever.

Raymond grew up in a large family with eight brothers, three of whom survive him, Joseph Delano, of Independence, Kansas, Douglas Delano, of Scarborough, and Lawrence (Skip) Delano, of Kissimmee, Florida. He was father to Stacy Ross, of South Windham, and Shannon Alumootil, of Charlotte, North Carolina; he is survived by four grandchildren, Marie and Tristan Ross, Matthew and Noah Alumootil, and a great-grandchild, Matthew Ross.

His graveside service is scheduled for noon, Thursday, April 4, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, ME 04330.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, One Church St., Augusta, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

OBITUARIES from Thursday, January 25, 2024

BRADLEY P. FARRINGTON

South China- Bradley Paul Farrington, 65, passed away peacefully Friday, December 22, 2023. He was born, in Waterville, on October 11, 1958, to Paul Lawrence Farrington and Carmaleta (Wood) Farrington.

Brad grew up in South China where his parents owned and operated Farrington’s Clothing and Footwear. He spent many summers enjoying swimming and water skiing on China Lake.

Brad was extremely talented and knowledgeable in the polyurethane foam and forestry industries. He often spoke and told stories of his time spent in upstate New York, spraying foam. Brad spent many years working in the woods and logging until an unfortunate accident occurred.

Brad hauled cars for Farrington’s Auto Sales, developing a passion for driving at a young age. Throughout the 1980s he built and drove many cars and earned Rookie of the Year and numerous checkered flags. He would be seen spending most weekend evenings at his home track, Unity Raceway. He could also be seen turning laps at many other tracks throughout the state. He later passed that love of cars and racing to his son, Jeff. Brad spent the last few years of his life back at the track, alongside his longtime friend Nelson, watching and helping his son race. Brad was often joined in the pits by his biggest fan, his grandson, Alder.

Brad was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Carmaleta Farrington.

He is survived by his sister, Kimberly Greenleaf and spouse Kathy; her son Clinton Greenleaf, spouse Ashley and kids; his ex-wife Robin Mank and their three children, Elizabeth Canders and her spouse Jason Canders, Jeffery Farrington and his fiancée Amber Lavigne, and Megan Farrington; his six grandchildren, Lance, Willow, Bristol, London, Alder Paul, and Banyan Bradley; and many cousins and friends.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers or for those who desire to make a donation in Brad’s memory can do so through the Erskine Academy Memorial Fund.

PATRICIA M. MASSEY

WINSLOW -Patricia M. Massey, 86, of Winslow, passed away peacefully at Northern Light Continuing Care – Lakewood, on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Patricia was born on September 20, 1937, in Waterville, the youngest child of Arthur and Obelia (Grenier) Gagne.

Patricia married the love of her life, Donald Massey, on September 21, 1957. Patricia spent most of her adult life caring for others. She was a CNA at both the Waterville Osteopathic Hospital and Lakewood Manor Nursing Home, in Waterville, until her retirement in 1991.

Patricia was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, always so proud of everyone’s accomplishments. The special bond she created with each and every family member, especially those with her children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter and nieces, Cindy and Renee, will forever be held in their hearts.

When she wasn’t tending to her flower gardens, you could find Patricia cooking and baking in her kitchen. She loved looking through recipe books and making soup every week for her family. She was always up for an adventure and created many memories with her family at camp on Moosehead Lake.

Patricia was predeceased by her parents; her husband Donald; sons Bruce and Michael Massey; sisters Theresa Jesmer, Lorette Sawlivich and Simone Sawlivich; brothers Romeo, Lawrence and Norris Gagne; and son-in-law Todd Labbe.

Patricia is survived by her children Brenda Massey-Labbe and Todd Massey, and wife Cheryl; grandchildren Brittney Massey-Labbe, Kurt Massey and partner Angela, Brian Massey and wife Summer, and Kayla Massey; great-granddaughter Melody Massey; and several nieces and nephews.

Per Patricia’s wishes, a small private family service will be held.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Activity Fund for Residents at Northern Light Continuing Care – Lakewood, 220 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901.

SHIRLEY J. MICHAUD

WINDSOR—Shirley Jean Michaud, 79, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long Term Care at Glenridge. She was born September 10, 1944, a daughter of Harry and Alice (Rhino) Partridge.

Shirley grew up in the Gardiner area where she received her education. Following school she married Richard Michaud. Shirley worked for many years in the shoe shop, and later for Pine State Beverage until retirement.

Shirley was an avid Bingo player, competing in various bingo halls in the Gardiner area. She enjoyed knitting and creating mittens for family and friends. Shirley will be remembered for her colorful personality.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; an infant daughter, Carol Ann Michaud; son in law, James Bishop; and her siblings, Gerald Partridge, Janice Feeney, Judy Cadwallader, John Partridge, Marsha Rogers, and an infant baby brother, Donald Michaud.

She is survived by her daughter, Bobbi Lynn Bishop; her granddaughter, Jennifer Bishop; her great-grandson, Ross; and many nieces and nephews.

No services are being held. Her urn will be interred at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

STANLEY CUMMINGS

SIDNEY – Stanley “Red” Cummings, 70, passed away at home, Sunday, January 7, 2024. He was born May 21, 1953.

Red was the “go to guy” for his large family and neighbors. He owned Cummings Garage for many years. If you needed something fixed or the tool to do it he had it and would help you. Red loved his family, animals, wildlife, hunting, fishing, cutting wood, gardening and cooking. Red had a love for cars at a young age and he said ” if it didn’t have wheels and an engine he wasn’t interested.” He built a truck and several wood buggies. He was a very hard worker, so driven in life, a loving and kind man. He lived on “Cummings Hill” his whole life. The hill won’t be the same without him!

Red is survived by his wife, Holly (Jeannotte) Cummings; daughter Jennifer Blanche and husband Michael, of Virginia; son Patrick Cummings, of Sidney, and partner Shelly Frost; grandson, Garrett Hume currently serving in the U.S. Navy; brothers Harland Cumming Sr. and wife Noella, and Robert Cummings and wife Diane, all of Sidney, David Cummings Sr. and wife Robin, of Litchfield, Stephen Cummings and wife Carol, of Waterville; sisters Diane Cummings, of Farmingdale, Darlene Crowe and husband Gary, of Belgrade, Ellen Witham and husban, and nephews and cousins; and one aunt, Mary Choate, of North Augusta.

He was predeceased by his father, Stanley Cummings Sr., mother, Lorraine (Folger) Cummings; and great-niece, Halee Cummings.

Arrangements under the care of Mid Maine Cremation Services. Per Red’s wishes there will be no services.

PAMELA HAYDEN

WINSLOW – Pamela Hayden, 64, of Winslow, passed away on Wednesday, January 9, 2024. Pamela was born August 1, 1959, in Hartland, the daughter of Keith C. and Maxine E. (Collins) Corson.

Pam graduated from Madison High School with the class of 1977. Later in life she attended Central Maine Community College, in Auburn, graduating with an associate’s degree as a medical assistant. Employers included Norwalk Shoe, New Balance Shoe, Jay Paper Mill, and MaineGeneral Medical Center. Pam ended her career working as a medical assistant at Maine General Express Care, in Waterville, where she was best known for her outstanding work ethic and bedside manner.

Pam was a one-of-a-kind, remarkable woman. She was not only a hard-working employee but also a warm and loving mother and nana to her family. Always willing to help any way she could, Pam took great care of her grandchildren throughout the years. She had a wonderful sense of humor, was kind, thoughtful, and very generous. She was known to even be the life of the party. Pam never wanted to burden anyone, no matter how complicated the journey, and made the best of every situation.

She is survived by her son Ryan and his wife Melissa, as well as her adopted son Todd; grandchildren Ashley, Allison, Abby, Gavyn, and Emma; great-grandchildren Nicholas Jr., Zoie, Amelia, and Esme; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Pam was predeceased by both parents, grandparents, and her husband Wilder Hayden in 1999.

In the spring, she will be laid to rest with her parents at Mt. Rest Cemetery, in Athens, the town in which she grew up.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart and Edwards Funeral Home.

JEFFREY A. TIBBETTS

WATERVILLE – Jeffrey A. Tibbetts, 68, of Waterville, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Jeff was born to Harry and Leona Tib­betts, of Oakland, on April 25, 1955.

He grew up in Oakland and attended Messalonskee High School.

Upon diagnosis, he told his daughters that he was going to “fight the fight of his life” to stay with the family he loved so very much, and that he did.

He loved driving big trucks and his love for that helped him grow a life long career at Waste Management. Jeff was with Waste Management for over 30 years when he was forced into retirement. He was a hard worker and he always provided for his family. So much that several times during his illness, and even in his last days he would comment, “I wish I was still working”. He loved his Waste Management Family so very much and our family is so grateful to them. They have helped us each step of the way.

Jeff enjoyed old cars and went to every car show he could drag Wendi to! They took many trips to the coast together and even a cruise on the Scotia Prince, to Nova Scotia. They also took trips to Rangeley for long weekends alone.

Jeff had a huge heart and was a very loyal friend. He also had a very good sense of humor, which stayed with him until the end. He was an inspiration to all who sat at his bedside. He was a favorite of many of his nurses in hospice, as well as his doctor.

Jeff was predeceased by both parents, along with his wife Wendi Tibbetts, who passed away in May 2019.

He leaves behind his daughter, Katrina Tibbetts, her fiancé, TJ Vigue and their sons Braeden and Kyleb, all of Waterville; his stepdaughter Tawni Lively, her husband Ed Lively, of Winslow, and their children, daughter, Devyn Lively, of Winslow; son Justin Lively, of Raymond, and daughter Jennifer Jimino, of Windham, together with their families; and his stepdaughter Tara True and her husband Arthur True, along with their children Mackenzie and Joshua, all of Albion; his sister, Judy Smith, of Lewiston; and his niece, Rebecca Smith, of Lewiston; along with several nieces and nephews.

A service and Celebration of Life was held at Blessed Home Church, 10 Pleasant Street, Waterville, on Sunday, January 21, 2024.

ROBERT J. ROUX

VASSALBORO – Robert J. Roux, 96, of North Vassalboro, passed away Friday, Jan­uary 12, 2024, at home. Bob was born, in Waterville, on October 1, 1927, son to Wallace and Lenore (Mercier) Roux.

Bob grew up in Waterville and attended Waterville schools until he joined the U.S. Navy and received his GED. He proudly served in World War II, from 1944 to 1946, and then in the Korean War from 1952 to 1956. Upon his return he began working for Harris Bakery and retired from Colby College, both in Waterville.

Bob loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports. His favorite thing to do was fishing in Greenville. In later years he enjoyed going to camp with his friend, Keith Lemieux.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; wife, Rita; son-in-law, Dennis Weston; brothers Donald, Erland, Roland, and Bernard, sisters Gladys and Arlene.

Bob is survived by his daughters Robin Reagan and Rhonda Weston; son, Randall Roux with wife Irene; grandchildren Casey Reagan, Kate Beaulieu with husband Nathan, Ryan Pleau with partner Tiana, Joseph Weston with partner Samantha, Jeff Roux with wife Arica, Matthew Roux with wife Ruth, Justin Roux, Tim Dibenedetti with wife Tracey, Sarah with husband Henry; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Juliette; along with several nieces and nephews.

A service was held at the Veterans Chapel, at 163 Mt. Vernon Ave., Augusta, on January 24. A celebration of life followed.

Arrangements are in the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/robert-roux-2024.

JOHN J. COSTELLO III

ALBION – John James Costello III, 68, passed away Thursday, January 11, 2024. He was born December 22, 1955, a son of John Costello Jr. and Evelyn (Sherwood) Wright.

John grew up in Connecticut and graduated from Eli Whitney Tech. As a young man he moved to Maine, spending his young adult life in Jackman. He spent the last 24 years living in Albion.

He was employed by Sheridan Construction as a project supervisor. On the weekends he enjoyed dancing at Crystal Falls, in Augusta, and in his spare time, target shooting.

He is survived by his children, Natalie, JJ, and Monique; his sister, Linda; his aunt, Joan; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A period of visitation will be held on Thursday, January 25, from 4 to 6 p.m., Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. A graveside service will be held in the spring in Jackman.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

RONALD M. JACKSON

WASHINGTON – Ronald Merrill Jackson, 77, of Washington, passed away on Wednesday, December. 20, 2023, at Togus VA Hospital, in Augusta. Born on January 7, 1946, in Damariscotta.

Ronald was a father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many.

After high school, Ronald served in the United States Air Force. He proudly represented the United States during his time as a communication electronic technician from 1963 to 1967.

Following his military service, Ron dedicated the majority of his life to being self-employed. His companies ranged from logging and driving trucks over the road to working on trucks and equipment. Later on, he operated a shop, salvage yard, and sold used cars. Ron was known for his constant wheeling and dealing, trying to find how to make his next buck.

Ron had a variety of interests and hobbies. He was an avid fan of NASCAR and enjoyed the thrill of watching the races. One of his favorite pastimes was owning a late-model stock car which he raced at Wiscasset Speedway. Ron also had a passion for hunting, camping, and cheering on the Boston Red Sox. He had a knack for knowing how to fix anything that came through his garage from cars, to equipment, to diesel trucks. “Jack” knew how to fix it all!

He is survived by his sons, Ronald E. Jackson, and daughter-in-law, Nancy Jackson, of Manchester, Connecticut, and Matthew Jackson, of Hope; his daughter, Tori Jackson, of Waldoboro; his grandsons, Dylan Jackson, Ethan Jackson, Zachary Daniello, and Jackson Simmons; his granddaughter Lindsay Jackson; and his sister Suzanne “Suzie” Jackson, of North Carolina.

Ronald was predeceased by his parents, Merrill A. Jackson, and Dorothy “Dot” Jackson, his brothers Rodney Jackson, Michael Jackson, Richard “Ricky” Jackson, and James “Jimmy” Jackson, and his sisters Joyce Jackson and Marilyn Teele.

A private memorial service will be held to honor Ronald’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to a veteran support organization of your choice.

DAVID A. RODRIGUE

FAIRFIELD – David A. Rodrigue, 77, of Fairfield, passed unexpectedly. Born June 21, 1945, in Waterville, he was the second oldest son of Louis Rodrigue and Jeanette LaCroix Rodrigue.

David grew up in Waterville, attending local schools.

A master upholsterer, he operated Dave’s Upholstery for 10 years and later worked for Northern Mattress Co., of Fairfield, retiring in his ‘60s. In retirement, David rehabbed homes and collected rent.

He leaves behind one son, David E. Rodrigue Jr. Together, they enjoyed spending time on various projects. As well as his only granddaughter, Heather, who he adored, and loved spending time with.

David was characterized by his strong work ethic and good sense of humor. He took pride in driving his newer pickup truck and providing safe, clean, and affordable housing for his tenants.

David is survived by his son, David E. Rodrigue, of Fairfield; granddaughter, Heather Lynn Ximiness; and great-granddaughter, Sophia Mae Bechard; his brother, Francois Rodrigue, of Vassalboro; and sister, Theresa M. Henderson, of Rockland.

He was predeceased by his father, Louis, mother, Jeanette; brother, Roger Rodrigue, of Tennessee, sister, Germaine Bell, of Bangor, and brother, Paul Rodrigue, of Canaan.

The family has requested no visitation. No burial per request of the family. A celebration of life will be held in the spring. Date and time to be determined.

OTHERS DEPARTED

SUSAN L. CASWELL

BONNEY LAKE, Washington – Susan Laurie Caswell, 64, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at her home in Bonney Lake, Washington. She was born Susan Laurie Bickford, in Waterville, on April 12, 1959, to Stanley Amos Bickford and Joanne Alice Fales. She was the youngest of three girls and had three older brothers and two younger brothers.

Susan grew up on the family farm in Benton, which is where her love of horses began, and continued throughout her life. On the farm there was an ornery pony, several horses and her special Arabian named Reka.

She attended Benton Elementary School and Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, graduating with the class of 1977. After graduation she moved to Washington D.C. She worked as a dental hygienist at the infamous Watergate office building.

In the early 1980s she moved back to Maine and met and married Dan Caswell in 1988. She and Dan lived in South Portland where daughter, Kelly, was born and then at Lake Tahoe, Nevada, where their son, Matthew, was born.
She was predeceased by her brother, Patrick in 1984; her daughter, Hilary J. Sperrey in 1997; and her father in 2003 and mother in 2018.

Susan is survived by her husband, Daniel T. Caswell, of Bonney Lake, Washington; her daughter, Kelly J. and her husband Doug Ault, of San Diego, California; her son, Matthew P. Caswell and fiancée Alysha Brown and her grandson, Baker B. Caswell, of Sumner, Washington; two sisters, Maureen Blodgett and husband Terry, of Benton, Brenda Welch and her husband Bill, of Auburn; and four brothers, Tim and partner Jackie, of Benton, Mahlon and his husband Don, of Unity, Bruce Bickford, of Auburn, and Stanley and his wife Stacey, of Woburn, Massachusetts; as well as countless cousins and nieces and nephews.

Honoring her wishes, her family will hold private celebrations of her life on the East Coast and the West Coast.

GERARD HALLEE

PORTLAND, Oregon – Gerard (Jerry) Hallee, 83, of Portland, Oregon, passed away recently. He was born in Waterville, on October 13, 1940, the son of Florian F. and Constance (Tardiff) Hallee.

He was raised on the family dairy farm on Marston Road, and graduated from Waterville High School in 1959. After attending M.I.T, he relocated to southern California and started a career as a computer programmer/analyst. He was a passionate bridge player and was a member of the team that won the prestigious Vanderbilt Bridge Trophy in 1969.

In 1971 Gerard married Karen Torbergson of Seattle, Washington, and later relocated to Snohomish, Washington. They had two sons, Justin Hallee, of Longview, Washington, and Steven Hallee, of Lake Stevens, Washington. Gerard was a frequent bridge player during his retirement in Portland, Oregon.

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Karen, and his brother Neal D. (Peggy) Hallee, of Auburn.

He is survived by his sons, Justin and Steven; his partner Leslie Kelinson; brothers Alan P. (Linnea) Hallee, of Nashua, New Hampshire, and Gary J. Hallee, of Seattle, Washington; sisters, Claudette L. (Pearly) Simpson, of Waterville, and Lori A. Saleski (John Slusarz), of New Boston, New Hampshire; and numerous nieces and nephews and their children.

There will be a private family memorial in Waterville in the fall.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 18, 2024

ANNA E. MITCHELL

WATERVILLE – Anna Elizabeth Thomas Mitchell, 97, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023, in Waterville. She was born in Waterville, on January 3, 1926, daughter of Peter and Jamillia Rumya Thomas.

Anna was educated in Waterville schools, graduating from Waterville High School in 1944. Besides enjoying her academic classes, Anna was a spirited high school basketball fan. She always remembered with gratitude that her role as a cheerleader afforded her the opportunity to attend all the games, especially the exciting out-of-state games when Waterville competed for, and won, the New England Championship title. She subsequently served on all her class reunion committees, including the 40th, which was featured in the magazine Mainely Local. She married her husband of more than 61 years, Saliem “Sammy” Mitchell, on January 5, 1947, in Waterville.

In 1953, Anna began working at Scott Paper Company (then Hollingsworth & Whitney Paper Mill), in Winslow, where she held various positions during her 33-year career with the company. She belonged to several professional organizations.

A member of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, Anna served on the Parish Council and scholarship committee, as well as other committees, and was active in church events. She was also a member of the Maronite Guild and the Rosary Sodality.

In 2013 she was honored to play a role, with her daughter, in helping the Holocaust and Human Rights Center, whose mission is to promote respect for human rights through outreach and education, create the month-long exhibit: Life by the Two-Cent Bridge: The Lebanese Community in Waterville.

In the years following her retirement, Anna continued to pursue her daily interests of playing the piano, reading, knitting, solving crossword puzzles, and cooking, especially large amounts of Lebanese food to share with family and friends. She rarely missed her monthly luncheons and card-playing afternoons with her high school friends. Anna was a volunteer at MaineGeneral Medical Center for 24 years, serving in various departments.

Included among her greatest joys were the many summers spent with family and friends on Long Pond, in Belgrade Lakes. In later years, she spent several weeks each summer on other nearby lakes. She really enjoyed camp life and swam in the waters of McGrath Pond beyond her 80th year.

Despite having experienced several unexpected and deeply personal losses of close family members throughout her life, she was always there to offer comfort to others.

Anna was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Sammy; son-in-law, Rob; granddaughter, Emily Elizabeth; sisters Sadie Ferris, Tekla Stevens, and Freda Annino; brothers Elias, David, and John Thomas; all their spouses; Sammy’s siblings and spouses; in-laws, Elias and Mary Nagem Mitchell; and several nieces and nephews, including, Patricia, Carla Jean, Michael, and Paul Ferris who were like sons and daughters to her.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date.

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

Those who wish may make donations in her memory to St Joseph Maronite Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville, ME 04901.

WILLIAM H. SAWYER

PALERMO – William “Bill” H. Sawyer, 77, died on Sunday, December 24, 2023, in Bangor. He was born on October 14, 1946, in Houlton, the son of George R. and Jean (Grange) Sawyer.

William graduated from Ricker Classical Institute in 1964, and the University of Maine, Orono, in 1968, with a degree in civil engineering. After graduating, William worked for the Iowa State D.O.T. for a few months until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served in Vietnam as a light weapons specialist and a scout dog handler. He walked point with his dog DUG112M. Returning from Vietnam he worked for a large engineering firm in New York until he moved back to Maine to work for the Maine State D.O.T. where he finished his career and retired in June of 1995.

He was a member of the DeMolay, a past master of Island Falls Lodge #206 AF & AM and a member of Kennebec Lodge #5, a Kora Shrines Klown, and belonged to several other lodges of the York Rite, a volunteer tutor at the local Palermo schools, and a member of several other organizations. He was an avid UMO Black Bear athletics fan and traveled near and far following the teams to show his support.

He is survived by his three siblings, George (Jane) Sawyer, of Sweden, Michael (Cheryl) Sawyer, of Merrill, and Maryanne Hare, of Houlton; three nieces and four nephews and their children; many cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his brother-in-law, Michael Hare.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta. To share condolences and memories online visit http://www.bowersfuneral.com.

FALAN M. COPAGE

CHELSEA – Falan Marie Copage (Durgin), 41, of Chelsea, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.

Falan attended Elsipogtog High School, in New Brunswick, Canada. She was passionate about crafts and cooking, spending much of her time caring for others.

Falan is survived by her mother, Angela Durgin, of Chelsea; and her children, Isaac Copage, Noah Copage, Nicholas Copage, and Mary Shayla Copage, all of Chelsea; her son, Alexander Copage Wing, of Monmouth; her brother, Jason Morgan, of Winslow; and her stepmother, Lyndy Morgan (Smith), of Augusta; grandmother, Margaret Rose Copage, of Chelsea; her boyfriend, Jason Stanley, of Portland, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life service was held at the American Legion, located at 396 Eastern Ave., Augusta, Maine 04330.

Contributions in Falan’s memory can be made to the Preble Street Organization for the homeless.

NANCY L. BOULETTE

WATERVILLE – Nancy L. Boulette, 78, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at MaineGeneral Hospital, in Augusta. Nancy was born in Waterville, on April 29, 1945.

Nancy was employed at Hannaford Supermarkets for 15 years, but her most significant role in life was that of mother, wife, grandmother, and sister. She enjoyed playing Bingo, Yahtzee, and scratching her lottery tickets in the morning. After she retired, Nancy and her husband Jim, took an extended trip across the country, and she enjoyed traveling with her sisters to exciting locations like Hawaii and Ireland. Nancy loved being with family and feeding her birds and wildlife in her backyard while drinking her Pepsi each day.

She was predeceased by her husband James E. Boulette, mother Cecile Tardiff, father Philip Bernard, sister Patricia Senus, brothers, Terry Bernard and Ronald Bouchard, and son-in-law Bob Simpson.

She is survived by her four children, Lori Simpson, Jeffrey Gilbert (Sharon), Wendy Bard (Jon), Cathy Hotham (Fred); grandchildren, Dustin Davidson, Matthew Davidson, Chris Lavalley, Tyler Bard, Charles Simpson, Meaghan Gilbert and Caleb Hotham; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Brenda Hawkins, Jackie Grenier, and Cynthia Delile; and her brother Roger Bouchard.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville Maine 04901.

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

ALBERT BELLOWS

FAIRFIELD – Albert Bellows, 82, of Fairfield died peacefully Saturday, January 6, 2024, at home. He was born in Waterville to George and Mildred Bellows on March 16, 1941.

He married his wife Irene on January 8, 1960. They had six children.

Albert retired from Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, after 32 years. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping. He collected guns, knives, and bullets. He traveled around Maine, walking through the woods and could find any pond you asked him about. He was a registered Maine Guide, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, Maine Trappers Association, North American Fishing Club, and the North American Hunting Club. He has many ribbons for shooting from The Maine Muzzle loaders at competitions from around Maine.

He had a way of making any room quiet, telling stories of where he hunted and fished, deer he shot, friends he was with, shooting down Christmas trees, and pranks he played.

He was predeceased by his wife Irene, Son Albert Jr., and Parents George and Mildred.

He is survived by his daughters Patricia Rucci, of Clarksville, Tennessee, Dawn Buzzell and husband Brian, of Fairfield, Pamela Connors, of El Paso, Texas, and Jennifer Palow and husband Kevin; of Clinton; and son Joseph Bellows, of Clarksville, Tennessee; his brother Richard and wife Diana Bellows, of Pittsfield; sisters Diane Perry, of Peebles, Ohio and Cathy and husband George Ouellette, of Monmouth.

There will be a celebration of life at the Fairfield VFW, on June 8, 2024, from 11a.m. – 2 p.m., with a graveside service at Howard Cemetery, in Winslow, immediately following.

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

MARY E. NADER

WINSLOW – Mary Effie Nader, 79, of Winslow, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Mary was born in Waterville on October 18, 1945, the daughter of Beatrice (Latulippe) and Charles Robinson.

Mary worked at a chicken factory, in Vassalboro, for some time. She then worked at Colby College, in Waterville, for 21 years where she retired.

Mary enjoyed scrapbooking, sewing, knitting, etc. She also enjoyed square dancing and ballroom dancing with her late husband. She enjoyed snowmobiling with friends. Mary spent most of her time with her two grandchildren. Mary was also known for always having social gatherings for every occasion.

She was predeceased by her husband Joseph Nader Jr., three brothers, six sisters, and her parents.

Surviving are her two daughters, Doreen Nader, of Winslow, Paula (Nader) Snow and her husband Thomas, of Wayne; two grandchildren Ben Hasson, of Columbus, Ohio; Christine Hasson, of Winslow; many nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Her service will be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at Saint Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton Street, in Waterville, at 10 a.m. A burial will be scheduled at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Mary Nader to Gallant Funeral Home.

DIANNE L. CATES

AUGUSTA – Dianne L. Cates, 79, died peacefully on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Dianne was born March 17, 1944, in Waterville, the daughter of Wardell and Leontine (Poulin) Rancourt.

After graduating from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, Dianne, along with her brother, Al, and cousin, Roger, formed the folk group, The Kin Three. “One successful appearance after another…rocketed this talented trio to outstanding popularity in Maine their home state.”

Dianne was gifted and well known for her beautiful, sometimes angelic singing voice, her gregarious personality, her love of song which she delivered “with love and humor,” and her quick wit. In the early 1960s she, Al and Roger toured Maine and beyond, singing messages of peace and hope to the coffee house clientele, college students, senior living residents, church congregations, etc. In the mid ’60s the trio was chosen to represent the State of Maine at the World’s Fair, in New York, an opportunity that all three performers cherished and spoke of frequently. After the World’s Fair, life’s circumstances moved Al to new adventures and The Kin Three became Roger and Dianne.

Roger and Dianne continued to share their love of music while performing throughout Maine. One venue in particular that continued to be a favorite performance center for the locals, as well as summer visitors to Maine was the “Merry Barn”, in Edgecomb. It was at the “Merry Barn” that Dianne met her husband, Gerry Cates. The couple settled in Central Maine after they married in 1969. Dianne and Gerry continued to perform on high school and college campuses, entertained senior citizens in long term care facilities, played at weddings and other church functions and were delighted to share their music and talent with those folks who were willing to listen. Throughout her married life, Dianne continued to enjoy meeting friends and acquaintances for morning coffee with her husband of 54 years, Gerry. The laughter she often brought to conversations was contagious. Dianne’s “big” personality will be missed by the many people who knew and loved her.

Dianne is survived by her husband, Gerry; children Kristi, Zak, Darrin; four grandchildren, Emily, Megan, Isaac and Maxwell; sister, Celeste; brother, Peter (Kristan); two sisters-in-law, Sheila, Jocelyne; one maternal aunt, Lucille; several nephews, nieces; cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 11 a.m., at CenterPoint Community Church, 155 West River Rd., Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.

GARY H. BULGER

BENTON – Gary H. Bulger, 77, passed away after battling a long illness at Togus Veterans Hospital, in Augusta, early Monday morning, January 8, 2024. Gary was born in Waterville on March 11, 1946, the son of Fred Bulger and Una Bulger (Corbin).

Gary attended Winslow High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army and served with honor. He was stationed in Germany from 1964-1967. He arrived back to the States and married his high school sweetheart, Marlene Pomerleau, and started a family.

He owned and operated Bulger’s Body Shop and Used Cars, in Benton, for over 50 years. A business he was very passionate about. He loved his family, his dog, automobiles more than anything in the world, but he especially loved helping people.

He was an active member of the American Legion for over 24 years and served as Commander of Post #14, in Fairfield, from 2008-2011. In 2011 until 2012, Gary became the Department Chaplain. He went on to become the District 10 Commander from 2012-2013.

He was an active member of the Blinded Veterans Association and represented the organization at various events all over the country.

He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Una Bulger; wife, Marlene Bulger (Pomerleau); his son Michael’s fiancée, Sarah Stetson; and niece, Tracy Grant.

He is survived by his long-term companion, Mary-Margaret A. Paradis; his sons Michael Bulger and Alex Ferrari (Bulger); grandchildren, Caleb, Seth, Isaac; their mother, Anita Prosser; as well as his granddaughter, Isabella; his sister, Marlene Grant (Bulger); sister-in-law, Brenda Beaulieu; son-in-law, Rick Ferrari; and nieces and nephews Cheryl Mansir (Grant), Timothy Grant, Toby Grant and Terri-Jean Wilkinson (Grant).

Interment with military honors will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Niche Wall, on Civic Center Drive, in Augusta, in the spring, the date is to be determined.

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

KENNETH SANDERS

FAIRFIELD – Kenneth “Kenny” Sanders, 77, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. He was born in Waterville on October 26, 1946, the son of Kenneth and Louise Sanders.

He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, i9n Fairfield.

Kenny had an incredible work ethic no matter where he was employed, but he talked most fondly about his early years working on the West Coast in support of the NASA space program and his storied career at Keyes Fibre Company/Huhtamaki, in Waterville, where both of his parents, his brother-in-law Doug, and many other friends and family worked.

He started at the mill in April 1970 and made many deep, lasting friendships during his time there. During his tenure, he worked as a security guard, sergeant of security, supervisor, and production coordinator, but we all know if there was such a thing as a “Mayor of the Mill”, he was that guy. Safe to say it was impossible to walk with him from the north end to the south end in less than 30 minutes because so many people would stop him to chat about life or to pick his brain for advice. He spent just over 35 years at the mill, retiring in June 2005. To no one’s surprise, he returned after his retirement to do some occasional temp work to help out and keep in touch with some of his favorite people.

In his spare time, there were deer to be hunted, fish to be caught, and golf to be played with many of his family and friends. He and Sandy loved to travel to sunny Florida and historical Prince Edward Island, but they most enjoyed spending time on Maine’s coast in Ocean Point, eating seafood fresh off the boat near the winding roads lined with sea roses.

Kenny loved watching sports, especially when The Masters match was tight (and not so much when the Boston Red Sox or New England Patriots were losing). He enjoyed his soaps and spent many an afternoon watching the antics on the Young and the Restless with his sister, Alma, after they both lost their spouses, bonding over the rivalries and romance going on in Genoa City, Wisconsin.

Kenny was a man of service with a generous heart and spirit that guided him throughout his life. If there was a porch or car that needed repairs, landscaping that needed to be done, or hummingbirds needing to be fed, he was going to see that it got done. He loved to recommend and hire family or friends for these odd jobs, knowing that multiple people could benefit from just one simple act. He showed great concern and care for his aging family and friends, including his mom Louise and many of her siblings – and he made time to care for and visit them all. As noted by his dear brother-in-law, Russ, who knew Kenny so well, “For a man that was born with a faulty heart, he had one of the biggest around”.

He and Sandy loved to volunteer to serve holiday meals to veterans and those less fortunate, and one of his favorite memories was when his daughters Tammy and Kim joined them to distribute meals and were interviewed for the local news. He was truly proud. He deeply valued contributing to his community, fueled by his belief that no one should go to bed hungry. This inspired his invaluable work at the Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry, where he volunteered, recruited help, and served on the board for over 20 years. He took pride in ensuring that the pantry was updated and outfitted with all of the necessities needed to meet the needs of the community for years to come, and would proudly give a tour to share each new facility upgrade as it happened.

He was truly one of a kind and is already deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Kenny was predeceased in 2015 by his greatest love and wife of 25 years, Sandra; as well as his siblings Eileen, Noreen, and Alma.

He is survived by his children, sons Steven, Scott and Randy (and his wife Pam); daughters, Kim (and her husband Brent), and Tammy (and her partner Joey); son-in-law, Steve Denis; grandchildren Corey (and his wife Mackenzie), Kaylin (and her husband Joey), and Brandon; his brother-in-law, Russ; cousin, Mike Cilley, and the Bolduc clan; nephews Kevin, Kirk, and Curtis; and nieces Stacie and Aimee and their children

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, on 76 Industrial Rd., in Waterville. If you’re so inclined, please bring a special story or fun memory to share.

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

Instead of flowers, please consider donating to The Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry in Kenny’s name, and donations can be mailed to 23 Lawrence Ave., Fairfield, ME 04937.

DOLORES N. NAWFEL

WATERVILLE – Dolores N. Nawfel, passed away Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Lake­wood Manor, in Waterville. Born in 1929, in Waterville, she was the daughter of the late Richard D. Nawfel and Maria (Barakat) Nawfel.

She was a graduate of Waterville High School where she immersed herself in the joy of friendship through multiple school activities. She would often revisit a memorable short move of several months to Washington D.C. with three of her close friends. She worked for a bank and was accepted to a modeling school prior to returning to Waterville to assist with her ailing father. She was employed by her brother in his dental office before spending several years with the Bell Telephone Company, in Waterville.

Dolores married her lifetime spouse, affectionately known as “Mickey”, in 1953, in Waterville, where they established a home for the four sons they brought into their world. This home became a gathering place for their extended family whose many members would meet on a frequent basis throughout the years for birthdays, holidays, and for any reason just to get together. As their children grew, many of their friends and their children’s friends came to be included in these social events.

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the family skating rink became the destination for children throughout Waterville’s many neighborhoods. Dolores warmed their frozen toes and fed their active stomachs while welcoming all to her friendly kitchen. She became an iconic figure in those early years for her generosity and hospitality as she often prepared a communal feast for high school hockey players and their many friends following home games.

Few would disagree that Dolores was loving, kind and compassionate to all in her life. Her big smile and sparkling blue eyes were endearing as she invariably greeted family and friends with out-stretched arms. She often proclaimed her not so secret formula for bringing people together: “If you want to bring people together and share their happiness, fill the table with food. If you have food, people will come.” She reveled in the joy of bringing people together and this she did extraordinarily well whether she was hosting a Christmas open house, birthday parties, holidays, after-hockey game events or just a Sunday dinner. Mom was a genuinely happy person and was eager to share that joy with those who chose to receive it.

Dolores loved to read. She was extremely passionate about education. She thoroughly enjoyed music and she was proud to have music fill her home. A great joy for Dolores was the active part she played in being an instrumental mentor and role model for her five grandchildren.

Dolores is survived by her four sons, Sam (Bonnie), Michael (Karen), Nicholas (Penny) and Peter; five grandchildren, Nichole Nawfel, Jacob (Katie) Nawfel, Alysia (Colby) Whynot, Lauren Nawfel and Jena Nawfel; four great-grandchildren, Wesley and Miles Whynot, and Lily and Eva Nawfel; her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Fowler and her husband Leon Fowler; and her brother-in-law, Beasley Edwards; many nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces and their respective families.

Dolores was predeceased by her parents Richard and Maria Nawfel; Michael, her husband 67 years; her siblings Elias Richard Nawfel, D.M.D. and his wife, Jamila, Sumayah (David) Ferris, Julie (Beshara) Saliba, Lorice Franklin, Helen Edwards; and her granddaughter of blessed memory, Alexa Nawfel.

A small private church service was attended by immediate and extended family members on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, in Portland. The service was conducted by Father Constantine Sarantidis, our spiritual father of 34 years.

Arrangements were under the direction and care of Jones, Rich and Barnes Funeral Home.

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

KAREN HOTHAM

WINSLOW – A Mass of Christian Burial, for Karen “Dee” Hotham, was held on Sat­urday, January 13, 2024, at 10 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow. A Celebration of Life followed.

 

 

 

 

 

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OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 11, 2024

WILLIAM S. TANNER III

FAIRFIELD – William Stanley Tanner III (Bill Sr.), 77, of Fairfield, died at his home, attempting to remove a downed tree from his driveway, on December 18, 2023. Bill was born on November 25, 1946, in Mineola, New York, the only child of William and Greta.

Bill attended St. Paul Academy, in Long Island, New York, but he would spend his summers at a family camp in Oakland, on Messalonskee Lake (Snow Pond). While Bill excelled as a carpenter and insurance salesman, his passion centered around substance abuse recovery and community health. As a result, Bill worked for years as a counselor at HealthReach, in Waterville, and eventually developed a counseling program at the Franklin County Jail.

During this time, Bill earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Maine at Orono, a master’s degree from Springfield College, in Springfield, Masssachusetts, and his PhD in psychology and community rehabilitation from Union Institute. As a result of his exposure to adults suffering from dual diagnosis issues and incarceration, Dr. Tanner created Community Correctional Alternatives; a mental health agency providing rehabilitation services to adults in their homes.

And, since this all didn’t keep him busy enough, Dr. Tanner was also a professor at Kennebec Valley Community College. Dr. Tanner, known most humbly as Bill, worked until the day he passed serving his community as a case manager at the Waterville Homeless Shelter.

Bill was extremely outgoing, generous, and well-known in the community. His hobbies included golf, watching sports, and building additions onto his home. He appreciated good art and fine clothing. He passed on his love of education and pride in his work to his sons and grandchildren. He was greatly loved, and will be terribly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry Tanner; his sons William Tanner IV, and Ryan Tanner; daughter Deanna Tanner; stepsons Roman, Chris, and Roy Cardenas; and 15 grandchildren.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, William II and Greta Tanner; and stepson, Gary Lee.

Please join the family for a celebration of Bill’s life on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Best Western Hotel, on Main St., Waterville, from 2 – 5 p.m.

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

TERRY W. MICHAUD

FAIRFIELD – Terry W. Michaud, 68, passed away of natural causes at his home, in Fairfield, on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Terry was born October 31, 1955, in Fort Fairfield, to Wilbert and Maxine Michaud.

While a young child, the family moved to Fairfield, where Terry was a Boy Scout and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1974. He participated in multiple sports throughout his school years and was Mr. LHS his senior year. After graduation Terry attended Thomas College, in Waterville, prior to transferring to the University of Southern Maine (USM), in Gorham, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

In 1976, he married his Junior High School sweetheart Lori Butler. They had two children, Derek, and Michelle.

While attending USM, Terry worked for Westbrook Police Department and earned that department’s highest award for his role in a murder investigation. After graduation, the State of Maine hired him as a Probation and Parole Officer. During this time, Terry also continued his interest in sports and became a track and field coach at Skowhegan Area High School. He was twice awarded KVAC coach of the year but was most proud of the successes of his athletes and assistant coaches, who went on to be college athletes, coaches, and good citizens. After 21 years as a probation officer, Terry began a second career as a high school athletic administrator at Skowhegan, where he loved his time working with and supporting students and coaches.

Terry was always highly active in his community. He was a member of All Saint’s and St. Mark’s Episcopal Churches, a 36-year member of the Elks Club, an MSAD #49 School Board member, and served on the Fairfield planning board.

Terry continued his lifelong love of athletics attending many high school (Lawrence and Skowhegan), college (UMaine), and professional contests (Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox). He previously participated in road races and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, boating, “camp-life,” traveling, and golf. He recently became a Premier League football fan, cheering on his team, Liverpool. He enjoyed poetry, and all music attending rock concerts and symphonies. His happiest times were always spent with his wife and children, whom he loved beyond words.

Terry was predeceased by his father, Wilbert, and brother, George.

He is survived by his spouse of 47 years, Lori; son Derek and daughter Michelle Michaud; his mother, Maxine Morrissette; brothers, Kevin and Roger Michaud, Denver (Victoria) and Elmer (Debbie) Brown; sisters, Theresa Sullens, Bernadette (Lloyd) Staples, and Elizabeth Brown; sisters in-law, Carol (Glenn) Booker, Lisa (Glen Merrow) Coates; and brother in-law, Ad (Sandy) Butler. Terry is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and uncles, Irvin Michaud, and Sterling Davenport.

Terry will be laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery in Fairfield in the spring.

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

RONALD J. ROSSIGNOL

WATERVILLE – Ronald Joseph Rossignol, 91, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Lakewood Nursing Home, inWaterville. Ron was born, in Waterville, on March 10, 1932, the 13th child out of 14 to Octave and Helen (Landry) Rossignol.

He often told his children that being the baby boy meant no new spoils and was happy to receive things passed down by his siblings. He attended The Brother’s School, in Waterville, and in 1951 graduated from Waterville High School, where he lettered in football.

Coming from a large family, Ron and his siblings helped to support. He was extremely proud to have stayed in school to completion. Post graduation and during the Korean War, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He loved his country and was proud to have served during war time. He later was honorably discharged due to a medical condition and as a disabled veteran remained dedicated.

Family and friends knew him by many nicknames: Ronnie, Ron, Rosie, Uncle Diddy, and Mustache. Ron married the love of his life, Shirley Marie Hebert, on June 16, 1956, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, in Waterville. A piece of granite from the church during its demolition was engraved with their names, wedding date, and interlocking wedding rings was presented to them during an anniversary celebrating 67 years of marriage and being the proud parents of five children.

His happy moments were taking road trips, going to Harpswell to an ocean front home, and breakfast on Fridays with his youngest daughter. His infectious smile and pocket full of jokes put him at the top of his game as a salesman. Always dressing sharply for work at W.T. Grant and Levine’s Store for Men & Boys, both in Waterville. His sparkling personality could sell you the Two-Cent Bridge. After 22 years of service, Ron retired from the Waterville Post Office where he kept employees in stitches with his antics. He loved working on carpentry projects at their home at Edgemont Avenue where he took such pride in ownership and created many beautiful masterpieces. He always planted a garden, and we all enjoyed the produce of his skilled hands.

Back in the day Ron loved to bowl in many leagues. With his doubles partner, they captured the city doubles championship. He also was an avid fisherman and spent numerous hours in the woods hunting with his son and friends. He was always up for a game of horseshoes or cribbage. But his favorite pastime was the game of golf where he won club championships at J. W. Parks Golf Course, in Pittsfield, and Cedar Springs Golf Course, in Albion.

People gravitated to Ron like he was a celebrity, and he had a host of friends all over the country. Ron was honored to recite and be known as “The Man in the Glass”, at AA meetings. He used his own life lessons to give back to those who were struggling and this past September at a meeting celebrated 35 years of sobriety.

He was a proud parishioner of Sacred Heart Church, inWaterville, where he served as a Eucharistic minister during Masses and distributing at homes of the ill. Ron enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics. He loved going to breakfast with the “Boys” on Saturday mornings, especially with his best friend Bobby. For a quiet time, Ron enjoyed sitting at his keyboard to play his favorite songs. Well-known to whistle a tune or use his skill to garner up his children at sunset… we’re all certain he whistled his way Home. We love you Dad.

Other than his parents, Ron was predeceased by all his siblings, Emily (Harold) Buzzell, Oram (Cecile) Rossignol, Roland, Irene (Roland) Couture, Lorraine (Raymond) Gagnon, Frederick “Louis”, Alfreda (Fernand) Veilleux, Rose (Norman) Grenier, Noella Rossignol, Jerome (Marjorie), Madeline (Robert) Mattall, Harold and Jacqueline Rossignol; many nieces and nephews; and his great-grandson Liam.

Ron is survived by his wife Shirley; children Royce (Diane) Rossignol, Rhea (Robert Colford) Hunt, Rhonda (Michael) Boyett, Renee Dunphe, and Ryan (Lisa); sister-in-law Joyce Dall Rossignol; many nieces and nephews; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services and burial will occur in June, details be announced at a later time.

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

HAROLD BICKFORD

BENTON – Harold Bickford, 77, a life-long resident of Benton, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on August 6, 1946, Harold was the husband of Janice Shores Bickford.

Harold’s love extended beyond his family to his faithful canine companions. An avid dog lover, he always had at least one loyal friend by his side, with his cherished Poppy remaining steadfast until the very end.

Professionally, Harold was a well-known local builder who took great pride in his workmanship. He estimated that he built 100 brand new homes and undertook countless renovations, leaving a long lasting mark on the community he loved.

Harold’s impact on the community extended beyond his family and professional life. A dedicated volunteer, he found joy in contributing to the well-being of others. In the late 1970s, Harold pioneered the first Girls PAL basketball league, leaving an enduring legacy in the community. He continued to coach various PAL girls teams in both basketball and softball, instilling a love for sports and teamwork in countless young athletes. In recognition of his unwavering dedication, he received the Bulldog Award in the 1990s, a testament to his significant contributions to the team and the entire Bulldog community.

Harold’s passion for community service and the love of sports also led him to spend over two decades as part of the “Chain Gang” during Lawrence Bulldog varsity football games.

Harold’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of his sister Louise Bickford Blackburn, in San Marcos, California, and his brothers Ron and Glen Bickford, both of Benton. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him with love.

Harold is survived by his two daughters, Cathy Bickford Bourque and husband Brian Bourque, of Benton, and Jill Bickford Brooks, and husband Bill Brooks, of Corinna; his grandchildren, Jayden Brooks, of Corinna, Alyssa Bourque, Ryan Bourque, and Kaylyn Bourque, all of Benton; stepdaughter, Stacy Higgins, of Fairfield; and two step-grandchildren, John French and Kaylee Valcourt, both of Fairfield.

Harold did not want a formal service, however, there will be a celebration of life on Sunday, March 17, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Fairfield Community Center, located at 61 Water Street in Fairfield.

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

CARROLL HIGGINS

ALBION – Carroll Higgins of Albion, Maine passed on Wedndesday, December 27, 2023, at Lakewood Nursing Home, in Waterville. Carroll was a self-employed carpenter with many talents.

He was predeceased by his parents, Earl S. and Laura G. Higgins.

He is survived by his brother Robert Higgins; cousin Leah Scott.

A private graveside service will take place in the spring.

FAITH POMERLEAU

WINSLOW – Faith Pomerleau, 22, of Winslow, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. Faith was born August 23, 2001, the daughter of Brian and Briana Pomerleau.

Faith’s personality was larger than life, she had an unforgettable laugh that was contagious, and a smile that would light up any room she danced her way into. She was an extremely outgoing and loveable person. Faith was highly adored by her niece and nephews, and everyone she met immediately gravitated towards her fun-loving nature.

Faith is survived by her parents, and grandparents; five siblings, Ryan Pomerleau and partner Courtney Ferrara, Brendon Pomerleau and wife Megan Pomerleau, Chantelle Rines and husband Jason Rines, Josh Pomerleau and wife Veronica Pomerleau, and brother Austin Pomerleau; grandmother Allison Libby; her grandfather Robert Pomerleau; as well as her many nephews and niece, Ayden Pomerleau, Keegan Pomerleau, Caleb Pomerleau, McKenna Pomerleau and Jack Rines; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her Nana, Rhonda Morgan, and her uncle, Cory Hastings.

The family held a private celebration of life for Faith on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book may be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

BRADFORD P. MUNDY

OAKLAND – Bradford Philip Mundy, 85, passed away Saturday, December 30, 2023, following a short but mighty battle with cancer. Brad was born on Kristall­nacht, Nov­ember 9, 1938, in Warrens­burg, New York, the oldest of five children, to Philip and Lavinia Mundy.

At age one, because of new employment for his father, the family moved to Schenectady, New York, where his two sisters, Phyllis and Sandra, were born. Another move back to Warrensburg, and the family grew again to include his brother Alan. Brad started school at Warrensburg Central School.

The family again moved back to Schenectady, where Brad’s brother James was born. Brad attended and graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in the Technical Mechanical Program, which was rich in pre-engineering math and science, preparing students for industrial work. There were no thoughts of college. However, because of its modest fees, in 1957 Brad was able to enter Albany State Teachers College majoring in mathematics.

Because of a great teacher, Richard F. Smith, Brad was drawn into chemistry, a subject that became a lifetime love affair. Throughout his undergraduate years, Brad spent summers in Warrensburg, working as a bartender in a summer resort, which provided a separate education.

After graduating from Albany State, Brad enrolled in the Master’s Program there. During his first year, he was offered a full fellowship to enroll in the Chemistry Ph.D. program at The University of Vermont. During that summer he worked doing weather research and was the Whiteface Mountain radio weather reporter for Lake Placid, New York. Brad continued his three-year Ph.D. program working on a mechanistic problem and the synthesis of natural perfume constituent, beta-vetivone.

In 1963, during his second year at the University of Vermont, Brad married Margaret R. Saimond. After finishing his Ph.D., they moved to Berkeley, California. where Brad began a post-doctoral program at University of California Berkeley, working on the details of how the tobacco plant makes nicotine.

While at Berkeley, Brad and Margaret’s son, Christopher, was born. After completing his post-doctoral studies, they moved to Bozeman, Montana, where Brad started his teaching/research career. In Montana, their family grew to include two daughters, Ellen and Jill.

Brad spent 26 years at Montana State University as a professor, department head, and Associate Dean of Letters and Science, as well as one year at the National Science Foundation, in Washington, DC. In 1992 Brad accepted an offer of department chairmanship and the Miselis Endowed Chair, at Colby College, in Waterville.

In his teaching career, Brad received numerous teaching awards. He also published more than 13 chemistry textbooks and was a member of The American Chemical Society. After retirement, Brad and Margaret bought a home in Oakland, and a summer camp on Great Pond. Good neighbors, good friends, and great times were part of the summers at camp.

Brad always said he had a great life! Margaret (great wife and partner), excellent children (who married well), the nicest grandchildren (called him PaPa or Grampy), and wonderful places to live. Most of all, the opportunity to be a teacher…in the classroom, laboratory, and at home with his own children and grandchildren. His students were a blessing and kept him young.

Brad’s parting wishes for everyone: Live life with gusto. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not yet available, and today, right now, is what you have. Live fully, do nothing to leave regrets and be curious about everything. Be a good person.

Brad is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margaret; his children, Christopher Mundy (Marion), Ellen Shuler (Dain), and Jill Putnam (Jon); his grandchildren Philip Shuler, Ethan Shuler, Seth Putnam (Jamie), Carson Putnam, Nicholas Mundy and Sophie Mundy; his siblings Phyllis Veith, Sandra Pigliavento, Alan Mundy (Jacqueline), and Cheryl Mundy; his nieces, nephews.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Lavinia Mundy, Margaret’s parents, Charles and Angela Saimond; his brother James Mundy; his niece Lisa Pigliavento; and his brothers-in-law, Paul Saimond, Lee Pigliavento, and John Veith.

Funeral services are being planned for later in the spring in both Waterville, and Bozeman, Montana. Services will be announced.

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

RICHARD C. DILLIHUNT

SIDNEY – Richard C. “Rick” Dillihunt, 74, of Sidney, died on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at home. Rick was born in Augusta on April 16, 1949, to Charles E. “Bud” Dillihunt and Bertha “Babe” (Fortier) Dillihunt.

Rick graduated from Forest Hills High School, in Jackman, in 1967.

On August 23, 1969, Rick married Christa Quirion, of Jackman. In January 1969, Rick went to work for Central Maine Power Company (CMP), in Portland. He began as a meter reader then moved into the line department, first as a groundman apprentice, but quickly advancing to first class lineman.

Some of his fondest memories were of working in the Portland Line Department. In 1975, Rick and his wife, Christa, moved to Greenville where he joined a small line crew. He later became the local representative for CMP for the Greater Greenville Area. In 1985, he transferred to Augusta to become a line/telephone coordinator. Rick retired from CMP after 41 years of service.

Rick was an avid hunter, fisherman, outdoorsman, and snowmobiler. He truly enjoyed the month of October for partridge hunting and was often complimented on his ability to “shoot a bird on the fly.” November was especially enjoyable for (deer) “hunting week” in Jackman with his friends. He was a valued member of The Turner Pond Club for a number of years.

In addition to his outdoor interests, Rick was also an accomplished home cook specializing in everything from appetizers, to entrees, to desserts. Rick could often be found early in the morning surfing the internet for his next recipe or creating a grocery list for the day’s cooking project. He was famous for feeding hearty meals to his family, friends, and neighbors. It was rare to visit his home and not leave with a “doggie bag” with requests for feedback on new recipes. Rick was happiest in the kitchen surrounded by his recipes and his family.

Rick is survived by his wife of 54 years, Christa (Quirion) Dillihunt, of Sidney; his son, Chad Dillihunt, of Winslow; his daughter, Jenny Dillihunt Brown and husband Gary “Bobby” Brown, of Augusta; and two granddaughters, Abby and Lily Brown, the lights of his life.

Rick was predeceased by his father, Bud, and his mother, Babe.

Per Rick’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Jackman Regional Paramedicine Program, Town of Jackman, 369 Main St., Jackman, ME 04945, or to MaineGeneral Hospice, 10 Water St., Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901.

DANA A. BOLDUC

MESA, Arizona – Dana A. Bolduc, 82, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at home in Mesa, Arizona. He was born in Waterville, December 27, 1941.

Dana was taught by the Ursuline Sisters, kindergarten through fourth grade, Brothers of Christian Instruction, at Notre Dame School, fifth through eighth grade then was educated in Waterville public schools. He earned an Associate of Arts in Social Services in May 1999 from the University of Maine.

He was active in high school athletics, hockey, baseball, football, track, and javelin throw in 1959 which he held the school record until 2008. After high school, he had an interest in sports as well as local politics.

Dana served on the Winslow School committee and was a member of St. John Church Parish Council, in Winslow. In Waterville, he served on the Notre Dame Church Parish Council and co-chaired Mayor Nancy Hill’s successful campaign committee. He enjoyed bowling, golf, and fishing.

He worked at Kilroy’s, then Levine’s clothing store, in Waterville, started in 1960 and worked for 29 years, Waterville police officer briefly, Knights of Columbus Council #7520 Notre Dame Waterville, as well as Eucharistic minister and a lecturer at Notre Dame, Our Lady of Guadalupe Council #14101 Queen Creek, Arizona, and Queen of Peace Council # 9446 Mesa, Arizona. He was also a lecture with Council #9446. Waterville Public Schools 1997 to 2005, worked with special education and Apache Junction and Gold Canyon, in Arizona, from 2006 to 2011. He enjoyed working with those that did not fit the mold.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years Monica Tremblay Bolduc; five children Joan Bolduc, of Waterville, Jane Stevenson and husband Mark Stevenson, Ph.D., of Gilbert, Arizona, Jessica Marquis and Timothy, of Orono, Jennifer Thomson and husband James, of Elkmont, Alabama, Matthew Bolduc and wife Candice, of Apache Junction, Arizona; 12 grandchildren, Benjamin Bolduc, Ph.D. and wife Britany Fonner, Ph.D., of Columbus, Ohio, Holly McMullen and husband Michael, of Mesa, Arizona, Dana Champagne and husband Nicholas, of Waterville, Ryan Thomson, of Daleville, Alabama, Kayla Marquis and Joshua Carr, of Glenburn, Tyler Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama, Joshua Marquis and wife Giorgia Calcagno, of Palmyra, Andrew Thomson and wife Judyth, of Elkmont, Alabama, Gabrielle Marquis, of Orono, Conner Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama, Dominique Bolduc, of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Leanne Thomson, of Elkmont, Alabama; seven great-grandchildren, Juliette, David, MacKenzie, Owen, Harley, Chance, and Lucas; one great-great-grandchild, Henry Cardenas due February 5, 2024; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dana was preceded by a son Richard Bolduc, his parents, Dominique and Joan Bolduc, and a brother Donald Bolduc.

The funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Queen of Peace, Mesa, Arizona, at 10:30 a.m., live-streamed at https://www.youtube. com/channel/UC4MOjjrkx2fpWQRIvPt3g3Q/featured https://www.facebook.com/@QueenOfPeaceMesa with the celebration of life to follow in the welcome center at Queen of Peace.

A Memorial Mass and burial will be held in Waterville, summer of 2024.

In lieu of, flowers please donate to St. Vincent de Paul in his memory.

PATRICIA J. DAMREN

AUGUSTA – Patricia Jean (Barr) Manley Damren, 80, of Pittston, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a period of declining health due to complications of chronic kidney disease. Pat was born in Waterville on September 2, 1943, the youngest of the three daughters of Vernon C. and Virginia (Graves) Barr.

She grew up on the family farm in Sidney and graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1961. She worked at Augusta General Hospital for six years and then in the accounting office of Hammond Lumber Company, in Belgrade, where she retired after 30 years of service. After her retirement, she continued to work during income tax season for Laurie A. Lawrence Accounting, LLC, in Pittston.

Pat married Leo A. Damren in 1986. She enjoyed their many trips together, whether to Young’s Lobster Pound, in Belfast, the stock car races at Oxford Plains Speedway or the Fryeburg Fair.

She was a very reserved and unassuming individual and disliked being the center of attention. She nevertheless cared deeply for her many loved ones. She is fondly remembered for the large Thanksgiving dinners she prepared for her growing extended famliy. She enjoyed camping, motorcycle riding, four-wheeling, knitting, spending time with family and friends, and watching dramas on Lifetime Movie Channel.

Pat was predeceased by her infant granddaughter, Vanessa Manley, in 2001; her son, Troy C. Manley, in 2011; her husband, Leo A. Damren, in 2018; and her daughter-in-law, Teresa Manley, in 2020.

She is survived by her son, Douglas G. Manley and her granddaughter Britney Manley, both of Kelsterbach, Germany; sisters Norma L. (Barr) Roberts, of Fairfield, and Sandra (Barr) Bickford Gradie and her husband Ted, of Oakland; sister-in-law, Rosella A. (Damren) Morrow, of Wells; step-siblings Jeffrey, Robert and Betsy Campbell, of Sidney; step-children Dana M. Damren and his wife Janet, of Augusta, Brenda M. (Damren) Baker and her husband Bill, of Augusta, Sheila A. Damren, of Columbus, Ohio, and Lorna A. Damren, of Portland; eight step-grandchildren; many step-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews; and cousins; and her special friend and Guardian Angel, Harold “Butch” James III, of Pittston.

At Pat’s request, there will be no funeral service. Her ashes will be buried in the spring along side her husband Leo and near her infant granddaughter, at St. Mary’s Cemetery, in Manchester.

Donations in her memory may be made to P.A.L.S. No-Kill Cat Shelter, in Winthrop.

LAYA JOSEPH

WATERVILLE – Laya Joseph, 87, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at her home. Laya was born in Lebanon, where she married her late husband, Wadeah Joseph.

Together they moved to the United States and settled in Waterville. Shortly after their daughter Nada was born, Laya’s husband passed away. She moved back to Lebanon with her daughter with the intention of living there but later fled the country as the war (World War II) had started. She made the very difficult decision to leave her family in order to give her daughter a better life in the United States.

Laya was a devout Catholic and belonged to St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville. She was a member of the Rosary Solidarity and volunteered endless hours cooking for church events. Most importantly Laya was known in the community as being the bright light and backbone of the Lebanese Cuisine for the past 44 years. Her warm smiling face, tender heart, and giving spirit was loved by all who knew her.

Laya was the matriarch of the family. She handled all obstacles in her life with strength and resiliency. She took pride in her role as a mother, sister, and aunt. Laya’s love in life was spending time with her family. She was passionate about making sure her loved ones were well cared for in many ways, this was exhibited through her continuous acts of selflessness throughout her entire life. Laya was also known for her delicious cooking. She spent hours preparing delectable Lebanese meals.

No words can express how deeply she will be missed. Heaven has gained another angel.

Laya was predeceased by her husband Wadeah Joseph.

She is survived by her daughter, Nada Joseph, of Waterville; sister Yvonne Farhat, of Lebanon; brothers Salim Nasr, Nassim Nasr and wife Joyce, all of Waterville; niece Rita Karter and husband John, of Waterville; and her great-nephews Elias and Evan Karter; as well as many nieces and nephews, in Lebanon.

A private Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to: St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville.

DAVID T. CHOATE

WINDSOR – David T. Choate, 83, of Windsor, passed peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, January 3, 2024.  David was born on June 23, 1940, a son of Donald and Mavis (Turner) Choate.

David was known for many things, his construction business, his service as a U.S. Postal rural route carrier, his tireless winters of plowing snow for various towns and businesses, but none will ever define him as  much as his love of cows and farming.

David started at a very young age as a farm hand on his grandfather’s farm, eventually making his way to the University of Maine-Orono to become a graduate of the Agricultural Services program in 1965. He continued from there as a farm manager for Lipman Poultry Co., and eventually started his own farm in Windsor, on Clover Hill Road, where he raised beef and dairy cattle.  You could expect if he was working on your construction site or foundation in June and the sun was shining you might have a hard time finding him unless you knew which field his haying equipment was in that day.  He lived his passion and there is a lesson in that for us all.

David is survived by his former wife and best friend, Diana Choate; his two daughters, Mary Dee Grant and Joanne Choate, both of New Harbor; his three sons, Chris Choate and his wife Randi, of Rockland, Michael Choate and his partner Jennifer, of Liberty, and Matthew Choate, of Coopers Mills; and several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life in David’s honor will be held in the spring at a date and time to be announced. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Erskine Academy, 309 Windsor Rd., South China, Maine 04358.

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

HELEN L. HOAD

WINDSOR – Helen L. Hoad, 71, died Wednesday, January 3, 2024, in the comfort of her home where she resided for more than 40 years and raised three children with her husband Steve.

Helen was happy until her last breath. Her passing, though sudden, was without suffering or pain.

Helen’s life’s work was always hands on with individuals: at Pineland, in New Gloucester, Uplift, in Gardiner, and Augusta Mental Health, she was an aid and support person. In 1993 Helen graduated from the Downeast School of Massage and fulfilled her dream of serving clients with love, healing hands and care as a certified massage therapist until August 2015 from her office in Augusta, and also was proud to offer onsite chair massages at businesses and events whenever possible to bring Massage to those unable to come to her.

Through good times, trials, and illness Helen was fiercely independent. She will be remembered for assisting teaching and learning from friends and family. Helen enjoyed cooking, as did all who tasted it. Her joy for life and love for all filled our home.

Helen was born in Lewiston, on Oct. 13, 1952, to Eliane and Ralph Plante (deceased).

She was predeceased by daughter, Emma Hoad, in March of 1983.

She is survived by husband Steve; their son Samuel; daughters, Roseanne and Penelope; grandchildren, Ashton, Scarlett, Emily Hoad and Cameron Foisy.

Friends are welcome Friday, January 12, from 4-6 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Road, Rt. 32, Windsor.

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

Thanks and donations may be mailed in Helen’s name to Windsor Volunteer Fire/Rescue, P.O. Box 179, Windsor, ME, 04363.

LAURETTA ELLIS

WATERVILLE – Lauretta “Laurie” Ellis, 92, of Waterville and Augusta, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Comfort Care at Glenridge, in Augusta, following a brief illness.

There will be an internment at the Center Vassalboro Baptist Church Cemetery in the spring. Those wishing to give testimony to Lauretta’s life may leave their thoughts in the online guestbook.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.

DONALD E. ZALTZBERG

WATERVILLE – Donald Earl Zaltzberg, 66, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Hospice House, in Auburn. He was born and raised in Massachusetts, spent the last 20-plus years of his life in Waterville, until his passing. He was the son of the late Irving and Hester C. Zaltzberg.

He graduated from Malden High School, in Massachusetts, in 1975, and went on to have a thriving business of his own. He was always willing to help anybody in need and was there to fix your oil burner at the drop of a hat.

Donald had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. He enjoyed spending his time doing a variety of different things such as bowling, dancing, going to comedy shows, traveling with his family and friends, watching the New England Patriots, riding his motorcycle, and just going out to have a good time. He had a great love for his many cats and even went so far as to tell his nieces and nephews that he could “speak cat” and always knew what they were saying to him.

Donald was well loved by a wide range of people but most importantly by his family. He is going to be missed by everyone, who’s life he touched.

He is survived by his son, Donnie Zaltzberg; and his granddaughter Reagan; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Bonnie Young, James Bannen, Alan Zaltzberg, Debra White, and Andra Toppi.

Interment will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boston Children’s Hospital or the Boston Children’s Hospital Research Center.