OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 13, 2024

JOSHUA T. NELSON

SIDNEY – Joshua Thomas Nelson, “Big Country”, 35, of Sidney, passed away on June 5, 2024, as a result of an automobile accident.

Josh was a hard­working, fun loving family guy. He spent most of his time working on building his business. He was the one you could count on! He had strong beliefs and enjoyed discussions whether you agreed with him or was on the opposing side. His love of ribbing and joking had no bounds. Josh had a tough exterior, but he was a selfless teddy bear.

Josh was a graduate of St. Augustine Catholic School, in Augusta, and graduated in 2008 from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland. Josh was a communicant of St. Augustine Church.

Joshua obtained his CDL license then began work for Pat Jackson and Dube Environmental before venturing out to establish his own successful business, JT Nelson Sewer & Drain LLC.

Josh “Big Country” enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley. He took pride in his country, talking history and politics. He loved spending time in Jackman. Josh had a big heart, was always willing to help others and was fiercely loyal. His love of family was evident at Sunday dinners at his parents’ home in Sidney and he never missed a family event.

The world was a better place having had Josh in it, he will be missed greatly by all who knew him.

Joshua is survived by his parents, John and Donna Nelson; his sister, Renee Nelson; and niece, Arianna Dube; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Josh was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Jude and Dora Brunelle; great-grandmother, Ida Toussaint; as well as his paternal grandparents, great-grammy Doris Knight, and grandmother, Beatrice Sproul.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 1 p.m., at the Augusta Civic Center, North room.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

ALISON MIZNER

WATERVILLE – Alison “Mickey” Mizner, 88, died peacefully at her home, in Waterville on January 14, 2024. The cause was cancer. Born on Staten Island, New York, in 1935, Mickey was the daughter of Henry Bamford Parkes, a historian, and Mollie Brown, a psychologist.

Mickey moved to Waterville with her husband, John Mizner, in 1963 after he got a job teaching English at Colby College, in Waterville, and they lived on West Court with their children Sarah and David. She had an older sister, Nancy, who she would stay close to throughout her life. When Mickey was three, the family moved to Yorktown on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

Her parents pulled her out of public school and enrolled her in Walden, a private school on the Upper West Side. Most of the students there came from wealthy families, and Mickey felt out of step with her classmates.

Mickey lived at home while attending New York University and graduated as an English major. For her first salaried job, she worked as a case manager with the Bureau of Child Welfare. The experience was formative for Mickey, who would later write that the people she visited never had a real chance in life due to “racism, poverty, and bureaucratic intransigence.”

On a blind date, she met John, who was working toward a PhD in English at the University of Pennsylvania. They were an ideal match. John, having endured a traumatic childhood as a Holocaust refugee, needed a caretaker, a role that came naturally to Mickey. John, meanwhile, was the dependable, stabilizing force that Mickey needed.

John took a job at Colby, which was in a state neither he nor Mickey had visited. In 1967, shortly before Sarah was born, they moved to West Court. David was born two years later.

Mickey and John took enormous pleasure in food, travel, day trips to Great Pond and the coast, movies at Railroad Square Cinema, and the many friends they made through Colby.

In the late ‘70s, Mickey earned a degree in speech therapy at the University of Maine Orono and started working in the elementary schools, helping students overcome stutters and other impediments.

Mickey enjoyed watching her children play sports and might have even felt a bit of “Panther Pride” when David’s basketball team won the state championship in 1985. She and John loved to travel. They took many trips to Europe, first with the children then without. Perhaps their favorite destination was the French Riviera, where John’s father lived. The family often went to New York City, because both grandmothers lived there, and in later years John and Mickey continued to visit, eventually buying an apartment in the city with the idea they would spend time there after John retired.

But it was not to be. In 1998, shortly before his retirement, John was diagnosed with kidney cancer. Mickey immersed herself in the task of caring for him. The cancer progressed rapidly in the fall, and he died at home in December at the age of 66.

It was after John’s death that Mickey, trying to process her enormous grief, began to write, first about his sickness, then about her childhood and her family. Having read thousands of books in her life, Mickey discovered that she herself was a writer.

She read for hours every day, doted on her cats, did yoga, researched and supported animal welfare efforts, kept up on both local and national politics, volunteered in a senior companion program, and met friends for movies and meals.

Friends cared for Mickey throughout her seven-year sickness. They took her to medical appointments, brought her dinner, slept over, shopped for her, sat with her, and ultimately enabled her to die as she wanted, at home.

Mickey lived mindfully, taking little for granted. Even during chemo cycles, she took joy in her many pleasures, whether it was her daily phone call with Nancy, an episode of All Creatures Great and Small, or one of the mini-Butterfingers she kept in the fridge.

Mickey is survived by her children, Sarah, her husband Josh, David, his wife Miri; her grandchildren Anna, Sophie, Nate, Milo, Gideon and Izzy; her sister Nancy; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 22, at 10 a.m., at Lorimer Chapel, at Colby, with a luncheon reception to follow at 2 West Court, in Waterville.

Services

BARBARA W. PINKHAM

OAKLAND – A Celebration of LIfe will be held for Barbara Wilson Pinkham, at the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church, School Street, Oakland, on Saturday June 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. Lunch will follow in the Social Hall.

Those who wish are invited to visit The Lexington Center Cemetery, in Lexington, and join a tour of the Lexington/Highland History House, a museum project initiated by Barbara Pinkham.

DAVID S, CAMPBELL

 

 

AUGUSTA – David S. Campbell passed away September 1, 2023.

A grave­­side service will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Resthaven Cemetery, Route 32, Windsor. with military honors for his 20 years of service in the United States Air Force. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #2, the Elks Lodge #964, both in Augusta, a Mason and had nine years of voluntary service to the Maine State Credit Union.

There will be no gathering after the services. Please bring memories and stories to share.

RICHARD STAPLES

Please join the family as they come together to honor and celebrate the life of Richard Staples on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 3 p.m., at the home of Forrest Staples, 930 Colby Road, Palermo, Maine.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 6, 2024

RONALD MORIN

FAIRFIELD – Ronald Morin, 58, passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Ronald, and his twin brother Donald, were born October 6, 1965, the sons of Marc Andre and Francoise Morin, in Jackman.

Ron grew up in a large family with seven brothers and five sisters. He excelled in academics and athletics while attending Forest Hills High School, graduating in 1983.

Ron enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October 1983 and trained as a Medical Field Service Technician. In 1986-1987, he deployed on an extended 18-month Mediterranean cruise aboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy as a corpsman assigned to Marine Attack Squadron VMF (AW) 533. Ron attained the rank of Petty Officer First Class and separated from the Navy in January 1991.

Throughout his time in the Navy, Ron worked towards earning a college degree. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Old Dominion University (ODU) in 1992 with a B.A. in Environmental Health Sciences. While attending ODU, Ron met Anna Ghorashian. Ron and Anna were briefly married in 1994 before dissolving their marriage. Ron accepted a position with the Department of the Navy as an Environmental Hygienist working for the Navy Inspector General. He remained in that position until medically retired in 1998.

Ronald returned to Maine to be with family; living with his mother in Fairfield and with brothers in Waterville, Winslow, and Bangor. He loved spending time with his large family and visiting friends he met in the Navy.

Ronald was predeceased by his parents, Marc Andre and Francoise Morin, of Jackman; and brothers Hubert, of Limerick, and Pierre, of Willimantic, Connecticut.

He is survived by sisters Danielle Hale, of Jackman, Louise Morin-Smith, of Bangor, Jacqueline (DeLallo) Morin, of Bethel, Christina Stone, of Scarborough, and Monique Swartz, of Bangor; brothers Maxime, of Jackman, Francis, of Hermon, Jacques, of Bangor, his twin Donald ,of Bangor, and Antoine, of Benton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, June 15, at noon, in Jackman, at Saint Anthony’s Cemetery, with a reception to follow at the American Legion Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: the Arno E. Hughey American Legion Post #122, P.O. Box 351, Jackman, ME, 04945.

GLORIA M. LEWIS

BENTON – Gloria M. (Michaud) Lewis, 91, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024, at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta. Gloria was born on August 8, 1932, in Waterville, daughter of Rosaire and Florida (Coro) Michaud.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1950 as valedictorian. She was a talented artist with two of her paintings Tom Sawyer Whitewashing the Fence and Black Beauty, hung in the Children’s Room at the Waterville Public Library for many years.

On June 14, 1952, Gloria married Howard “Ted” Lewis, at Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville. Gloria’s commitment to family and friends will find them missing her every day. She was passionate about gardening, both flowers and vegetables, baking, canning, and growing giant sunflowers brought her joy.

Gloria is survived by her daughter Debra Lewis Beckwith and husband Durwood Sr., of Hartland; grandson Benjamin Grass and wife Kelly, of Watertown, New York; granddaughter Patrice Harris and husband Benjamin, of Winslow; great-grandchildren Joshua, Jordaan, Jakob, Michaela, Garrison, and Ainsley; and great-great-granddaughter Daisy Kate; brothers Harold “Pit” and Joseph Michaud; sister Jacqueline Morin; and several nieces and nephews.

Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Ted Lewis; her son Michael Howard Lewis; great-granddaughter Katherine Lee Grass Burns; brother Roland Michaud, sister Lorette Clair and Violette Meader, three sisters-in-law and three brothers-in-law.

A graveside service will be held June 3, 2024, at 10:30 a.m, at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville. Please join the family immediately afterward at the St. John School Hall, in Winslow.

Please visit Gloria’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/gloria-lewis-2023 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

Donations may be made in her name to the Waterville Public Library Children’s Room.

ALBERT L. WOODBURY

BENTON – Albert Lee Woodbury, 66, passed away at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Monday, May 13, 2024, after bravely fighting stage 4 pancreatic cancer with the utmost courage, and wildly bold determination to face it head on without treatments.

Born on October 25, 1957, Albert lived a life filled with love for his family and a deep sense of empathy for others. He will be remembered for his need for speed, his mischievous laugh, for being the life and soul of the party, but mostly for his unwavering love, guidance, and support that he gave to his daughter, grandson, and granddaughter.

Albert graduated from Mount View High School, in Thorndike, in 1976 and went on to start his life on Town House Hill, in Clinton, at the ripe age of 19. Professionally he spent the majority of his life in the wood business, delivering firewood to residents in central Maine. His most prideful trade was working alongside Harold Bickford for over 30 years gaining the love for and knowledge of building homes here in Maine with one of the people he respected most in this world. Albert transformed three homes into rental properties and became a landlord for more than 30 years when he moved to Clinton. Raising a family in the old one room schoolhouse before making the move to a brand-new home he built on the Sebasticook river, in Benton.

Albert cherished moments spent with his family enjoying the simple pleasures of life. He also experienced extreme pleasure being at the racetracks with his closest friends, smelling the rubber, feeling the vibration from the cars, all with a cold Budweiser in hand. His presence brought such a festive, upbeat feeling to all who knew him, even to the people who did not. His absence will be deeply felt by those who were fortunate enough to have him in their lives.

He was predeceased by his parents William and Caroline Goodblood Woodbury, as well as his brothers Willie and Andy Woodbury.

Albert is survived by his only child Jennifer Woodbury George and her husband Brandon George, of Benton; his grandchildren Zachary Reid, Bralynn George; great-grandson Bentley Reid; brother Paul and wife Mary Woodbury, of Burnham; several nieces and nephews and their families.

Albert did not want a formal service, however there will be a celebration of life to come at a later date.

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

The family kindly requests that donations be made to pancreatic cancer research, in Albert’s memory.

PRESCOTT D. ROBINSON

FAIRFIELD – Prescott D. Robinson, 86, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, May 17, 2024. Prescott was born on April 6, 1938, in Fairfield, son to Albert N. and Flornce E. (Moore) Robinson.

Prescott was a proud lifelong resident of Fairfiled. He was a mechanic at McCormick Tractor and operated heavy equipment. He loved racing at Unity Raceway with his brothers and going to camp to hunt and fish.

He was predeceased by son Lawrence Robinson, and daughter Donna Robinson.

Prescott is survived by sons Prescott Robinson Jr., of Stark,s and Robert P. Robinson, of Fairfield; as well as daughter Robin L. Nelson, of Monson.

At his request, there will be no service.

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

CHRYSTAL P. HASSEN

WATERVILLE – Chrystal P. Hassen, 74, passed away at home on May 18, 2024. She was born in Augusta on January 26, 1951, to Earl and Mary Shorey.

She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Douglas Hassen; three sons, Reginald Davis, Justin Davis and wife Wendy, Kurt Davis and wife Jen; and her sister Janet; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and two nieces.

She was predeceased by her parents Earl and Mary; and son Gregory Davis, Jr.

Chrystal was a very religious person who loved her cats and dogs. She also liked car riding in the country, playing cards. eating out and stockcar racing.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Old Time Pentecostal Church, at 866 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Oakland, on Saturday, June 8, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal shelter.

GLORIA J. BLANCHET

WATERVILLE – Gloria Jean (LaPierre) Blanchet, 73, passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at Mt. Joseph, in Waterville. She was born in Waterville on January 11, 1950, the daughter of Leodore L. and Doris M. (Saindon) LaPierre.

Gloria was educated in local Catholic and public schools and she married Carl S. Blanchet, on May 9, 1992.

Her work consisted of 20 odd years in local department stores (Mammoth Mart, Zayre, and K-Mart). From 1987 until 2012 she was employed by the Town of Fairfield. She worked in the treasurer’s and assessor’s/codes enforcement and town clerk’s offices.

When not working she was volunteering. Gloria was buyer and later president of the Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers. She was happy and proud of her 19 years of helping the home, especially the Christmas miracles that happened there. She also volunteered with the Fairfield Chocolate Fest, served as an officer one year for Fairfield Historical Society, and served as secretary one year for Seton Village Council. Keeping busy, she also helped her mother with the older cousins at Christmas time to get their trees up for the holiday and, of course, to take them down. Some Christmas holidays she’d help with a half dozen trees.

Gloria was predeceased by her parents, her husband Carl, and all her siblings, Doreen, Ronald, Marie, Louis, Theresa, and Francis.

She is survived by a niece Crystal Pomerleau, her husband Robie, and their children Harly and Tucker; with many more nieces and nephews.

At Gloria’s request, there will be no public wake or funeral service.

RONALD A. BUCKNAM

OAKLAND – Worshipful Ronald A. Bucknam, 76, died Friday, May 24, 2024, in his home in Oakland.  Ronald was born Nov­ember 18, 1947, to John and Gladys Bucknam.

He graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1966, entered the U.S. Air Force, and married his lifelong love, Bonnie Whitman.

After returning home, he worked for Peters Gas and Oil and Maine Central Rail Road.

He was a Past Master of Messalonskee Masonic Hall for 34 years and a member of Mount Lebanon Counsel and Drummond Chapter of York Rite.

He leaves behind his wife, Bonnie, of 54 years; his son Steven; two brothers; and eight grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, Gary, his brothers John and Steven, and his sisters, Joyce, Helen, and Ellen. He always told the best jokes.

A public viewing will be held at Wheelers Funeral Home, on Saturday, June 15, from 5 – 7 p.m.

A graveside service is scheduled for Monday, June 17, 2024, at Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland, at 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at the Waterville Masonic Hall.

WARREN M. POULIN

WINSLOW – Warren Maurice Poulin, 85, son of J. N. Laurier and Yvette (Ferland) Poulin, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at home. He was born October 30, 1938, the day radio announcer Orson Wells reported Earth was invaded by Martians.

Warren was president of his Winslow High School Class of 1956, a member of the National Honor Society, and the American Legion. He earned a BS degree at Suffolk University, an MBA at Northeastern University and a JD from Suffolk University Law School.

He was a member of the Massachusetts and Maine bars, and practiced in the Waterville-Winslow area for 50 years. Warren was a lifelong learner and an avid reader, with a particular interest in World War II history. He and his wife Patricia built their home together, learning and appreciating tradesmen’s skill sets in the process. He hunted, hiked, enjoyed a number of outdoor sports, gardened, and repaired (with occasional success) antique Johnson outboard motors and small engines. A great day for Warren was reading a good book while either relaxing in his recliner or in a hunting blind.

Highlights of his youth athletic career were the day he hit three home runs and two singles in one Little League game and in one football game, he caught a bunch of passes and was dubbed “Sticky Fingers Poulin” and receiving All-State Football Honorable Mention that same year.

Warren took every opportunity during his military service for travel throughout Europe and to Istanbul. He visited the Brandenburg Gate before it became known as Checkpoint Charlie, and the massive Soviet monument to Rodina, in East Berlin. A special treat was seeing the pilfered 5,000-year-old bust of Nefertiti on display in West Berlin. Warren ended his military service in Zurndorf, Germany, as a Secretary-Stenographer for the Commanding Officer, 4th Armored Divarty.

From an early age, Warren was interested in aviation. Every time he heard the drone of an aircraft, he had to look up, one time seeing large formations heading to Europe for D-Day. A ride on a clunky post World War II vintage C-119 Flying Boxcar was a special treat. On his one and only static line parachute jump, he missed the drop zone and landed on a runway. That experience drove home the notion that there are less perilous pursuits in life than jumping out of perfectly good flying aircraft. At age 65 he took flying lessons, soloed, and returned the plane intact to his relieved flight instructor.

He is survived by Patricia (Carroll), his wife of more than 54 years; daughter Aimée Poulin (John Hopkins), son Nathan Poulin (Betsy Melrose); his grandchildren Raegan and Preston; nieces and nephews; his siblings Michael, Thomas.

He was predeceased by a brother, Leonard D. Poulin, Sr.

Warren’s remains will be interred in Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta. A celebration of life will be held at St. Bridget Center, in North Vassalboro, on Monday, June 17, from 2 – 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Winslow Public Library.

SISTER PAULETTE A. DUCHARME

WATERVILLE – Sister Paulette Anne Ducharme, OSU, 76, died peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Waterville. The daughter of Raymond J. and Yvette (Letourneau) Ducharme, she was born on June 8, 1947, in Brunswick.

She entered the Ursuline community on September 10, 1967, and professed her vows on March 15, 1970.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in scripture and a bachelor of fine arts degree from Emmanuel College, in Boston. She earned a master’s degree in spirituality and a master’s degree in education administration from Boston College, where she also studied spiritual direction and hospital chaplaincy.

Sister Paulette was a teacher, principal, hospital chaplain, retreat director and author. She also held many Ursuline leadership positions, including as a provincial councilor and superior in the Northeastern Province.

She taught at Ursuline Academy, in Dedham, Massachusetts, from 1974-76 and at Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, from 1976-80. She was principal of Mount Merici from 1980-88. She was program director for Catholic Charities in Maine from 2000-02, chaplain for MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, from 2002-06, and chaplain for Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from 2006-09.

Upon returning to Waterville in 2009, Sister Paulette served as director of pastoral care for Mount St. Joseph. She also was a volunteer chaplain at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Ducharme.

Burial will be at 10 a.m., Friday, June 7, in the cemetery at St. Angela Way, in Waterville. A Mass will be offered in Lewiston at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Ursuline Sisters Retirement Fund, 353 S. Sappington Road, St. Louis, MO 63122 or Ursuline Sisters, 1 St. Angela Way, Waterville, Maine 04901.

RICHARD E. HARRINGTON

WATERVILLE – Richard Edward Harrington, 85 of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Born in Gardiner on July 5, 1938, he was the son of Byron and Clara Harrington.

Richard worked at the Lipman Poultry Plant as a young newlywed. He found his career in the plumbing and heating field working for various companies including Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, doing commercial and residential work. In the late ‘70s he started Dick’s Plumbing and Heating which he owned until his retirement.

Richard loved hot rod cars with big engines and loud exhausts systems. He had plenty of stories to tell about growing up in Chelsea and the cars that he had. Richard was known by several different nicknames by people that he worked with, such as; Dick, Dicky, Papa Smurf, Smiley and Grump by his grandchildren. Richard and Joanne loved to go on bus trips to various cities with different casinos. They also enjoyed going camping, doing a little brook fishing, going out to events to dance the night away, playing cards on a Saturday night with Kerwin and Rose, and spoiling their beagle Puppy. In retirement they enjoyed going for rides and eating out. One of their favorite places was Wasses. Most of all, they loved spending time with family near and far. Richard will be remembered as a hard working man with a deep sense of family values.

He was predeceased by his wife, Joanne (Keller); sister, Pauline; brother, Byron Jr. and his
parents.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Diana (Dwain) McKenney, Holly (Skip) Lemar, Tara Harrington (Peter Howard); grandchildren, Hillary (Rob) Turner, Tory (JJ) Winters, Haley (Chris) Cromwell, Nathaniel and Nicholas Howard; and seven great-grandchildren; his brother Paul; brother in-law Michael and sister in-law Mary Keller; as well as many nieces and nephews.

For anyone wishing to honor Richard, his daughters will be hosting a Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 30, from 2 – 4 p.m., at the Sheepscot Fish and Game Clubhouse, Route 3, Palermo.

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

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to an animal shelter of your choice.

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

MAXINE BUZZELL

VIENNA – Maxine (Briggs) Buzzell, 79, of Vienna, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 31, 2024, after succumbing to dementia. Maxine was born in Lewiston, to Richard Briggs and Dorothy Badger.

Maxine worked in the Lewiston shoe shop in her early years, then at the L.C. Dill Center and Augusta Mental Health Institute (now Riverview Psychiatric Center).

Maxine was an area coordinator for Somerset County Special Olympics. She received a Volunteer of the Year award from Mrs. Kennedy Shriver as well as a Lifetime Achievement award for the Special Olympics.

Maxine is survived by her husband of 24 years, Jayson Buzzell; her four children, Vanessa Greenleaf and her husband, Robert, of Winslow, Vincent Briggs and his wife, Ellen, of Madison, Veronica Overlock and her husband, Alex, of Winslow, Vance Briggs, of Frostproof, Florida; nine grandchildren; her sister Joanne Grignon and her life partner, John Kelly, of Machias .

Maxine was predeceased by her father, her mother and her grandson, Clint James Briggs.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

DIANE H. Van DEVENTER

WINSLOW – Diane H. Van Deventer, 96, passed peacefully on Monday, April 15, 2024, in Waterville. Diane was born on November 13, 1928, in Lockport, New York, to M. Aloysius and Blanche Hopkins.

She graduated from SUNY Brockport State Teachers College and married her college sweetheart Raymond W. Van Deventer. Diane was an elementary school teacher in Lockport, a frequent substitute at Sanborn, and a classroom teacher at Starpoint Central.

When Diane and Ray retired they moved to Florida. Diane worked with many charities, enjoyed jewelry making, traveling, reading and playing bridge and mahjong.

Diane is survived by daughters Linda Haag (Carl), of Winslow, and Kathy Chandler (Howard), of Lexington, Kentucky: eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister Linda McGrath; sister-in-law Diane Pentz; and nieces and nephews.

Diane was predeceased by her husband Ray and son John.

The family invites you to a Celebration of Life for Diane at St. Bridget’s Center, in North Vassalboro, on Monday, June 24, at 11:30 a.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Diane Van Deventer to Winslow Public Library, 136 Halifax St., Winslow, ME 04901, or Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, P.O. Box 479, Lewiston, ME 04243-0479.

LEE SOCQUET

AUGUSTA – Lee “Red” Socquet, of Vassalboro, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024. There will be a graveside service held on Saturday, June 22, at 11 a.m., in the Village Cemetery, Cemetery Street, Vassalboro, ME 04989. Please see full obituary at http://www.gallantfh.com.

SALLY F. ALLARD

Carrabassett Valley – Sally Fontaine Allard, 73, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Florida. Sally was born and grew up in Rumford, on December 6, 1950, the daughter of the late Leo Fontaine and Barbara McPhee Fontaine.

She was a proud member of the last graduating class from Rumford’s Stephens High School, class of 1969. She met her husband and the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Allard, in Mexico, Maine, at a local restaurant, The Chicken Coop. She was waitressing that summer and Bob was working in the area. Bob swept her off her feet and they were married in 1975. They built a beautiful life together, and raised their two sons in South China. Sally and Bob went on many family adventures throughout the country and the world.

Sally graduated from University of Maine Farmington, with a degree in biology and pursued a lifelong career as an AP biology and math teacher. She touched the lives of many students and faculty at Erskine Academy, in South China. She retired from teaching in 2003 and moved to a home she and Bob built together in Carrabassett Valley.

Sally had a larger than life personality, always smiling. She brought much joy and happiness wherever she was and never gave up the chance to help others. She was an active member and tireless volunteer of the Sugarloaf Christian Ministry.

Sally enjoyed hosting parties and being with friends and family. She adored skiing and traveling, was fiercely independent and loved her DIY projects including building, gardening (and was well known for her amazing tomatoes), painting and sewing. She was also a wonderful cook and baker (except for her ham and butter sandwiches)!

She was predeceased by her husband Robert Allard, parents Leo and Barbara Fontaine and brother-in-law John Makin.

She is survived by her sons Matthew Allard, wife Amanda, and Zachary Allard and wife Jacinth; along with her grandchildren Mason, Jasper, Coralline, and Cole; siblings Nancy Fontaine Makin, Bruce Fontaine and partner Rosey Wolfe, Ann Fontaine-Fisher and husband Gregory Fisher, and Janet Fontaine Crowe and husband Brendan Crowe along with many loved nieces and
nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life was held on June 2, 2024, at Sugarloaf Chapel. A reception followed.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who desire consider memorial donations in Sally’s memory to Sugarloaf Chapel, 5085 Access Road, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947.

Memories may be shared in her Book of Memories at www.wilesrc.com. Honored to be caring for the family of Sally Allard is the Wiles Remembrance Center, of Farmington.

SERVICES

PAUL & PAMELA HATCH

ENFIELD – A Celebration of Life will be held in their honor from 2 – 5 p.m., on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Poulin-Turner Union Hall (P.A.C.E. Hall), 653 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, Maine.

RONALD ROSSIGNOL

WATERVILLE – A funeral Mass will be held at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, with Rite of Committal immediately following at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove St., Waterville, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, 11 a.m.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at Brookings­Smith.com.

DAVID S. CAMPBELL

WINDSOR – A graveside service will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Resthaven Cemetery, Route 32, Windsor, with military honors for his 20 years of service in the United States Air Force. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #2, the Elks Lodge #964, both in Augusta, a Mason and had nine years of voluntary service to the Maine State Credit Union. There will be no gathering after the services. Please bring memories and stories to share with us.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 30, 2024

NANCY ST. PIERRE

WATERVILLE – Nancy M. St. Pierre, 91, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, at Northern Light Inland Hospital. Born on June 22, 1932, in Waterville, Nancy was daughter to Arthur and Blanche (Huard) St. Pierre.

She worked as a production worker at Lipman Poultry, and later at the Waterville Morning Sentinel, from where she retired.

Nancy was a fan of sports. Her love for her hometown extended to her favorite local establishment, the Red Barn Restaurant, where she enjoyed many a meal. Nancy was a woman of simple pleasures, and her joy in these shared passions brought happiness to those around her.

She was preceded in death by both her parents, her sisters Jeanette Nadeau and Blanche Mathieu, and her brother Robert Pierre.

Nancy is survived by several nieces and nephews.

A committal ceremony was held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, Maine, 04901.

Please visit Nancy’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/nancy-st-pierre were condolences. Photos, and special memories may be shared.

NORMAN J. TRAHAN

NORTH VASSALBORO – Norman Joseph Trahan, 93, passed away at Woodlands Senior Living of Waterville on Friday, May 10, 2024. Norman was born in Waterville on August 1, 1930, originally named Joseph Norman A. Trahan, son of Alfred and Emerencienne (Dupuis) Trahan.

He graduated from Waterville High School before entering the U.S. Army on September 22, 1946. PFC Trahan concluded his first tour of duty on September 21, 1949. He later re-enlisted in the Army and served from October 8, 1953, before departing as a Corporal on October 7, 1956.

Norman worked as a sales manager of automobiles and belonged to Waterville Country Club. He was an avid golfer, pool player, and loved to garden. He was a Dix Pool Champion.

He was predeceased by his wife, Betty (Cox); grandson, John; his parents; and brothers Arnold, Bobby, and Reggie.

Norman is survived by stepson, Steven Mansfield; stepdaughter, Marcia Mansfield; four grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; sisters Rita St. Hilaire, of Florida, and Shirley Landry, of Winslow; brother, Don, of New Hampshire; along with many nieces and nephews.

Norman will be laid to rest at the Village Cemetery, Cemetery Street, North Vassalboro, at a later date.

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

JUDITH E. COUTURE

WATERVILLE – Judith E. Couture, 85, passed away at Central Maine Medical Center, in Lewiston ,on Friday, May 10, 2024. Judith was born in Augusta on December 12, 1938, to her parents Earl and Laura (LaCroix) Traynor.

She attended and graduated from Waterville Senior High School with the class of 1956.

Judith worked for W. B. Arnold Co. as a cashier, switchboard operator, and an office assistant. She then worked under Dr. Louis G. Rancourt, D. M. J., doing office work and as his assistant, both in Waterville. She was a devout Catholic and was a member of the Parish of the Holy Spirit.

She married her husband, Eugene Couture, in 1966, and later had a daughter, Michelle Couture. Judith loved music and playing piano, as well as cooking, shopping, and visiting the coast.

She was predeceased by her parents; her loving husband; and her brother, Paul B. Traynor.

She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Couture; her brother, Ronald Earl Traynor and wife Rosemarie, of Tolland, Connecticut; several brothers- and sisters-in-law; her cousins Linda Bean, Carol Bernier, Vickie Oliver and husband Tom, Lynn Rodrigue and husband Norman, Sandra Matthews, Alden Wheeler and wife Carol, and Keith Wheeler; and her nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Wednesday, May 29, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, 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.

RONALD COOK

WINSLOW – Ronald Cook, 97, passed away peacefully at his home, in Winslow, on Saturday, May 11, 2024. He was born March 20, 1927, the son of Lawrence and Flossie (Dyer) Cook

Ronald was in the U.S. Army and was a World War II veteran. He met his wife Beverly and shared 73 years together. He worked as a Yard Master for Maine Central Railroad.

Ronald loved to dance with his wife, traveling the world dancing together, line dancing, and ballroom dancing. Later in life, He and his wife became snowbirds, wintering in Florida and returning each spring to their home and family in Winslow.

He was predeceased by his parents; his daughter, Cindy Cook, and his son, Ricky Cook.

He is survived by his grandchildren Brad Cook, Ryan Cook, and Terry.

There will be a graveside service June 3, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Greenlawn Rest.

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

RETHA J. LIBBY

NORTH BELGRADE – Retha Joan (Stevens) Libby, 88, passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at her home on Route 8. Retha was born in Oakland on May 27, 1935, to Ormand and Florence Stevens. Retha was the youngest of 10 children and lived on the family farm in North Belgrade.

She attended Belgrade schools graduating from Belgrade High School in 1953. Retha met the love of her life, Gerald Libby, in the spring of 1953, and they were married on November 14 of that year. Gerald served with the U.S. Army after they were married, and they relocated to San Fransisco, where Gerald was stationed for two years. Returning to Maine, Retha and Gerald purchased a home on Route 8, in North Belgrade, where they lived and raised their family.

Retha was a homemaker until her children reached school age. She returned to school in 1970 and became a Certified Nurse’s Aide. She was soon hired at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, where she happily worked until her retirement in June 1997.

Retha loved to spend time with her family. She especially loved the family gatherings at Gramp’s Beach, on Salmon Lake, in Oakland, on Sunday afternoons, potluck suppers at her father’s house and the North Belgrade Community Center, and the many family reunions throughout the years.

Retha and Gerald shared a love for dancing and often times made a trip to The Blue Goose Dancehall, in Belfast, or the Fox Den, in Fairfield. They also traveled around the United States whenever possible to visit their son Stuart and his family while he was serving in the U.S. Air Force.

Retha was a well-known fan of the Winslow Black Raiders, where three of her granddaughters attended school. She could be spotted cheering them on at basketball games, the soccer field, and hockey games at Sukee Arena.

Retha was loved by everyone that knew her. She made special treats that no one could refuse and would make them for no reason other than love. She was a doer of no wrong, and she was loving and kind toward everyone. She could have lived on ice cream. She will always be our sunshine.

Retha was predeceased by her husband Gerald, her son David, her mother and father, Ormand and Florence, her sisters Margaret, Annie, Katherine, Francis and Rosa and her brothers Ormand Jr., Kenneth, Leonard, and Edward.

She is survived by her daughter Brenda and son Wyatt, of North Belgrade; sons Steve and wife Mae, of North Belgrade, and their children, Nichole, Stephanie, Dawn (Michael), and Duane (Kris), Stuart and wife Nathlie, of Pelham, New Hampshire, and their children Miana (Clinton) and Nthaniel, and son Gary and wife Sally, of Winslow, and their daughters Hillary and Jenna; sister-in-law Alberta Stevens; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. on Monday, June 3, 2024, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by a burial at Pine Grove Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Belgrade.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Retha’s name to Maine General Homecare and Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, Maine 04903, or to your favorite charity or organization.

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

PAUL J. MUSHERO

FAIRFIELD – Paul Jerald Mushero, 88, of Fairfield, passed away Sunday, on May 12, 2024, from heart failure. Paul was born to Alene and Alfred Mushero on March 18, 1936, in Oakland.

Paul met his wife, Dianne Mae Mushero in 1970. They were married on June 3, 1972, and have been married for 52 years. In addition to being a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Paul also loved running his company Mushero’s Jacking and Moving, previously known as Paul Mushero and Sons, that he grew from the ground up and ran for over 60 years with great pride and hard work. Prior to that he built over 30 houses per year with under the business name Quality Built Homes and Foundations, worked at Mathieu’s Auto Body Shop, in Waterville, in the collision department, painting and restoring vehicles, and he worked at Harris Bakery, in Waterville, decorating cakes with fine detail during his late teen years.

He enjoyed time with his dog Dakota taking her on walks, rides and even to estimates, staying actively involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, gardening, dancing, snowmobiling including running snowmobile races for Fairfield Country Riders, vacationing in Mrytle Beach, attending Corpus Christi Parish weekly, attending many of Fairfield Grange Hall events enjoying great food there and volunteered many hours to keep the building in good repair. He was a much loved and admired individual by many in the community who was well known for his hard work ethic, a man that was always up for a challenge to fix whatever was needed and always found a way to fix it the right way the first time.

Throughout his entire life, he held an unwavering faith in God, which he shared with those who surrounded him. Paul joins his parents, Alene and Alfred Mushero; and his siblings Maxine and Malcom, and his beloved dog, Dakota, in Heaven.

He is survived by his wife, Dianne; his children Kathy, Kelly, Kim, Shannon, Melissa, Paul, Mark, Todd and Felicia; grandchildren, Jordan, Phoebe, Austin Pelletier, Brianne and Jacob Hayes, Scot and Ashley Furbush, Taylor Fick, Kelsey, Brycen, Gavin Mushero, Britney Rowe, Trevor, Cameron and Conner Mushero, Kailey and Hunter Poulin; great-grandchildren, Ivy Wing, Ellie Pelletier, Reaghan, Emberly and Jonah Furbush, Gavin and Madelyn Getchell, Lana Patnaude, Lilah, Wilder and Lyla Bock, Penelope and Annabella Fick, Greta Hayes; his brother, William Mushero his wife Charlene and their children, Adam Mushero and Steve Mushero; plus numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Mass of intention will be said on Friday, June 7, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Celebration of life will be on Friday, June 7, at 11:30 a.m., at Waterville Elks Lodge #905, on 76 Industrial St., Waterville.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com

SALLY TARINI

UNITY – Sally Tarini, 76, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. She was born September 12, 1947, daughter of Joseph and Rella Hutchison.

Sally was a devoted wife and mother. Sally took pride in her son’s success and accomplishments.

She was predeceased by her husband Harold Tarini; son Harold (Turk) Jr.; parents Joseph and Rella Hutchison; brothers Richard, Joseph (Jr), Allen Hutchison and sister Norma Gagliardi.

She is survived by five sisters, Betty Anderson, of Virginia, Jean and husband Frank Melchiore, of Connecticut, Rachel Pradilla, of Virginia, Janet Hutchison and husband Bob Dziekan, of South Carolina, Cindy and husband Pete Poulin, of Maine; three brothers, David and wife Kathy Hutchison, of Maine, Brian and wife Bridget Hutchison, of Maine, Peter and husband Roger Hutchison, of Florida; many nieces and nephews; and Godchild Steven Poulin Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Burial followed in the Pond Cemetery, Unity.

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

JUDY L. COTE

WATERVILLE – Judy Lillian (Thibodeau) Cote 79, passed away peacefully on Wed­nesday, May 15, 2024, at Maine­Gen­eral Medical Center, in Augusta. Judy was born in Waterville, on October 13, 1944, the daughter of Arthur and Irene (Vashon) Thibodeau.

She attended Waterville Public Schools. Judy married Kenneth P. Cote on July 4, 1966, and in 1968 they welcomed the arrival of their only child, Linda. Judy loved being a stay-at-home mom. Then later on she worked at the Oak Grove Nursing Home, in Waterville, as a housekeeper for over 20 years.

Some of Judy’s favorite places were Popham Beach, the White Mountains and long drives to Jackman. She loved doing activities with Linda and her friends. Judy threw big parties and was known as “mom” or “meme” to everyone she knew. She would spend hours doing arts and crafts with her three granddaughters and was a great storyteller. She adored her four great-grandchildren and lived to see them. Judy was giving, caring and had a great sense of humor.

Judy was predeceased by her husband Kenneth and her brothers David and Arthur Thibodeau.

She is survived by her daughter Linda Poirier and son-in-law Mark, of Waterville; granddaughters Tiffany and Jasmine Buzzell, of Waterville, and Melissa (Buzzell) King and husband Ryland and her four great-grandchildren Adalyn “Lillian”, Brynlee, Stella and Rafe King, all of Island Falls.

At Judy’s request there will be no visiting hours or funeral. She will be buried at the Saint Francis Cemetary next to her husband. A memorial/celebration of life will be at a later date this summer.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in Judy’s name to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

CHARLES E. FEYLER III

CHINA—Charles Elden Feyler III, 50, passed away at home on Thursday, May 16, 2024, following a long illness. He was born on February 6, 1974, a son of Jennie May (Tibbetts) and Charles E. Feyler Jr.

Charles, a/k/a “Chuck”, grew up in Whitefield and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, with the class of 1993. While at Erskine, Chuck was enrolled in the culinary program where his talents were recognized as he won the state culinary competition and went on to compete at the national level in Kentucky. Upon graduation, he furthered his skills by attending Johnson and Wales University, in Rhode Island, for a year in culinary arts on full scholarship.

Then he got a job as a cook at Thatcher’s restaurant, in Damariscotta, and later at Peaslee’s Quick Stop, in Jefferson, and Rideout’s Market and Grill, in Windsor.

Following his work as a cook, Chuck went back to school at Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, and earned an associate degree in computer applications technology. His hard work in school led him to become President of Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society and was elected as student of the year in 2014. He was also a participant in the Trio Program and earned special recognition for the All Academic Team of Maine from Senator Katz. On the day of graduation, Chuck made his family proud with his many accomplishments and awards including the Fred Whitney Award.

On March 13, 2002, Chuck married Melanie Beaudoin and the two enjoyed 22 years together. They loved to travel and spend time with friends and family. Some of Chuck’s favorite pastimes include racing pro-stock cars and mini stock cars at the racetracks including Wiscasset Speedway and Unity Raceway, where his competition name was “Mr. Excitement”. Chuck was also skilled with electronics and installed many CB radios for truck drivers.

Chuck enjoyed playing video games (especially with his nephew and great-nephew), watching the birds, playing and cooking at the Kennebec Valley Horseshoe Club tournaments, and was proud to have recently obtained his dream car a buggy, a 1974 VW Super Beetle. Appropriately, it was the last car he and Peanut took a ride together in! Chuck was always making his friends and family laugh and will be remembered with his beloved dog “Peanut” by his side.

Chuck was predeceased by his father, Charles E. Feyler Jr.; brother-in-law, James Lewis, special uncle, Clint Feyler; cousin, Allen Glidden; and most recently his best friend, Jerry Rideout II.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie Feyler; his mother, Jennie Feyler; his siblings, Dwayne Feyler and his wife Lorraine, Jeffery Feyler Sr. and his wife, Tammy, and his sister, Donna Lewis; nephew Jeffery Feyler Jr., and his fiancée Ann Clarke; great-nephew Jeffery Feyler III; and great-nieces, Bridget Feyler, and Chloe Feyler; and many cousins.

A celebration of life will be held at a date and time to be announced.

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

GAIL L. HORAK

PALERMO – Gail Lynn Horak, 66, of Palermo, passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024. She was born April 26, 1958, the daugh­ter of the late Elmer and Rachel (Wood) Sheaff.

Gail was a 1976 graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China. She was employed by the Palermo Consolidated School as the Head Cook for 22 years. Students and staff considered her family over the years and she always referred to the school as her home away from home.

Gail married her late husband, George Horak, of 36 years, in 1981. Together they built a life and home where everyone always felt welcomed.

Gail was the heart of her home and family and raised four children in a happy and loving home. Becoming a Nana was one of her proudest and joyful moments. You could often find Gail at her grandchildren’s sporting events, in her kitchen baking with them, playing many board games with them, visiting on camping trips, planting flowers, trips to the casino and making trips to John’s Ice Cream.

Gail was predeceased by her husband, George; parents Elmer and Rachel; brother, Gary; In-laws, Anton and Pauline.

She is survived by her children; Daryl Horak and wife Kristen, Lisa Robinson and boyfriend Justin Watson, Mary Golden and husband Justin, and Linda Favreau and husband Andrew; brother Dean Sheaff and wife Tamara; aunt, Jeanette Scates; cherished grandchildren, Nathan, Abbie, Brooke, Kaylee, Jacob, Annabelle, George and Olivia; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the Palermo Consolidated School.

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

PHILIP A. TRASK

SOUTH CHINA—Philip Alison Trask, 76, passed away at home on Thursday, May 16, 2024. The youngest of five children, Phil was born on October 30, 1947, during the Bar Harbor Fire of 1947, to parents C. Orville and Esther (Moore) Trask.

He grew up in the village of Bernard on Mount Desert Island and graduated from Pemetic High School in1966. Phil went on to earn an associate degree from EMVTI (now known as Eastern Maine Community College).

Following graduation, Phil began his career as a draftsman for the Department of Transportation in the State of Maine where he eventually retired in 2005 as a senior right of way draftsman.

On August 19, 1972, Phil married his soulmate Donna Gurney and the two settled in South China.

Phil remained active throughout his life and enjoyed going to the gym, cross country skiing, riding his bicycle, gardening, and woodworking. An eye for detail, all admired his scaled models of sailing vessels, especially his father’s lobster boat, the Esther II.

He will be remembered for his quiet and gentle disposition and his exceptional hugs.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Donna Trask; his siblings, Muriel Davisson, George “Bud” Trask, C. Brian Trask, and Emmy Trask-Eaton and her spouse, Jim Eaton; eight nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held for family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Philip’s name may be made to American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

WAYNE A. IRELAND

SIDNEY – Wayne A. Ireland, 70, passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024, following a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Wayne was born in Brunswick on September 4, 1953, to Ken Ireland and Vera (Christerson) Brown, the last of four children.

Wayne grew up in both Maine and Illinois. He graduated from Tiskalwa, Illinois, in 1971. Wayne reconnected with his classmates at his 50th class reunion in 2021.

While living in Florida, Wayne obtained his private pilot’s license in 1971. Flying was his passion and he earned numerous endorsements and logged flying time in a multitude of aircrafts. Wayne’s hobby culminated in his career as Pilot Supervisor of the Maine State Police Airwing. He also graduated from UMA in 2006 with a degree in Associate of Science Criminal Justice.

Wayne’s career in the MSP began on December 3, 1989, at the Police Academy 42nd Training Troop. He was known as “Papa Smurf” being the oldest trooper to go through the academy at that time. Wayne’s career began in Troop C as road trooper, he was an EVOC trainer, and became pilot for the airwing in 1996 and promoted to Pilot Supervisor in 1999. Wayne finished his career as Pilot Supervisor October 31, 2014.

Wayne previously worked at the Waterville Fire Department as Engine #2 Driver and volunteer firefighter. He also ran the mobile lunch wagon from 1982 to 1989.

Wayne joined the Masons in 1992 and received his 30-year pin. Wayne was currently the Master of Rural Lodge #53, Sidney. He was also a member of the Messalonskee Lodge #113. He was involved in the Mason’s various activities Books for Bikes, Strawberry Festival and the annual Pig Roast which he organized.

Wayne enjoyed his retirement years attending car shows with his baby, the bright red Cobra, winning many trophies. Sue and Wayne also drove to many “Drive-Ins” throughout the state in his Cobra. Lomer Pelletier, his best friend, traveled with Wayne looking for Ford Mustangs, attending car shows and auctions in Florida, Pennsylvania and Maine. Wayne was also a active member of Winterport Raceway along with Jeff, his son, Ben, his grandson and Lomer. Wayne and Sue traveled during their 49-year marriage throughout the U.S. and to Alaska, Africa, Bermuda, cruises in the Carribbean and Indonesia working on completing their “bucket list.” Wayne and Sue also enjoyed square dancing around the state and square dancing camping weekends with many new friends.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; son, Tony Ireland with granddaughter, Joslyn; son, Jeff Ireland with grandson Benjamin and fiancée Ashley Clark with step-grandchildren, Caleb, Cole and Avery; sisters Linda Brown (Dennis), Ann Silvius (Bob), sister-in-law, Gina Ireland (Kenny); stepmother, Judy Ireland; stepsister, Wendy McCaslin (John), sister-in-law, Jean Moulton (Ernie); nephews and nieces Bobby Silvius (Karla), Mike Silvius (Cher), Karen Waddell (Daniel), Daniel Ireland (Jason), Nic Ireland (Brandy), Kenny III (Setera), LeAnn Skarupa (Will), Jarret Brown (Susie), Samantha Evans (Jason), Matt Simon, Kelly Bilodeau (Marc), Shannon Campbell (Bruce) and Kimberly Dorval (Roland).

Wayne was predeceased by his father, Ken Ireland and mother, Vera Brown, stepfather, Woody Brown; brother, Kenny Ireland Jr., brother-in-law, Robert Silvius; in-laws Fleurent (Babe) and Stella Quirion; sister-in-law, Irene Steward, brother-in-law, David Steward, brother-in-law, Ernest Moulton.

Please join the family for a Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 2, at the Messalonskee Lodge #113, 21 Oak St., Oakland, at 1 p.m.

STEVEN K. HOUSTON

VASSALBORO – Steven K. Houston, 72, of Vassalboro, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Born to John and Marjorie (Tournier) Houston on February 17, 1952, in Portland, Steven was a lifelong resident of Vassalboro.

He attended the University of Maine at Farmington where he obtained his bachelor’s degree and started his career as a teacher in Virginia before returning to Maine and teaching in Pittsfield, followed by IT work.

Steve’s passion was his family’s blueberry farm, Sunnyside Farms. He spent his free time on the property and working to better the land. He was a jack of all trades and was always teaching those around him. He enjoyed outdoors activities such as fishing and hunting. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Sierra Club, Ruffed Grouse Society, and Pheasants Forever.

He was a member of the Planetary Society since 1982. He was also a member of the Wooden Canoe Heritage Association. His greatest joy was raising his children and spending time with them at his favorite place: camp.

Steven was predeceased by his parents John and Marjorie; as well as his brother, John.

Steve is survived by his wife, Julie; and his two children, Kelsey and Matthew; brothers Samuel, wife Gloria and their children Elysia and Samantha; and David, wife Bonny and their children Christopher, Vanessa and her family.

Per Steven’s wishes, no celebration of life will take place. A burial will be held later this summer in Bucksport at the family plot in the Moulton Cemetery.

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.

CATHERINE C. WESTERVELT

WINSLOW – Catherine Cosgrove Westervelt, 63, of Winslow, died unexpectedly at home on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on February 4, 1961, the daughter of Dr. Peter and Nancy Fortuine Westervelt, Katie was a kind and loving soul, with a gentle and humble demeanor.

Blessed with a creative and adventurous spirit, she loved folk music and was a talented artist. Katie had a deep love of the sea from the time she was a child, and she collected seashells throughout her life. She also loved to hunt for and collect sea glass, something she shared with her brother, Owen. She was an active member of the Philadelphia Shell Club during her years living in that city.

After graduation from Waterville Senior High School in 1978, she spent a year living abroad in Canterbury, England. She subsequently matriculated at the University of Maine at Orono, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science in 1986.

A life-long love of books that began before she could read took her to Waterville Public Library, where she worked in high school, to the Belfast Free Library where she was Children’s Librarian, to the School of Library and Information Sciences of the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a Master of Library Science degree, focusing on children’s literature, in 1992, and to the Philadelphia Free Library, where she served on a variety of capacities, including Children’s Librarian and neighborhood Branch Manager.

She was a communicant at the parishes of Corpus Christi, in Waterville/Winslow, and lived her last years in Winslow with her cherished cats.

Katie was predeceased by her brother, Nathan Westervelt .

She is survived by brothers Peter Westervelt and his wife Donna Rossignol Westervelt, of Harpswell, Benjamin Westervelt and his wife Carol Schrader, of Portland, Oregon, Owen Westervelt and his wife PJ Westervelt, of Seattle, Washington; sisters Sarah Westervelt Bizier and her husband Paul Bizier, of Vassalboro, and Hilda Westervelt and her partner Phil Copeland, of Waterville; as well as three nieces, two nephews; a grandniece, and grandnephew.

A funeral service is planned for 10 a.m., on Tuesday, July 2, at Notre Dame Church of the Parish of Corpus Christi, Waterville.

ROXANNE A. DURANT

WATERVILLE – Roxanne Angelika (Fischer) Durant, 62, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 20, 2024, followingr a hard eight-month battle with cancer. She was born in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, November 7, 1961, to Otto Fischer and Karin (von Minden) Fischer.

Roxanne loved to love people. She was also the heart of her home and family. Known for her laugh, her strong spirit and her passion for nutrition, she brought joy everywhere she went. Happiest in her gardens or in the kitchen baking for family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Paul Durant; and three children, Danielle Durant, Chadwick Durant (Andrea), Matthew Durant (Claire); three grandchildren, Tyson Jibb (Emily), Colby Jibb, Allison Jibb; her siblings Ula Sutton, Tony Fischer (Kathy), Richard Fischer (Kandis); step-siblings; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Otto, mother, Karin and stepfather, William Schlatter.

There will be a celebration of life for Roxanne at a later date in Canada to honor and remember the beautiful life she lived and the love she had for her family.

Cremation has already taken place via Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan.

Always wanting to help others, a donation can be made in her honor to the Red Cross.

Canada https://www.redcross.ca/donate/donate-online/donate-to-the-canadian-red-cross-fund-2; U.S. https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.

MICHAEL D. BRAGG

VASSALBORO – Michael “Mike” D. Bragg, 66, passed away Friday, April 19, 2024, at his home, in Vassalboro. Mike was born July 14, 1957, in Waterville, the second son to John and Albertine (York) Bragg.

Mike attended the Winslow Public School system and was a graduate with the class of 1975.

Mike worked in tire sales and service most of his life. He worked at Sullivan Tire, formally known as Central Tire, in Shawmut, up until a year before his passing. He was also a volunteer at Vassalboro Fire Department in the 1980s. He was a member of the Winslow Fort Halifax Snowdrifters snowmobile club in the 1990s. In the early 1990s, Mike was an instructor for the Maine Hunter’s Safety Course.

Mike was one for hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed camping. His two favorite places to camp were Beaver Brook, in Monmouth, and at Pattee Pond, in Winslow. He also enjoyed stock car racing. He raced in the Strictly Street division at Unity Raceway from the early 1970s up to the 1990s. A few years after racing he became a member of the crew on the infield in which he enjoyed at Unity Raceway.

Mike was a kind, loving, caring, giving man. He would help anyone that was in need, never expecting anything in return. His door was always open to friends and family, whom he cherished. He married his first love in 1978, Jacqueline (Esancy) Bragg, who gave him his two children. Mike then later found his second and longtime love, Susan (Garnett) Bragg, whom he married in 1987. They enjoyed doing many things together and were happy until the end.

Mike was predeceased by his grandparents Frank and Vivian Bragg, Preston and Hortense York; his parents John and Albertine Bragg; his stepmother, Carleen Miller; mother-in-law, Myra Hardy.

Mike is survived by his wife of 36 years, Susan (Garnett) Bragg; son, Shawn Bragg and his wife Joyce; daughter, Samantha Bragg; grandchildren, Judi Bragg, Shailer Blaisdell, and Dallas Blaisdell, step-grandchildren, David Amelotte, Heather Amelotte, and Elizabeth Amelotte; great-grandchildren, Raymond Tracy; step-great-grandchildren, Jensen, Holden and Evelyn Amelotte; siblings John “Scott” Bragg and wife Patricia “Patty”, Kathi Hawkins, Terri McPherson and husband Conrad, Cheryl Csengery and husband Joseph “Joe”. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a celebration of Mike’s life at the home where he grew up at 416 Maple Ridge Rd., Winslow, on Saturday, June 1, at 2 p.m. A graveside burial will be at a later date.

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.aablecremation.com.

LORRAINE SOMERS

OAKLAND – Lorraine Somers, 65, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at her home on the “Hill” following a short but courageous, horrific battle with cancer. Lorraine was the second daughter to Oneal and Edwina Gendreau, born on May 29, 1958, in Waterville.

She grew up on Libby Hill with her four sisters and foster brother. Lorraine would follow her father as he tended to the animals or garden. She was a self-proclaimed “tomboy”.

Lorraine was educated in Oakland, graduating class of 1976. She attended Catholic church as a child and has been active in her adult life at the Methodist Church, in Oakland. Lorraine always enjoyed talking about her high school days and friends over the years.

Lorraine and her husband enjoyed “Camparamas”, bike parties Blues Fests, close friends and gatherings. Old campers and motorhomes are fond memories of a full life.

Home on the “Hill” was where her heart was. The garden, pigs, chickens, and work on the “Hill” were all the center of her life. Her husband on one side of the yard and she being on the other side, seemed like the best recipe to succeed.

Lorraine was employed by Diamond Match, of Oakland, for a short time, then moved to California to work for Safe Way Stores as a cashier and stock person from1978 to 1982. She returned home and worked for C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, until 1995, when she went to Sappi Fine Papers, in Hinckley, to fill in as a temporary worker and retired in 2005 as a recovery operator.

She enjoyed snowmobiling, motorcycling, fiddlehead gathering, gardening, and photography. Garage celebrations, bean hole beans dinners and lobster cookouts.

Lorraine was a woman of faith who lived a simple life of giving. She was a compassionate “quiet giant” who would help anyone she thought was in need; whether it be at the community lunch at the church or making prayer shawls she quietly excelled. She had many talents whether it be from taking photos with her camera to finding fiddleheads, growing a garden or turning a pile of yarn that she turned into a beautiful shawl.

She was a driver of the Sunshine Club for the visually impaired for over 14 years. Lorraine was a proud Union member who always set an example to others. Lorraine was fortunate to spend all but a few years here on her beloved ‘Hill” and to pass away only 50 feet from where she was married. A life well lived. This lady will not be forgotten by those she has touched.

She was predeceased by her sisters Marilyn Wing, of Oakland, Sharon Gendreau, of Oakland.

She is survived by her husband and soulmate of 40 years, Kent; sisters Gloria Ripley, of Oakland, and Deb Poirier, of Embden; foster brother, Mike McCadoo, of Rome; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 8, at the Methodist Church, School Street, Oakland. Refreshments will follow the service at church. Family will gather after on the “Hill”.

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

In lieu of flowers, please send donations, in Lorraine’s name, to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

MICHAEL CROTTO

WATERVILLE – Michael “Mike” Crotto, 73, of 1 Furn Drive, passed away peacefully, Friday, April 26, 2024, at his home, following a long period of declining health. He was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on May 16, 1950, the son of Owen Crotto and Pauline Lawrence.

Michael attended schools in the Portsmouth area and was a member of the class of 1968. Michael’s grandfather, “Papa” Lawrence, was influential in his life teaching him the automotive trade. Michael was a master mechanic working over many decades in several locations in the Seacoast area. He opened D&M Auto in 1981 and then D&M Mobil in 1983, which he and his wife owned until 2009.

Michael realized his lifelong dream of owning and racing a lobster boat when he and his wife moved to Jonesport. He restored and raced the Liza Jane, winning several trophies in his class at the Annual Jonesport Lobster Boat Races, in Jonesport. He opened and operated another automotive repair shop, MDC Auto, where he serviced and repaired whatever came into the shop: vehicles of any kind, tractors, motorcycles, lawnmowers, and lobster boats. Lobster feeds in Jonesport brought him joy as he served family and friends with great pleasure.

He was predeceased by his mother, Pauline Lawrence; his brother, Randy Crotto; and stepson, Chris Daley.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 41 years, Elizabeth “Bett” Daley, of Waterville; his daughters Faye Grogan and husband, Scott,of Missouri City, Texas, Rebecca Crotto, of Dover, New Hampshire; a son, Mike Daley-Crotto and his wife Lauren Sullivan, of Bow, New Hampshire; stepdaughter, Heather Madore and husband, George, of Newmarket, New Hampshire; four sisters, Kathaleen Dufton, of Newington, New Hampshire, Jaylee Cohen of Loudon, New Hampshire, Christie Hussey, of Somersworth, New Hampshire, Michelle Perrault-Bennett, of Milford, New Hampshire; nine grandchildren, John, Maggie, Ronan, Finnegan, Gabrielle, Genevieve, Amelia, Liam, and Isla; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends and family are invited to Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, Saturday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. immediately following.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and 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.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, 3121 Hotel Rd., Auburn, ME 04210.

SERVICES

EDWARD E. COUTURE

A graveside service for Edward E. Couture will be held on Friday, June 7, at 1 p.m., where his ashes will be laid to rest at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 23, 2024

ALDA M. KING

OAKLAND – Alda Margherita King, 86, of Oakland, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, following a long illness, in Waterville. She was born in Paluzza Udine, Italy, on September 9, 1937, the daughter of Edia (Pagavino) and Eraldo Englaro.

She stayed with her family in Paluzza finishing her schooling until 1957.

Alda then moved to Aschaffenburg, Germany, to work at a small Italian pizza shop where she met her future husband George R. King, in 1959, who was stationed in Aschaffenburg with the U.S. Army Military Police. They were married on June 9, 1962, in Casteons of Paluzza, at the San Daniele Catholic church.

During their 25 years of military life Alda accompanied George on every duty assignment he went on with the exception of Okinawa and Vietnam. They spent five tours at various assignments in Germany including Heilbronn, Siegelsbach, Stutt­gart, Garmisch Partenkirchen, Karlsruher, Germersheim and Munchen for a total of 14 years in Germany. Other stateside duty locations included Ft. Bliss, Texas, Ft. Gordon, Georgia, Ft. Benning, Georgia, Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri., and West Point, New York.

After retiring at Ft. Devens, Massachusetts on July 1, 1983 Alda and family moved back to George’s hometown of Oakland.

Alda was preceded in death by her parents, Eraldo and Edia Englaro, and her brothers, Mario and Adriano Englaro, all from Paluzza Udine, Italy.

Alda is survived by her husband of 62 years, George R. King; their daughter Cinzia R. King, of Waterville; son Andrew G. King, of Oakland; granddaughter Miranda E. Kreb; grandsons Joseph E. Kreb, both from Bend, Oregon, and Kenneth G. Kreb, of Litchfield, New Hampshire.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville ME 04901.

PAMELA L. HALLEE

AUGUSTA – Pamela Laura Hallee, 80, of Augusta, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

Pam graduated from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville. She was an avid reader, had a passion for education, and shared her love of learning with the students she worked with as a Title One Educational Technician. Her patience and kind spirit made a difference in so many young lives.

She loved music, photography, and nature. She had a special connection to the ocean, and family and friends will treasure many fond memories of trips to the beach with her.

Pam was loved by everyone who knew her. She was kind, generous, and had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

Pam was predeceased by her parents Ernest Verzoni and Laura Veillieux Verzoni.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 61 years, Reginald C. Hallee; her sons Todd Hallee (and wife Vicki), and Gregg Hallee (and wife Tracy); two brothers, David Verzoni, and Mike Verzoni (and wife Pat); two sisters, Donna Verzoni and Susan Verzoni; four grandchildren, Brian Hallee and wife Sarah, Lauri Privot and husband Mike, Mitchell Hallee and wife Haley, and Madison Hallee and partner Jennasea Hubbard; two great-granddaughters, Myah Privot and Lennon Hallee; and several nieces and nephews.

Per the family’s request, there will be no services.

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

JACQUELINE C. GAMACHE

CHINA – Jacqueline Caron Gamache, RN, 98, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at her home, in China. She was born in Waterville, the daughter of Paul J. Caron and Beatrice Darveau Caron.

She graduated from St. Francis de Sales Elementary School and Mount Merici Academy, both in Waterville, in 1944.

Jackie joined the United States Nurses Cadet Corp. in 1944 and subsequently graduated from the Sisters Hospital School of Nursing, in Waterville, in 1947.

She married Arthur J. Gamache, of Winslow, and later moved to Bingham where she enjoyed raising her family and made lifelong friendships. She was a member of and served as president of the Altar Guild at St. Peter’s Parish, in Bingham.

In 1968, Jackie returned to Waterville and resumed her nursing career, practicing at Seton Hospital and later at Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Waterville. Jackie worked in special units and retired as an Infection Control Educator in 1980. She was a member of the Exchangettes which is an affiliate of the Exchange Club of Greater Waterville. She served in the capacity of secretary and president. She then joined the Exchange Club of Greater Waterville and remained a member until the time of her death.

Jackie enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Waterville Country Club and Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro. She was an active bridge player at the Muskie Center, in Waterville. She enjoyed attending baseball games with her brother, Ronald, whose son-in-law, Manny Acta, was the manager of the
Cleveland Indians and Washington Nationals.

In later years she spent winters with her husband in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. They were communicants of Hurlburt Field Air Force Base Chapel. She also enjoyed her time as a member of the Okaloosa Island Garden Club.

She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur, to whom she was married for 60 years.

Survivors include son, A. Paul Gamache and wife Linette, of Vassalboro, Michele Ferris and her husband, Joseph, of China, Celeste Erickson and her husband, Alton, of Ocala, Florida, Peter Gamache and his wife, Nancy, of China, and Dr. A. Jules Gamache and his wife, Brenda, of York; seventeen grandchildren. Jason Gamache, Brienna Gamache, Sean Gamache, Andre Gamache, Joseph Ferris III, Renee Sudnick, Shannon Davila, Benjamin Smith, Christopher Smith, Peter Gamache II, Celia Castro, Mallorie Blake, Candace Leland, Dustin Dupee, Dalton Gamache, Keenan Gamache, and Bryce Gamache; great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her brother, Ronald J. Caron; her sister, Alice C. Paddock; her brother-in-law, Allen Paddock; and many nieces and nephews.

A Catholic Mass will be held on Tuesday June 11, 2024, at Notre Dame du Perpetual Scours Catholic Church – Corpus Christi Parish, 116 Silver St., Waterville, Maine, at 10 a.m. Following the funeral will be the Rite of Committal at the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St. in Waterville.

A celebration of life will take place immediately following the graveside service in the parish meeting hall at Notre Dame Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Impactakids.org. ImpACTA Kids is a charitable organization created by Manny Acta. The foundation focuses on providing opportunities for children to achieve their dream.

ROGER A. CLARK

VASSALBORO – Roger Adam Russell Clark, 43, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from a brain bleed and stroke. Rog was born on February 17, 1981, in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, to Roger and Rhonda Russell Clark.

His father was in the U.S. Army so Rog spent the early years of his life moving to different states, and even the country of Germany. Once his family settled down, he lived in Windsor, where he attended school and went on to graduate from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1999.

Rog loved his family and went on many family camping trips with them. Lots of good memories were made on these trips, especially Dead River camping trips, that his family will remember always.

Every fall, he would enjoy going to the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and apple orchard, at Treworgy Family Orchards, with his family. He always enjoyed a good BBQ, oftentimes the man behind the grills, he also loved his mother’s lasagna for his birthday dinner every year. He had a passion for video and computer games and would often be found playing one with his friends and family.

There were many holidays spent with everyone sitting around with their own computers playing games together. Much like the rest of his family, he had an interest in playing card games and board games. There were many Sundays with the whole family sitting around the table laughing and having a good time playing games together. These are the times and memories his family will always cherish.

Rog leaves behind many loved ones, both of his parents, Roger and Rhonda (Russell) Clark; his older sister, Melissa (Clark) Stackhouse and her husband Keith; his younger sister, Anitta (Clark) Dunlap and her husband Timothy, as well as their children, Declan, Jonah, and Claire; aunts, uncles, many cousins.

He was predeceased by his grandfather and grandmother Robert and Reta (Bailey) Russell, his grandfather and grandmother Walter and Fern (Collins) Clark, and an aunt Regina (Russell) Jewett and uncle Leo “Lee” Clark; nieces and nephews.

Rog’s graveside service was held at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Dresden, on Wednesday May 15, 2024.

Arrangements and guidance 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, www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

JASON A. TOMPKINS

BENTON – Jason Andrew Tompkins, 37, of Benton, died on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born in Pirmasens, Germany, on November 7, 1986, the son of Bruce Tompkins and Scherry (Wharton) Stone.

He went to Central High School in St. Joseph, Missouri. After graduation he decided to move to Maine with his family to be closer to extended family and start a new life with his children. When he was working at Nouria Energy, in Farmingdale, he met the love of his life Tiffany, and they married July 16, 2022.

Jason enjoyed tinkering with computers, cars, and anything mechanical. He had a love for tractors, spending time with family going hiking, long walks and taking his family to the ocean. Jason loved to cook and made amazing meatloaf.

He worked for many years for Nouria Energy, in Farmingdale, then went to work for United Ag and Turf, in Fairfield.

He was predeceased by his father Bruce Tompkins; stepfather Terry Hughes; maternal grandparents Barbara and Carl Wharton.

Jason is survived by his wife Tiffany (Wheeler) Tompkins, of Benton; mother Scherry (Wharton) Stone and husband Clifford “Allen”, of Stewartsville, Missouri; five children, Skye Wharton, Heaven Tompkins, Jason A. Tompkins Jr., Philip Carson Jr., and Cole Tompkins; four sisters, Michelle Tompkins, Kim Hughes, Kaylee Stone, Amanda Tompkins; three brothers Mitchell Hughes, Justin Hughes, and Kyle Stone, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jason’s graveside service was held on Saturday, May 18, at Forrest Grove Cemetery, in Augusta.

Arrangements and guidance 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 please plant a tree in Jason’s memory.

LISA W. GULLIFER

CANAAN – Lisa W. Gullifer, 56, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024, following a long illness. Lisa was born on March 8, 1968, in Waterville, daughter of Cheryl and Donald Gullifer, of Fairfield.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, class of 1986, in Fairfield, and worked at Woodlawn Nursing Home as a cook, in Skowhegan, for 22 years. Lisa enjoyed playing games and watching TV.

She was predeceased by her father, Donald Gullifer.

Lisa is survived by significant other, Ed Archer; mother, Cheryl Gullifer; sister, Lori Gullifer, of Fairfield; stepson, Edward Archer Jr., of South Portland; daughters Kristen Gullifer, of Skowhegan, and Morgan Archer, of Canaan; and grandchildren Dylan Archer, Brentley and Emerson Archer, Brayden Atkinson, and Nova Archer.

A graveside service will be held for the family at a later time. Cremation arrangements by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, in Skowhegan.

SR. STELLA DUBE, CSJ

WATERVILLE – Sr. Stella Dube, CSJ, 87, died on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Mount Joseph, Waterville. She was in her 66th year as a Sister of St. Joseph of Lyon. She was born October 28, 1936, in Chisholm, the first daughter of Lucien and Juliette (Bellemore) Dube.

She joined the Sisters of Saint Joseph in February 1956 and made her first profession in 1958.

She received her elementary education from the Sisters of Saint Joseph at St. Rose of Lima School, Jay, and Sacred Heart Academy, Jackman. She received a BS degree from St. Joseph College, Standish, and afterward took many ongoing education and enrichment programs, including becoming a certified nursing assistant later in life.

Sr. Stella was known and deeply appreciated as a caring and attentive teacher with a heart and the patience for the students who had the most difficulty. She taught at Holy Family School, Lewiston; St. Michael School, South Berwick; Sacred Heart School, Auburn; and St. John School, Winslow. She then worked as a Nurse’s Assistant and later a cook at Fontbonne Community, Mount St. Joseph Holistic Care Center, Waterville, where she shared her love and tenderness with residents and staff alike.

She was predeceased by her brothers Gerard, Lionel, Willie, Charles, and Andre, and her sisters Vivian Gagnon, Mary Ann, and Mary Jane Edmunds.

She is survived by her brother John Dube (Gail), of Jay; her sisters Julienne Shaw (Fred), of Tionesta, Pennsylvania; Claire Edmunds (Arthur), of Philips; Elaine Smith (Maurice), of Detroit; Stella Paquette (Steve), of Wilton; and many nephews and nieces and their children.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated May 21, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Burial took place at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, in Waterville, immediately following the Mass.

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, memorial donations for the missions of the Sisters may be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph, 80 Garland, Road, Winslow ME 04901.

PATRICIA BONNEY

SIDNEY – Patricia “Pat” Bonney (nee Stucky), 72, passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024, following a long battle with breast cancer. She was born on January 14, 1952, in Forks, Washington.

She had been the executive director of Open Arms Pregnancy Center and formerly Central Maine Pregnancy Support Center for nearly 30 years. She wanted her legacy shared to be that she wanted to save as many babies from being aborted as possible, and be a beacon of light to the women she served. She wanted to take as many with her to heaven.

She was predeceased by her parents Gene and Jean Stucky, and her husband George (Joe) Bonney.

She is survived by her daughter Rachael Searles, her husband, Peter, of Vassalboro; her son Joshua Bonney, of Sidney, his wife, Kristina; two grandsons, Jonah and Shawn Searles; and three granddaughters, Abigail, Chloe, and Emily; two brothers, Larry and David; and her sister Beth; many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life took place at Kennebec Valley Assembly of God, on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

MELVIN G. MATHIEU

WATERVILLE – Melvin George Mathieu, 77, of Waterville, passed away at home, on Sunday, May 12, 2024. He was born on February 20, 1947, in Waterville, to his parents, Lionel George Mathieu and Françoise Aimée (Rodrique) Mathieu.

A second-generation French-Canadian immigrant, Melvin attended Waterville schools, where he played hockey and baseball. He was drafted during the Vietnam War and stationed in Alaska. Upon return from Alaska, he proposed to the love of his life and wife of 54 years, Marcia Marie (King) Mathieu.

The vast majority of Melvin’s career was spent working in the boiler house at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, and eventually advanced his career to that of pipe fitter. He had an outstanding work ethic and worked well with everyone. When the mill eventually closed, he began commuting to Bath Iron Works to finish his career. Upon retiring, however, he bored quickly and worked as a “cabbie” in Waterville, and volunteered, giving back to the community delivering Meals on Wheels, rain, snow or shine. He made many new friends among the people he regularly visited with meals.

For a man of few words, he was quite social. Melvin loved to fish and hunt, taking several annual trips to Canada with friends. For years, on the weekends, he and Marcia could be found playing cribbage in Waterville leagues and spending time with friends. As a regular at the Forrest J.Paré VFW Post #1285, in Waterville, he spent many a night lighting up the dance floor with anyone (literally) wanting to cut a rug; and if a Tina Turner song came on, look out!

He was an avid sports fan, and loved to watch his favorite teams. Whether it was the Red Sox, Bruins, Sea Dogs, or even Commanders (a/k/a Redskins), getting crushed or winning a championship, he couldn’t get enough of it; and if an Ali/Fraser fight was on, get out of the way and no talking in the TV room. As much as anything, he also loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports. We will miss his swearing at the television and colorful grumblings from the sidelines.

He is survived by his wife, Marcia; their daughter, Renée (Mathieu) Dusch and husband, Jim Dusch; and son, Ryan Mathieu and partner, Heather Orcutt; several grandchildren, Isabel and Zachary Link, Sawyer, Isaac and André Dusch, Liam Mathieu, and a great-granddaughter, Violet Link; sisters, Louise Mathieu, Rita and husband David Card, Jean Mathieu; and brothers Carl and Leo Mathieu.

SHEILA M. BONENFANT

WINSLOW – Sheila Marie (Joseph) (Rancourt) Bonenfant, 84, of Winslow, died January 31, 2024. Mass service was held at Notre Dame-Corpus Christi Parish, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on May 18.

ALTON ROLLINS

WATERVILLE – A funeral service forAlton Rollins was held on Sat­urday May 18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 26 Washington Street, Waterville. A committal service was held at Union Cemetery, in Moscow, Maine.

SERVICES

CHARLIE SWEET

Celebration of Life for Charlie (Skip) Sweet will be Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the China Baptist Church, at the causeway, in China. The family will gather from 1 to 3 p.m., to share stories and memories.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 16, 2024

STACY L. HARRIS

WATERVILLE – Stacy L. (Rollins) Harris, 53, passed away Wednesday, on April 24, 2024, following a courageous but brief battle with cancer. Stacy was born in Waterville on December 2, 1970, to Richard A. and Laura L. Rollins (Lancaster).

She worked at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville, for close to 30 years. Her most recent employment was at the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, in Waterville. She referred to that position as her “true calling”.

In addition to having a great sense of humor, Stacy glowed with love, compassion, empathy and, most importantly, with gratitude. She touched the lives of many and was loved and respected by virtually all who knew her.

Stacy is survived by her son, Paul Poissonnier and his partner Meghan Nawfel; grandsons, Oliver and Sage Poissonnier; mother, Laura Lancaster; father, Richard Rollins and his wife Judy; stepsisters Crystall, Heather and Sarah; half-sister, Michelle; aunts; and cousins.

She was predeceased by both paternal and maternal grandparents; her uncle, Steven Lancaster; and her much loved stepdad, David Althenn.

At her request, a drop-in gathering will be held at her home on May 19 between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m. Those who need directions may call Laura at 207-680-6186.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to any charity of your choice which benefits the homeless or the hungry.

JESSE J. GOLDRUP

UNITY – Jesse Jay Goldrup, 46, of Unity, passed away at his home on Thursday, April 25, 2024. He was born in Waterville on January 3, 1978, the son of Bonnie (Ellis) Goldrup and Craig Goldrup.

He attended and graduated from the Winslow school district.

Jesse worked in construction, with his latest employment being alongside good friends at Ranger Construction Corp. He was respected and well-known for being a hard worker. He had an innate ability to conceptualize projects and bring them to life. He was the master of his trade.

Jesse was a true outdoor enthusiast. He loved being surrounded by nature, foraging, hiking, camping, gardening, and most of all, fishing and adventuring with his beloved dog, Obie.

What really meant the most to him, though, was spending time with his family. Jesse was a loving son and brother, devoted father, cool “Uncle Dude” to his nephews, a loyal friend, and an incredibly selfless man to those he cared for. He was the life of any party, with an infectious smile and laugh. He lived a life full of many adventures that made for great stories; His favorite adventure being a proud father to his daughter.

He was predeceased by both sets of grandparents, Richard Goldrup, Ida Goldrup, Orwood “Sonny” Ellis, and Elinor Ellis; as well as uncle Jerry Ellis; and cousin, Christopher Gerry.

Jesse is survived by his mother, Bonnie (Ellis) Goldrup; father, Craig Goldrup; his daughter, Kendra Goldrup and boyfriend Timothy Martin, who are expecting his granddaughter, Addison Martin, due June 25, 2024; his brother, Jeremy Goldrup and wife Sharon Goldrup; his brother, Jay Goldrup and girlfriend Kelly Marsh; his nephews Colby Goldrup, Kayden Goldrup, and Mason Goldrup; his uncle, Randy Goldrup and girlfriend Terri Maxwell; cousin, Erika Goldrup.

There will be a service held on Tuesday, May 21, from noon to 3 p.m., at Gallant Funeral Home, in Waterville. Please join the family to share cherished memories, stories, and celebrate the life of Jesse, who will be missed beyond measure.

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.

JEANNINE G. BARD

WATERVILLE – Jeannine G. Bard, 92, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 26, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. Jeannine was born the daughter of Vital and Ernestine Albert on June 12, 1931.

She grew up and attended schools in Clair, New Brunswick, Canada, graduating high school in 1948.

She worked several jobs throughout her life; teaching in a one-room schoolhouse, working as a telephone operator in Edmundston, New Brunswick, Canada, and worked at Smiley’s Dairy, in Winslow, where she enjoyed making ice creams for her husband and children. Her longest job was working at Keyes Fibre, in Waterville, for 25 years and becoming a Sample Room Manager before retiring.

Jeannine loved her husband’s garden and the resulting fruits and vegetables, which she enjoyed canning. She was known for being an excellent cook. As a result, her house was the central hub for family driving from Canada or Connecticut. They always made sure to stop and say hello. Jeannine enjoyed traveling with her husband, going on many trips including Hawai’i, Florida, and Arizona. She was Elvis’s number one fan and saw him live in concert in Connecticut. Her trip to Graceland was one of the highlights of her life.

Jeannine was predeceased by her parents; her twins Michael and Michelle, her daughter Lisa Gagne, Al Belanger, husband of granddaughter Margo, her sisters Rita Oakes and husband Leon, Lucille Schiavoni and husband Louis, Blanche Long and husband Lucien Dorice Nadeau, and husband Leo, and Georgette LeClair and husband Ernest, her brothers Enoil Albert and wife Rita, and Roland Albert and wife Helene, sisters-in-law, Clara Jalbert and husband Lester, Malvina Bard and husband Raoul, and Jeanne Pelletier and husband Fedime, brothers-in-law Damase Bard and wife Marie Jeanne, George Bard and wife Germaine, Nazaire Bard and wife Annette, Patrick Bard and wife Arlene, Roland Bard and wife Leona, Gerard Bard and wife Adrian, Ozite Bard, Claude Bard, and Stanley White.

She is survived by her husband Normand Bard; her children Peter Bard and wife Joanne, of Milford, Massachusetts, Linda Bourque and husband George, of Burham, Andrew Bard, of Winslow; her six grandchildren Margo Belanger, of Waterville, Kirstin McQuillan and husband Tyler, of Sidney, Melanie Blair and husband Gary, of Lisbon, Melinda Bard, of Raymond, Eric Gagne and wife Laura, of Wellesley, Massachusetts, and Ashley Obptande and husband Jeremy, of Brunswick; 16 great-grandchildren, Taylor Stewart and husband Russell, Acadia Birk, Sydney Thomason and husband Ian, Anthony Whittemore and fiancee Emily Cole, Meghan McQuillan, Nicholas Blair, Matthew McQuillan, Alexis Blair, Mackenzie Gervais, Kylie Gervais, Bryce Obptande, Aiden Gagne, Nolan Gervais, Burke Obptande, Zack Blair, and Carter Blair; two great-great-grandchildren, Scarlett Stewart and Scarlett Whittemore; her sister-in-law Theresa White, and her son-in-law Randall Gagne.

Jeannine loved to play her favorite song, You Are My Sunshine, on her guitar for her children and grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursdasy, May 30, at 10 a.m., at Saint John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow. A Celebration of Life will be held following the service at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, on 76 Industrial Street, Waterville, to share stories and memories.

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.

JOAN G. VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Joan G. Veilleux, 85, died peacefully on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at her home. Joan was born in Waterville on March 27, 1939, daughter of William and Claudianna (Rodrigue) Giguere.

She attended Notre Dame Catholic School, in Waterville, and graduated from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, in 1957.

While attending high school, at the age of 16, she worked part-time at McLellan’s Department Store, on Main St., in Waterville, until she graduated. Also, while attending Mount Merici, she took sewing classes which led to her employment at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Co., in Waterville, where she also retired from after many years of service.

On June 3, 1961, she married Julian Veilleux, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville. In 1962 they began to raise their family of five children.

Some of Joan’s hobbies included camping, card games, casino trips, and was an avid jigsaw puzzle maker. She especially loved spending time with her family and watching her children and grandchildren in their school activities and sporting events.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Julian; grandson, Christopher Wiggins; great-granddaughter, Allie Sue Maloney; sister, Theresa Veilleux, brothers Raymond and Rene Giguere; and son-in-law, Keith Wiggins.

Joan is survived by three daughters, Monique Plummer and husband “Frank”, Sue McMullen and husband Jamie, and Jennifer Rodrigue and husband Danny; two sons, Brian Veilleux and wife Andrea, Scott Veilleux and partner Ed Cowan; sister Annette Rancourt; brothers Leopold Giguere, and Claude and wife Camilla; granddaughters Celestine Curtis and husband Eric, Jessica Maloney and husband Dylan, Abigail and boyfriend Ben, Cassandra Shepherd and husband Isaac, and Jennifer Rothberg; grandsons Jacob, Bono and wife Emily, and Adam; great-grandchildren, Bowen, Blake, Eli, Ryan, Jackson, Naomi, Sophia, Malachi, Leon, Everly, Skyla, and Evan.

A private Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville.

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

JANE E. EDWARDS

WINSLOW – Jane Elnora Edwards, 89, of Winslow, died on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in the town of Waterville. She was born in Bellows Falls, Vermont, on September 15, 1934, the daughter of Ralph E. and Anne J. Edwards.

Jane grew up in Saxons River, Vermont, and Houlton. She attended Bellows Falls (Vt.) High School, and graduated from Gould Academy, Bethel. In 1952. She was a graduate of the University of Maine in 1956, and taught school in Bangor 1956-57. She received a Master of Arts degree from Columbia University in 1958, and a master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Maine at Orono in 1973.

She was married in Bellows Falls, Vermont, on August 29, 1959, to Harvard Philip Fowler; they were divorced in Auburn in 1977. She resumed her maiden name in 1982.

For many years Jane lived in Auburn and was a Reference Librarian at the Bates College Library. In 1983 she moved to Winslow and was a Reference Librarian at the Maine State Law and Legislation Reference Library. She retired in 1994.

She is survived by her sons Douglas S. Fowler, of Waterville, and Paul M. Fowler, of Winchendon, Massachusetts; her grandson, Quinton M. Fowler, of York; and her nephews William E. and Edmund E. Edwards and their children in Vermont.

At her request there will be no funeral and no visiting hours. At a later date, to be determined, there will be a private burial service at the village cemetery in Saxons River, Vermont.

Those who wish may make a contribution in her memory to the Sierra Club Maine Chapter, 565 Congress St., Portland, ME 04101.

CAROL L. HARRINGTON

WATERVILLE – Carol Lee (Merry) Harrington, 67, passed away, in her home, on Monday, April 29, 2024, following bravely battling ALS. Carol was born in Skowhegan, on August 15, 1956, the daughter of Charles and Virginia (Delano) Merry.

She attended Carrabec High School, in North Anson, graduating in 1974.

Carol married her husband, Dale Harrington, on February 11, 1978. They moved to Germany while Dale was serving in the U.S. Army. Their daughter, Christine, was born in Germany in November 1978. Their second daughter, Michelle, was born in Virginia, in July 1980. The family moved back to Maine and have been Maine residents since.

Carol was a faithful member of Getchell Street Baptist Church, in Waterville, since January 19, 1990. There, she was actively involved as a Sunday School teacher, nursery care provider, and a member of both the Christian Education and Social committees. She attended ladies Bible Study on a regular basis. Carol was a devoted Christian woman who loved and accepted people just as they are.

Carol loved her family unconditionally. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother (Nen), sister, and aunt. She adored her granddaughter, Clareese, and enjoyed spending time with her. She was extremely supportive, caring, and hard working. She was the glue that held everything and everyone together and was always there when needed. She never complained, was brave and strong, and led a Godly life.

Carol enjoyed sewing. She was very talented; creating clothing, quilts, tote bags and many other handmade items. She liked spending time with her family and friends, creating many memories at the family camp, on Long Pond, in Belgrade Lakes.

Carol was predeceased by her parents Charles and Virginia (Delano) Merry, and her stepmother, Freda Chase Merry.

Carol is survived by her husband of 46 years, Dale Harrington; her two daughters, Christine Harrington and Michelle (Harrington) Jones; her granddaughter, Clareese; her sisters and their spouses, Nancy and Bernard Smith, Anita and Bob Bowman, Connie and Alan Lugg; her brothers and their spouses, George Young Jr., Llewellyn and Trudy Young, Everett and Wanda Merry and Warren Merry; her in-laws Verna Pierre, Bruce and Cathy Harrington, and Jill and Mark Culleton; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Getchell Street Baptist Church, 3 Getchell St., Waterville, on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 11 a.m. A private burial will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Getchell Street Baptist Church, 3 Getchell Street, Waterville, Maine 04901. These donations will go to organizations and groups that Carol cared about and was involved.

SUZANNE D. BEANE

WATERVILLE – Suzanne “Sue” Dolores (Hart) Beane, 82, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, eight days before her 83rd birthday, at Lakewood Continuing Care, Waterville. Sue was born on May 8, 1941, in Waterville, the daughter of Herbert and Honorine (Poulin) Hart. She graduated from Waterville High School in 1959. She was married to Perley Beane for 62 years.

Sue worked for her father, “Hart the Tailor,” Rummel’s Ice Cream, C.F. Hathaway, and voter registry, all in Waterville. Sue was a past president of the Women’s Auxiliary at the former Osteopathic Hospital, in Waterville. Anyone who knew her would know that she loved planning and organizing a garage sale. Sue was incredibly talented in several crafts including porcelain doll making and ceramics to name a few. Always eager to go wherever you wanted, she spent as much time with her family as she could.

Sue was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Gerald Hart and his wife Mae, her sisters and their husbands Gloria Isbister (James) Gravel (Roland), Geraldine (Robert) Timmons, Muriel (Robert) Guite, Bernadette (Walter) Williams, and brother-in-law, Donald Freeman.

She is survived by her husband Perley Beane; sisters Harriett (Donald) Freeman and Roberta (Richard) Goodhue; brother-in-law, John Beane and his wife Donna; along with many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Friday, May 10, at Corpus Christi Parish, Notre Dame de Perpetual Secours, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Committal prayers and burial followed at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are made through Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, 361 Old Belgrade Rd., Augusta Maine, or Northern Light Continuing Care, Lakewood, 220 Kennedy Memorial Dr., Waterville.

MARIE E. OSBORNE

CHINA – Marie E. Osborne, 68, passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024, from cancer. She was born on September 29, 1955, to Ralph and Julia Sylvester.

Marie loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Marie spent her free time sewing. Marie was very grateful to have Marji Sylvester, Sara Padgett and many others who supported her for many years.

She was predeceased by her husband, Scott E. Osborne; and her daughter, BobbyJo; brother, Kenny Sylvester and Kathy Mallet; sister, Mary Crosmen.

She is survived by her children, Brian Osborne and his wife Jenn Ybarra, and Kevin Osborne and his wife Eleonor Osborne; grandchildren, Bryson, Quinn, Stephanie, Kole and Ysabella; many brothers and sisters including Dan and Marilyn Sylvester, Brenda and Skip Cook, Joyce and Herb Hersey, Richard and Beth Sylvester, Betty and Jack Hobbs, Wendy and Warren Cooper; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be no funeral arrangements at this time. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at DirectcremationofMaine.com.

PRISCILLA M. GILBLAIR

FAIRFIELD – Priscilla Mae (Brooks) Gilblair,83, lifelong resident of North Fairfield, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, following complications from a stroke she endured during the pandemic of 2020. Priscilla was born on her family’s farm on March 26, 1940, in North Fairfield, to Carleton E. and Eva A. (McTaggart) Brooks.

She attended Fairfield schools, graduating from the eighth grade. In August 1957 Priscilla married Roland G. Gilblair and in 1959 they welcomed the arrival of their only child, Eva. Years later, they became foster parents to Mary and Mitchell. Although Priscilla spent many years as a homemaker, she worked briefly for the Gables Boarding Home, in Vassalboro, and drove a taxicab for children with special needs.

Priscilla might best be known to some as “KPG”, her decades-old CB radio handle. It was common to walk into her home and hear the chattering from her living room or bedroom where she had CB radios located. She enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening, browsing yard-sales, walking her 20+ acres of fields and woods, driving around town in her VW Beetle, shopping at Marden’s, in Waterville, going to lunch with family and friends, and “cheating” by having an ice cream or a lobster roll on a summer day. She liked playing Skip-Bo, watching The Young and the Restless, Jeopardy!, and Wheel of Fortune, and listening to Daniel O’Donnell.

Priscilla was predeceased by her husband Roland, her brothers Donald, Raymond, and Carleton Brooks, and her daughter Eva (Gilblair) Adams.

She is survived by her son-in-law, Jack Adams, of Fairfield Center; granddaughter, Jen Adams and her husband Rob Harville, of Scarborough; great-granddaughter, Hazel Harville; and her grandson, Seth Adams, of Scarborough.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 17, at 11 a.m., in Norridgewock, at the Riverview Cemetery, followed by a noontime celebration of life in Skowhegan at the Elks Lodge. All are welcome.

Please visit Priscilla’s memorial page at https://smartandedwardsfh.com/obituaries/priscilla-gilblair where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either Somerset Animal Shelter (https://shsanimalshelter.com/donate-2) or the Maine Children’s Home (https://www.mainechildrenshome.org/how-to-give).

ROBERT LICHTENWALTER

WATERVILLE – Bob Lichtenwalter passed away on Sunday May 5, 2024, in Waterville, due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was born in Joliet, Illinois, to Helen and Lester Lichtenwalter, as the middle child between two sisters.

As a young man he excelled in academics and played football, basketball, and baseball at Lincoln Way High School, where he graduated in 1961. He attended Dartmouth College, where he was a member of the 1962 Ivy League championship football team. He joined the Kappa Sigma fraternity, and he earned his degree in mechanical engineering.

Following college graduation in 1965 he drove across the country to Seattle, Washington, to start his career with Boeing on the Supersonic Transport project. He asked out a pretty girl named Karen in his apartment building, and four months later they eloped, much to the chagrin of his family back in Illinois, who would have preferred a large wedding. While working at Boeing he attended night school at the University of Washington, earning his master’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1970. He was proud of having worked on the design of the 747 during his Boeing years.

Bob worked in the aircraft business for 15 years before switching directions and taking a job at Weyerhaeuser, in Federal Way, Washington. During his time in the forest products industry he designed various types of equipment, acquired two patents, and managed many mill projects. With Karen by his side, he traveled all over the country to troubleshoot paper mills for Weyerhauser, always returning home to the “dream house” they built in Port Townsend, Washington.

At the age of 55, he retired from corporate life and established his own consulting company, with Karen doing the books. In 2004 he retired from engineering altogether and became a real estate agent in their new hometown of Enumclaw, Washington. In 2008 they made their final move to Waterville to be nearer to their grandchildren.

Bob was a lifelong learner who was always interested in trying new things. While working at Boeing he obtained his private pilot license, and eventually achieved an instrument rating which allowed him to fly at night and in any weather.

When his children were young he coached their sports teams, and he built a model railroad for them in the garage. After moving to Maine he took up road bicycling, and he competed in age group time trial races for several years. He and Karen became avid golfers while in Maine, and they also participated in Toastmasters, with Bob leading the Waterville club as their president for several years.

Bob will be remembered as a man of integrity who always kept his word, a faithful husband, a talented engineer, a team player, a wise and dependable father, a doting grandfather, and a funny, generous, and easygoing guy.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his brothers-in-law Don Werner and Bob Crosby.

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Karen (Crosby) Lichtenwalter; son Bob (and Tawnya) Lichtenwalter; daughter, Brenda (and Christine) Nichols; his grandchildren, Emily and Kate; sisters Betty Werner and Carol (and Lou) Kish; sisters-in-law Amy Crosby, Wendy Emmons, and Marilyn Crosby; many nieces and nephews.

At Bob’s request there will be no service. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at DirectcremationofMaine.com.

ROLAND H. J. POULIN

VASSALBORO – Roland Henry John Poulin, 90, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, at Maine Veterans Home, in Bangor. Roland was born the son of Louis Poulin and Irene (Patnaude) Poulin, in North Vassalboro, on August 29, 1933. He attended and graduated from Winslow High School in 1951. After graduating, he served in the United States Air Force for 21 years from 1951 to 1972.

During his time of service, Roland received multiple medals and awards including the Air Force Conduct Medal with 3 Loops; National Defense Service Medal with 3 Stars; Vietnam Service Medal; RVN Campaign Medal; Korean Defense Service Medal; Enlisted Air Crew Wings; and a Cold War Commemorative Medal.

He was the owner and operator of Roland’s Appliance Service for 35 years and was the Town of Vassalboro selectman from 1977 to 1979, as well as town manager for a three-month period in 1979. Roland was a lifetime member of the VFW, a Mason, and a Catholic.

Roland enjoyed camping, fishing, and a morning ritual of coffee and conversation at a well-known Freddie’s Garage, in East Vassalboro.

He was predeceased by his parents; his son Roland Poulin Jr., brothers Louis and Alfred Poulin, and sister Vietta Mayo.

Roland is survived by his daughter Vietta Rollins and husband John Rollins, of Madison; sons Paul A. Poulin, of Warren, and Louis Poulin and wife Gail ,of Fairfield; cousin Joanne and Arthur Bechard, of Massachusetts.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Saint John The Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by a burial at the North Vassalboro Village Cemetery, Cemetery Street, Vassalboro.

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

CAMILLA J. GIGUERE

WATERVILLE – Camilla J. Giguere, 87, passed away peacefully, following a brief illness, at Maine General Medical Center, in Augusta, on Monday May 6, 2024. Cami lla was born on March 30, 1937, in Fairfield, and was the last surviving child of Fred and Laura (Ackley) Dyer.

Camilla was a graduate of Lawrence High School class of 1954, in Fairfield, and she received a nursing degree from Mercy Hospital, in Portland.

Camilla and Claude were married on June 4, 1960, and took up residence in Waterville. They were blessed with six children. Camilla was a doting mom and the glue that kept the family together these past 64 years.

Camilla loved planning and going to family events through out the years. Camilla and Claude, along with their children, spent many summers at their camp on Great Pond and loved to travel during the winter months. She enjoyed shopping with her friends, scratch tickets and playing cards with her grandchildren or with anyone who wanted to play a game of cribbage.

Following the birth of their last child, Camilla decided to reenter the medical field as a surgical nurse at MaineGeneral Medical Center. She loved her job and met many new friends during her career. She retired in 1999.

Camilla was predeceased by her parents; her sisters Beverly Purtell, Mary Hunter and Linda Dyer and brothers Fred and Dickie Dyer. Camilla was greatly saddened to learn of the passing of her sister-in-law, Joanne Veilleux, just a week prior to her own passing.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Claude Giguere; her children Stephen (Pamela) Giguere, of Dover, New Hampshire, Catherine (Thomas) Suttie, of Waterville, Michael Giguere and his long time partner, Annelyse, of Wakefield, Massachusetts, Jeanne Giguere and her long time partner, Josh, of Albion, David Giguere, of Brooks, Tony Giguere and his fiancée, Taryn, of Topsham; grandchildren, Jesse and Cody Pomeroy, Tom (Emeline) Suttie, Lauren (Nick) Lewis, Abby Giguere, and Belle and Jeremy Giguere; and several great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; Claude’s brother, Leopold, sister, Annette and sisters-in-law Rolande and Jeanne Giguere.

There was a Mass of Christian Burial at Notre Dame Church, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St,, Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Camilla’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

ERVIN D. LIZOTTE

WATERVILLE – Ervin D. Lizotte, 83, a resident of Woodlands Assisted Living, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024. Ervin, the third child born to Henry and Leona (Levesque) Lizotte, entered the world on December 5, 1940, in Waterville. Ervin attended parochial and public schools and graduated from Waterville High School in 1959.

Ervin was raised Catholic and considered Notre Dame his church. On February 3, 1962, he married Constance “Connie” Fortier, the love of his life. Together they raised their two daughters in Oakland, then in Waterville. Later, Ervin became known as “Da” to his grandchildren.

Ervin had numerous jobs throughout his lifetime: Fairfield Creamery, Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, (construction crew), CF Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, salesman for Met Life, Grossman’s, Waterville Hardware, True Value, Bob Plourde’s Plumbing and Heating (showroom), and Hannaford.

In 1997 he purchased a property in need of extensive repair, turning one of his hobbies into a lucrative endeavor by investing a lot of sweat equity into the building and renting out the units, which were Section 8 approved.

Ervin enjoyed following his favorite sports teams: The New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, and locally, Waterville High School basketball, where he was once awarded “Fan of the Year”.

Ervin enjoyed spending time with friends and family and traveling. His vacations included a cross country road trip with his lifelong friend, Dick Cote, several trips to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he would sometimes meet up with his friend since early childhood, Gene Duguay, and a very special trip to Paris. Ervin was bilingual, fluent in both English and Canadian French. He was proud of his French heritage and was a member of Le Club Calumet, in Augusta.

In addition to his parents, Ervin was predeceased by his wife of almost 60 years, Connie; siblings Priscilla, Doris Perrini, Robert; a few in-laws; a nephew; and a very special aunt, Anna Gurney.

Ervin is survived by his daughters Holly Angelique, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Heidi Huard and her husband Dale, of Waterville; grandchildren Aja Binette, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jordan Huard and his partner Michele Pashby, of El Cerrito, California, and Micayla Huard, of Waterville; siblings and in-laws Theresa and Richard Bartlett, Richard Lizotte, Kenneth and Priscilla Lizotte; many nieces and nephews; as well as many cousins, including the Gurneys.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, at 116 Silver St., Waterville, at 10 a.m., on Tuesday, May 28, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Salvation Army, 36 Eastern Ave., Augusta, ME 04330, or ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105,, or to the charity of your choosing.

FULTON RYAN

CHINA – Fulton Ryan, 85, passed away Tuesday May 7, 2024, from complications related to dementia. He was born April 23, 1939, the son of Edward Thomas Ryan Jr. and Mary (O’Connor) Ryan, of Springfield, Massachusetts.

Fulton attended Cathedral High School, in Springfield, Massachusetts, and graduated in June 1957. He graduated from the University of New England-St Francis College in June of 1961. Fulton also earned his master’s degree in education from the University of Maine at Farmington.

He served two years in the United States Army, stationed in Italy. He married his wife, JoAnn Randazzo on August 7, 1965, in Italy.

After leaving the military, Fulton returned to Rhode Island with his wife to teach for one year. He started teaching French and Social Studies in 1966 at the old Kingfield High School. Fulton coached girls’ basketball and softball at the old Kingfield High School. Fulton then went to the Mt. Abram High School, in Salem Township, in 1969 where he taught, mostly social studies until retiring in 2003.

Starting in 1972, Fulton taught driver education at Mt. Abram High School for 30 years. He also coached the boys and girls’ track team. Fulton has been a member of the Norton Wuori Legion Post #61, Kingfield Senior Citizens, Maine State Retired Teachers Association, volunteer firefighter for the town of Kingfield and the Masons Mount Abram Lodge #204 A.F. & A.M.

Fulton has served on a variety of boards with the town of Kingfield. Fulton and his wife raised their three children in Kingfield. He loved spending time with his family, fishing, watching the Boston Bruins and decorating for holidays.

He was predeceased by his wife, JoAnn (Randazzo) Ryan (Emily); parents, Edward, and Mary Ryan; in-laws, Nicholas, and Lynette Randazzo; siblings, Aurthur Ryan, Edward Ryan, Marilyn (Ryan) Dunphy, Lois Ryan, Celine (Ryan) Paquette; brother-in-law’s, Michael Randazzo and Larry Paquette.

He is survived by his three children, John and wife Laurie, of Cumberland, Theresa and husband Michael Wight, of China, and Thomas, of Lewiston; five grandchildren, Nicholas Ryan, Mark Beahm (Timo), David Beahm (Adam), Katherine Wight, and Christopher Wight; and sister-in-law, Eleanor Ryan; numerous colleagues, friends, and countless students.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 10 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m., at Western Mountains Baptist Church, 928 Carrabassett Road, New Portland. Refreshments will follow in the church dining hall.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta Maine, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 225N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, Illinois 60601 https://act/alz.org/donate

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Road, Farmington Maine, where memories, photos and condolences may be shared at dsfuneral.com.

GREGORY L. THERIAULT

CHINA VILLAGE – Gregory L. Theriault, from China Village, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. Greg was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and from there his family moved to Sandusky, Ohio, moving back to Maine in his teen years.

Greg was a jack of all trades, running a construction business, and a catering business, ending his career until his retirement at the family-owned golf course. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1974 – ’78.

He enjoyed golfing, traveling (which he and his wife did often), boating, and motorcycle riding. He was a devoted Mason, also a member of the Elks Lodge #905, in Waterville.

Greg married the love of his life, Rebecca, in November 1993 and spent many happy and wonderful times together.

He is survived by his wife Rebecca; son Chris and his wife Michelle; three granddaughters, Larissa, Carmen, and Alexis; one brother, Tim Theriault; niece Amanda Theriault and her partner Mike; many cousins, aunts, and uncles.

He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Constance Theriault, and brothers Steve and Michel.

Services will be held Saturday, May 18, at 10 a.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge.

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

FREDERICK W. NABOROWSKY

VASSALBORO – Frederick W. Naborowsky, 81, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at his home. He was born in Waterville to Gloria and Julius Naborowsky, of Winslow.

Following graduation from Winslow High School, Fred enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for 20 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant. Fred served during both the Cold War and the Vietnam War. His assignments in Europe included England, France, and Germany; in the Pacific his assignments included Vietnam, Thailand, and Korea. Fred’s assignments took his family to Bangor, Columbus, Ohio, Trenton, New Jersey, Honolulu, Hawai’i, and Williams Air Force Base, in Mesa, Arizona. He earned numerous awards and decorations throughout his career and most coveted by him were the Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

After retirement from the military, Fred worked at the Augusta Police Department for 23 years. His duties there included dispatching police, and fire and rescue. Fred was also a reserve police officer for nine years concurrent with his other duties. Fred transferred to the police records division where he remained until his retirement in 2004.

After retirement from the police department, Fred and his wife would travel during the winter months to Mesa, Arizona.

Fred married his high school sweetheart, Donna Daugier, of Vassalboro. Together, he and Donna raised five children. He loved hunting and fishing, was an at-large life member of the VFW and the American Legion. In addition, Fred was also a member of the Augusta Elks Lodge.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Fred is survived by his wife, Donna Naborowsky; his five children, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Lee Naborowsky and his wife Tanya, Brian Naborowsky and his wife Heather, Jeffery Naborowsky and his wife Melissa, and Marcia Murray and her husband Kevin; grandchildren, Brandon Wilson, Chelsey Delano, Austin Naborowsky, Brittney Tardiff, Derek Perry, Gage Naborowsky, Cole Naborowsky, Emilie Naborowsky, Savannah Powell, Abigail Folsom, Cameron Naborowsky, Kimberly Murray, Nicholas Murray, Jacob Murray, and Erick Murray; and great-grandchildren, Aubrey Wilson, Brody Wilson, Harper Wilson, Liliana Wilson, Kai Tardiff, Lennox Tardiff, Oliver Potter, Maia Naborowsky, Nash Murray, Rayleigh Williamson, Tatum Murray, and Baby Williamson due November 2024.

Fred wanted to leave a big thank you to Mr. Reginald Cough, formerly of Winslow High School, and Theodore Huard, of Winslow, for saving his life.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at noon, at the committal shelter at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Fred’s name may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

WAYNE C. STEVENS

CHINA – Wayne C. Stevens, 72, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was born on Nov­ember 17, 1951, in Wa­ter­ville, the son of Florence and Carroll Stevens.

Wayne’s journey through life was marked by boundless love, compassion and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.

He was a 1970 graduate of Waterville High School and was a stellar A-student athlete. He was a member of the National Honor Society and the starting goalie for the Purple Panthers from 1968-1970 and co-captain 1969-1970. During that time Waterville won two state championships and two New England titles. He was also an “All Conference End” on his football team, played baseball and on the ski team. After receiving a letter from Bowdoin College admissions stating he was a promising candidate and they were interested in motivated high ability students, Wayne applied and graduated from Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, in 1974, with a B.A. in Sociology.

Wayne worked at the Maine Central Railroad, in Waterville, for many years and then became owner/operator of D and S Industries through 1989. His compassion and unwavering dedication to the well-being of children led him to make a career change when he accepted a math and science teaching position at Buker Middle School, in Augusta. He then went on to teach math and science at Medomak Middle School until his retirement.

Beyond his professional pursuits Wayne was blessed to reconnect with his high school hockey team friends last year. The bonds they created lasted a lifetime and he and Paula were so grateful for Mike, John and Mark’s visits during his time at the hospital.

He loved playing golf with his brother Kirby, watching hockey and football and being with his family. He and Paula welcomed their daughter in 1982. From 2013 to 2016 they were blessed with two grandchildren, Greyson and Grant. Wayne embraced his role of Baba, sharing his passions, reading and playtime with his grandsons who became the light of his life.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents Florence and Carroll Stevens; his baby sister, Judith A. Stevens, his brother, Kirby L. Stevens; his grandparents Fred J. and Grace Rancourt Nadeau, his paternal grandparents Maurice and Gertrude Lord Stevens; and his brother-in-law, Scott Selwood.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Paula; his daughter, Haley Stevens Arnold and husband Craig, their two grandchildren, Greyson and Grant Arnold; his sister, Jean Selwood; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will have a graveside service to celebrate Wayne’s life at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, on Friday, June 21, at 1 p.m. All are welcome to come and share their memories.

SERVICES

WILLIAM J. NYE

FAIRFIELD – William J. Nye, lifelong resident of Fairfield, 101, died on February 15, 2024.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the First Baptist Church, 12 Newhall St., Fairfield, on Saturday, June 1, at 10 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Maplewood Cemetery, 15 Bartlett St., in Fairfield.

Complete obituary may be found at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

CARLTON L. FITZGERALD

CHINA – Carlton L. Fitzgerald, of China, graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the Chadwick Hill Cemetery. in South China.

KATHRYN L. MOSES

BANGOR – Kathryn Louise Moses, 76, passed away at a Bangor hospital on Wed­nesday, February 21, 2024, following a brief illness.

A graveside service will be held 10:15 a.m., Saturday, May 18, at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville. Messages and memories may be shared with Kathryn’s family, and a full obituary may be viewed, at kileyandfoley.com.

Arrangements by Kiley and Foley Funeral Service, Bangor and Brewer.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 9, 2024

EDWARD W. LACOMBE

SPRING HILL, Florida – Edward W. Lacombe, 88, of Spring Hill, Florida and Winslow, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. He was born in Water­ville on August 29, 1935, to George and Leona (Paulin) Lacombe.

Eddie graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1954.

He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1954-1958. He was employed as a circulation manager with the Waterville Morning Sentinel for 37 years. He was a lifetime member of Waterville Elks Lodge #905.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, calling Bingo, playing cards, camping and going on cruises. One of his passions was splitting firewood. He also enjoyed following his New England sports teams along with the UConn girls basketball team.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife of 47 years, Betty (Bernard) Lacombe; his sister, Rita (Lacombe) Boucher, several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

He is survived by his longtime partner, Phyllis Kreft, of Spring Hill, Florida; sons John and wife Michele, of Winslow, James, of Sabattus, and Jeffrey, of Oakland; grandchildren Krystal and husband Neal Mecum, of North Yarmouth, Hillary Lacombe and partner Greg Rosshirt, of Newington, Connecticut, and Dustin and wife Sarah Lacombe, of Brunswick; several grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

There will be a funeral service at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow on Saturday, May 11, at 10 a.m.

ELIZABETH B. REUTHE

VASSALBORO – Elizabeth Bonola Reuthe, 77, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024, at her home on Cross Hill Road. Eli­zabeth was born in New Britain, Connecticut, in August 1946, the eldest child of Walter and Elizabeth (Baranowski) Bonola.

Throughout her cancer diagnosis and treatment Elizabeth showed dignity and courage, an inspiration to all who knew her. She planned her own conscious death enlightening others to the concept and ensuring she would pass the way she lived, on her own terms.

She married the love of her life, John Reuthe, of South Bend, Indiana, in August 1982 and helped raise John’s young children Petra and Eric, first in Rhode Island, then Vermont and after 1986 on their farm, in Vassalboro.

Elizabeth earned her college education at the University of Pittsburgh and Indiana University, in South Bend, where she completed her MBA in 1977. Soon after, in her early 30s, Elizabeth broke the glass ceiling when she began working as plant manager for Bendix Brake and Steering Division. For nearly 20 years she was in senior leadership roles at Bendix Corporation including Fram Filters and Autolight Sparkplugs; the Digital Equipment Corp., in Augusta; and IDEXX Laboratories, in Westbrook.

Her journey was propelled beyond the corporate horizon after she studied at the Gestalt Institute and Process Work Institute and received a MA in Conflict Facilitation and Organizational Change. She then established her consulting firm, Elizabeth Reuthe Associates and worked with clients from all over the world. Among her noteworthy work was facilitating groups in New York City after 911, and for those seeking peace in the Middle East, Ukraine and India. Elizabeth never stopped her quest for knowledge, learning and human connection – she was always seeking new opportunities and relationships.

In 2001, following her younger sister Elaine’s death at the age of 52, Elizabeth wisely took time off to take care of herself and to examine what she hoped for in her own future, but even then she was not idle. She prepared gourmet foods, raised chickens, made maple syrup, took a Master Gardener’s course and became a Reiki Master. To this day the Reuthe’s farm is lavishly adorned with flower gardens designed by Elizabeth while taking some “time off.” During that transition Elizabeth and John joined the Quaker community, in Vassalboro, which blessed them with spiritual grounding and new “Friends” who have been a great source of comfort and strength.

Elizabeth spent a lifetime of learning, personal growth and mentoring others including family, friends, neighbors and strangers that quickly became friends. She was energized by other’s successes and growth. Her ability to work with diverse groups from throughout the world was exemplary – sometimes in situations that were dangerous and inflammatory. She also mentored women from all walks of life, including some of the “untouchables” in India. Seeing women whom she had supported reach their own levels of success gave Elizabeth great joy and a sense of fulfillment.

The many strangers that became friends found themselves among neighbors and family who were welcomed into the Reuthe’s beloved Thanksgiving Farm on Cross Hill Road aptly named for the thanks that the Reuthe clan always strives to give. There was comfort, beauty and kinship found at the Thanksgiving Farm table which was plentifully laden with food and drink and a house filled with lively conversation and laughter. In between hosting, John and Elizabeth enjoyed traveling all over the world to places such as Australia, India, New Zealand, Russia, the Middle East and Europe. Cruises on the Mary Day off the coast of Maine or voyages across the Atlantic with a group of fellow voyagers turned friends are among the adventures they have enjoyed over the last several years – the final one a few short months ago when Elizabeth’s health was failing but her zest for life was still soaring.

Elizabeth was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Elaine and nephew, Michael Bonola.

She is survived by her husband, John; daughter, Petra, husband Jim Kennedy and their children Parker, Liam and Spencer, of Connecticut; son, Eric and his children Camden, Willow and Griffin, of Tennessee; brother, Walter Bonola, of Connecticut; and several nieces and nephews.

Condolences may be sent to John Reuthe, c/o Friends Meeting House, 48 South Stanley Hill Rd., Vassalboro, ME 04989.

A memorial service will be held July 6 at the Vassalboro Friends Meeting House, time to be announced.

The family would appreciate donations made in Elizabeth’s memory to either of these organizations: The Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care expansion campaign with “HACCC Capital Expansion” noted in the check memo line, mail to MaineGeneral Health, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903, or to Right Sharing for World Resources, which partners with women in Kenya, India, and Sierra Leone in support of their families and to transform their communities. Donations to Right Sharing should be mailed to, 101 Quaker Hill Dr.,, Richmond, IN 47374, or online via, rswr.org/share-your-abundance.

RONALD A. EMERY

CHINA – Ronald Abbott Emery, 78, of China, died on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta.

Ron was born in Hartland on Oct. 30, 1945, to Dulcie (Boone) and Charles Emery.

Ron lived a full life, and was beloved by his family, his adopted hometown of China, and members of several organizations of which he was a dedicated longtime member. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, grace, and dedication to a life of service.

He lost his father when he was four years old. He and his two brothers, Ralph and Jeff, were raised by their mother and her father, Murray Boone. Ron attended one-room schools in Dixmont and then spent two years of high school in Carmel before graduating from Hermon High School in 1964. Ron loved playing baseball and basketball during those early years and was an accomplished middle infielder and pitcher.

He earned an associate’s degree from Beal Business College and his bachelor’s degree from Husson College, in Bangor. He earned money to pay for college by cutting pulpwood on the family property in Dixmont.

Ron joined the Maine Air National Guard in 1965 and spent a summer at Keesler AFB, in Biloxi, Mississippi, attending an aircraft radio repair school. He remained in the Guard, retiring in 1990 with 25 years of service.

In 1964, Ron took a part-time job as an engineering aide with the Maine Department of Transportation. This was the beginning of a long and storied career. Ron moved into computer programming and was responsible for the development of the Transportation Integrated Network Information System (TINIS) database, a unified system for managing highway, bridge, and accident records across the state. Ron was able to attend a number of annual traffic conferences at the University of North Carolina because of his work on TINIS, which he always enjoyed. Ron purchased a house in China in 1978, where he lived for the rest of his life.

Ron was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, in Archon Lodge #75, in Dixmont in 1967, and was an active member for 56 years. He was involved with the Anah Shrine, Scottish Rites Valleys, of Augusta and Portland, and was an affiliated member of Dirigo Lodge #104, in Weeks Mills. Ron was instrumental in keeping the 11th Masonic District well informed for over 40 years with the Trestle Board, a monthly newsletter that he printed and mailed to Masons in Maine and across the U.S.

In February 1987 Ron met the love of his life, Helen (Downs) Emery, and her two-year-old son, Mike. Ron was smitten, and he and Helen were married on November 28, 1987. Their son, Mason, was born in October 1988. Family meant everything to Ron, and he cherished having a family with whom to celebrate. He was a devoted husband and father, which led to Ron discovering a passion for Scouting. Ron became an Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop #479 when his boys joined the troop, and he continued to serve the troop with his friend, Scott Adams, long after their sons had moved on. Ron was a Scout leader for 28 years, during which time 44 Scouts earned their Eagle rank with Troop #479.

Ron was an active member of the South China Community Church for over 30 years. In addition to being the longtime assistant treasurer, he was renowned for often giving the children’s message, and he was a fixture in the kitchen at the church’s monthly turkey pie suppers. He also served as the regular master of ceremonies for the annual Scout Sunday at the China Baptist Church. His church activities showed the essence of Ron — a gentle soul who dearly loved people, and who especially cared for children as the most vulnerable members of the community. Ron’s own childhood was tough but filled with love, and he made it his mission to ensure that children who were his neighbors, extended family, or fellow congregants felt love in their life, and that they had at least one adult who saw them as people and genuinely cared about them.

In 2001, Ron received the David H. Stevens Award, MaineDOT’s highest honor. The Stevens Award is presented each year to a MaineDOT employee for their outstanding contribution to transportation excellence in the State of Maine. Though he had 37 years of service when he received this award, Ron was not nearly finished. He continued his service to the state until finally retiring in 2021 at the age of 75, having supported MaineDOT for 57 years.

Ron faced multiple medical maladies as he moved into retirement, culminating with his diagnosis of stage four esophageal cancer in early 2023. Despite this, he continued to serve the Scouts, the Masons, and his church in the capacities he had long been serving, continuing in some of these up until his final week. Illness could not dampen his spirit, and he took time to make lasting memories with his family, including welcoming his beloved first grandchild, Margaret, into the world in December 2023. Ron took nothing for granted and appreciated every moment he had on Earth.

Ron was predeceased by his parents; and by his brother, Ralph Emery.

He is survived by his wife, Helen (Downs) Emery; his sons, Mike Emery and his partner Tekia Cox, Mason Emery, his partner Tesse Rau, and their daughter Margaret; his brother, Jeff Emery and his wife Lee; his nephew, Ben Emery, his wife Kait, and their daughter Quinn; his sisters-in-law, Song Emery and her partner Ben Wilcox, and his sister-in-law, Carrie Doyon and her husband Eric; his niece Julie Emery; his nephew Alan Emery and his daughter, Amelia; his brother-in-law, Herb Downs and his wife Stacey, his sisters-in-law, Liz Downs, an Carrie Doyon and her husband Eric; his niece, Mary Dufour and her husband EJ; his brother-in-law, Harold Downs, his sister-in-law, Lorraine Downs; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Ron’s funeral service will be at 2:30 p.m., on Saturday, May 11, at the South China Community Church, 246 Village St., South China. A private family burial with full military honors will be held at the Central Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta.

Arrangements and guidance are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, 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, donations may be made to Bomazeen Old-Timers, ℅ Scott Adams, P.O. Box 6134, China Village, ME 04926-0134; South China Community Church, 246 Village St., South China, ME 04358; or Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 168 Leighton Rd., Augusta, ME 04330.

JOHN B. WHITTEN

OAKLAND – John B. Whitten, 80, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Augusta. He was born July 2, 1943, in Portland, the son of Wendell and Hariet Whitten, of Scarborough.

He graduated high school in 1961 and earned a B.S. in education in music from Gorham State Teachers College in 1965. He would later earn his master’s degree in music administration from the university of Southern Maine in 1985.

On July 27, 1968 he married Gale (Kelley), of Jonesport, and together they raised their children in Harrington.

John spent his career in music studying trumpet-first with studio musician Don Spear and with Band Leader Don Doane (Maine’s premier jazz trombonist). He taught music in Winslow, Jonesport and finally in Harrington, at Narraguagus High School, and M.S.D.A. #37 for 37 years. While with Narraguagus High School, he combined teaching band, chorus and beginner music lessons with serving his country and state, as a member of the 282nd Army Band, at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina, and the 195th Maine Army National Guard Band, of Bangor.

He was president of the Washington County Teachers Association and twice president for the M.S.D.A. #37 Teachers Association. He also served as a member of the Harrington Volunteer Ambulance Crew and performed military honors for veterans in the area, as a bugler. He was a member of the Tuscon Lodge #106 A.F.A.M., in Addison, and visited Sabasticook Lodge, in Oakland, and Siloam Lodge, in Fairfield. His grandson Erik is a third generation Mason on both sides. He exported blueberries for Cherryfield Foods Inc. for nearly 20 years and later worked for Charlie Renski.

John enjoyed carpentry, gardening, ham radio (A.R.S.KA1HRV), reading, supporting the New York Giants ad visiting with his family. Later he joined the Waterville Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5 and worked last year with the Maine Education Association testifying at the State House in support of retired educators.

Almost 37 years ago in 1987, John had his first triple bypass in Portland six days before his 44th birthday after Dr. Kramer had told him, “If you don’t want cholesterol problems, choose the right parents!” He lived Heart Smart after with no egg yolks of red meat and later limited salt. In 2017, he had his first heart attack with new house building problems, in Oakland, after living in Harrington for 50 years. Dr. Estrada’s team and later on, Dr. Vasaiwala’s, saved him in Portland, again. Last May, John had his final procedure there and Dr. Kramer visited him in recovery after he had been able to live another 36 years beyond their first meeting.

His children surprised him with a fabulous 80th birthday party in Waterville last July 2 that he thoroughly enjoyed and wanted to be remembered at his party. He left this message,” We are where we need to be and we follow God’s plan, as each of us is in God’s Hands!”

John is survived by his wife, Gale, of 55 years; their twin daughters Ellyn and her husband Derik Smith, of Presque Isle, and their children Erik and his wife Mykaela, of Old Town, and Adelle, of Presque Isle; Lynn and her husband Nathan Bustard and their daughter Evelyn, of Benton, and their son Andrew and his wife Erica and their children Alyssa, Sara and Brooke, of Corinna; nephews Robert and Aaron Whitten.

He requested no services, as he wanted to be remembered in life and will go to the ocean eventually.

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

If one wishes, gifts in his memory may be made to the Maine Masonic Charities Foundation or your local music boosters in support of the music Education.

GLORIA J. CASCIO

ALBION – Gloria J. Cascio, 53, died unexpectedly on Friday, April 26, 2024. She was born in Brunswick on October 26, 1970, a daughter of Chester M. Coston, Jr. and Hazel (Pushard) McDougall.

Gloria was a 1990 graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta.

She had been employed for many years at Johnny’s Selected Seeds, in Winlow, working as their lead shipper and receiver.

Gloria’s smile would light up a room. To meet her was to love her. Her husband, children and grandchildren were her whole world. Her heart grew two sizes the day she became a grandmother.

Gloria is survived by her husband, Vincent A. Cascio, of Albion; her parents Chester M. Coston, Jr., of South China, and Hazel McDougall, of Waterville; her children, Seth A. Sutter and his wife Courtney, of South China, Heather L. Sutter and her companion Keith Ward, of Windsor, and Torri S. Gerrard and her husband Mitchel, of Manchester; two brothers, Chester M. Coston, III, of South China, and Wayne H. Coston, of Monmouth; seven grandchildren, Lucas, Wesley, Rayne, Ivy, Maverick, Scarlet and Tessa; as well as several aunts, uncles; nieces, nephews; and cousins.

There will be no public visiting hours. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 8, at 11 a.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor, Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Route 32, Windsor. Burial and committal prayers will follow in Dyer Hill Cemetery, Windsor.

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

The family requests that donations in Gloria’s memory be made to Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post #6924, 246 Main St., Fairfield, ME 04937.

GERALD A. WATSON

CLINTON – Gerald A. “Bear” Watson, 85, passed away April 26, 2024, at home with his family by his side. He was born in Clinton on March 7, 1939, the son of Myron and Junita (Salisbury) Watson. He attended Clinton High School, graduating in 1957. He enlisted in the U.S Navy and following his graduation, he served a total of six years, most memorably on the aircraft carrier USS Tarawa. He was proud of his military service and the U.S. Flag.

After an honorable discharge, he attended Keene State College, in New Hampshire, graduating with a B.S. in Industrial Education in 1963. He began his career at Lawrence High Schoolf, in Fairfield, and taught Industrial Arts, retiring as Department Head after 35 years. He impacted many students during his teaching career, encouraging them with his quiet manner. He was delighted when former students would visit and talk about their careers and families.

He married Ruth Ann Bowen on September 3, 1960, and together they raised four children. During the summers, he spent much of his time doing renovations and carpentry type work, returning each night to the family camp at Unity Pond, where they shared many years of swimming, boating, fishing, sailing, berry picking, water-skiing and always ended the day with a good meal.

For many years, Bear and Ruth sailed on their friends Bill and Julie Alexander’s schooner Timberwind each summer. A wonderful group of teacher friends enjoyed sailing the coast of Maine and creating lasting memories each year.

Bear loved being in the woods. He was particularly fond of Canaan camp, where he and his brother David spent many happy times with their parents and grandparents. In later years, his own children shared their own memories of hunting, walking in the woods and cutting wood with their dad at Canaan camp.

Bear was a longtime member of the Clinton Lions Club, serving in all positions including King Lion. He was involved in many activities including mechanical pulls, and was proud to be a member of a four-generation Lion family.

There was nothing Bear could not build or repair. He once bought a bushel basket of parts that he built into a snowmobile, Old Yeller. He made Lincoln logs and ice traps as Christmas presents for his kids. Auto body work, plumbing, electrical work, welding, sheet metal and foundry work, auto repairs, machining, rebuilding a 1964 Ford automobile and his 1952 Ford tractor. He restored a 1929 Ford Model A and loved driving it on the back roads of Maine with family in the rumble seat. You name it, he could do it.

Moosehead Lake held a special place in Bear’s heart. From Lily Bay to Rockwood, he caught many fish and enjoyed many cherished family times. He loved to fish, not catch, and release, but catch and eat, enjoying every bite. In his later years, he loved special times on the boat, trips to Pebble Beach, and time spent on the porch on the Moose River.

After retirement, Ruth and Bear bought a condo in Gulfport, Florida, and became snowbirds.

Bear had a special place in his heart for dogs.

Bear was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, David.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children Michael (Jody) Watson, Mark (Kim) Watson, Matt (LeeAnn) Watson, Melissa (Rod) Parlin; grandchildren Rachel Watson, Katie Medina, Tashia Watson, Hannah Parlin, Taylor Nutting, Hallee Parlin, Brielle Watson, Brandon Watso; great-grandchildren Parker Rose, Avery, Jackson, Molly, and Harriet.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 19, from noon to 2 p.m., at Brown Memorial United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 36 Church St., Clinton. A private graveside service will be held immediately following for the family.

Arrangements by Direct Cremation of Maine in Belfast.

In lieu of flowers, please do a kind deed for someone in honor of Bear.

JACQUELYN G. BLACK

CHINA – Jacquelyn Goddard Black, 88, passed away peacefully at her home Saturday, April 27, 2024. Jackie was born in Water­ville on March 12, 1936, daughter of G. Cecil Goddard and Clara (Nevers) Goddard.

She attended primary schools in Waterville and attended Oak Grove Coburn and graduated from Waterville High in 1954. She attended Farmington State and Thomas College.

Jackie worked in the family business at Goddard Agency, in Waterville. She also worked for Main Gas, Slender You, and assisted with her daughter’s daycare. Her most rewarding and satisfying job was being a mother, grandmother, and auntie. She enjoyed her children, their friends, and their activities.

Jackie was known for her baked goods at home, at the church, and in the neighborhood. Biscuits, strawberry shortcake, jam and chocolate chip cookies were just some of her specialties.

Jackie was a dedicated nana to Justin and Jayson. She and her husband, Jim Black, never missed a game, school function or birthday. The boys were always supported by her love and presence.

Jackie was an amateur bowler, who bowled at the Waterville Lanes and bowled in the Pro Am. She earned the title: City, State, and New England Champion. Her trophies and plaques are proof of what a proficient bowler she was. It was there that she met her second husband, James A. Black.

Jackie took pride in the in the outside appearance of her home. She worked in her flower beds and mowed her lawn from dawn to dusk. She also could be found shoveling at the first sign of snow. She loved the fresh air and the vigorous exercise.

Some of her pastimes were antiquing and flower shopping with her daughter, watching the Boston Red Sox and Celtics games. She enjoyed discussing the games and players with her son and grandsons.

Jackie was an active member at the Waterville and China Baptist churches. She could always be found in the kitchen after services, helping out. She also participated in the Women’s Bible Study, in China. In her final days she got great pleasure watching the parishioners coming and going.

Jackie was predeceased by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. G. Cecil Goddard; her husband, James A. Black; her daughter, Julie A. Smith, and her brother, Samuel A. Goddard.

She is survived by her son, James G. Smith and fiancée Kathy Cunningham, of Vassalboro; daughter Joanna L. Bearce and husband Jeffrey, of Belgrade; her grandsons Justin M. Bearce and partner Tabitha Doak, of Waterville, Jayson H. Bearce and wife Juli, of Narvarre, Florida; sister, Melissa Ayer, of Shelton, Connecticut; nieces Suzanne Goddard, of China, Rebecca Bean, of Williamsburg, Virginia, Alexandra L. Pierce, of Stratford, Connecticut; great-nephews, and niece Nathan A. Pierce, Stella G. Pierce, and Lukas J. Pierce, also of Stratford, Connecticut.

To honor Jacquelyn’s wishes a private service will be held for family 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.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to the China Baptist Church in Jacquelyn Black’s name, P.O. Box 6095, China Village, ME 04926.

RENA HARDING

ALBION – Rena Harding, 101, passed away in her home in Albion, on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Rena was born in Palermo to Leslie E. Bailey and Gertrude (Boynton) Bailey on Oct. 29, 1922. She was the fourth of five children.

She married her husband, Warren, in May 1942, and together they had four children.

They started a dairy farm in Albion in 1943, where she lived until her death. Rena worked hard her whole life on the farm to provide for her family. She was a dedicated caregiver to her husband for the last 30 years of his life.

Rena dedicated her life to Jehovah through baptism on September 22, 2007, and became a Jehovah’s Witness, where she gained a whole spiritual family of fellow brothers and sisters. Her family was her life and her dedication to Jehovah meant everything to her. She constantly talked about the future hope of the Paradise Earth under Jehovah’s rule. She believed wholeheartedly in Jehovah’s Word, the Bible. In Job 14:15, it says that Jehovah longs for the work of His hands. She is sleeping, awaiting her Father’s call, she will answer! Rena loved deeply and gave all that she could to whomever was in need without hesitation. She will be sorely missed by those who loved her. Goodbye for now. ~ Until we meet again!

She is survived by her sister, Natalie Coro, of Waterville; sons, Eugene Harding Sr. and wife Joanne, and Sheldon Harding and Neal Harding, all of Albion; daughter, Athene Fisher, of Oakland; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Warren Harding; sisters Velda (Ethel) Penney, Verda Barnes, and brother, Melvin Bailey; daughters-in-law, Mozelle Harding and Linda Harding, son-in-law, Douglas Fisher; great-granddaughter, Heather Harding; and great-great-granddaughters Hannah and Hope Clifford.

There will be a service at the Memorial Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, on Saturday, May 11, at 1 p.m. Following the service there will be a celebration of life gathering at the Bessey Building, in Albion.

GEORGE LAMOTHE

VASSALBORO – George Lamothe,79, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2024. George was born December 23, 1944, in Brunswick, to Arthur and Antoinette Lamothe (Berube).

He continued to live in their lakefront home on Three Mile Pond, in Vassalboro.

An avid boat enthusiast, George invited everyone to visit and take a ride on his boat. He taught his grandsons to fish and spent many weekends with them as they grew into young men. He had a strong work ethic, and would lend a hand any way he could, often helping neighbors with docks or chatting with the bass fishermen and boaters.

George was a decorated veteran, having first joined the Navy in 1963. He spent time on the USS Lawrence during the Vietnam War, then transferred to the Navy Reserve in 1966. He enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1981. He was subsequently deployed with the 286th Supply and Service Battalion to Desert Storm from 1990 until July 1991, and earned the South West Asia Service Ribbon for his service. He worked as an accountant for state government for over 25 years.

He is survivd by his daughter, Lisa LaMothe, partner Tarn Petty, and grandsons Grayson Petty and Casey Petty, all of China; a son, Scott Lamothe and grandson Dillon Lamothe, of Vassalboro; brothers Paul Lamothe, of New Brunswick, Canada, Claude LaMothe and wife Norma, of Caribou, Roland Lamothe and wife Kathy, of Gardiner, and sisters Jacqueline Lamothe, of Florida, and Irene Bourque, of Windsor.

His wife of 52 years, Sandra Lamothe (Jacques), predeceased him in 2020.

A celebration of life will be held this summer for family and friends.

MICHAEL W. HEBERT

OAKLAND – Michael W. Hebert, 72, passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. Mike was born in Waterville, May 23, 1951, to Clarence G. and Jeannette A. (Cyr) Hebert.

He graduated from Water­ville High School in 1970 and Central Maine Community College, in Auburn, in 1972.

Mike began his working career at Flo’s Greenhouses, in Waterville, during high school. While at college he worked at Lost Valley Ski area in a variety of roles. After graduating from CMCC, he worked as a machinist at Valley Engineering, in Auburn, until he returned home to Waterville to work alongside his father at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery as a foreman.

When his father retired, he became the director until he retired in 2017 after 42 years of service. He was also the facilities manager for Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville, for 10 years. He took great pride in all of his accomplishments at both locations. Mike also served as the chairman on the board of directors of Seton Village, in Waterville, and the Maine Catholic Cemetery Committee. He was a member of the board of incorporators for Seton Village and St. Francis Apartments, in Waterville.

When he returned to Waterville, he realized the “girl next door,” Deb Morissette, had grown up and in 1977 they were married. His pride and joy were his two children, Amanda and Matthew. He was very family oriented and loved doing things with them and for them, as well as with and for his grandchildren. He loved working in his vegetable garden and took great pride in his flower garden, especially his lilies. One of his favorite past times was boating on area lakes in his ’74 Corson and paddling the canoe for the “Hebert Regatta.”

Mike was predeceased by his parents; and many aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife, Deb; his daughter, Amanda Delorie and husband, Jim; his son, Matthew Hebert and wife, Janelle; his three grandchildren, Mackenzie and Zachary Hebert and Cooper Delorie; his siblings, Bonnie Hebert, Kathy and Lew Libby, Denise Costello, and Fred and Catherine Hebert; uncle, Dan and Pat Cyr; many nieces and nephews; and many cousins.

Mike and his wife, Deb, loved taking vacations to the Caribbean. He loved the ocean, the scenery, and the bright colors.

A graveside service was held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, at 78 Grove St., Waterville, on Monday, May 6, at 11 a.m.

If one wishes, gifts in his memory may be made to the Barbara Bush, Children’s Hospital.

TRAVIS W. ANDERSON

BENTON – Travis W. Anderson, 46, formally of Benton, passed away peacefully at his home following a long illness on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. He was the son of Charlie Anderson and Linda Anderson. He was born March 8, 1977.

Travis attended the SAD #49 schools, graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1996, alongside his twin brother, Jason. He went on to attend Eastern Maine Community College, in Bangor, graduating initially in 1998 and again in 2004.

Carpentry was his field of choice, he would spend hours discussing how to build things and types of wood to use for his building projects. He was employed at Bath Iron Works until his illness made him retire early.

Travis married the love of his life, Marci Leeman, on July 4, 2009, in Friendship Harbor. They shared their home with his brother Jason and his dog, Tucker. Travis was very dedicated to his family, loved his job at Bath Iron Works and was proud to show off his skills in his building projects.

He is survived by his wife, Marci; his mother, Linda; his twin brother and best friend, Jason, his other brothers, Sean and wife, Lori, and Chad and wife, Rachel; and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, hall. Memories and condolences may be shared at ripostafh.com.

PAMELA V. HATCH
PAUL R. HATCH

SKOWHEGAN – Honorable Pamela A. Hatch, 80, passed away on May 21, 2023, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Pam was born on July 22, 1943, to John F Henderson and Irene V Henderson (Lacroix) in Lincoln.

Pamela graduated from Penobscot Valley High School and attended the University of Maine and Beal College.

Just a few months later and very unexpectantly, her husband Paul Hatch, 80, passed away. Paul was born on August 3, 1943, to Perley A. Hatch and Elva E. Hatch (Rollins). They were married for 56 years.

Paul graduated from Penobscot Valley High School.

On May 27, 1967, Pamela and Paul joined hands in marriage. They spent their first few years of marriage in Lagrange, where they had their two girls, Paula Irene Hatch (now of Gilbert, Arizona) and Victoria Maria Hatch (now of Skowhegan) and a menagerie of farm animals and fur babies. In 1978, Pam and Paul moved to Arizona for four years, where they owned multiple businesses, before returning “home” to Maine.

Pamela and Paul were highly involved in their community. Pamela wore many hats over the years, as a business owner, a mother, a wife, grandmother, and a community leader. She spent many years involved in the community, as a selectman, school board member and youth group leader before being elected to the Maine house of Representatives and the Maine Senate. She genuinely loved representing her constituents. Pamela never met a stranger-as she loved everyone. She leaves a legacy of love, light and kindness.

Paul also wore many hats, also a business owner, a father, a husband, a grandfather and mill worker, union leader and community leader as well. He worked in many paper mills over the years, before finally settling at Sappi, in Hinckley, where he served as a union officer and respected employee albeit workplace prankster as well. As he neared retirement, Pam somehow roped Paul into running for office himself, when he ran to fill the seat Pam vacated in the Maine House of Representatives. He later became a County Commissioner, and while he swore he “didn’t much care for people”, we all know that was a fib.

Pamela is survived by her brother, Robert Henderson and wife Anne, of Maxfield.

She is predeceased by her parents, Irene and John Henderson and sister, Dorann Grant.

Paul is survived by his sister, Patricia Merrill, of Portland.

He was predeceased by his parents, Perley and Elva Hatch, brother Avern Hatch and sister Kay Greenleaf.

Surviving Pamela and Paul are their daughters, Paula Hatch, of Gilbert, Arizona, and Victoria Hatch, of Skowhegan; granddaughter, Hannah Shaw-Chapman and husband Nate Shaw-Chapman and two great-granddaughters, Angela Victoria Shaw-Chapman and Elsie May Shaw-Chapman; bonus “son” (nephew) James Grant and a bonus daughter, Jennifer Poirier.

A Celebration of Life will be held in their honor on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Poulin-Turner Union Hall, in Skowhegan, from 2 – 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome!! Share memories and enjoy laughs and light music, as well as refreshments and snacks. If you knew them, in any capacity, please feel free attend. Pam would have been thrilled.

A burial for the family and friends will take on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 1 p.m., at the West Enfield, Maine Cemetery.

SERVICES

JEAN CLARK

SIDNEY – The interment service for Jean Clark, formerly of Oakland, will be held at the Sibley Cemetery, in Sidney, on Saturday, May 18, at 11 a.m. Jean was a graduate of Williams High School, in Oakland, class of 1949.

For information, contact Stephen Clark at email: sclark60@live.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 2, 2024

MARGARET L. CAIN

VASSALBORO – Margaret “Peggy” Louise (Jones) Cain, 86, died peacefully at home on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Peggy was born in Augusta to parents Alfred L. and Madeline M. Jones on July 19, 1937.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1956 and from Mercy Hospital School of Nursing with a three-year degree to become a registered nurse in September1960.

Peggy had been a resident of Vassalboro her entire life and had started her career as a surgical nurse at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville. Later she was employed at the Colby College infirmary, in Waterville, for many years where she advocated and spearheaded the Colby Medical Lab creation. After retirement from Colby, she took a part time job at Mid-Maine Internal Medicine, in Vassalboro, for a couple years and then volunteered as a Building Bones instructor teaching classes for the elderly.

Peggy, in her younger years, had a passion for horses. She took pride in her talent of intricate baton twirling and participated in many beauty pageants. Peggy was a strong vibrant outgoing woman who in September 1960, married her lifelong best friend and the love of her life, Richard B. Cain Sr., and together they had seven children.

Peggy dedicated her life to her husband, her children and grandchildren. Holidays were very important to her, especially Christmas. She served as Scout leader and attended many dance recitals. But her passion for sports superseded all. She followed all of her children’s and grandchildren’s many sporting events, participating in fundraisers, operating concession stands, but her favorite was volunteering on the Winslow High School Hockey Booster Club.

She also enjoyed professional sports; some of her favorites were Quarterback Fran Tarkenton’s Minnesota Vikings, later New England Patriots took their place, but no team could ever replace her love for the Boston Red Sox.

Peggy valued quality time with her kids and grandkids, and she embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm. Together with her husband and other family members, would go ice fishing, snowmobiling or four-wheeling. Peggy immensely enjoyed sledding with her special sled that no one was allowed to touch, and she would sled with all who were willing to conquer the hill outback of her house.

Peggy absolutely loved camping on the seasonal campsite at Pleasant Point, Oakland, at the family camp lot on Webber Pond, on Bald Mount, Bingham, and Cathedral Pines, Eustis. She loved it all.

Peggy had a passion for swimming. She would challenge anyone to a morning swim Memorial Day weekend just after the ice went out of the lake or would be in competition with the neighbor as to who would use their pool latest in the season, usually closing it in mid-October.

Peggy loved to listen to her country music from Patsy Cline to Alan Jackson and she could out dance anyone on the dance floor. Everyone loved to watch her and Dick glide across the dance floor with grace or get down and boogie to a good ole fashion polka.

Peggy was big on playing cards, Yahtzee, or Mexican train, she enjoyed the socialization and the competition. Peggy was just a social bug and loved to entertain. Peggy and Dick hosted “every” Sunday dinner potlucks for family, many annual family reunions, and various parties.

Peggy was a very wise woman and shared her lifetime philosophy that she learned from a nun at nursing school…“You will always love your children, but your husband comes first. Your children will grow and leave the nest, but your husband is there to stay.” She revolved around this philosophy awaiting this day, April 4, 2024, when she will see Dick again and they can dance across Heaven together for eternity.

Peggy was predeceased by husband, Richard “Dick” Cain Sr.; son, Mark W. Cain; and parents Alfred L. Jones and Madeline M. (Foster) Jones.

Margaret “Peggy” Louise (Jones) Cain is survived by sons, Kevin Cain and wife Regina, of Benton; daughter, Alison Thompson and husband Kevin, Richard Cain Jr. and wife Stacey, David Cain and wife Terri, daughter, Meridith Cain, Alfred Jones “AJ” Cain and wife Rhonda, all of Vassalboro; 16 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren; sister, Shirley J. Jones; brother, Alfred “Bub” M. Jones; brother-in-law, Silas “Bill” Cain and wife Lorette; sisters-in-law, Maureen Macomber and husband Bill, and Patricia “Pat” Crocker.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, on Friday May 3, from 1 to 3 p.m. Arrangements are being made by Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland.

In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made in her name to Waterville Office Hospice, 1800 Philanthropy, Northern Light Home Care and Hospice 225 Gorham Rd., Suite 200, South Portland, ME 04106: http://www.northernlighthealth.org/Our-System/Foundation/Donation-Opportunities.

YVETTE C. POULIN

WINSLOW – Yvette Cecile (LaChance) Poulin, 82, died in the care of Hospice early Thursday, April 18, 2024, at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. Yvette was born May 3, 1941, and grew up in Winslow.

She attended St. John Parochial School. Later in life, she was a Charter Member of the St. John PTFA, as secretary and organized and co-chaired the first ever St. John Christmas Fair. She was active in fundraising for the school at spaghetti and bean suppers during her children’s school years.

She graduated from Winslow High School with National Honors in 1959 and was class officer.

She later took evening classes at Thomas College, in Waterville, and Kennebec Valley Technical Institute, in Fairfield. In her early teen years, she worked at her parent’s grocery store where the first Winslow Post Office was established, and she was sworn in as assistant postal mistress. Following graduation, she was employed in the administrative offices of Keyes Fibre Company, in Waterville, for nearly 24 years in various secretarial and analytical positions.

On September 2, 1963, Yvette married her neighbor and high school sweetheart Leonard Douglas Poulin, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow. They were married for 59 years and for 35 of those years, besides having full-time careers and raising two children, acquired over 40 rental units they managed and maintained together until their sale in 2001.

Yvette was the family memory maker. She hosted large family Christmas parties annually for all the aunts, uncles, and cousins to gather and celebrate. During the summers, her welcoming backyard gave space for all the cousins and neighborhood friends to swim and play in the pool. She swam laps everyday each summer without ever once getting her hair wet.

Her grandchildren had magical childhoods with their mémère. She took them on many adventures at her timeshares in Stoneham and created a special space at their warehouse where the kids could immerse themselves in arts, crafts, and play. The many photos she took during these times will provide cherished memories.

Yvette was generous and kind, always willing to help anyone in need and share all the things that brought her joy with friends and family. The love and support she provided to so many over the years is immeasurable.

She loved to adventure outdoors. In the winters, she was off to her home in Florida. She explored every park, trail and beach she could find, and nothing made her happier. In the summer and fall, she spent weeks at her timeshares hiking and exploring Stoneham and Southwest Harbor. She always invited her sisters and friends to join her in Florida to enjoy the sunshine or Southwest Harbor for adventures in Bar Harbor. She so loved the beauty of the Stoneham area that she shared that love by gifting family members her own timeshares to enjoy.

Yvette was a creative and talented artist who loved to craft and paint. The walls of their home were graced with many of her beautiful paintings, and she was so proud to make her special clothespin doll ornaments each holiday to gift to friends and family. When major (or just funny) events happened in her family and extended families’ lives, she would craft custom dolls that reflected a history personal to each person, down to the smallest detail. If these dolls were all brought together, they would tell the story of our family.

Yvette was predeceased by her parents, Irene (Reny) and Julienne (Breton) Lachance, and her sister, Theresa Begin.

She is survived by her two children, Leonard D. Poulin, Jr., Leslie Wilson and her husband Ian; three grandchildren Joshua Poulin, Jorja Poulin, Liam Poulin; one great-granddaughter, Harper Poulin; sisters, Lucille Roy and Juliette Akins; brothers-in-law and their wives, Warren and Patricia Poulin, Michael and Madeline Poulin, and Tom and Roberta Poulin; and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., in Winslow, on her birthday, May 3, 2024, at 10 a.m. . There will be a luncheon gathering immediately following the Mass at St. John School.

Arrangements are under the direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home and Cremation Service. There is an online register for messages and condolences at dignitymemorial.com.

CHRIS J. BURGESS

BELGRADE – Chris Jeffrey Burgess, 64, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024, at his home. Chris was born on October 17, 1959, the son of Helen Lucille (Philbrick) and Lloyd Dhanis Burgess.

Chris had a passion for restoring classic muscle cars. He enjoyed the company of friends and his constant companion of 11 years, Diesel.

He was predeceased by both parents, and brothers Lloyd (Butch) Burgess Jr. and Gene L. Burgess.

Chris leaves behind his life partner Darlene Spiller; daughters Holly A. and Prudence A. Burgess; stepson Joseph P. Spiller; granddaughter McKaylee A. Hampson; brother Leon D. Burgess and partner Sandra Macomber; sisters Gail Gallagher and husband Herbert, Barbara Burgess, Joy Burgess, and Cathy Burgess; mother-in-law Donna E. McCaslin; numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside and gathering to be announced at a later date.

Please visit Chris’ memorial page at http://www.dsfuneral.com/obituaries/chris-burgess where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

PHYLLIS A. CHAMBERLAIN

SKOWHEGAN – Phyllis Anita (Boynton) Chamberlain, 94, passed away at her home, in Skowhegan, on Friday, April 19, 2024, following a battle with pancreatic cancer and aortic stenosis. She was born on August 27, 1929, daughter of Henry and Alta (Ellis) Boynton.

She attended schools in Skowhegan and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1947. She continued to be in touch with some of her classmates until her death.

Phyllis married Clayton “Jack” Chamberlain November 30, 1947, and was married 55 years until his passing in 2003. Phyllis worked as a telephone operator as well as on the farm they purchased from her grandfather on the East River Road for 16 years. Phyllis also worked as a nanny for Dr. Loring Pratt, of Fairfield, until she went to Skowhegan Business School and started working at the new Federal Trust Bank, in Skowhegan in 1961.

Her son John was born in 1949 and daughter Leona was born in 1950. During that time, she and Jack provided care for Phyllis’ grandparents, and later, Jack’s parents. She was a devoted caregiver who managed children, household, farm chores, and caregiving for her elders all in stride. She later cared for Jack after his stroke in 1985. He lived another 19 years, and she continued to care for him and work at the bank until her retirement in 1991 as an operations officer with Bank of America.

Phyllis and Jack were able to take vacations and enjoyed many trips to Michigan to see John and his wife Janet, traveling with them to the West Coast. After Jack passed away, she and Lee took several trips to Canada, Wyoming, Florida, Oregon, and Michigan. Phyllis enjoyed entertaining and stayed connected with all her nieces and nephews through two generations.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Jack; siblings Mary Russell, Robert Boynton, and R. True Boynton; as well as grandson Christopher Matthew Chamberlain.

Phyllis is survived by her son John Chamberlain and wife Janet; daughter Leona “Lee” Sinclair; grandchildren Aaron Chamberlain, Jenny Bellows and husband Nick, Jan Wilkinson and husband Will, Jared Sinclair and girlfriend Lindsay Webber; great-grandchildren Joshua Chamberlain, Christopher Chamberlain, and Andrew Jarvais; many nieces and nephews; sister-in-law Virginia Hyatt, of Vermont; cousin Chick Hunter, of New Jersey.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 1 p.m., at Smart and Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave. in Skowhegan. A reception will be held at Phyllis’ home at 1020 East River Road, Skowhegan, from 2:30 to 5 p.m.

Phyllis’ ashes will be placed with Jack’s on Monday, May 6, 2024, at 9 a.m., at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., in Augusta. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Please visit Phyllis’ memorial page at https://smartandedwardsfh.com/obituaries/phyllis-chamberlain where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

If you would like to do something in memory of Phyllis, plant a seed, a bulb, or a tree and sow seeds of kindness and forgiveness when you do.

MARK N. MORANG

PALERMO – Mark N. “Bing” Morang, 59, died unexpectedly on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor. He was born in Augusta on May 8, 1964, a son of Karl G. and Alice Y. (Alexopoulos) Morang.

Bing attended Augusta schools and had been self employed for many years as a flooring installer.

He was predeceased by his father, Karl G. Morang; and two brothers, James L. Morang and Ricky K. Morang.

Bing is survived by his mother, Alice Y. (Alexopoulos) Morang, of Winthrop; two sisters, Cindy S. Miville and her husband Mike, of Winthrop, and Anne F. Chadwick, of Bangor; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no public visiting hours. A graveside service will be held on Monday, May 6, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Rd., Augusta.

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

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

The family requests that donations in Bing’s name be made to Kennebec Valley Humane Society,168 Leighton Rd., Augusta, ME, 04330.

BARBARA A. CZEPIEL

OAKLAND – Barbara Ann Czepiel, 77, passed away, at home, on Thursday, March 7, 2024, following a long battle of health issues. She was born on February 25, 1947, and raised in Chicopee, Massachusetts, by her parents Walter and Stella Czepiel, now deceased.

She worked and attended Sunshine Village (Adult Day Care Center), in Massachusetts, for 30 years and with great pride being in charge of the cafeteria.

All who knew Barbara will never forget her smile, sense of humor and always wanting to help. Listening to Polish music on the Big Joe Polka Show was a favorite thing to do. Her dream was to play the accordion but couldn’t.

Barbara came to Maine in 2011 to live with her sister Diane Bickford, who resides in Oakland. She loved Maine and all it had to offer, especially lobster rolls, and mostly all the friends she made who have expressed so much love for her.

Barbara will be laid to rest beside her parents on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 1 p.m., following a graveside service at Notre Dame cemetery, in South Hadley, Massachusetts.

Barbara leaves behind her two sisters, Diane Bickford, of Oakland, and Elaine Beliveau, of Chicopee, Massachusetts; and a brother Walter Czepiel, of Ludlow, Massachusetts; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Catholic Mass will be held in remembrance of Barbara here in Maine, at St. John Church, in Winslow, on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. All are invited to attend.

Her cremation was done by Lawry Brothers-Wheeler Funeral Home, in Fairfield, where you can sign her book online.

Donations made in her honor should go to the Salvation Army or Disabled Vets.

OTHERS DEPARTED

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.

A burial was held at the Holy Family Cemetery on the Townsend Road, in Augusta, on Saturday, April 27, at 9 a.m. A Celebration of Life was held at the Le Club Calumet, 334 West River Road, Augusta, following the committal.

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

DOROTHY M. CASHMAN

WATERVILLE – Dorothy Marie Cashman, 91, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 22, 2024.

She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth J. (Snapper) Cashman.

She is survived by son Terry; grandsons Jesse and wife Nallie, Cheyenne and wife Casey; great-grandchildren Conan and Isla.

SERVICES

JON J. FORTIER

WINSLOW – Saturday, May 4, at 11 a.m., funeral service, Saint John the Baptist Catholic, Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow. Immediately after funeral service, a family committal service at Saint Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St. Waterville, then a Celebration of Life, noon, at the Pointe Afta Restaurant, 252 China Rd., in Winslow.

MURIEL R. GERVAIS

WATERVILLE – Muriel Rolande Gervais, 93, passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at Woodlands Senior Living, of Waterville, following a long illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 41 Western Ave., Augusta, ME 04330, with burial to follow at Holy Family Cemetery, in Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Muriel’s name may be made to, St. Michael’s Parish, 24 Washington St., Augusta, ME 04330.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 25, 2024

JOHN MICHAUD JR.

AUGUSTA – John Michaud, Jr., 83, of Windsor, passed away peacefully, at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, on Sunday, March 17, 2024, following a lengthy battle with Alz­heimer’s. John was born on May 10, 1940, in Augusta, the oldest son of John Sr. and Yvette Michaud.

Most of his childhood years were spent in Windsor. Like many of his generation, he entered the workforce early. At the age of 15 he began working. On August 19, 1961 he married Muriel Whittaker.

John tried various jobs which included driving trucks for the State of Maine and a short stint at Edwards Manufacturing, in Pittsfield, before finding his true love of being self-employed in the forest industry.

He supplied wood and logs to an assortment of pulp and sawmills. Later in his career, he enjoyed working for his son Jeff in the same industry.

John loved working outdoors and spending free time outside as well. During the early years of raising a family, he spent much of time camping with his family and brook fishing with his boys.

Over the years he fished many places, finally finding the place he loved the most: The Great Northern Maine Woods. Once his favorite fishing spot was discovered, he took many friends along to share his joy of the sport. For over 30 years, any chance he could get, you would find him fishing his favorite brook with friends, family, his sons, and grandson James.

John was predeceased by both his parents; one sister Lena Irish; and one granddaughter Kara Michaud.

He is survived by his wife Muriel; children Tim and wife Sandy of Topsham, Jeff and wife Michelle, of Vassalboro, and Tammy and husband Nelson, of Windsor; four grandchildren; and six great grandchildren; siblings Cecile Babcock, Raymond Michaud, and Joanne Gagne.

A private celebration of John’s life will be held in the summer.

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

In honor of John’s memory, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 383 US-1 #2C, Scarborough, ME 04074 or the KennebecHumane Society, 168 Leighton Rd., Augusta, ME 04330.

SHIRLEY ANN WARE

WATERVILLE – Shirley Ann Ware, of Waterville passed away peacefully on Monday, March 25, 2024. She was born to mother Marie Ware, father unknown, at Sacred Heart.

She was raised in convents for most of her childhood, as a young adult she was at Pineland, Heartland and the Muskie Center until she bought her own home, on Carrean Street, in Waterville.

Shirley never had any education in all the places she had ever been. It was only until she went with her brother Gerry and sister-in-law Janice that she had any simple education, however she was street smart and learned quickly due to the disadvantage she faced her whole life.

She worked at Goodwill, in Waterville, Waterville Boys and Girls Club, in the kitchen, and volunteered at soup kitchens and local food pantries. She enjoyed being helpful and was always a busy body, always asking how or what she could help.

Shirley loved to help, she took care of her brother and anyone who needed it. She saw the best in people so much so that she allowed people to live with her multiple times which in turn allowed for more abuse to happen. Shirley did not hold grudges and she forgave those that wronged her, her spirit was pure and heart was full of love and compassion. Shirley gave all she had and all she could to those she loved. If you were lucky enough to have felt her love you knew what unconditional love was.

Shirley was predeceased by her mother, Lori Ware; her niece, Janice Ware; her sister-in-law.

She is survived by her brother Gerry Ware and his family, her best friend and advocate Ruth and her family, and many friends she made along the way.

Celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 11 a.m. in Brunswick, at Pathway Vineyard Church, 2 Columbus Dr., Brunswick, ME 04011. Reception to follow. Her ashes will be buried at St Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 10 a.m.

They ask in lieu of flowers please donate to these organizations per one of Shirley’s request. Mr Drew And his Animals Too, HerpHaven Reptile Rescue and Sanctuary Wolves of Maine Sanctuary.

ELEANOR DORVAL

WINSLOW – Eleanor “Ellie” Dorval, 83, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Wednes­day, April 3, 2024, following a long illness, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. She was born in Waterville on June 13, 1940, at the Former Sister’s Hospital, the daughter of John Fehlman Bigelow and Orlean Bigelow Weaver.

Ellie attended all schools in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1958.

Ellie started working at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, at the age of 23 as a Nurse’s Aide. After eight years, she attended Licensed Practical Nursing School, in Waterville, and graduated in 1972. She continued her career at Thayer Hospital / MaineGeneral Medical Center, until age 65, a total of 42 years, just like her mother! Ellie was a true giver and definitely loved to help everyone around her, including many patients over the years. She was caring, loving, thoughtful and kind to all who knew her.

She was proud of raising a happy family with two sons in the ‘60s and ‘70s, in Waterville, and in the ‘80s, in Benton. In 1994, she married Ray Dorval and enjoyed living in their beautiful home in Vassalboro, until his passing in 2015. She then moved to Winslow to live out her final years surrounded by family and friends.

Ellie and Ray enjoyed 22 years wintering in Bonita Springs, Florida. They had many good friends and really enjoyed the sunshine away from the cold and snowy winters in Maine. When she was younger, she enjoyed visiting the Family Farm, in Mercer, picking apples, roller skating, and many fun times with friends and family. Later she was known for charity work belonging to the Elks Ladies Auxillary of Waterville and the VFW Ladies Auxillary, of Winslow, becoming an officer and life-long member.

Ellie was predeceased by her parents, step-father Harold Weaver; former husband and father of her sons, Arthur Gagne; daughter-in-law Lisa Gagne; and her Uncle Francis and Aunt Dolly.

Surviving are her sons, Randy Gagne, of Brunswick, and Todd Gagne and wife Jessica, of Singer Island, Florida, step-daughters Becky and Debbie Dorval of Florida; and step-son Michael Dorval, of Oakland; grandchildren, Eric and wife Laura, of Wellesley, Massachusetts, Ashley and husband Jeremy, of Brunswick, Sydney Gagne, of Skowhegan, and Dylan Gagne, of New Haven, Connecticut; and four great-grandchildren, Bryce, Aidan, Burke, and Miles; sisters Gloria Moxcey and husband Blaine, and Martha Johnson, all of Waterville; nephew Jeff Moxcey and wife Cindy, of Waterville, and niece Kim Moxcey and partner Robert Croteau, of Oakland.

At Ellie’s request, there will be a graveside service, at 10 a.m., Friday, June 7, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the MacCrilliss-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, Winslow, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: MaineGeneral Health at https://give.mainegeneral.org/give-today.

KATHERINE L. DEVINE

WATERVILLE — Katherine Louise Joly Devine, 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Maine­General Medi­cal Center, in Augusta. Katherine was born on Jan­uary 19, 1936.

Katherine was truly a proud child of Waterville, spending summers at the family lake home and remembering later in life how much she loved taking the canoe out on the lake by herself. As a happy, bright student she was a member of the Waterville Junior High School’s Republican Club and grduated cum laude.

Always gracious, she wrote: “One of the greatest joys of my life was when you appointed me Editor in Chief of the Panther News. I consider this a great honor; it is one ambition fulfilled, and I thank you so much.”

After graduating from Waterville High School, Katherine attended (as her father insisted) Trinity College, in Washington, D.C., an all-girls Catholic school, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English and Drama in 1957.

The Trinilogue described her as “an auburn crown turned toward Broadway … Lady Hathaway’s super saleswoman … tailored look by day, the sophisticate by night … verbatim notes … innate poise … green-eyed, gracious Anastasia, Kay.” While at Trinity, she was as the nuns described her “extremely active”: wrote for the Trinity Times; secretary of the Literary Society; officer of the Dramatic Society; officer of the Wekanduit Society, which created projects to raise money for the missions; and wrote and directed three of the four annual class plays, a spoof on campus life. She also was selected as the Maine Cherry Blossom Princess while at Trinity.

After college, Katherine moved to New York City to pursue a career as an actress and studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts alongside her friend Robert Redford, where she earned a degree in Drama in 1959 and worked as a page at NBC, in Rockefeller Center. It was in New York that Katherine “famously” met J.P. Devine on the escalator in Bloomingdales Department Store, where they both worked but didn’t yet know one another. When JP needed a partner for his important audition at the Actors Studio, a friend sent Kay to meet him. Kay at that time was a dancing, singing waitress in an exclusive night club where JP waited outside in the alley each night for her and she handed him glasses of champagne out the back door, after which they walked back home to her apartment in the snow. Two months later, the proper daughter of a Maine judge allowed him to move in, but insisted he sleep on the floor near the kitchen — and their six-decade love story began.

After performing together in the theater in New York and on road shows throughout the Northeast, they married in JP’s hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, at City Hall and then quickly traveled back to New York City in a rainstorm aboard a Greyhound bus to perform in a play together. The newlyweds then moved to Los Angeles, California,where Kay, after studying at both Mount St. Mary’s College for Education and Cal State LA for Spanish, began her new life in education, touching the lives of countless students, parents, and faculty for decades to come. Kay taught elementary school for more than a decade at Budlong Avenue in the underserved area of a neighborhood in South Central, where, as one of the only white teachers, she stood shoulder to shoulder with the African American faculty during racial tensions in the ‘70s in Los Angeles.

In 1984, Kay turned to her husband and asked, “Why don’t we move back to my little town in Maine, and you can be a real writer?” And so they did, and the final chapter in their love story began. Kay became a faculty member at the Waterville Junior High School, teaching sixth grade from 1984; Spanish from 2000, and Drama from 1990 to 2009. She held the title of Drama Director from 2001-2009. She also was a member of the Colby Admissions team in the summers. She retired from Waterville Junior High School in the fall of 2013 but returned to teach and tutor part-time in Spanish until she permanently retired in 2017. “Kay was truly special to me and the staff here,” writes Janie Buzzell of Waterville Junior High School. “I have very fond memories of her time here. I used to love chaperoning her field trips to Margaritas restaurant!”

In addition to JP and daughters, Dawn and Jillana, Katherine is survived by two sons-in-law, Richard Sieloff and Wayne Knickel, both of Los Angeles, California; several nieces and nephews, including Ann Joly, daughter of her late brother Robert.

She was predeceased by her brothers Waterville Mayor Cyril M. Joly, Jr. and Robert M. Joly.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to one of Kay’s favorite charities, the Waterville Food Bank.

The family will plan a celebration of life in the summer in Maine.

SISTER PAULINE BELANGER

WATERVILLE – Sister Pauline Belanger, OSU, 98, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Waterville. The daughter of Salomon and Olive (Cyr) Belanger, she was born June 7, 1925, in St. David, Maine.

She entered the Ursuline community on July 16,1943, and professed her vows on January 16,1946. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the College of New Rochelle and a master’s degree in art from Sienna Heights University.

Sister Pauline was a much respected and well-loved art teacher during her many decades of ministry in Maine, Massachusetts and New York. In Maine, she taught at Notre Dame School, in Waterville, St. Mary’s School, in Lewiston, and St. John’s Catholic School, in Brunswick. In Massachusetts, she taught at Ursuline academies, in Springfield and Dedham. She also taught at St. Angela Merici School, in Bronx, New York.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her nine siblings.

A private interment will be held at St. Angela Way Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Ursuline Sisters Retirement Fund, 353 S. Sappington Road, St. Louis, MO 63122 or Ursuline Sisters, 1 St. Angela Way, Waterville, ME 04901.

SANDRA L. DOYON

FAIRFIELD – Sandra “Sandy” L. Doyon, 81, peacefully passed away at home on Thursday, April 11, 2024. She was born August 4, 1942, in Stockton Springs, to Charlotte Keast (Smith) and Kenneth Bracy.

Sandy worked at Walmart for several years as a price clerk, was a substitute teacher and also fostered children. She enjoyed music, reading, doing puzzles, and playing card games. Her favorite places to visit were Mount Desert Island and Cadillac Mountain.

She loved all animals, but her all-time favorite was the raccoon. She was known for her sense of humor and extreme competitiveness in playing games. Sandy was a thoughtful and giving person. She will be missed and remembered by all who knew her.

Sandy leaves behind her four sons, Michael R Doyon, of Fairfield, and fiancée Brenda Bolduc, Gerard (Jay) Doyon and partner Wanda Landry, of Fairfield Center, Timothy P. Doyon, of Edmond, Oklahoma, and Jon B Doyon, of Ontario, Canada; 14 grandchildren,; several great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Sandra was predeceased by her sister Madeline Lockard and brother James Bracy.

A private gathering will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, you may donate in her name to a charity of your choice

LEON E. FOWLER

OAKLAND – Leon E. Fowler, 87, passed away peacefully Thursday April 11, 2024, at Woodlands Assisted Living, in Waterville. Leon was born in Albion on September 4, 1936, the son of Edgar M. Fowler and Meta (Rowe) Fowler.

He graduated from Besse High School, in Albion, in 1954, where he played basketball and baseball. He continued his education and training in the U.S. Air Force National Guard serving at the Loring AFB, and Bangor reservist air bases.

Leon was a self-made businessman always looking for his next financial investment. His work ethic came at an early age while working on the family farm and at his grandfather’s store. He bought and sold cars before pursuing his passion for real estate.

In his early 20s, he started his 35-year career at Sears & Roebuck and Co., where he met his wife, Betty, his soulmate of 64 years. Successful at sales, Leon soon became the appliance department manager where he excelled in business and won numerous performance awards. He dedicated his career to the company and because of his hard work he was able to retire at the age of 55.

Leon’s family was the center of his world. His wife, Betty, was the love of his life. Together, they made a perfect team. They always treated each other with respect and made it a priority to never go to bed with ill feelings toward one another.

Their connection really shined when they took the floor to dance the jitterbug. People would watch with admiration and feel the joy and excitement fill the room. With love and devotion, they built a life and raised their three children. Leon was a strong supporter of all his children’s sporting events and their other extracurricular interests. He valued education and was proud that all his children graduated from the University of Maine. Leon’s pride and joy was his granddaughter, Ariele. She brought him years of happiness with her sparkle and exuberance. He was extremely proud of the woman that she had become.

Leon was a kind and thoughtful man with a warm and welcoming demeanor. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others without being asked. He could be seen snow-blowing his neighbors’ driveways, taking care of their homes during a storm, or rescuing a stranded boater. He enjoyed coaching youth basketball, opening the Waterville Boys Club gym on weekends for pick-up games, working at Booster Club events and being on hand for various family home improvement projects. The highlight of his week was his weekly family visits to his mother’s house where extended family would gather.

Leon was an avid outdoorsman with a love for nature and wildlife. He appreciated the serenity of being near water and enjoyed spending time at his camps on Lovejoy Pond, in Unity, Messalonskee Lake, in Oakland, and a shared hunting camp with his friends on Kingsbury Pond. He loved spending time in the woods, walking the boundary lines, tracking deer, watching waterfowl, and dreaming of the various locations that would make a beautiful house lot. Being outside, hearing, smelling and being one with nature was where he felt calm and relaxed.

He passed on his connection with nature to his children. Many weekends and summers were spent at camp on Lovejoy Pond ice fishing, snowmobiling, exploring, and observing wildlife. Summers at Lovejoy, and later at Messalonskee Lake, were filled with swimming, boating and water skiing. He enjoyed playing cards, hosting barbeques, annual fourth of July celebrations, as well as numerous gatherings and impromptu visits from family and friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, Stephen Fowler and wife Beverly, and sister, Carolyn Blaisdell and husband Arthur.

Leon is survived by his wife of 64 years Elizabeth “Betty” Fowler; son, Edgar Fowler and wife Sharon; daughters Michelle Fowler and partner Debra Strout, and Tonya Fowler; granddaughter, Ariele (Fowler) Battipaglia and husband Paul; his sister, Linda Vitale and husband Vite; many nieces, nephews; and cousins.

There will be no visiting hours or funeral services. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

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

CAROLE A. GRAHAM

WATERVILLE – Carole Ann Graham, 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. She was born on September 9, 1947, in Worcester, Massachusetts., the daughter of Ambrose A. Lebel and Leona A. Lebel (Morin).

Carole graduated from Millbury High School, Massachusetts, and attended Our Lady of the Lords Church in Millbury, Massachusetts. Carole worked as an adminstrative assistant at the Togus V.A., in Augusta, until her retirement. Carole enjoyed nature, bird watching and feeding her birds. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, and Suduku. Carole enjoyed family time and Applebees.

She is survived by her eldest son Chris M. Wixon; her daughter Naomi O. Wixon, and son Phillip M. Wixon who goes by Meka; her grandchildren Christeen M. Wixon, Skie Wixon, Phillip Wixon Jr., Shanowah Wixon, Krishtiana Wixon, Ahmik Wixon, Sakari N. Wixon, and Trinity L. Wixon; her brothers Ken Lebel, John Lebel, and Richard (Dick) Lebel. As well as many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents Ambrose and Leona Lebel and her brother Lenny Lebel.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux Funeral Home, Elm Street, Waterville, where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

JOHN E. PHELPS

SIDNEY – John Earle Phelps was born in Huntington, West Virginia, on December 2, 1931, the son of Edward and Ethel Phelps. The family moved to Maine in 1932.

John attended Mt. Vernon grade school and graduated from Belgrade High School. He attended the University of Maine in 1951-1952. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in October 1952, and discharged in October 1954. He joined The Maine State Police in March 1955. He patrolled the Maine Turnpike, then was chosen as a driver for Governor Edmund Muskie in 1956. After Muskie he drove for Governors Clinton A. Clauson and John H. Reed.

On May 21, 1960 he married Joyce Richardson, of Farmingdale.

John patrolled in the Winthrop area from 1960 to 1969. He worked in communications in Augusta until 1973, then on security at the Blaine Mansion with Governor Kenneth Curtis. He also drove United Nations representatives to Forest Park off Lily Bay, at Moosehead Lake, during Muskie’s term as governor.

Among some of the people he drove for included Dr. Ralph Bunch (who won the Nobel Peace Prize), Sam Rayburn (Speaker of the House in Washington, D.C.), and Senator John F. Kennedy when he visited Governor Muskie, in Augusta.

He retired from the Maine State Police in 1975 and then was employed at the Blaine Mansion until 1995. Some of the visitors he met at the Blaine Mansion included Senator Walter Mondale, President Jimmy Carter, Bob Hope, Captain Kangaroo and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He worked for eight different governors and retired from state service in1995.

He enjoyed gardening, hunting birds and many sports. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play baseball, softball, soccer, and basketball. He liked to travel, and he drove to California twice. He also enjoyed going to country western shows and saw many of the country western shows in Nashville, Tennessee; Branson, Missouri; Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Florida.

He was predeceased by his mother and father and brothers, Richard, Robert, and James Phelps.

In addition to his wife of 64 years, he is survived by his children, Jim and wife Terry Phelps, of Dresden, Jeff Phelps, of Sidney, and Jean LaFreniere and partner Walter Birkbeck, of Monroe; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, and nephews.

Visiting hours were held on Monday, April 22, . A service followed at Knowlton Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, ME.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton Hewins & Roberts 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.

Donations may be made to the American Diabetes, Heart, or Kidney Associations.

OTHERS DEPARTED

ELIZABETH A. PELLERIN

DOVER-FOXCROFT – Elizabeth Ann (Betty) Lewis Pellerin, 87, formally of Waterville, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Northern Light Mayo Hospital, in Dover-Foxcroft, She was born August 18, 1936, in Oakland.

Betty graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1954. She was employed at the Pleasant Street/Albert Hall School, in Waterville, from 1969, retiring in 1995. “Mrs. Pellerin” as the students called her was also a special room mother to a very special class that started in their fourth and fifth grades. She also attended their high school graduation.

Her interests were many, spending quality time with family, played volleyball at the boys/girls club, member of the association of secretaries, collecting antiques and summers at their cottage on McGrath Pond, in Oakland.

Betty married Richard (Dick) Pellerin in 1957.

She is survived by her son, Richard (Rick) Pellerin Jr. and wife Karlene, of Sangerville; two grandsons, Frank and Amy Pellerin, of Fairfield, Richard (Richie) and Shelby Pellerin III, of Dexter; stepson James Oldfield, of Connecticut; three grandchildren, twins Richard (Little Richie) Pellerin IV and Grady Pellerin, of Dexter, and Delana Green Oldfield, of Connecticut.

She is predeceased by her husband Dick, son Frank and a daughter Ann.

For those who desire may give to the Oakland Sidney Methodist Church, 14 West School St, Oakland, ME 04963.

There will be no visiting hours and at her request there will be no funeral. Burial will be private.

A gathering/celebration will be held at a later date.

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

SSG JUAN M. LYNCH

KAPOLEI, Hawai’i – Staff Sargent Juan Matthew Lynch, 31, of Kapolei, Hawai’i, and Lakewood Ranch, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 24, 2023. Born on December 7, 1992, in Guatemala City, Guatemala, the son of James Lynch and his mother, the late Mary Simcock Lynch.

Matt attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, and graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 2011. Following graduation, Matt chose to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Army. Over the following 12 years, Matt’s decorated U.S. Army career included assignments with the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, B Company, 1-27 Infantry Regiment (Wolfhounds) and the 2D Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Schofield Barracks, Oahu, Hawai’i. He served tours of duty in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria, and an additional Lead Security Specialist assignment in South Korea. His commanders defined Matt as an incredible soldier and exceptional leader who will be remembered for his infectious and cheerful smile. SSG Lynch’s decorations included the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and The Soldier’s Medal.

Matt’s warmth, kindness and quick wit brought much love and great joy to his family and friends. His calm, confident demeanor brought him much respect and admiration from the servicemen and servicewomen that served by his side. Matt took much pleasure in cooking, hosting holiday dinners for his battalion, company and platoon.

His many avocations included physical fitness, photography, creating digital media, golf, scuba diving, camping, surfing, family celebrations and his friendships – old and new. Matthew was particularly loving, protective and proud of his father and cherished brother Jose.

His soul is now reunited with his beloved mother and brother Michael. Matt will forever be remembered for his love of family, love of friends, love of country and his enduring bond of military brotherhood.

His enduring love will always be felt but, Matt will be forever missed by his father; brother Jose; aunt Sherri and uncle Steve Zimmer; cousins Jon, Katie and Michelle; aunt Walli and uncle Steve Fitton, Stephanie and Jason; uncle Stephen Simcock, of New York; uncle Bob and aunt Lora Lynch, of Nevada; aunt Marilyn and uncle Barry Welch, cousins Stacey and Brendan; aunt Pat and uncle Phil Simon and cousins John, Karen and Steven; and cousin Cherie Yannizzi of Colorado.

A full military honors service to commemorate the life of SSG Juan Matthew Lynch will take place June 1, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville, Maine. Cremation to follow.

Following the service, all family and friends are cordially invited to a reception and celebration of Matt’s life at Thomas College, 480 West River Road, Waterville, Maine.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Matt’s memory to Saint John Food Pantry, Corpus Christi Parish, 17 S. Garland St., Winslow, ME 04901.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 18, 2024

JOHN G. CYR

WATERVILLE – John G. Cyr, 74, died early Monday morning, March 25, 2024. John was born in Water­ville on Sep­tember 30, 1949, the son of Roland and Regina Cyr.

He graduated from Waterville High School class of 1969 and was employed by Seltzer and Rydholm for over 20 years.

For many years John ran the Notre Dame Soup Kitchen, in Waterville. He was a devout Catholic, attending church at Corpus Christi Parish for many years, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. His adventurous spirit led him to conquer climbing Mount Katahdin 30-plus times, highlighting his love for the great outdoors.

He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Bob Cyr.

John is survived by his wife of 49 years Pam Cyr; sons, Jason Cyr and wife Jen, of Sidney, Dan Cyr and wife Debbie, of Oakland; grandchildren Ashley, Bailey, Tyler, Austin, Alexis, Brianna, Gavin, Allie, Ben, Justin, and Jake; and brother, Don Cyr.

There will be no visiting hours or funeral service. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Cremation arrangements by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services in Skowhegan.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s name to the Knights of Columbus (Council #13486) or the Waterville Area Soup Kitchen.

GARY L. CAMPBELL

SIDNEY – Gary Lee Campbell, 69, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 28, 2024, following a very short battle with cancer. Gary was born on October 16, 1954, and grew up in Oakland.

As a child, Gary faced a lot of difficult challenges, but lived his life to the fullest. He never let his disabilities limit him and he spent a lot of time doing things, most people would never think to be possible.

Gary enjoyed caning chairs and making guns out of PVC pipes and wood. He also enjoyed bowling, fishing, but most importantly he loved shooting nerf guns, of which he had a large collection. He loved creating things with building blocks and listening to TV shows about ancient aliens on the History Channel.

Gary was a huge jokester, always knowing how to make you laugh. He loved and appreciated people and always went out of his way to make sure everyone knew that. He loved his family more than anything. (Although, the hand in life he was dealt was unfair, Gary was happy to be living it!) He was gentle, kind and probably the best person anyone could be blessed to encounter.

Gary is survived by his sister and guardian, Debbie Dufour, of Albion; his brother, Reggie Reed,of Madison; his niece, Maranda Dufour, of Turner; his nephews John Dufour, of Oakland, and TJ Dufour, of Albion; he was a great-uncle to Camryn Murphy, of Turner, and Blaine Dufour, of Albion; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Gary was predeceased by his mother, Grace Reed and father, Reginald Reed; and grandparents Ella and Morris Campbell.

Graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 1 p.m., at Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland.

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.

DORIS M. HIX

WINDSOR – Doris Marie Hix, 85, of Windsor, passed away onFriday, March 29, 2024. She was born April 16,1938.

Doris was very crafty and gave from her heart to others.

She is survived by her three children, Darus Vear, Shereen Hix, Kevin Hix and wife; her brother, Raymond Veilleux and partner Steven Sawyer; many relatives and friends; three grandsons with one granddaughter-in-law; two granddaughters and their children.

A graveside service will be held this spring for family at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

EDNA M. GREENLAW

WINSLOW – Edna Mae (Gurney) Greenlaw passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at her home, in Winslow.

A mem­orial service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the Vassal­boro United Methodist Church, 614 Main St., Vassalboro, ME 04989.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., in Waterville. Please visit http://www.gallantfh.com to read Edna’s full obituary and to share memories.

NATHAN W. SIDELINGER

FAIRFIELD – Nathan William Sidelinger, 37, unexpectedly passed away at home, in Fairfield, on Friday, March 29, 2024. Nathan was born on August 1, 1986, the son of Karren and William Sidelinger.

He grew up in Winslow, where he played youth hockey and soccer, and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1995. He was a faithful, hard-working employee of the Waterville Walmart for 17 years.

He had a funny and unique sense of humor always willing to debate the facts of any topic with wit and a hint of sarcasm. Nate, Uncle Nader or Up as his nieces and nephew knew him, was a silly uncle, always giving a little extra time to the kids in his life. He was a happy, gentle, and loving person who will be missed by all those who knew him.

Nate was predeceased by his father, his step-father, Michael Thibodeau, and grandparents, Robert and Joan Fortin, and William Sr. and Phylis Sidelinger.

He is survived by his mother; two brothers, and their families, Matthew, Amanda and Isabella Hall, of Uptown Massachusettes, Mark, Stacey and Lauren Hall, of Belmont; two step-siblings and their families, Hilary , Jim and Leo Shorey, of Anson, Travis, Nicole and Tyler Thibodeau, of Fairfield; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 4, 2024, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Best Western Hotel, in Waterville. There will be a buffet and bar available. It will be an informal event and children are welcome.

MARILYN J. PULLEN

WEEKS MILLS – Marilyn June (Dodge) Pullen, 88, passed away Wednesday, April 3, 2024 from complications related to dementia. She had been a resident of Brentwood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing, in Yarmouth. She was born April 29, 1935, the daughter of Luther and Iva Dodge of South China.

She was predeceased by her husband, Melvin Pullen, of Weeks Mills, her brothers, Glen, Sherwood, Wayne and James and also Diane, a sister who died shortly after birth.

She is survived by her daughter, Diane Louten and husband, Daniel, of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Raymond, Maine; and several neices and nephews.

Marilyn attended China schools and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1953. She met her husband, Melvin Pullen, upon his return from the Korean War and they married in 1955. She attended Gates Business School, in Augusta, for one year then worked at Lipman Poultry Plant, in Augusta, HealthTex, in Gardiner, and Country Manor Nursing Home, in Coopers Mills. She later became self employed as a personal caregiver and house cleaner working with Melvin opening camps on China Lake. These folks became friends in the process.

She was a devoted Christian and member of the Weeks Mills Baptist Church. One of her favorite pastimes was playing Elbib (Bible spelled backwards) for the Sunday school children. She enjoyed sitting and playing with the children and many remember her still. She took great pride in her flower and vegetable gardens and even talked to them to encourage them to grow and multiply. She enjoyed her hobbies of sewing, cake baking, painting, reading, writing in her journals, and making music on a piano and banjo. Melvin would say otherwise though.

She was a member of two red hat society groups – The Red Hat Knitters and Foxy Gals, both of Waterville; the Maine State Historical Society and the American Baptist Church Society.

She taught her daughter to:

1. Always be kind and love everybody.
2. Play in the dirt often and don’t worry about dirty hands.
3. Let your inner child out to play on occasion,
4. Dance with glee and don’t worry about how you look.
5. Dress up in clothes that make you happy and make others smile.
6. Surround yourself with color.
7. Make friends and treat them like family.
8. Pray daily.
9. If you say you’re going to do something, do it.
10. Smile at everyone.
11. Be silly.
12. Read your devotions and attend church regularly.

She loved people and caring for them. Marilyn and her daughter Diane would go for walks and she would find four leaf clovers without even trying, while Diane, on the other hand, could search for hours and never find one. While having a discussion about end of life matters, Diane asked her to show her a four leaf clover when she arrived in heaven and wanted to communicate with me. She agreed. So we will see.

There is a thin veil of time between heaven and earth and only a four leaf clover away.

A celebration of life will be held later this summer.

ROBERT POULIN

VASSALBORO – Robert Poulin, 76, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, April 4, 2024, at his home. He was born August 9, 1947, the son of Robert and Dorianne (Paquet) Poulin.

Robert attended local schools, graduating from Winslow High School. He went on to college, graduating with a degree in accounting. He served in the United States Navy and the Air National Guard.

Robert met the love of his life, Jean, and together they shared over 45 years of marriage. They made a home in Vassalboro where they raised their three children.

Robert worked for over 30 years as a salesman for Frito Lay, until his retirement. In his free time Robert enjoyed the outdoors, watching local sports, traveling, and the ocean. He loved spending time with family, over anything else, that is what he valued most.

Robert was predeceased by his wife; his parents; and his brothers Ronnie and Reggie Poulin.

He is survived by his children, Stephanie Lockhart and husband Justin, Chad Poulin and wife Jodi, and Brent Poulin and wife Bailey; six grandchildren, Josh Wilde and wife Emylia, Tyler Wilde, Trent Poulin, Cole Poulin, Caitlin Poulin, and Brennan Poulin; three great-grandchildren, Leo, Emmitt and Schyloh Wilde; his brother, Raymond Poulin; several cousins; nieces and nephews.

There will be a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery, in May, details to follow.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www. veilleuxfuneralhome.com.

JOHN A. NELSON

CLINTON – John Arlo Nelson, 71, died peacefully at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Thayer Campus, in Waterville on Thursday, April 4, 2024. He was born April 19, 1952, the first child of Fred and Carleen Nelson, in Hartford, Connecticut.

John was a 1970 graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. Arlo then served four years in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Upon discharge, worked at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow. After closure of the mill, he became a merchant marine delivering goods all over the world.

John is survived by his wife, Ma. Diana; mother, S. Carleen Nelson, of Winslow; sister, Carolyn Nelson Corey and husband Tim, of Albion; brother, Chappell Nelson, of Clinton; nephew, Gabe Corey; and nieces Cheryl Smith and Beth Leary.

John Arlo was predeceased by his father, Fred Nelson, of Clinton.

There will be a reception of remembrance May 4, at 11:30 a.m., located at the Brown Memorial Church Fellowship Hall, 36 Church St., in Clinton.

There will be a graveside service at the Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, later in the spring.

DANIEL A. MARQUETTE

WINDSOR—Daniel Andre Marquette, 70, passed away during the evening of Friday, April 5, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Canada on July 4, 1953, a son of Roger and Georgette Marquette.

As a young man, Dan moved to Maine and settled in Windsor alongside his wife, Darlene. Dan was mechanically inclined and was a self-employed auto mechanic at his shop, Marquette Muffler Brake & Tire Shop. He enjoyed tinkering on classic cars and was particularly gifted installing and repairing custom exhaust systems.

In addition, Dan enjoyed gardening and woodworking. He will be remembered as a good man with a big heart.

He was predeceased by his parents; a sibling, Parrett Melanson; and his wife in January 2023, Darlene Marquette.

Dan is survived by his children, Andre Marquette, Chantel Trafton, and Daniel Marquette; his step-children, Mark Chambers and his wife Lauri, Tim Chambers and his wife Jaimie, and James Longmire and his partner Kelsey Libold; grandchildren, Allie, Gunner, Benjamin, Megan, Matthew, Jacob, Tim, Alex, Chevvey, Damien, Aaleah, and Brianna; great-grandchildren, Blake and Aubrey; and siblings, Lucy Marquette and Jacques Marquette.

A graveside service will be held later in the spring at the John C. Shirley Cemetery, in Durham, New Hampshire.

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

CARLTON L. FITZGERALD

CHINA – Carlton L. Fitzgerald, 89, passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, following an extended time of declining health.  He was born on September 15, 1934, in China, to Lloyd F and Hazel (Esancy) Fitzgerald.

Carlton was a lifelong resident of China, attended the South China Village School and was a member of the first eighth grade to graduate from the new China Consolidated School in 1949.  He attended Erskine Academy, in South China, graduating in 1953, third in his class.

While at Erskine, he was president of the class for three years, participating in sports and band.  Carlton attended the University of Maine at Orono and graduated in 1955 with an associate degree in mechanized farming.

In 1955, Carlton married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Fletcher, and they resided in the old Fitzgerald farmhouse on Rte. 32, raising their five children there.

In 1958, Carlton and his dad expanded the farm operation, built a new barn on the old homestead, and built one of the first milking parlors in the state. The farm grew in size and at its peak milked around 100 cows and raised meat for their own food.

He was involved in several organizations of his interest: The Farm Bureau, The Maine Forestry Board, The Maine Association and The Kennebec County Soil and Water Conservation District, serving as president to each.  It was during that time that he and Shirley traveled to many U.S. cities attending the National Convention as delegates.

Carlton served as Scoutmaster for the China BSA, was president of the China School PTA and was an avid snowmobiler, in fact, was a founding member of the China Four Seasons Club, as its president and trail master for many years.  He and his wife covered many miles of Northern Maine from the eastern to the western border on their snowmobile.

Carlton’s most pleasurable hobby was camping, which his wife introduced him to early in their marriage.  They spent much time in their retirement traveling in the motor home across the U.S. and spent their winters in Florida for several years.  Their camping experience covered almost all types of camping, evolving from basic tenting to pickup and camper, to tow-behind, to motorhome, and even a fifth wheel.

Carlton was predeceased by his parents.  He is survived by his wife Shirley; his children Patricia Pratt-Rossman and wife Diane; son Fredrick Fitzgerald and wife Patricia, daughters Linda Bengtson and husband Wayne, Cathy Frisbie and husband Trey, Betty Sularie and husband Larry, and former daughter-in-law Betsy Fitzgerald; grandchildren Bruce Fitzgerald and wife Ginnie, Derek Clifford and wife Anne, Jaimi Clifford and fiancé Brandon, Heather Turcotte and husband Chris, Justin Sularie and companion Kristie, and Emmi Pelletier; several great grandchildren, his sister Arlene Cox, Melbourne, Florida, and sister-in-law Joan Hammond, Green Valley, Arizona; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Erskine Academy Alumni Scholarship Fund, 309 Windsor Rd., So. China, ME  04358, or to Beacon Hospice, 5 Community Dr., Ste A, Augusta, ME  04330

Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralalternatives.net.

FRANCIS H. CAVERLY

CLINTON – Francis “Frank” H. Caverly, 82, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Frank was born on May 27, 1941, to Brainard Jr. and Evelyn (Wyman) Caverly.

Frank graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, where he played football. He often joked that the football field was his true classroom, and his teammates were his family. After graduation, Frank returned to the family farm. Frank married the love of his life, Suzanne Hardy, on April 27, 1968, they were married just shy of 56 years.

A dairy farmer by trade, Frank was a mentor to young aspiring farmers and to the community around him. Frank had many “phone pen pals” he spoke to on a weekly basis in which they would solve all the world’s problems.

Among the many chapters of his life, one of the brightest was when Frank and his brother E.C stood as co-recipients of the prestigious Skowhegan Fair Agricultural Person of the Year award. Frank was also past president of the Ayrshire Breeders Association and a 50-plus year member of the Benton Grange.

Frank possessed an amazing sense of humor, he loved talking about politics, farming, sports, and his grandchildren, as well as, harassing salesman with “the card”. Frank was a wonderful friend to many, whether you knew him for five minutes or 50 years, he had a joke and life advice to share.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his eldest son Dale; his brothers Pudge and E.C., his sister Marion; his nephew Richard; and his sister-in-law Donna.

Frank is survived by his wife Susie; his son Neal and girlfriend Michele; his grandchildren Alexandria “Allie” and Bryce; several in-laws; nieces, nephews, cousins.

A memorial visitation will be held at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home on Monday, April 22, 2024, from 5 – 7 p.m. A time to gather and share stories will be at Moody Chapel, in Hinckley, on April 23, 2024, from noon – 1 p.m., with a funeral service at 1 p.m., and a reception to follow. Weather permitting, there will be a burial at the family cemetery following the reception.

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

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Dale H Caverly scholarship fund, P.O. Box 2, Hinckley, ME 04944.

SHARON R. LEEMAN

PALERMO – Sharon Rose Leeman, 77, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Palermo Christian Church, 322 Branch Mills Rd., Palermo, ME 04354.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sharon’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org or dementiasociety.org.

OTHERS DEPARTED

SOPHIE F. POOLER

LARGO, Florida – Sophie (Fichtner) Pooler, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2024, in Largo, Florida, following a brief time in hospice care. Sophie was born on February 21, 1931, in Markt Schwaben, Germany, to Anna and Franz Fichtner.

Sophie met her future husband, Carleton W. Pooler, of Waterville, in 1954 during his military service in Germany. After marrying in 1955, they moved to Winslow where they made their home and raised a family.

In addition to her responsibilities at home, Sophie served as a Dialysis Technician, in Waterville hospitals for more than 35 years.

Sophie was known as a fabulous cook, specializing in schnitzel and rouladen always served with a beer. Sophie was passionate about her hobbies of needlepoint, knitting, and playing cards, enjoyed spending time with her friends, and loved traveling, especially to her favorite places, Germany, Hawaii, and Texas, to name a few.

Sophie is survived by her two children, Robert Pooler and his wife Jane, of Mt. Desert, and Carleton Pooler and his wife Paula, of Winslow; two grandchildren, Andrew Pooler and his wife Amy, of Ellsworth, and Ashley Pooler, of Winslow; two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Bella Pooler, of Ellsworth; and niece, Linde Wrigley, of Howell, Michigan.

Sophie was predeceased by her husband, Carleton in 2005; parents, Anna and Franz Fichtner; sister, Hildegard (Fichtner) Cunningham, sister-in-law, Geraldine “Gerry” Nimon.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on May 21, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, located at 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta, in the chapel.

WILLIAM E. MOSHER

BOLIVAR, Missouri – William E. Mosher, 84, formerly of Smithfield, died Friday, April 5, 2024, in Boliva, Missouri.

He graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, became a corpsman in the U.S. Navy Reserves, married Nancy Guertin and started their family soon after.

He attended auctioneering school in Arkansas.

Billy was quite a character that lived a colorful life, his way. As the auctioneer and former co-owner, with his father, of the Somerset Auction Barn, in Smithfield, “Colonel Bill”, as he was fondly called, drew crowds of buyers, sellers and tire kickers every Sunday for many years. Many will recall how he made you feel the moment you stepped through the door. He would call out “welcome”, to you by name if he knew it, made everyone laugh either with you or at you, and direct you where to get your number to bid.

He kept the crowds entertained with his quick wit, big personality and friendly demeanor. Many drove hundreds of miles with livestock, antiques and junk in the back of their trucks to make a buck. He was touted as one of the best autioneers in the state.

Bill was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed many hunts in Maine with his brother, Dale, and in Missouri. He could tell you entertaining hunting stories from decades ago as if the hunt just happened. Of course, he never lost his love of buying and selling goods, always looking for the next money making opportunity.

He was predeceased by his parents, Merle Mosher and Betty Marshall Mosher; his sister, Lois Jean Mosher, and brother, Dale A. Mosher.

He is survived by his six children, Gary, Timothy, Jodie, Melissa, Marc and Vicki, along with their spouses and significant others; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister Joan Butler and husband Jon; many nieces and nephews.

A graveside interment will take place at Southside Cemetery, in Skowhegan, at 9 a.m., Sunday, May 12, 2024, with a gathering to share memories at Fairview Grange #342, in the village of Smithfield, immediately following the service.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 11, 2024

ANNE R. PALMER

WATERVILLE – Anne Richards Palmer, 90, died Monday, March 25, 2024, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. Anne was born August 15, 1933, in Chillicothe, Missouri, to Arline Richards Copple Marks and Laverne G. Copple. Her adopted father was Nathaniel Burbank.

She grew up in Waterville with her grandparents, Hattie and Jess Richards, graduated from Waterville High School in 1951 and then enrolled in Colby College, in Waterville, from which she graduated in 1955.

On Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1957, Anne married David Richardson Palmer and they moved to Miami, Florida, and had two children, Todd Richards Palmer and Laurie Anne Palmer. In 1972, the family moved back to Waterville.

Anne went back to college and graduated from University of Maine at Augusta with a BA in nursing. She had a successful career with MaineGeneral Medical Center in nursing. After retirement, she worked in the office at Waterville Burger Corporation, the family’s Burger King franchise.

Anne devoted more than 20 years to serving on the Waterville Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals while championing many community service projects, including the North Street Playground, also known as the Morton A. Brody Playground; South End Skate Park, the city’s first skate park; and the purchase of a new rescue ambulance for the Waterville Fire Department. She single-handedly raised funds for these projects, applying for grants and seeking donations. She donated money left over from the skate park fundraising effort to help improve Moor Street Park, in the South End. She also helped raise funds for the Humane Society Waterville Area’s new animal shelter, on Webb Road, and worked diligently to help restore the Blueberry Hill lookout site, in Belgrade.

Mom was a wonderful mother, friend and nurse who brought out and demanded the best in everyone. She set the bar high and was a champion when called upon. She left a big footprint in the Waterville community and will be missed and loved forever.

A celebration of life will be held at Colby College Alumni House on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 2 – 4 p.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901 or online at http://www.hswa.org.

MADELINE C. DOUGHTY

SIDNEY – Madeline C. Doughty, 82, of West Gardiner, passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024, at Bella Point, Sidney. She was born in Gardiner, on July 1, 1941, to Aubert and Marguerite (Welsh) Phillis.

On June 24, 1961, she married the love of her life, Gordon Doughty. Madeline worked at Lipman’s Poultry and the Kennebec Journal, both in Augusta, for years. Then she became a childcare provider, housekeeper, and worked at Fuller’s Market.

She was a member of Winter Street Baptist Church which she attended for many years. She faithfully read her Bible every morning. Some of her hobbies included word searches, puzzles, card games, going for a drive, and eating out. She loved helping out others. When she saw her loved ones happy it brought her immense joy.

She was such an amazing woman; sweet, generous, kindhearted, and selfless.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband, Gordon Doughty, brother, Spike Phillis, and sister, Toni St. Peter.

Madeline is survived by her daughters, Debbie Doughty, of Tucker, Georgia, and Jackie Hyde and her husband, Steve, of West Gardiner; four grandchildren, Sarah Farnsworth and her husband, Tyler; Samantha Garland and her husband, Ricky; Jerica Hyde, and Diamond Doughty; great-grandchildren, Lucas, Briella, Tyson, Isaiah, Riley, and Maya; brother, George Phillis, Sr.; sisters, Ann Dutil and Sheila Smith.

The family is filled with so much gratitude Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, May 18, at Winter Street Baptist Church, 32 Winter St., in Gardiner. A celebration of life will follow.

Arrangements and guidance 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.

CARL L. BECK

BELGRADE – Carl Linwood Beck, 78, of Belgrade, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, four weeks after experiencing a debilitating stroke. Carl was born on April 2, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawai’i, where his father, Linwood, was stationed at Pearl Harbor with his wife, Mary.

As was always his way, he fought with relentless determination right up until the end, maintaining hope and mental fortitude even as his body said no more.

Carl was a man who prided himself in caring for everyone around him, positively impacting the lives of so many. Whether loving his friends and family, giving back to the community, or supporting his employees, you could always count on Carl to be there for you.

As the first born, Carl quickly became the de facto leader of the family, with his siblings Cyndi, Doug and Bruce looking up to him and seeking guidance through their youth and into adulthood. Growing up in Waterville’s Roosevelt Avenue neighborhood, Carl’s boundless charisma and huge heart drew people to him, creating life-long friendships with the finest of people, many of whom were to become pillars of the Central Maine community. His countless hours playing basketball at the Boy’s Club and caddying at the country club opened doors to what were to become his deepest of friendships.

He never was one to shy away from work, finding himself on construction sites at a young age with his grandfather Carl, his father, and Uncle Waldo. His tireless work ethic spurred him to become a top scholar and stand-out athlete at Waterville High School. He later became the first in his family to attend college, graduating from the University of New Hampshire with top honors, and then obtaining his MBA and CPA from Boston University. He went on to work in the prestigious accounting firm of Arthur Young, in Portland, quickly obtaining status as their top junior associate. Despite this success, in 1975, Carl was drawn back to Central Maine. He recognized an opportunity to grow the family business. His hard work and business acumen injected new life, setting the stage for decades of success that continue to this day. He was so very proud to be an integral part of C.O. Beck and Sons celebrating 100 years of service in 2020.

A transformative year for Carl was 1979, meeting his soon-to-be wife, Sally, and her son, Steven. Carl and Sally eloped to Bermuda in June of that year. Sadly, months later, Carl was diagnosed with Lymphoma. Given only a 20 percent chance of survival, he forged on, battling through months of intensive cancer treatments. He beat it, as he would do four more times, including serious neck/throat cancer in 2009. His resolve was tested over and over, but he never relented.

Carl dedicated his life to supporting those around him, never shying away from being there for his family, friends, and community. Whether it was supporting Sally and Steve’s demanding sports schedules and their higher-education, building his dream-house, managing the finances of friends and employees, or donating his time and resources to charitable organizations, Carl always found the time.

In recent years, he was tireless in his commitment to Sally in her ongoing battle with Parkinson’s, ensuring she could continue to pursue the many activities that brought her joy. The pride he had for his family was beyond words, capped off by a special Christmas this past year shared with his wife, son and grandson, Francis. Carl was overcome with love and joy.

Outside of being there for his family and friends, attending big sporting events was Carl’s passion. He snuck into the Master’s with Gubby in the ’60s, took his young son to countless Boston Celtics games in the ’80s, went to Arnie’s (Arnold Palmer) last U.S. Open, at Oakmont, attended the British Open, at St. Andrews, with Sally, and was on the parquet with his best friend, Chip, for the Celtics last game at the old Garden.

Carl went for it, creating the best of memories with his loved ones.

It’s rare that we are blessed with the opportunity to share in the life of someone as special as Carl Beck. He has left behind a void that cannot be filled.

Carl is survived by his wife, Sally Beck, of Belgrade; son, Steve Hildreth and his partner Andrea Smith, of Chelsea; grandson, Francis Hildreth Pedrero, of Barcelona, Spain; sister and brother-in-law, Cyndi and Craig Warren, of New Gloucester; brothers, Doug Beck, of Rome, Bruce and Peggy Beck, of China; and many nieces and nephews in Maine and throughout the country.

He was predeceased by his mother and father, Mary and Linwood Beck; and his brother, Brian Beck.

A celebration of life will be held at the Loon Cove common area, in Belgrade, on Friday, July 19, at 3 p.m., 125 Loon Call Drive – arrival by boat welcome.

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

Those interested in honoring the life of Carl can make donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in his memory.

LELAND M. BESSEY

ALBION – Leland M. Bessey, 96, passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2024, following a brief period of declning health. He was the son of Clarence and Alice Bessey.

He was a lifelong resident of Albion.

Leland was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army in World War II. Upon his return, he attended and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, where he met fellow student Donna Andrews. Shortly after their graduation, they were married. Their beautiful love affair spanned more than 74 years together.

He and Donna were dairy farmers for several years early in their marriage. They both had fond memories of the farm and their labor of love tending to their cows. Later, he became a rural route carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, and in 1984 was appointed postmaster, in Albion.

Leland was a fixture in Albion, providing more than 27 years of service to his community as a Postal Service employee, selectman, Albion Volunteer Fire Dept. member, and Boy Scout local committee member. When there was a meeting in Albion, Leland was in attendance and often in a leadership role. He loved his community, and they clearly loved him. His sense of duty and service was deeply ingrained.

A man of many passions and abilities, Leland and Donna’s home boasted his talents as a workman. When they built the home 50 years ago, Leland designed and created the cabinets, and was responsible for many of the finishing details, plumbing and electricity. He also crafted many pieces of furniture for them.

One year, he built a Grandfather clock for Donna as a surprise!

Leland had a small plane for many years and created an airstrip with his cousin, Jimmy. They enjoyed many years of flying the skies together.

Leland enjoyed restoring antique tractors, especially Farmall. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying gardening, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and maple syrup tapping and processing over many years.

He was a member of Kennebec River Rovers Good Sam RV Club for many years and served as its president. He and Donna loved to take their travel trailer and “hit the road” with friends to travel the United States together. In their later years, they spent half of the year in Bushnell, Florida, enjoying their retirement with friends from Maine and elsewhere. He was also a member of Fairfield United Methodist Church.

The consummate, caring gentleman, Leland was a role model and mentor for many who knew him. His playfulness and sense of humor was a side of Leland that was especially loved by younger family members.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; sister Evelyn; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Mary.

A spring graveside service and celebration of life for Leland will be announced at a later date.

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

CHARLES N. PELLETIER

WINSLOW – Charles Nelson Pelletier, 89, of Winslow, died following a brief illness at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Monday, April 1, 2024. He was born on September 6, 1934, the son of Charles and Laura (Gauvin) Pelletier.

He graduated from Fort Kent schools in 1952 followed by his military service in the United States Army. He was employed and retired from Better Cable TV, in Winslow, after 26 years of service.

He was a lifetime member of MacCrilllis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow. Throughout his retirement, he enjoyed wintering in Florida and attending any and all family gatherings.

He was devoted to his family and his faith. His favorite pastimes were spending time with family, taking daily walks, and cheering on his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at various events.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Noella; his children Marc Pelletier (Ann), Gary Pelletier (Janet), Gail Malone (John); many grandchildren, great-grandchildren; a sister, Una Mae Lord; as well as nieces, and nephews.

He was predeceased by a daughter Rita Marie at birth, his parents and a sister, Yvette, as well as two brothers, Warren, and Clifford.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Food Pantry, 17 South Garand Street, Winslow, ME 04901.

ARTHUR P. PELLERIN

WINSLOW – Arthur P. Pellerin, 82, lifelong resident of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Arthur was born on October 2, 1941, in Winslow, son of Arthur M. and Juliette (St. Amand) Pellerin.

Arthur served Central Maine’s farming community for 58 years beginning with Eastern States, retiring from Feed Commodities Inc., in 2017. His farmer friends were like family to him. He was a lifelong parishioner of St. John Parish, in Winslow.

He was predeceased by both his parents, and siblings Evangeline, Esther, Ann, and Frederick.

Arthur is survived by Sandra, his wife of nearly 62 years; his five children, Rachel (Erich), David (Rachel), Sarah, Daniel, and Peter; along with 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. John Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, Maine. Celebration immediately following in St. John Church Hall.

Please visit Arthur’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/arthur-pellerin for additional information and detailed obituary as written by Arthur Pellerin.

In lieu of flowers, Arthur would love to know you spent time with your loved ones.

YVONNE N. GRANT

WATERVILLE – Yvonne Nelson Grant, 76, of Waterville, passed away on Monday, April 1, 2024. She was born on October 17, 1947, in Lincoln.

She will forever be re­membered for her generosity, warmth, and unwavering love, which extended to her passions for gardening, judging flower shows, animal rescue, travel, and shopping. Her dedication to nurturing gardens and rescuing animals exemplified her compassionate spirit. Though her presence may be gone, her legacy of love and service will continue to bloom and thrive. Rest in peace, Yvonne, your memory will forever be cherished.

Yvonne was predeceased by husband, Thomas Grant, son, Brett Drouin, her parents Richard Nelson, Katherine (Babineau Nelson) Gerry, and stepfather Louis Gerry.

She is survived by her brother Randolph Gerry and wife Barbara, of Winslow; nieces Michelle Gerry, of Scarborough, and Jodi Poulin and her husband Chad and their children Cole and Caitlin, of Colorado.

There will be no services at this time.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area., 100 Webb Rd., Waterville,ME 04901.

EDWARD H. BOUDREAU SR.

BELGRADE – Edward Henry Boudreau Sr., 79, passed away unexpectedly, at his home in Belgrade, on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. He was born on February 19, 1945, a son of Frederick and Cecile (Veilleux) Boudreau.

Ed grew up in Bath and was a graduate of Morse High School in the class of 1963. He went on to further his education by attending the University of Maine, and ultimately graduated from Bentley University with a bachelor’s degree.

Following school, he became a father and his career which led to an impressive career at EJ Prescott, in Augusta, where over a 30-year span he helped guide the company through periods of recession and grow the organization until his retirement in 2018. He retired as the Financial Vice President and Treasurer after 41 years of employment.

Ed was the epitome of a hard-working man and took pride in providing for and spending time with his family.

In November 2002, he married the love of his life, Carole Cyr. Together, they were happy to raise their family and have the opportunity to travel. One of his most treasured trips was to Europe visiting the Holy Land, a life-changing experience for both of them.

Ed was a communicant of St. Michael’s Parish, in Augusta, a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Augusta Lodge #964, and a lifetime member of Le Club Calumet, also in Augusta.

Ed enjoyed taking his dog Axel for a daily car ride enjoying a hotdog or ice cream. Above all, Ed was a family man who will be remembered for his kind heart and being a true gentleman.

He was predeceased by his parents and siblings, Marguerite Boudreau and William Boudreau.

He is survived by his wife, Carole Boudreau, their children, Tina Forbes and partner Robert Moore, June Powell and partner Marcel Schnee, Edward Boudreau, Jr. and partner Missy Knox, Julie Hayes and fiancé Clarence Levesque and Chris Powell and partner Andrea Shea; grandchildren, Ashley, Dexter, Juston, Dillon, Tyler, Ethan, Haylana, Rebecca, Eli, and Tiaunna; one great-granddaughter, Alzena; as well as his sister, Mary Baspeyre; and nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, April 9, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 75 Northern Ave., Augusta, Maine 04330. Ed’s burial will take place in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Augusta Elks Lodge #964 Scholarship Fund, 397 Civic Center Dr., Augusta, ME 04330.

REGINA G. RANCOURT

WINSLOW / WATERVILLE – Regina G. Rancourt, 97, passed away peacefully. Regina was born in Waterville on November 2, 1926, daughter of Clifford J. and Flossy F. (Poulin) Quirion.

She attended school in Winslow. At an early age during the war, she worked as a welder at BIW. She has held other various positions including woolen mills, C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., and Keyes Fibre Co. (Huhtamaki), both in Waterville, from which she retired.

Regina was outgoing, well loved, and devoted to her family. She enjoyed crocheting, houseplants, gardening, crafts, and dogs. She loved cooking and spending time with her family. She relished her time shopping and socializing. She was a wonderful, caring person and will be missed.

She was predeceased by her husband Francis Rancourt; parents Clifford and Flossy Quirion; brothers Omar, Romeo, and Donald Quirion; as well as her oldest daughter Jean Ann Rancourt.

Regina is survived by her son Reginald Rancourt (Marie) with their children Rachel Crommett, David, Duane, Derek, and Rick; daughter Betty McCaslin (Daniel) with their sons Travis Ellis and Todd Ellis; son Bernard Rancourt with his children Amanda DeRoche-Rancourt, Adam, Sean, and Katelyn; daughter Sherry Rancourt with her children Jeffrery, Halauna, and Louann; Jean Ann’s children James and Jerry Pomerleau, Jean LaCroix, and Jody Spaulding; brother-in-law Raymond Rancourt; along with many great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery Chapel, located at 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta, Maine, 04330, at 1 p.m., with interment immediately following.

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

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

ROXANN DONAHUE

WATERVILLE – Roxann (St. Amand) Donahue, 71, has died.

Her life was filled with joy: sharing laughter and good food with family and friends; happy times at Sibley Pond, in Canaan; Scrabble marathons; the blessed companionship of yoga and dance students; making art and music; dancing until she was all danced out.

Throughout her illness, she found a way to keep dancing.

She is sur­vived by her husband, John Donahue, of Waterville; daughter, Sofia Chase, son-in-law George Chase, and granddaughter, Eliza Chase, of Edgecomb; daughter, Katrina Chasse, and her life partner, Ben Dow, of Winslow.

Roxann’s family will hold a private celebration of her life.

Donations in Roxann’s memory may be made to Maine Death with Dignity, PO Box 801, Wiscasset, ME 04578, or to the charity of your choice.

LINDA N. TRAVERS

FREEDOM – Linda Noble Travers, 74, of Freedom, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 30, 2024

Linda was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on November 4, 1949, to John and Elsie Damren.

She spent her early years moving from one army base to another until her father retired to Maine. Linda then attended and graduated from Winthrop High School. She attended Plymouth State College and graduated with a degree in education. She went on to obtain a master’s degree in education and National Teachers Certification. Linda taught school in Massachusetts and Florida, touching many young lives with her care and dedication during her long career.

After retiring, Linda became a dedicated quilter, making beautiful quilts for family and friends. She was a lifelong lover of books and cats, both of which brought her great joy.

Linda was predeceased by her parents and husband, Thomas Travers.

She is survived by her children, Stacey Noble and her wife Carey Noble, Sabrina (Noble) Overlock and her husband Justin Overlock, and Steven Noble and his partner Drew Walker; her grandchildren, Kyle, Maeve, William, Tammy, and Revel; her twin brother John Damren and his wife Barbara Damren; sister Katherine Lewis and her husband Phil Lewis; brother David Hurst; niece Sara Fournier.

There will be no funeral services; however, a celebration of Linda’s life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ASPCA (https://secure.aspca.org/donate/memorial, and use lindatraversmemorial@gmail.com as the recipient email).