OBITUARIES for Thursday, August 17, 2023

THERESA N. SCHOLZ

VASSALBORO – Theresa N. “T.T.” Scholz, 81, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.

A memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, August 11, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Northern Ave., Augusta. Burial and committal prayers followed at Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Rd., Augusta.

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

The family requests that donations in Theresa’s memory be made to: Alfond Center for Cancer Care, c/o MaineGeneral Office of Philanthropy,PO Box 82, Waterville, ME, 049012.

JOHN M. MANSFIELD

STARKS – John M. Mansfield, 50, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. John was born on October 10, 1972, in Waterville, the son of Steven and Bethany Mansfield.

From his early days at Winslow High School, where he graduated in 1991, to his favorite jobs at Shaw’s, in Waterville, and Elanco, in Winslow, John was known for his adventurous spirit and his infectious sense of humor.

His love for martial arts, ATV and motorcycling, gun smithing and reloading, target shooting with gun and bow, and hiking, were testaments to his courageous soul. But the greatest testament to his character was his ability to bring joy and laughter into the lives of his family and friends. John was the light and laughter in any gathering, his funny anecdotes and loving nature always left a lasting impression.

John is survived by his son, Jacob Mansfield; his father, Steven Mansfield and mother, Bethany Mansfield; his grandfather, Norman Trahan; his sister, Jennifer Cote and her husband Mark; his nephew, Ben Violette; his aunt, Marcia Mansfield; his uncle, Thomas Bailey and his wife, Mary; along with six cousins and their families.

Share your favorite memories, stories, and photos of John on the “Memories of John Mansfield” Facebook page, as a celebration of his vibrant life.

Graveside services at the Cemetery Street Cemetery in North Vassalboro – date, and time to be announced.

REGINA J. ST. THOMAS

FAIRFIELD – Regina Jane St. Thomas, 67, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born in Waterville, July 31, 1955, the daughter of Louise M. (Caron) Howard and Roland E. Gurney.

She attended Lawrence High School and graduated with the class of 1974, in Fairfield.

Regina was a laborer at the woolen mill before moving on to a career as a therapeutic foster parent. Her love for children was shown in the way she fostered a handful of kids over the years, adopting her son Mathieu shortly before retiring. She also raised her nephew Kevin Hebert since the age of 5, and helped to raise her great-niece Tila-Rae Irish.

Regina was a true free spirit inside and out. An avid animal lover and blue collar worker, she enjoyed living at various farm houses over the years, jokingly referring to her home as Critter Acres. She often raised anything from cats and dogs to cows, chickens, goats, etc. Horses were her true passion, she lived by the motto: “Horses Free Me”. In spirit she is reunited with her first horse Cochise. She also enjoyed watching her nephew, Kevin play baseball and her granddaughter, Eva-Shataya play basketball. She shared a close bond with her cousin Sheila Allen who would often take her out to dinner, including Governor’s Restaurant every year for her birthday.

She was predeceased in death by her parents, Roland Gurney and Louise Howard and Aunt Theresa Caron.

She is survived by her daughter Brandi Brisk and son-in-law Bob Brisk; son Mathieu Regan St. Thomas; granddaughter Vinisha Jane Levasseur; and grandson-in- law, Casey Levasseur, Eva-Shataya Brisk and David Mawhinney and her great-grandson Oliver Mawhinney. Oliver was born on July 17, 2023 and Regina happily held him shortly before she passed. She was all smiles as she called him her little cowboy and gifted him with a plush horse named Scout; and her sisters, Rolena Irish, Linda Von Oesen, Melissa Howard, Mary Williamson and Cindy Pease; and brother Gerald Howard;

Regina will be laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, on Saturday, September 9, at 11 a.m. Celebration of life services to follow at 14 Faith’s Way, in Fairfield. She will be buried alongside her parents and cousins Diann Prince and Roseann Myron.

Her son Mathieu has “in memory of” cards for anyone who would like to remember Regina. Requests can be made to 207-344-5579 for a card. Please send a text with your full name and mailing address.

Cremation arrangements are by Dan & Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services – Skowhegan, 207-474-0000.

LINDA M. SPENCER

PHOENIX, Arizona – Linda Marie Spencer (Clarke), 69, of Waterville, passed away following a battle with multiple medical complications on Friday, July 28, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. Linda was born in Waterville to Dorothy and Albert Thiboutot, on February 20, 1954.

Linda graduated from Waterville High School in 1972 and later graduated from Mid-State College with her associates degree.

Linda married Christopher Spencer on September 8, 1990, and remained in Maine until moving to Alaska in 2007 to fulfill their dreams. During her time in Maine, Linda served many years as a secretary at local businesses with her longest time being at Dead River Company, in Waterville.

After their move, Linda and Chris were able to travel in their RV, make new friends across the country, and experience new places like they had always dreamed. This resulted in their final stop in Waddell, Arizona, where they became part of the “family” at the White Tank Regional Park where they lived and worked as volunteers.

No matter where Linda lived, she brought fun, love and laughter to all. Everyone around her knew they could go to her for help with anything. She was described as the “joy” of any group always bringing positivity and laughter to those around her.

Linda enjoyed many adventures throughout her life including building a new home with her husband Chris, traveling, kayaking, cooking and, of course, camping where she was happiest sitting around a campfire with others. Let’s not forget Linda’s favorite, LOBSTAH, which she would eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner if given the chance!

Linda was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Sawlivich, who passed in December 2008 and her father, Albert J. Thiboutot who passed in 1988.

Linda is survived by her husband, Christopher Spencer, of Maine; daughters, Nicole Clarke and husband Michael Foley, of Rockland, Lisa Spencer-Williamson and husband Jim Williamson, of Sidney, Sarah Spencer and husband Aaron Sechler, of Homer, Alaska; granddaughters, Seraphim, of Maine, and Matilda and grandsons Noah and Evan, of Alaska; two great-grandchildren; and other extended family on both her side and her husbands in Maine.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date in Maine.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 676910, Dallas, TX 75267-6910.

GEORGIA M. TRASK

OAKLAND – Georgia Mae (Elwell) Trask, 76, of Oakland, passed away at her home on Saturday, July 29, 2023, following an undiagnosed illness. Georgia was born in Brooks, on October 7, 1946, to George and Bertha (Curtis) Elwell.

She grew up with an appreciation for music and learned to play the piano after watching her sister, Ann. When she was older, she danced at the Blue Goose and performed there as a singer.

She raised two families 20 years apart. She worked for an employment agency, as a special-ed tech, and as a sales clerk at a local JJ Nissen store. She retired and spent the next 11 years caring for her ailing husband, Ronald. No one was better cared for than him.

She enjoyed going yard saling, quilting, stamp collecting, scrapbooking, crosswords, reading, playing the piano, caring for her plants, and conversing and visiting with family and friends. She loved Red Sox baseball, chocolate milk with a ham Italian sandwich, and always had to finish a meal with something sweet.

She was predeceased by her parents, brother Edward, sisters Ellen Parent and Ann Ward, and most recently, by her husband Ronald, whom she had been married to for 40 years.

She is survived by her daughters Rebecca Dostie and her husband Christopher, Dee Haun and her husband Rick, and Dacia Rancourt and her husband Christopher; sons, Randall Trask and his wife Pauline, and Scott Nesbit and partner Lisa; grandson Myles Rancourt and his wife Lizzy; granddaughters, Casey Collins and her husband TJ and Brook York; great-grandchildren, Allie and Ella Collins, Carter York, and Hudson Rancourt; sibling Avis Bradford; nieces Wendy Ward and Penny Hathaway.

A celebration of life will be held in Oakland, on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Please call 207-680-0616 for more details.

KELLY J. SPAULDING

FAIRFIELD – Kelly Jean Spaulding, of Fairfield, passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a prolonged illness. Born October 3, 1970, in Waterville, Kelly was the daughter of Loyal Spaulding and the late Marilyn (Quimby) Spaulding.

Kelly graduated from Waterville High School in 1989 where she excelled in sports, especially soccer and basketball. Summers were spent at one of her favorite spots, her family’s camps on Messalonskee Lake, in Belgrade, swimming and fishing and spending precious time with family and friends. Kelly’s love of animals, particularly her dogs, was well known, as were her artistic talent and creativity.

Soon after graduating high school, Kelly moved to Portland where she worked as a bartender and chef in many different locations, including The Underground and Somewhere Else, two popular local establishments. She also trained and worked as an Esthetician, in Portland and Waterville.

Kelly will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, green eyes and large smile, complete with dimples. Her favorite saying, ‘Eight is Great’ will continue to be shared in her memory by all who love her.

Along with her mother, Kelly was also predeceased by her brother, Scott Spaulding, and many other family members who were waiting to welcome her home.

She is survived by her brothers, Terry Spaulding and his wife, Susan, of Las Vegas, Nevada, David Spaulding and his wife, Kelly, of Waterville; and her sister, Lisa (Spaulding) Dugal and her husband, Will, of Winslow; along with many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled by her family and a graveside service will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery, in Madison, on Saturday, September 9, at 1 p.m.

IRENE H. DEARDEN

WATERVILLE – Irene H. (Baginski) Dearden, 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023. Irene was born April 10, 1932, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Joseph and Katherine (Sierzega) Baginski.

She was the youngest of five children. Irene graduated cum laude and salutatorian in 1953 from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a BS in food technology and mathematics. She was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority and a recipient of the Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi awards.

After graduation Irene worked as a food chemist at the First National stores, in Somerville, Massachusetts, then married Donald A. Dearden on April 24,1954, and relocated to Maine. She enjoyed being a “stay at home mom” and worked part-time at Seton Hospital, in Waterville, and Rosenthal Investments until the sudden death of her husband.

Irene returned to school and obtained her Maine teaching certification K-12 from the University of Maine and later her master’s in education from the University of Maine at Orono. Irene taught mathematics for 27 years at Lawrence Junior High, in Fairfield, with a fantastic group of teachers but more importantly, friends. Upon retirement, she continued her love for education by substituting for many more years.

Irene was a member of the Waterville Woman’s Club, The Contemporary Club, Parents Without Partners, various bridge groups and taught Sunday school at Sacred Heart Parish, in Waterville. She was a member of the NEA, MEA, Kennebec Retired Teachers Association, and the Red Hats.

Being an avid sports enthusiast, she enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s various sports. She was a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins along with any other sport on television which she enjoyed conversing about with others.

Not only was she a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother but her talents in the kitchen created the most delicious meals. Her greatest joys were having family together for holidays and going to the beach each summer. Irene enjoyed “Thursday coffee” with her teaching colleagues and going to the casino with her children and friends.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband Donald in 1970, and her son Donnie in 2007.

She is survived by her son, David (Anette) Dearden; daughters, Kathy Simmons (Terry Martelle), Judy Morgan (Clyde Moody), Sue (Chris) Girouard, and Nancy (Dondi) Best; grandchildren Katie (Colin) Wetherill, Chris Morgan, Michael (Celia) Morgan, Suzanne (Gary) Parrill, Lauren (Jake) Verhey, Sarah Girouard, Katherine Dearden, Isaak Dearden, Julia Dearden, Nick Best, and Malory Best; great-grandchildren Brinley and Bennett Wetherill, Crusoe and Finn Morgan, Zachary Parrill, and Everett and Will Morgan; numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a funeral Mass at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 62 Walnut Street, Suite 5 Wellesley, MA 02481 (JDRF.org).

GERALDINE H. TIMMINS

WATERVILLE – Geraldine Hart Timmins, 95, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023, 20 days before celebrating her 96th birthday. Geri, also known as Deannie, was born August 24, 1927, the daughter of Herbert “Hart The Tailor” and Honorine Hart.

Brought up on a farm on the West River Road, she graduated from Waterville High School in 1945.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the happiest when surrounded by her family and was generous, kind, patient, loving, and always had a positive attitude.

Geri enjoyed gardening, knitting, sewing, and good times at Lake Moxie, especially with her husband, Robert “Tiger” Timmins.

She was predeceased by her husband Robert, who passed away in 2011, after 63 years of marriage. Also, her twin brother Gerald Hart and her sisters Gloria Hart-Gravel, Muriel Guite, and Bernadette Williams.

Surviving are son Robert E. Timmins and daughter Ardra (husband Robert) Poulin; four grandchildren, Eli, Heath, Emily, and Mary; great-grandchildren Julia, Jack, Griffin, Ella, Palmer, Hannah, Jewel, and Jesse; sisters Harriet Freeman, Suzanne Beane, Roberta Goodhue, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Wednesday, August 16, at 10 a.m., 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 can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com

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

JULIE A. KNOEDLER

FAIRFIELD – Julie Ann (Baker) Knoedler, 41, passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023. She had just celebrated her 10th wedding anniversary. Julie was born on May 28, 1982, in Manchester, New Hamp­shire.

She grew up in Sandown, New Hampshire, until moving to Waterville in 1989. Julie attended Canaan Christian School, in Canaan, Temple Academy, in Waterville, and Riverview Memorial School, in Norridgewock. She graduated from Waterville High School in 2001. Julie attended Kennebec Valley Baptist Church, in Waterville.

Julie was an animal lover her whole life. Her pets were a huge blessing to her. She also enjoyed feeding the wild animals that would come into her back yard, especially the wild raccoons that she could feed by hand. She loved children, doing various crafts and was a very giving person.

Julie is now reunited with her mother, Pamela Baker, who passed away February 16, 2019.

She will be sadly missed by her husband, Scott Knoedler; father Dennis Baker and step-mother Carol Baker; brother David Baker; and Aunt Peggy and Uncle Kenneth Baker.

Visiting hours will take place at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, on Friday, August 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. – noon, with the funeral service beginning at noon. Burial will take place following the services at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield.

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

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the First Choice Pregnancy Center, 295 KMD Suite 2, Waterville ME.

COL. NATHAN R. BERKLEY

LORTON, Virginia – Colonel (Ret.) Nathan R. Berkley, 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, in his Lorton, Virginia. “Nate” was born on June 20, 1935, in Waterville, to Frank Berkley and Adrienne Clukey Berkley and grew up with sisters Frances (Carter) and Paula (Talbot).

Nathan graduated from Waterville High School, (’53) where he met his high school sweetheart, Patricia “Pat” Tully. He earned a business economics degree at the University of Maine at Orono, and later earned his master’s degree of education and counseling at the College of William and Mary, in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Nate and Pat married in 1957 and he began his nearly 30-year U.S. Army career shortly thereafter. His career included over 20 domestic and overseas assignments and three deployments, and he earned many commendations and awards in his military career.

People mattered most to Nate, and he was as an excellent role model in his integrity, kindness, and his willingness to help and guide others forward. Loving support, a good laugh, and a hug were part of every conversation with Nate.

Nate is survived by his wife Pat; sister, Paula; daughter, Janice Baker (Brad), son, Ken (s/o Priscilla), daughter, Donna Fairbanks (Mike 2020), son, Tom (Debbie), daughter, Pamela Kipps (Bob); 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; nephew, Tim Bureau (Lisa) and sons; as well as many other nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 21, at Fairfax United Methodist Church, in Fairfax, Virginia (10300 Stratford Ave., Fairfax, Virginia), at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at the church. A formal burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery will be held for family at a future date.

LOIS LaBELLE

ROME – Lois LaBelle, 96, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. Born July 13, 1927, in Anson, Lois was the first-born child and only daughter of Paris Leroy and Martha Ellen (Dudley) Mosher.

At the age of two, young Lois and her family would move back to the family farm on Mosher Hill, in Rome. It was in this farmhouse, passed down from several generations of the Mosher family, that Lois and her brother would be raised. Lois cherished every memory of her childhood growing up and “raising Cain” on the farm with her younger brother “Bud.” As a girl, Lois would work on the family farm and waitress at Jamaica Point Camps.

She would begin her formal education in a one-room schoolhouse in Rome; in 1945, she graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland. Looking to expand her future, Lois furthered her education at Thomas College, in Waterville, living with her Aunt Louise during her time there. In 1946, she graduated from the school’s business program. For a short while, Lois went to work as an assistant to James Boyle, of Waterville.

Soon after she finished her formal schooling, a young man began courting her. Just back from the Navy serving in the Second World War, Richard “Dick” H. LaBelle found the love of his life. On November 25, 1950, the Rev. George Wolf would marry Richard and Lois, in Fairfield. Lois and Dick would settle with their young and growing family on their panoramic Jamaica Point farm. Lois could look just north and see her childhood homestead, then south to see the beauty of Great Pond.

In 1969, Lois would join her husband in founding Dick LaBelle’s Plumbing. While “Dad” went off to plumb each day, Lois would remain back in the home to keep the business finances and maintain a watchful eye on her five young children. She would also spend a tremendous amount of time devoted to keeping the farm.

Lois was born and raised in a Christian family and she lived every day well-grounded in the Lord. She would see every moment as an opportunity to witness about her faith and show the power of God’s love. Lois strived to be a faithful testimony to all those she was around. For over 45 years, Lois attended the Rome Baptist Church. It was at this small church in Rome Hollow that Lois would follow in her mother’s faithful footsteps as a Sunday School teacher to share God’s Word with young children.

In 1991, Lois and Dick found a new home church in North Belgrade Baptist Church. Pastor Terry and Jackie Tiner would guide the church and become dear friends of the family. In their later years, North Belgrade Baptist Church would become Lakes Christian Fellowship, and the new leadership, Pastor George and Barbara Finnemore would play a most important role in shepherding Lois through her final years and days.

Lois loved the family farm and she loved Jamaica Point. In the winter, you would enter her kitchen and be overcome by the aroma of a fresh-baked treat just out of the oven. She would always keep an eye on the stove, ensuring there was always a fresh stick of wood ready to keep the great heat churning. There were countless conversations to be had around the kitchen table with so many friends and family. Each spring, Lois would begin the process of cleaning the yard, preparing for the summer guests to pass by. Once a week throughout the summer, one would find that Lois had traded in her signature skirts and heels for a pair of dungarees and a ball cap; she spent countless hours riding her Wheel Horse tractor, manicuring the vast lawn surrounding the farmhouse. As the garden came to fruition, “Gram” would can an assortment of vegetables, relishes, and pickles to fill the pantry.

Lois is survived by her husband of 72 years, Richard “Dick” Hamlin LaBelle; five children, all of Jamaica Point, Rome, Susan LaBelle, Cynthia and husband Gary Wilkie, Sandra LaBelle, Sara LaBelle, and Alan and wife Lynn (Buzzell) LaBelle; eight grandchildren, Joshua Desrosiers and wife Kahlie, Dr. Jessica Desrosiers and husband Ramel Dennis, Andrew Wilkie and wife Molly, Chapin LaBelle and wife Rebekah, Paige Collier, Alyssa and husband Ryan Bell, Richard LaBelle, and Chena and husband Jacob Bean; great-grandchildren, Jessica Dennis, Elsie Bell, Ander Bell, River Wilkie, Aiden Desrosiers, Nevaeh Dennis, Peri Wilkie, Emilyn Desrosiers, Adaline Bean, Quinn LaBelle, and Warren Bean.

Lois was predeceased by her parents; her great-grandson, Isaiah Hamlin Dennis; and her brother, Alton “Bud” Mosher and his wife, Alice.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, Aug. 18, 3 to 6 p.m., at Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., in Oakland. A funeral will be held on Saturday, August 19, at 10 a.m., at Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, 744 Augusta Rd., in Belgrade. Interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery, Wooster Hill Road, in Rome.

Donations in Lois’ memory may be made to: Lakes Christian Fellowship Church, P.O. Box 342, Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918; or Town of Rome, Rome Rescue, 8 Mercer Rd., Rome, ME 04963.

ARMAND L. FRAPPIER

AUGUSTA- Armand L. Frappier, 80, was born on September 2, 1942, in Lewiston, the son of Lena (Lebel) Frappier and Alphonse Frappier Sr.

Armand grew up in Water­ville and went to the Waterville school system where he later quit high school in order to work to help out the family. In 1970 he married Connie Libby and they had two sons.

He enjoyed family gatherings, playing cards, bowling, and camping with family. Armand worked for a short time at Lipman Poultry in 1963, and then started work in 1965 for Waterville Public Works, where he retired in 2004.

Armand was predeceased by his parents, Lena and Alphonse Frappier Sr.; his sblings, Alphonse Jr. (Pat), of Winslow, Francis (Dawn), of Belgrade, George (Marge), of Waterville, Raymond, of Waterville, Robert, of Norridgewock, Donald Lebel, of Farmington, Antonio, of Fairfield, and his sister Lucille (Larry) Carver, of Tennessee.

He is survived by his wife Connie; his sons, Armand John and wife Melinda, and Richard Lee Frappier; his five grandchildren, Courtney, Kenneth, Rebecca, Dawson Pelotte, Mason Mcdonald; two brothers Maurice (Glennis) Frappier, of Waterville, and Nelson (Norma) Frappier, of Clinton; five sisters, Annette Hughes, of Waterville, Diane Rich, of Fairfield, Darlene (Donald) Tompkins, of Waterville, Elizabeth Lachance, of Waterville, and Elaine Young, of Waterville.

A graveside service will be Thursday, August 17, at 10 a.m., at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, please visit their webpage to share your condolences with Armand’s family.

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR
DAVID R. KING

WATERVILLE – Funeral services were held for David R. King, on Saturday, August 12, at 9 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Waterville, Maine. Burial at St. Francis cemetery in Waterville will occur directly following the funeral Mass.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR ERNEST K. DeCOSTA

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 1 – 4 p.m., for Ernest K. DeCosta, who passed away on December 6, 2022. It will be held at the Malcolm Glidden American Legion Post #163, on Veterans Way, off Turner Ridge Road, in Palermo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, August 10, 2023

BETTY J. WHITAKER

WATERVILLE – Betty J. Reid Whitaker, 78, peacefully passed away, Thursday, July 6, 2023, following a long courageous battle with COPD. She was born April 17, 1945, the daughter of Arthur and Dorothy (Gerald) Reid.

Betty loved spending time with family and friends. She especially enjoyed playing cribbage at Seton Village with her closest friends Mary, Talie, and Jean. She also couldn’t wait for Mondays to spend the day with her four sisters knitting and sewing, but mostly just chatting and enjoying dessert.

Betty is survived by her children, Selene (Bill) Genovese, of Connecticut, Howard “Bub” (Liza) Whitaker, of Detroit, Basil (Jennie) Barnes, and Ricky (Dawn) Barnes of Albion; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews; brothers George (Judy) Reid and Alan (Sandy) Reid; and sisters, Shirley (David) Gifford, Jane Chamberlain, Verna Goodwin, and Gail (Sheldon) Dudley.

She was predeceased by her parents; brothers Paul and Arthur (Joe) Reid, and brothers-in-law Sherwood Chamberlain and Wyman Goodwin.

A celebration of life was held Sunday, August 6, at her sister’s house, in Waterville.

MADELEINE E. JACHE

CHINA – Madeleine E. Jache, 89, of Manchester, New Hampshire, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at home. She was born on June 15, 1934, in Derry, New Hamposhire.

Madeleine enjoyed her family, whether at home or at camp; crafting with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, enjoyed knitting and crocheting blankets and sweaters. She looked forward to solving the daily newspaper puzzles, and she was a huge Elvis Presley fan. She bowled at Lakeside Lanes and golfed. At camp she enjoyed hiking, snowmobiling, badminton and sitting by the camp fire making the best Hobo pies.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Lawrence F. Jache, of Manchester, New Hampshire; her children Debra Fischer, of China, Brenda Boisvert, of Winter Haven, Florida, and James Jache, of Derry, New Hampshire; eight grandchildren Jennife (Fischer) Greenleaf, Michael Fischer, Matthew Fischer, Tania (Boisvert) Wrzeszcz, Jessica (Boisvert) Borkush, Noah Blodgett, Alayna Blodgett and Logan Blodgett; nine great-grandchildren Tanner Greenleaf Aidan Greenleaf, Hailey Fischer, Cassidy Fischer, Lucas Fischer, Rachael Wrzeszcz, Emily Wrzeszcz, Alexis Ostman and Chloe Borkush; thre brothers Kenneth Chase, Henry Chase and Albert (Skip) Chase Jr.; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Albert E. Chase Sr and Mildred (Brewer) Chase, of Derry, New Hampshire, and her daughter Elaine Blodgett, of Manchester, New Hampshire.

A celebration of life was held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 673 Weston Road, Manchester, New Hampshire, by Rev. Donald Colageo, on Saturday, August 5, 2023.

CRAIG H. QUIMBY

SWANTON, Vermont – Craig H. Quimby, 57, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023, following a long illness. Craig was born, in Waterville, on April 22, 1966, to Carroll and Charlene Quimby.

He was rais­ed in Albion. After he graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, he went on to study at Vermont Tech, and then transferred to the University of Maine at Orono to study animal science. He was a brother of Alpha Gamma Rho.

Craig held a variety of jobs over the years, but always enjoyed dairy farming the most. Craig enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, and spending time with his family and friends. Craig believed everyone should enjoy the present and live life to the fullest.

In 2007 Craig moved to Vermont to be with the love of his life, Stacey Haskins. They enjoyed many adventures together and raised their beloved animals.

Craig was predeceased by his mother, Charlene Quimby; and nephew, Eben Quimby.

Craig is survived by the love of his life, Stacey Haskins; his father, Carroll Quimby; brother, Charlie Quimby and his wife Gail, of Albion; sisters, Carla Nielsen and her husband Howard, and Carrie Griffin and her husband David, all of Albion; nephews, Lawrence Quimby and his wife Heather and their children Austin and Brooke, of Hodgdon, Zachary Quimby and his wife Ashley and their children Ryleigh and Reagan, of Albion, Paul Griffin and his partner Morgan Lane and their children Arabella and Tucker, of Albion, Patrick Griffin and his wife Courtney and their children Waylon and Avreigh, of Littleton, and Matthew Nielsen and his wife Betsy, of Benton; nieces, Meagan Nielsen and her children Hallie and Finn, of Benton, Chelsea McKeen and her husband Ryan, of Lakeland, Florida, Jennifer Griffin, of Albion, and Marsha Quimby, of Albion.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 9, 2023, at noon, at Craig’s father’s home, 358 Quimby Road, Albion, Maine.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Craig’s memory to the charity of your choice.

KATHERINE G. BROWN

NORRIDGEWOCK – Katherine Gertrude Brown, 74, passed away on Friday, July 28, 2023. She was born in Waterville on April 28, 1949, the daughter of Charles H. and Beatrice (Latulippe) Robinson.

She was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend.

She was predeceased by her parents, three brothers, and six sisters.

Kathy is survived by her husband Richard; her daughters, Beatrice Laughlin and her husband Christopher, of Louisiana, Rita Brown, of Waterville, and Priscilla Brown, of Emden; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one sister, Mary Nader and her husband Joe, of Winslow; many nieces and nephews.

At the request of Kathy, there will be no services.

ROSAIRE J. ROSSIGNOL

WATERVILLE – Rosaire J. Rossignol, 81, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. He was born October 10, 1941, the son of Antoine and Cecile (Roy) Rossignol.

He attended Mt. Saint Charles in Rhode Island, and got his business degree from Thomas College, inWaterville.

Rosaire married the love of his life Carmelle on May 22, 1965. He was a loving husband, father and pépère. His daughters have fond memories of camping, fishing, chip and dip Sundays and his special popcorn. Rosaire enjoyed traveling with his wife to many places but his favorite was to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he would find a special bench and watch Carmelle spend their money on the slots. He also enjoyed gardening, reading and visiting relatives in Canada. He had a very special bond with his nieces and nephews from Canada.

Rosaire was predeceased by his parents and wife Carmelle.

He is survived by his four daughters, Renee Pellerin and husband Craig, of Oakland, Nicole Clavette and her husband Russ, of Sidney, Monique Stanley and her husband Levi, of Fairfield, and Simone Goodspeed and her husband Andy, of Fairfield; four grandchildren, Emily and Tyler Pellerin, Ashley and Timothy Clavette; his brother Robert Rossignol and sister-in-law Rebecca Rossignol; his sister Bernadette Poitrais; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Rosaire will be held this Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, followed by a burial at St. Francis Cemetery. Please visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your memories and condolences with the Rossignol family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winslow Community Cupboard, 12 Lithgow St., Winslow, ME 04901.

LAWRENCE JENNEY

OAKLAND – Lawrence “Knobby” Jenney, 88, of Oakland, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 31, 2023, at the Togus VA Medical Center, in Au­gusta.

Knobby finally lost a courageous battle against an illness that plagued him for the past few years, but it was the loss of that battle that allowed him to go to a place where he could reunite with his loved ones that passed before him.

Knobby served his country honorably in the United States Army, in Korea, from 1952 – 1955, and returned home to college to earn an accounting degree. He owned numerous businesses throughout his life which included a store at the location of the current Belgrade Post Office and a business hauling gravel, and backhoe and bulldozer work. He later worked many years in the paving industry for Tilcon Construction Co., during the spring, summer and fall and then worked in the woods during the winters. Knobby was never afraid of long hours and hard work.

Knobby was a member of the American Legion Post #51 in Oakland. He was loved and respected by all that knew him there. It was at this post that he found the family and friends that kept him going and made him happy in his latter years after his wife Mary died. Without the support of his friends and family at this Legion post, his final years would not have been as bright as they were.

He was predeceased by his wife MaryEllen Jenney, his stepson Christopher Couture, and his parents, Margaret and Louis Jenney, his brothers Douglas Jenney and Gordon (Oscar) Jenney and his sisters Katherine (Kay) Bradley and Eleanor Peck.

Knobby is survived by his sister Lucille Nickless, of Belgrade; numerous nieces and nephews; step-children and grandchildren, in which he played an enormous role in their upbringing and success in life.

A graveside service with military honors was held at the Pine Grove Cemetery, in Belgrade, on Saturday, August 5.

A celebration of Knobby’s life was held at the Oakland American Legion Post #51 on Sunday, August 6.

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.

WARDENA WILLETTE

WATERVILLE – Wardena Willette, 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 3, 2023. She was born July 23, 1934, in Waterville to Ward Milton and Mae (Bernard) Milton.

Dena was a proud graduate of Waterville High School, class of 1954. Although, she became a diehard Winslow Black Raiders fan watching her children grow.

She married Robert Willette in 1958, together they raised four children.

Dena held many jobs in her lifetime including Milton’s Vending Service, C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., both in Waterville, and teachers aide, but her favorite job was mother and grandmother. She loved to cook all their favorite meals, laughing playing card games and watching game shows.

Dena loved spending time with her family and friends. She followed every activity her children and grandchildren participated in. Countless hours spent at ball fields, cold hockey rinks and gymnasiums. Watching them excel were moments she wouldn’t trade for anything.

She was predeceased by her parents, stepfather Ernest Boulette, sister Virginia Howard, brother Lewis Milton, and in-laws Peter and Alice Willette.

She is survived by her three sons, Robert and Sue Willette, Scott and Tina Willette, Greg and Jean Willette; her daughter Lori and Todd Fredette; her 10 grandchildren Hyemi and Matt Draheim, Jake and Mallory Willette, Megan Willette and partner Luis Cotto, Nathan and Meghan Willette, Shawn Willette and partner Cathryn Gage Thurston, Eric, Ryan, and Brady Willette, Luke and Cameron Fredette; seven great-grandchildren, Noah, Harper and Finley Draheim, Lydia and Dean Willette, Noah Jello and Levi Willette; one sister Clare Milton.

Visting hours will be Friday, August 11, from 4 – 6 p.m., at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallfh.com.

DANA A. BRADFORD II

CLINTON – Dana Andrew Bradford II, 44, passed away at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. He was born May 29, 1979, to the late Dana Bradford I and Kim Bradford. He graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1998, and went to Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), also in Fairfield, and received his lineman’s certification. After school, Dana worked at various jobs most often in carpentry. Anyone who worked with him knew he was a hard worker and knew how to get things done right.

He loved antiques, especially old books and bottles. He would collect treasures and to share them with friends and family. He was a friendly, kind soul who would give the shirt off his back. He was kind to his neighbors, always helping out, whether doing errands, odd jobs or even building a garage.

Dana was very religious and loved Jesus as a good friend and savior. He would talk about scripture often and enjoyed old country and contemporary Christian music.

Dana is survived by his mother, Kim Bradford; sisters, Amy Jorgensen and husband William, and Trina Bradford; nieces, Libbi, Emma, Miah, Sarah; nephews, Johnny and Bradford; great-niece and nephew, Luna and Nathan; aunts, uncles and many cousins.

He was predeceased by his father Dana Bradford I; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A service will be held August 12, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Calvary Chapel in Fairfield Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arise Addiction Recovery, P.O. Box 353, Machias, ME 04654.

OVID W. THIBODEAU
AUDREY M. THIBODEAU

FAIRFIELD – Ovid W. Thibodeau, 92, passed away on August 4, 2018. Ovid was born on December 27, 1925, in Fairfield. He was the son of the late Louis Thibodeau and Rose Cyr. Ovid was the youngest of 14 siblings. He attended Fairfield schools then served three years in the U.S. Navy during World War II, on the USS Gum Tree.

Audrey M. Thibodeau, 96, passed away on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. Audrey was born on January 24, 1927, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of the late Arnold Larsen and Sadie Hunter. Audrey was the oldest of six children. She attended Fairfield schools. She met and married Ovid W. Thibodeau just before his discharge from the Navy and together they raised three children.

Audrey worked for many years at Sisters Hospital, Seton Hospital and retired from Thayer Hospital as a Nurse’s Aide, all in Waterville.

Ovid worked at Hollingsworth and Whitney Paper Co., later known as Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, from where he retired.

Ovid and Audrey are survived by their three children, Jane, of Winslow, Garold and his wife Becky, of Albion, and Lawrence and his wife Anne-Marie, of Winslow; six grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Ovid loved gardening, bowling, golfing and fishing. He loved swimming in his pool and enjoyed backyard grilling for his grandchildren.

Audrey loved dancing, dining out with her friends, collecting stamps, taking pictures and researching family genealogy.

Ovid and Audrey were married 73 years.

There will be a private graveside service at the North Fairfield Friends Cemetery.

Arrangements will be provided by Gallant Funeral Home in Waterville.

TINA LUNN

KENDUSKEAG – Tina Lunn was born in Waterville, June 26, 1971. Her maiden name was Folsom. She was the daughter of Patricia Higgins and Eugene Folsom, both deceased.

She is survived by her three sons, Timothy Lunn and wife Eva, and their two daughters, Audra and Addy, Mathew and wife Kayla and their children, Isabella, Joseph, and Katherine, and Michael Lunn with Josie Byron and daughters, Alex and Tempi; and special mention of Ryan, Kyle, Dustin, and Donny Lunn, who she also considered her sons; her sister, Terrie Randall and husband James; and her niece and nephew, Jenifer and Tyler.

Her graveside service will be on Saturday, August 12, at 2 p.m., in the Lewis Cemetery, in Oakland.

KEITH HARRIS

BENTON – Keith passed away doing what he enjoyed the most, riding his motorcycle. He was born in Skowhegan, son to Donald and Marion Harris of Norridgewock.

He graduated from Pioneer Valley Academy, in New Braintree, Massachusetts. He then joined the U.S. Army, serving our country from 1969-1971.

Upon his return, he worked with his father at Don’s Small Engine, in Norridgewock.

Keith also graduated Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, with his daughter, Tawnya McLean. They were the first father/daughter duo to graduate together in 1994.

He was a welder for Bath Iron Works (BIW), and worked with Bob Johnson, in Clinton, in the woods with large machinery. Before retiring, he finished out his career at Cascade Iron Works, in Clinton.

Keith was a longtime member of AA, recently celebrating 12 years of sobriety.

Keith is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Mary Lord Tracy. He enjoyed raising their children, enjoying their grandchildren, traveling and NASCAR. He is also survived by his daughter, Tawnya and Mike McLean and grandchildren, Desiree Willette, Emily McLean and David Willard; son Donald Emery and grandchildren Donnie and Ava; son David “Joe” and Suneva Ware and grandchildren, Brian and Taiya; son Edward James (Ej) Tracy and Kelly McCormak; step-daughter, Trisha and John Federovich and grandchildren Jackson and Jonah; and his sisters Becky and Bob Wilmont and Bonnie Harris Pelletier; and many nieces and nephews.

Keith was predeceased by his parents, and his brother, Larry Harris.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, August 18, at The Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, Maine, 04330.

On Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 2 p.m., all are welcome to attend a Celebration Of Life, for Keith, at The Victor Grange, 144 Oakland Rd., Fairfield, Maine 04937.

In lieu of flowers, Keith would appreciate donations be made to donate.k9sforwarriors.org.

PATRICK D’ALONZO

WATERVILLE – Patrick D’Alonzo, 53, of Waterville, died unexpectedly following a lengthy illness.

Patrick was a great lover of animals, especially his cats Vita and Mariah.

Patrick was predeceased by his father, Michael D’Alonzo.

Patrick is survived by his mother, Janice D’Alonzo; sisters, Anne D’Alonzo and Mary Beth D’Alonzo; sister-in-law, Molly Timmerman.

He was born in Kirkwood, Missouri, educated at the University of South Alabama and Mt. Ida College. He returned to Waterville, where he was a lifelong resident.

Visitation will be held at Gallant Funeral Home on Thursday August 10, 2023, from 4 – 6 p.m.

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

Donations can be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, August 3, 2023

ALIA C. SINGH

AUGUSTA – Alia (Coombs) Singh, 40, unexpectedly passed away from complications of a routine surgery on Sunday, July 2, 2023. She was born to Michael and Sheila McCarty on October 16, 1982, National Bosses Day, she was proud to say.

Alia earned her associate degree (Cum Laude) from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, in baking and pastry arts.

While growing up, she loved animals with all her heart and became a vegetarian because of that love. Her hobbies included Anime, Bingo with her mom, being an auntie, couponing everything and family holidays.

Alia was very independent despite the considerable amount of pain she endured in her lifetime. She said exactly what she thought and was overly honest about herself. She was a kind and generous soul who would gladly give the shirt off her back to help someone in need. Coffee was her best friend.

Alia finally began her road to happiness just 10 days before her passing. She was married on the Kennebec River at sunset to Dheeraj Singh, best known as “Raj,” who loved her very much. Her mom, Sheila, a Notary Public, performed the ceremony, and her dad, Michael, walked her down the aisle to her happiness on that beautiful day.

Alia was predeceased by her only child, Adrias Coombs, who passed away in 2007.

She is survived by her husband, Dheeraj Singh; her parents Michael and Sheila McCarty, of Palermo; her sisters, Maygen, brother-in-law, Brian and nephews Lucas and Jacob Hardy, of Holden, and Paula, brother-in-law, Karl, nephew Owen, nieces Paige and Kyleigh Doucette, of Carmel; as well as many uncles, aunts, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on a future day with her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to any of the following: The Augusta Food Bank, 161 Mt Vernon Ave., Augusta, ME 04330; Addie’s Attic, 209 Eastern Ave., Augusta, ME 04330; or the Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pethaven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330.

LAURA W. ARSENAULT

SCARBOROUGH – Laura W. (Bickford) Arsenault, 96, of Skowhegan, passed away Thursday, July 6, 2023. She was the youngest child of Leslie W. Bickford and Ruby (Dorian) Bickford. She was born May 8, 1927, in Smithfield.

She received her education in a one-room schoolhouse in Smithfield, and at Norridgewock High School.

On February 10, 1948, she married Agnew P. Arsenault, and they raised three fine sons, twins Darryl L. and Eric P. Arsenault and Gregory W. Arsenault. Agnew passed away October 21, 1977, at the age of 56. Laura went to work at Cedar Ridge Nursing Home in 1982 as a dietary aide, where she worked for 20 years, retiring in 2002. She was a former member of the American Legion Auxiliary, in Skowhegan, where she was the chaplain for many years. She was a member of the Centenary United Methodist Church in Skowhegan.

She was an avid reader and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and word games. She also loved listening to music, big band/jazz being her favorite. She always fed the birds and squirrels and enjoyed spending time with her sons and daughter-in-law, Liz, especially when they all went to Ken’s Restaurant for her favorite meal, fried haddock and onion rings.

She is survived by all three sons, Darryl, of Freeport, Eric and his companion Joyce Arthurs, of Levant, and Greg and his wife Liz, of Yarmouth; grandsons Eric R. Arsenault and his wife Nicole, of Saco, and Darryl P. Arsenault ,of Connecticut; niece Kathy Dea Soucier and her husband Bruce, of East Baldwin, and their sons Jarred Russell and Bryce Soucier; as well as several nieces and nephews; step-niece Karen Foster, of Smithfield.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, brothers Glenwood (Buster) Bickford, Lauris W. Bickford and Ronald H. Bickford, sisters, Margaret Ellis and Madeleine Bennett, sisters-in-law, Catherine, Bickford, Ruth Bickford and Perdita Bickford, special cousin Thelma Staples and grand-nephew Matthew Russell.

Committal services will be held at the convenience of the family at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta.

THOMAS SHOLL

OAKLAND – Thomas Sholl, 72, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023. Thomas E. Sholl was born in Mineola, Long Island, New York, on November 26, 1950, the youngest child of Bertram and Ellen Sholl.

His four siblings are John (Lorraine), Robert (Lynn), William (Mary Louise), and Patricia (his favorite sister). He has nieces Jennifer, Liza, and Rebecca and nephews Peter, Thomas, and Gregory.

He was predeceased by his nephew, Edward; and his parents.

Tom attended Catholic schools, and after dropping out of college, worked until he acted on his dream to leave Long Island.

Tom escaped to Maine in 1974. He created the life he wanted and took great joy in it. He married Ruth and gained a brother-in-law, Gerry, a niece, Kristen (and her partner, Peter). He worked for the Department of Environmental Protection. Tom never wanted to go away for vacation. He said he already lived where he would choose to vacation. On any overnight trip, at some point, he would say, “We’ve been here for two days. Can we go home now?”

Tom was a polymath, and took deep dives into, to name a few subjects, geology, physics, horticulture, music theory, and astronomy. He loved learning. He played bridge with some wonderful partners. He gardened with passion. He looked up into the night sky in awe. He listened with a fine ear to classical music and rock and roll alike. And he knew more about physics than any normal person should.

Tom got to die, in his sleep, in the home he so loved. This was Tom’s idea of his perfect death.

His life was taken by Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Lobe Degeneration, a rare brain disease that robbed him of who he was. He was symptomatic for about 12 years, finally diagnosed after eight of those years, and needed 24-hour care for the last three years of his life.

Tom donated his brain to the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center to be used for research to better understand the human brain and its disorders.

When Tom and Ruth moved into their perfect home in 1987, Tom announced he wished to live there until he died and then be taken feet first out the front door. On July 15, 2023, his wish was granted, and he left wearing his Brain Donor T-shirt that said, “My brain is going places. Is yours?”

There will be no services or gatherings. Tom’s real desire was to have his body put in a large garbage bag and thrown on the side of the road. When he grudgingly accepted this couldn’t happen (at the least, very tacky; at the most, very illegal) he decided he wanted to be cremated and returned to his gardens and woods.

EDITH DORE

SIDNEY – Edith Dore, 86, of Cameron Drive, Sidney, died Saturday, July 15, 2023. She was born August 28, 1936, in Sidney, daughter of Malcom and Blanche Philbrick.

She was a member of White Rose Chapter #174, Eastern Star, of Sidney, where she had received her 50-year pin.

Edith graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1954. She had been employed at Augusta Lumber Company, Wadleigh Oil and Kennebec County Treasurer Office. She retired from the State of Maine, Bureau of Taxation on August 30, 1996.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Dore, of 65 years of marriage; daughters, Deborah Drake and husband, Wade, and Katherine Trask and husband, Bruce; five grandchildren, Heather, Jenna, Ashlee, Derek and Nicole; as well as great-grandchildren, Kai, Kristopher, Haley, Christian and Maxwell.

Per Edith’s request, there will be no service at this time.

MARY KAY WHITMORE

WATERVILLE – Mary Kay Whitmore, 79, passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023. Mary Kay was born Mary Kath­erine Doyle, on November 6, 1944, in Milton, Massachusetts, and was the daughter of Elizabeth Doyle.

Mary Kay grew up in Milton, Massachusetts, along with her brother Peter, and graduated from Milton High School in 1962 and Cardinal Cushing College in 1966.

Mary Kay’s love story with her husband, Richard, began in 1965 and it continued for 57 years. They were introduced by Richard’s sister, Maureen, and their first date was a memorable one; they attended a Boston Celtics game. This marked the start of a life filled with love and basketball for Mary Kay.

On August 20, 1966, Mary Kay and Richard were married in Milton, Massachusetts. Together they relocated to Maine, eventually settling in Waterville, where they raised their family. Mary Kay’s family was her pride and joy and her grandchildren and the bond she shared with them added an extra layer of joy to her life.

Mary Kay was an educator and employed with the Waterville Public Schools and Pine Tree Basketball Clinic for 25 years.

She is survived by her husband, Richard; and her children, sons, Dick Whitmore and wife Kathi, of Hanover, New Hampshire, and Kevin Whitmore and wife Michele, of South Portland; daughters, Maribeth Hartley and her husband Jim, of Scarborough, and Amanda Whitmore, of Old Orchard Beach; grandchildren Katie, Maggie and Annie Whitmore, Allison and Melissa Whitmore and Caroline and Jack Hartley; her brother, Peter Doyle and his wife Jane; sister-in-law, Maureen Taylor and her husband Ray; and brother-in-law, Martin Whitmore and his wife Kathy; and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Kay was predeceased by her mother, Elizabeth Doyle; as well as her in-laws Richard Sr. and Mary Whitmore.

Mary Kay’s legacy of love and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched. In honor of Mary Kay’s last wishes, please remember to exercise your right to vote and her family asks that you try to make every breath count.

A celebration of Mary Kay Whitmore’s life will be held in the Parker Reed Room, in the Alumni Center, at Colby College, in Waterville, on Saturday, August 19, at 1 p.m. Family and friends who knew and loved Mary Kay are invited to come together to honor her life.

Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Mary Kay’s memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Grace Zinck Memorial Scholarship Fund at http://www.mhsfund.org/cd_listing/grace-zinck-memorial-scholarship.

LETA B. CAMPBELL

BENTON – Leta B. Campbell, 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 23, 2023. Leta was born on October 14, 1939, in Newport. She was raised by her mother, Elanor Quimby.

Leta graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. Shortly after graduating she met the love of her life Eugene Campbell, and they were married on February 14, 1959. They spent the next 42 years together until Eugene’s passing.

Leta enjoyed crafting, music, singing karaoke, and socializing. Leta was also known for sending out cards to everyone she knew! She made it a priority to get her cards out to those special people in her life.

Leta is survived by her sons, Ray Campbell, Roger Campbell and wife Kim, and Michael Campbell wife Allison; her grandchildren: Chad Campbell, Brett Campbell, Lindsey Campbell, Tasha Ritter and husband Gary, Amber Campbell and wife Lacey, Hunter Campbell, Chris Labrie, Amber Willett and husband Eric, and Brandon Labrie and wife Morgan; great-grandchild Warren; sisters, Connie Wood and Evonne Kimball.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 5, at 1 p.m., at the Fairfield VFW, 246 Main St., in Fairfield. There will be a barbecue at the home of Mike and Allison Campbell on Sunday, August 6, at 1 p.m., at 24 Stobie Street, in Winslow.

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

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

MARY M. GALLANT

WATERVILLE – Mary Margaret McNeill Gallant, 95, passed away peacefully at Glenridge Long Term Care home, in Augusta, on Monday, July 24, 2023. Mary was born in Portland, on May 24, 1928, in the shadow of St. Dominic’s Cathedral.

She spent her happy youth in the area with her mother, Delia Connelly McNeill, twin brothers, Herbert and Arthur, and her sister Kathleen (Moran).

She graduated from Cathedral High School, in Portland, in 1945, where she won fame by singing and dancing in every talent show. She was also known for her flowing golden curls, friendly smile, and quick wit.

After high school, Mary worked as a library assistant at the Portland Public Library, shelving books and helping the many readers and customers. Mary was married to John Ovide Gallant on June 21, 1952, and moved first to Westbrook, then to Lewiston, eventually moving to Waterville where the family purchased the Edmond Funeral Home, on Elm Street.

Mary raised six children in that residence, John, Jeanne (Joseph), Mary (Green), Arthur, Carol (Hahnl), and Gregory. She has nine grandchildren, Oliver, Jonathan, Alfred, Philip, Annie, Emma, Emily, Jhami and Angela, and several great-grandchildren. Mary was a cheerful woman and was a wonderful and much-loved mother and grandmother. She doted on her family and was the host of many large holiday parties and lakeside picnics through the years. There always was a batch of warm cookies on the kitchen counter.

Mary loved to travel and spent many happy days in Europe and all across America with her family. She also was involved in many civic and church groups in Waterville and traveled with a church group to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre shrine, in Québec, Canada, many times over the years. She loved to sing in church and her lovely soprano voice soared to the rafters. In 2010, she was granted a Certificate of Recognition thanking and congratulating her on 50 years as a volunteer with the Rosary Sodality organization, in Waterville.

She also was a member of local women’s groups, Caring Friends, the Rosary Sodality, and the Exchangettes, and could be heard laughing and giggling with them whenever they met.

Mary was a generous and kind person, a benefit to the community, and much loved by her family and friends. She will be missed.

Mary was predeceased by her parents and siblings, husband Ovide, and son Arthur. She is survived by her children, John (Dot), Jeanne (Mark), Mary, Carol (Dan) and Gregory (Amanda); her sister-in-law Wilma McNeill Pike; her daughter-in-law Lori Begin; her grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Thursday, August 3, 2023.

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, the family requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, 383 US Route One, Suite 2C, Scarborough, ME 04074, or to a charity of your choice.

THERESA N. SCHOLZ

VASSALBORO – Theresa N. “T.T.” Scholz, 81, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. She was born in Sidney, on January 16, 1942, a daughter of the late Raymond and Alice (Brackett) Pooler.

Mrs. Scholz was a graduate of Waterville High School and was a communicant of St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta.

She had been employed for 35 years at Frank X. Pomerleau, Inc. in Augusta, and, later, for Fortin’s Home Furnishings, in Winslow.

In June of 1973, Theresa met the love of her life, Eddie Scholz. Together, they enjoyed a 49 year loving relationship.

Theresa loved many things in life, the most important of which was her family.

Mrs. Scholz was predeceased by a son, Raymond L. Roy, Jr., and eleven brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her husband, Eddie J. Scholz, of Vassalboro; her daughter, Kimberly Carleton and her husband Carroll, of Pittston; two step-sons, Steven Scholz and his wife Kimberly, of Augusta, and Richard Scholz, of Utah; two sisters, Jean Roy, of Smithfield, and Beverly Adams, of Benton; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may visit on Thursday, August 10, from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

A memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 11, at 11 a.m., at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Northern Ave., Augusta. Burial and committal prayers will follow at Holy Family Cemetery, Townsend Road, Augusta.

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

The family requests that donations in Theresa’s memory be made to Alfond Center for Cancer Care, c/o MaineGeneral Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 82,Waterville, ME, 049012.

GEORGE BEAN

SIDNEY – George Bean, 87. passed peacefully on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. He was born on September 25, 1935.

George is now with his Ann, watching over their children Caralee, Betty and her husband Steve, Brian and his wife Becka, Weldon and his wife Cindy, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren.

There will be no funeral service.

CLAUSTIN L. LAWRENCE

SIDNEY – Claustin Lee Lawrence, 82, of Sidney, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Alfond Center for Health in Augusta. He was born in Newburg, on May 11, 1941, the son of Levi and Marian (Patten) Lawrence.

Claustin attended schools throughout the Litchfield area.

He was predeceased by his parents, Levi and Marian Lawrence, in-Laws Lauren and Annie Rideout.

Claustin is survived by his wife, Katherine (Rideout) Lawrence of 62 years; three children, daughter Brenda Beaulieu and husband Clement, of Sidney; son Claustin “Chuck” Lawrence and wife Belinda, of Holden, daughter Annie Nickerson and husband Glenn, of Sidney; three grandsons, Claustin Lawrence, of Millinocket, Brandon Lawrence and wife Jeanine and Dustin Lawrence, of Eddington; two sisters, Idona King and her husband Dennis, of South China, and Elaine White, of Monmouth; several sisters-in law, Leana Worthing, Dorothy Moulton, Irene Rideout, Priscilla Rideout, and Carol Rideout; and brother-in-law Ralph; several nieces and nephews; and sister in-law and brother-in-law Ramona and Joseph Dean, of Florida.

Claustin worked for the State of Maine Camp Keyes maintenance crew for over 30 years. After retirement he worked for his son’s business, Tradewinds Marketplace/Variety Stores, as a delivery person of products within the chain stores and to his daughter’s stores.

Claustin has touched many lives throughout Maine during his time working for his children. He interacted with convenience stores, banks, vendors, and customers who all loved to see him as the smile on his face was contagious.

There will be a private family graveside service at the Springer Hill Cemetery, in Sidney. A Celebration of life was held at their home, in Sidney, on Monday, July 31, 2023.

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pet Haven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330, in Claustin’s honor.

ROBERT D. STEVENSON

PALERMO – Robert Darby Stevenson, of Palermo, passed away on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. He died suddenly of natural causes.

Bob was born in New York state and moved around with his parents Elizabeth and Robert Stevenson growing up. He received a double masters degree from Northwestern University and pursued a career as an English teacher. He left his teaching career and began seeking a more rural and free lifestyle. He searched New Hampshire and the surrounding states for land to homestead. In 1976, he discovered and fell in love with the natural beauty of his Banton Road location, in Palermo.

Bob pursued the owner about the land even though it wasn’t for sale at the time and eventually negotiated the purchase. He learned carpentry and would continue on to build two houses and a large barn on the property. Bob, affectionately nicknamed “Wild Man Bob” and “Bobcat”, enjoyed athletic pursuits including biking, mountain climbing, and long swims. He also had many hobbies including a recreational airplane pilot, musician (guitar and harmonica), a master gardener, reading, and forest management.

Bob had strong political and environmental views and lived off the grid for almost 50 years because of his convictions. More than anything he enjoyed being connected to the land, people, and world around him. In the last five years Bob found a new artistic endeavor. Working with multiple types of media, he would create sculptures from scraps and trinkets that he called “knick-knacks”. He created hundreds of these sculptures.

He is survived by five children and two grandchildren. Those who knew or loved Bob will dearly miss his jovial and often direct form of friendliness. The family will be hosting a celebration of life gathering at Bob’s homestead on Sunday, September 24, 2023. All are welcome to attend.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 27, 2023

ROGER L. POULIN

PAWLEYS ISLAND, South Carolina – Roger Lionel Poulin, 91, of Pawleys Island, S.C., passed away on Friday, June 23, 2023, at NHC, of Garden City, South Carolina. He was born January 26, 1932, in Winslow, son of the late Joseph Napoleon Poulin and Marie Zelie Boucher Poulin.

Roger was a member of Precious Blood of Christ, in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, as well as the Elks Club and the Alumni Association of Maine Maritime Academy. He proudly served in the Merchant Marines and the United States Coast Guard. Roger retired from International Paper Co., after more than 30 years of dedicated work.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Esther M. “Tess” Poulin; four sisters, Yvette Sandberg (Ernest), Germaine Maigret (Paul), Lucienne Flannery (Jim), and Theresa Casavant (Don) and a brother, Gerry Poulin (Mary).

Survivors include three sons, Michael G. Poulin and his wife, Melissa, and Mark R. Poulin and his wife, Lore, of all Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, and Stephen J. Poulin and his wife, Robin, of Pawleys Island, South Caarolina; and grandchildren, Aimée, Karlee (Joseph Michael), and Benjamin.

A graveside service with military honors will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, August 4, at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, ME 04901.

Condolences may be made at http://www.burroughsfh.com. Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet, S.C. (843-651-1440) is in charge of arrangements.

The family has requested that memorial donations be made in Roger’s name to one of the following Mount Merici Academy, 18 Mt. Merici Ave., Waterville, ME 04901, or Maine Maritime Academy, 1 Pleasant St., Castine, ME 04420; or The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, https://neurosurgery.duke.edu/about/donate.

JAMES O. KERSCHNER

OAKLAND – James Orion Kerschner, 76, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a period of declining health. Born September 19, 1946, in Rockland, Jim was the son of Robert and Ida (Olson) Kerschner.

He was the grandson of Sam and Mary Olson, of Cushing. He had a special relationship with his grandparents.

After living in Rockland for several years, the family, which included his brother Bob, moved to Barre, Vermont. In Barre, his love of sports emerged. Jim spent countless hours on the baseball field or in the gym. This passion for sports continued to Oakland (Williams High School), Kents Hill, and the University of New Hampshire. He was an integral part of several championship teams, however, his proudest moments were coaching his sons.

In 1968, Jim married Lynne (Rideout) Kerschner. He was quickly embraced by his new family. Known for his generosity, he hosted countless celebrations and team parties. The annual family Christmas party was a highlight each year.

Jim received his MBA from UMaine and started working in accounting in Boston, Massachusetts, then Portland and Boothbay Harbor. In 1976 Jim returned to Oakland to work in the family business, which included chip mills, trucking, and land development. Later, he taught and coached at Messalonskee High School. For 13 years he was an assistant basketball coach with Coach Dick Meader at the University of Maine at Farmington. He loved working with the students and athletes.

Retiring in 2004 allowed time to travel. This included many trips to Scotland and Ireland with special lifelong friends. He also enjoyed river cruises and trips to Western Canada and the Atlantic provinces. Jim was a longtime member of Waterville Country Club. He had a passion for golf and anything golf related. In 2012, a home in North Fort Myers, Florida, on a golf course, became his primary vacation spot. During the summer months he returned to Messalonskee Lake.

Jim was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Robert.

He is survived by his wife, Lynne; and their two sons, Craig (Stacie) of Havelock, North Carolina, and David (Eliza), of Old Town; grandchildren Sierra, Caden, and a new granddaughter expected in September; sister-in-law, Pam Rideout Evans and brother-in-law, Scott Beckerman; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

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.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Friends of Messalonskee Lake, P.O. Box 532, Oakland, ME 04963.

JEANNINE L. BRETON

WINSLOW – Jeannine (LaPointe) Breton, 90, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at Sedgewood Commons Memory Care, in Falmouth.

She was born on November 4, 1932, the daughter of Albert and Marie (Jacques) LaPointe.

Jeannine was the wife of Donald Breton, who died July 21, 2019; together they raised four children.

Jeannine grew up in Winslow where she went to school only able to speak French. She was exceptionally smart with numbers and helped her husband Don run his service station business in Waterville/Winslow for many years. After she and Don married, they were stationed with the U.S. Navy, in Orange, Texas, where Laurie was born. They moved back to Winslow upon his discharge to raise their family.

Jeannine was a devout Catholic and enjoyed going to church at St. John Catholic Church, in Winslow. She loved roller-skating as a teenager; which was how she met her husband and later dancing with her husband and friends.

Jeannine loved her family and raising her children. She enjoyed taking them to their many activities and was proud of their achievements. She loved sewing her daughter’s clothes and helping her sons enjoy their hobbies as well. Her grandchildren remember swinging with her for hours laughing at silly stories, and making maple sugar taffy in the snow. She loved long walks on cool summer evenings, driving to the coast on Sundays (always stopping along the way for ice cream), and picking berries for her delicious homemade pies. Her favorite time was when all of her children and family were together for the holidays and summer vacations making lasting memories.

Jeannine was a homemaker, but she also loved her jobs at Butler’s Department Store, and Hallmark Card Shop, both in Waterville, so she could meet new people. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and wished that they all lived closer so she could spoil them more. She was loved by so many and will be missed dearly.

Jeannine was predeceased by her husband, Donald; her daughter, Laurie Vigue who passed away in 2017; and her brothers Joseph and Donald LaPointe.

She is survived by her children, John Breton (Margaret) of Freedom, New Hampshire, Nancy Haskell (Kirk), of Palm Coast, Florida, and Joey Breton (Heather), of Cape Elizabeth; her sisters Rose Traynor (Ronald), of Tolland, Connecticut, and Cecile LaPointe, of Waterville; her grandchildren, Melissa Coates, Samantha Breton, Johnny Wood (Autumn), Henrik and Daphne Nelson, Jasper Breton, Lelah Main (Chris), and Sierra Haskell; and her great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Shawn Coates, Summer Wood, Andrew and Athelstan Main and Lamar White; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, July 24, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street in Waterville.

Please visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your condolences with the Breton family.

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

DAVID L. PALMER

PORTLAND – David Lee Palmer, 85, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. He was born in Waterville on May 29, 1938, the son of Calvin and Laura Palmer, of Waterville.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1956. He graduated from the University of Maine in Orono with a degree in chemical engineering.

David began his working career in the mid-1960s at Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, in its quality control department. In July 1979, he moved to Portland to work for Plasmine Corporation as its Vice President of Manufacturing, retiring in May 2003.

David’s lifelong curiosity about all kinds of things and his sense of adventure were satisfied by his pursuit of a variety of many hobbies and interests, such as drawing art, photography, home aquariums and house plants, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking and camping, canoeing and kayaking, geocaching, and owning a speed boat and flying his own single engine prop plane.

He absolutely loved traveling with his sister, Shirley, to seashore destinations, which included many trips to Florida’s Gulf coast during the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s, which were later superseded by even more trips to the Hawaiian Islands during the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. He also had an extra special connection with and fondness for the family camps on East Pond, in Oakland, which he was passionate about preserving for the family to enjoy for generations to come.

David was predeceased by his parents, Laura and Calvin Palmer; and his sister, Shirley Ann Palmer Johnson.

He is survived by his nephew, Andrew Johnson, of Auburn; nieces, Laurie Boulanger and husband Jeff, of Fairfield, Melanie Mayo and husband Stephen, of Fairfield, and Sherry Sierra, of Leeds; great-nieces, Krystal Blaisdell and husband Josh, of Fairfield, Krysten Bailey and husband Ryan, of Fairfield, Lindsay Corbett and wife Courtney, of Sidney, Katye Mayo-Chipman and wife Kati, of Canaan, and Brooke Lord and husband Pat, of Hampden; great-nephew, Shawn Sierra, of Fairfield, Valentin (LT) Sierra and wife Sarah, of Sidney, and Tatiana Litalien and husband Drew, of Turner; and many great-great-nieces and nephews.

A funeral was held at Lawry Brother’s Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, ME 04937, on Fridasy, July 21, followed by a committal at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory will gratefully be accepted by the East Pond Association. Mail to David Jackson, Treasurer EPA, 83 Loon Lane, Smithfield, ME 04978, or online at https://www.eastpond.org/donate.

SANDRA A. CUMMINGS

SMITHFIELD – Sandra Ann Cummings, 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at home, in Smithfield. Sandi was born on January 18, 1945, to Ernest and Louise Merrow, in Waterville.

She attended Waterville schools, graduating cum laude. She was a leader with the high school drill team. She began her working career with Aetna Finance and retired after many years with State Farm Insurance.

Sandi and Tom were high school sweethearts, remaining married for 58 years. They were married in Sacramento, California, where Tom was stationed in the United States Air Force. After living in many places, Sandi retired to Leesburg, Florida. She enjoyed traveling the country in their RV and returning to her summer home “Meadowview”, in Smithfield. Sandi enjoyed sewing, macramé, painting and ceramics. Sandi received many accolades for the design and quality of her quilts.

Sandi is survived by her husband, Thomas Cummings; children, Deborah Murray (spouse Randall), Denise Therriault (spouse Keith), Kirk Cummings; grandchildren, Troy Johnson (spouse Samantha), Dustin Cummings (spouse Kristina), Kayleigh Therriault and Chloe Therriault; four great-grandsons; and siblings Barbara Bickford, Geoff Merrow (spouse Gayle), and John Nichols (spouse Delores).

Sandi will be laid to rest at St Francis Cemetery, Waterville, on Saturday, August 26, at 10:30 a.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow.

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.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, a cause close to Sandi’s heart.

MARK A. BOURGOIN

WATERVILLE – Mark Andrew Bourgoin, 40, passed away quietly on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the Togus Springs VA hospice care facility, in Augusta, following a brief period of declining health. Mark was born on May 28, 1983, in Waterville, to Wayne and Carmen (Jacques) Bourgoin, of Winslow.

He grew up in Winslow, graduating from Winslow High School in 2002. Following high school, while attending Saint Joseph’s College, he enrolled in the U.S. Army ROTC program at the University of New Hampshire. He completed basic training at Fort Benning, in Georgia, and subsequently went on to also complete his Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Lewis, in Washington.

After graduating from Saint Joseph’s, Mark served his country including a deployment to Iraq out of Fort Stewart, in Georgia, as part of the 92nd Infantry Unit. After his time at Fort Stewart, he went for additional training in Richmond, Virginia, for six months before his final assignment at the Army/Navy Joint Expeditionary Base, in Norfolk, Virginia. While living in Norfolk, Mark and his wife Lacey (Thompson) Bourgoin welcomed their son Noah, who was the light of Mark’s life. He treasured their time together.

Upon separating from the Army with the rank of captain, Mark accepted a position at Dresser Rand, in Painted Post, New York, and lived in nearby Horseheads for several years. Eventually, he returned home to his roots in Maine where he enjoyed every opportunity that he had to go fishing, jet skiing, or boating at the family camp in North Belgrade. In addition, Mark was an animal lover who cherished his cat, Boomer, and dog Bailey until her passing. He then acquired his current dog, Luna, a rambunctious but loveable pet.

Mark is survived by his son, Noah Bourgoin, and former wife Lacey, both of Waterville; his parents, Wayne and Carmen; sister Aimee Bourgoin, of Waterville; brother Scott Bourgoin and sister-in-law Dawn Madore-Bourgoin, of Saco; aunt Annette Jacques, of Waterville; uncles John Bourgoin (Elaine), Lee Bourgoin (Cheryl) and Greg Deirig, of Wichita Falls, Texas; as well as his aunt Jan Jacques, of Harrisonburg, Virginia; several cousins and especially his dearest friend Emily Gibson (Daniel), of Clifton Park, New York.

Mark was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Arthur and Angelie Jacques, of Waterville, paternal grandparents Roland and Jeannette Bourgoin, of Winslow, his aunt, Jean (Bourgoin) Deirig, of Wichita Falls, Texas, and uncle, Gerard Jacques, of Harrisonburg, Virginia.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 9 a.m., Saturday, July 29, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, Maine. Burial with military honors will be at Saint Francis cemetery following the funeral celebration.

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.

As a percussionist, Mark enjoyed and appreciated music, Noah shares that enjoyment and has been pursuing violin training. To that end, in lieu of flowers, contributions in Mark’s memory for Noah’s music study would be graciously accepted and can be given to an immediate family member.

ERMA W. ELWELL

BENTON – Erma W. Elwell, of Benton, 98, and formerly of Unity, passed away at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. Born in Troy on January 13, 1925, she was the daughter of Gustave and Olive (Roberts) Ward.

She graduated from Unity High School as Salutatorian Class of 1943. On June 5, 1943, she married Robert Elwell and they started their Jersey dairy farming career together. In 1945, she and Bob purchased the Mussey Property, in Unity, and continued farming until 2011.

Erma was an excellent seamstress, enjoyed knitting, reading, watching the birds, all of her cats, dogs, and cows. She was a member of the Rebekahs, Waldo County and Maine Farm Bureaus, SnowDusters Snowmobile Club (logging 1,500 miles one winter!), and Unity Union Church. Each summer, she would have a large garden, from which she canned vegetables for the winter, would pick, and freeze strawberries for Bob’s beloved strawberry shortcake with homemade biscuits and Jersey whipped cream. She also raked hay, fed and raised the Jersey calves, and chased after parts for the broken farm equipment.

Erma was predeceased by her husband, Robert, her parents, her sister, Helen, and brother, Morris, her son-in-law, Wayne Lemieux, her step-granddaughter, Sarah Watson, and two step great-great granddaughters, Isabella Lemieux and Katherine White.

Erma is survived by her daughters, Ruth Lemieux, of Benton, and Rachel Garnett and her husband, Wayne, of Big Sandy, Texas; grandchildren are Jamie Whitcomb and his fiancée, Tammy Turner, and Amy Whitcomb Brown and her husband, Craig, all of Unity; step-grandchildren, Adam Lemieux and his wife, Tania, and James Lemieux and his partner, Stacy; great-grandchildren Dustin Whitcomb and Brooke Larrabee and her husband, Christopher, Jordan Brown, Caleb Brown, Makayla Brown, Julia White, and Nicholas Lemieux; great-great-grandchildren, Elaine and Atarah Larrabee, Lucas and Jacob Glidden; several nieces.

At Erma’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests contributions in Erma’s memory be made to Waldo County Humane Society, P. O. Box 479, Belfast, ME 04915-0479, or the Belfast Waldo County Humane Society, P.O. Box 479, Belfast, ME 04915

EUGENE L. VIETA SR.

OAKLAND – Eugene “Gene” L. Vieta Sr., 87, of Oakland, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. He was born on February 11, 1936, in Oakland, to Louis J. Vieta and Violet Watson.

He attended school in Oakland, joined the U.S. Army in 1954, and served honorably in Korea. In 1958, he married the love of his life Iris (Snow) Vieta.

Gene was an accomplished truck driver and spent many years working at Dead River Company as an oil and propane delivery driver. He spent his retirement years camping with his friends at Cowan’s Cove, in Greenville, on Moosehead Lake.

Gene is survived by his five children, Penelope French, Robin Sweet and husband Randolph, Kim Goodwin and husband James, Eugene Jr. and wife Angela, and Jeff; his grandchildren, Tracy Swift, Randi and James Goodwin, Jamie Goodwin, Michael and Stacie Poulin, Raheem, Arianna, Alea and Jasmine Goodwin, Sara Gosselin, Jeremy and Emma Vieta, Jace Bouchard, Rachel Vieta and Julia Shores; great-grandchildren Kate, Lena, Cece, and River Swift, James and Elijah Goodwin, Gabriel Bernier, Laylani Goodwin, Ally Gosselin, Noah and Ashlyn Vieta, Alexander Austin, Hannah Spear, and Blake and Olivia Bouchard; sisters Kathleen Briggs and husband Bruce, and Earleen McDonald; and brother, Leon Norton and wife Debbie.

He was predeceased by his wife, Iris; his father, Louis, his mother, Violet; his sister, Patricia (Vieta) Kenney; and his son-in-law, Randall French. He also has many nieces, nephews and cousins, and many dear friends.

He was an amazing father, always putting his children first. Fun trips to the Skowhegan Fair each summer are family memories, or Sunday trips to Smiley’s Ice Cream, in Winslow, in the summer with all five kids pushing on the front seats of the car as he pretended he just couldn’t get the car up Clinton Avenue hill without their help. He was famous for his amazing smile; a smile that would melt your heart and have you smiling right back at him.

A military service will be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, on Friday, August 18, at noon.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

LEO F. SMITH

PALERMO – Leo F. Smith, 81, died Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a short illness. He was born in Somer­ville, Massa­chusetts, on September 16, 1941, a son of the late Leo F. Smith, Sr. and Margaret (Reardon) Smith.

Leo had been employed for many years at Bath Iron Works and was a member of the Masons. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. In retirement years, he enjoyed wood working and making thing for family and friends.

He was predeceased by daughter-in-law LeeAnn Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Priscilla A. (Leach) Smith, of Palermo; a son, Dustin L. Smith, of Palermo; a daughter, Melinda A. Smith, of Palermo , a grandson, Aaron R. Morse, of South China, nieces and newphews.

There will be no public visiting hours. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor, Maine, 04363.

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

Those who desire may make donations in Leo’s memory to: Alfond Center for Cancer Care, c/o MaineGeneral Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 828, Waterville, ME, 04901.

LURENA E. HAMEL

PALERMO – Lurena E. Hamel, 88, of Palermo, passed away Thursday, July 20, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Lurena was born on May 4, 1935, a daughter of Harry and Mabel Messenger, and graduated from Gardiner Area High School.

Following school, she went on to work for the telephone company, MSAD #11, and Reny’s Depasrtment Store.

Lurena loved the farm life and going for wagon rides. She enjoyed watching the birds and tending her flowers, but most of all she loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved watching them play sports and supporting them on their journeys. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Lurena was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Mable Messenger; her first husband, Robert Hathaway, and second husband, James Hamel; her siblings Burt Wheeler, Barbara Arbour, Marion Bailey, Hazel Bernice Willette, and Pauline Latlip; stepdaughter, Patricia “Ann” Lacasse; her great-granddaughter, Paitn; a nephew, Mark Bailey; and a special cousin, Bobby Newell.

Lurena is survived by two sons, Scott Hathaway and wife Teresa, of Gardiner, and Stacy Hamel and wife Geraldine, of Palermo; stepchildren, James Hamel and wife Vera, of Jacksonville, Florida, Gregory Hamel and wife Judy, of Dunn Lorring, Virginia, Steve Hamel and wife Charlene, of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Celeste Derosier, of Manchester, New Hampshire; three grandchildren, Ashley Hathaway, Steven Hamel and wife Heidi, and Ryan Hamel and fiancée Marissa Chamberlain; five great-grandchildren, Nyelle, Trewyn, Lincoln, Levi and Paislee; and a sister, Priscilla Bailey, of Augusta.

A graveside service will be held at noon, on Friday, August 4, 2023, at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta, ME 04330. A gathering will follow at the Sheepscot Fish and Game, Route 3, Palermo.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04330. Condolences, stories or photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

Donations in Lurena’s name may be made to the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, c/o MaineGeneral Health Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903, and/or to St. Jude Childrens’ Hospital at stjude.org.

ANGELA A. RANCOURT

WATERVILLE – Angela (Aucoin) Rancourt, 65, recently passed away. Angie was born March 26, 1957, to Joan and Wilfred Aucoin. She was one of seven children and spent her formative years in Waterville and attended local schools.

She became a young wife and mother and experienced California life for a few years, returning to Maine when the marriage dissolved.

Angela was a dedicated single mom working at various jobs while raising her family. Once her children were grown she moved to Gray where she enjoyed her leisure time fishing, boating and snowmobiling in winter, always making time to go thrifting in any kind of weather.

When duty called Angela then devoted herself to caring for her aging parents, allowing them to remain in their home. Some say her true calling was as a caregiver.

After the death of her parents Angie held jobs at Walmart and Goodwill until health issues prevented her from continuing to work. Recent time was spent reading and watching movies but she was always up for an outing to the Goodwill store in search of the perfect bargain.

Angela was predeceased by her parents; and brothers Mark, Gary, and Bruce Aucoin.

She is survived by her two children, Chuck and Nicole Rancourt; her siblings, sister, Kathy DeRoche and her husband Bill, sister, Pam Aucoin and husband Bob Bouchard and brother, Greg Aucoin; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There are no services at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 20, 2023

BONNIE L. SHOREY

VASSALBORO – Bonnie L. Shorey, 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 1, 2023. She was born on August 24, 1946, in Waterville, the daughter of Adrien and Simone (Beaulieu) Paradis, and grew up in the Waterville area, graduating from Waterville High School, class of 1964.

On February 10, 1968, Bonnie became the wife of Evan Shorey. He and Bonnie had a love that would see them through anything that life handed them, they were destined to be together and best friends forever. Bonnie and Evan raised three children and loved spending time as a family. In later years they loved to travel, including trips to Alaska, Mexico, Florida and some wonderful cruises. Bonnie was happiest being with Evan and their family. Theirs is a love story that will be told for generations.

Bonnie shared her love with many while working in the Vassalboro school system with students as an ed tech and teacher’s helper until her retirement just a couple of years ago. She was a communicant of St. Bridget Church, in Vassalboro, until its closure. She and Evan would walk to Mass every week. She enjoyed gardening and flowers and her morning walks with Evan. She was very proud of her family and was known as “Yae” to those who loved her.

Bonnie was predeceased by her parents; and her sister, Sandra Dolley.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband and her best friend, Evan Shorey; her children, Cathy Geller, Brian Shorey and Allyson McFarland and husband Kevin; her grandchildren, Danielle Vigue and husband Dustin, Chloe Geller, Kaili and August and Gabriel Shorey and their mother Amanda Dwelle, and Kaleb and Cole Libby; her great-grandchildren Owen and Colton Vigue; her sister, Jolyne Paradis; her brother-in-law, Barry Dolley; her sister-in-law, Priscilla Abbott and husband Dale; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Bonnie’s life will be held at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835 VFW, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow, on Saturday, July 29, 2023, beginning at noon.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your memories and condolences with Bonnie’s Family.

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

JOANNE B. FULLER

FAIRFIELD – Joanne Bickford Fuller, 63, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at home. She was born in Waterville, on July 11, 1959, the daughter of the late Daniel and Christine Bickford.

Joanne graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1978. During her working career she worked in the food service department at Benton Elementary School for 26 years. In October 1984 she married Roland Fuller. Together they enjoyed a 40-year loving relationship. Together they raised two daughters, Jamie and Nikki.

Joanne enjoyed gardening, Hallmark movies, her pets, and spending time with family. Most of all, she enjoyed her three grandchildren Hannah, Bristol, and Bentley, who she loved with all her heart.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents; in-laws Jim and Dothery Fuller; and brother, Arthur Bickford.

She is survived by her husband, Roland Fuller; daughters Jamie Chabot and granddaughter Hannah, of Fairfield; and Nikki Fuller and fiancé Matt Pooler and granddaughter Bristol and grandson Bentley, of China; brothers Allen Bickford, Alden Bickford, and Eugene Bickford and wife Vera, all of Fairfield; sister, Debbie Wentworth and her husband Bruce, of China; brother-in-law, Rodney Fuller and wife Brenda, of Albion; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Fairfield VFW, 246 Main St., in Fairfield, on Sunday, July 16, at 1 p.m. An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at: http://www.lawrybrothers.com

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

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joanne’s memory to your local Humane Society or the St. Jude Cancer Center.

ROBERT E. DYER

BENTON – Robert E. Dyer, “Bob” “Bobby”, 73, passed away peacefully, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville, on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, following a three-year battle with ALS (“Damn Yankees Disease” as he called it). He was born on February 11, 1950, in Fairfield, the son of Frederick and Mary Madeline (Tobey) Dyer.

He was one of five children with two sisters and two brothers. Bob attended Fairfield schools and graduated from Lawrence High School, in 1969; he also graduated from Unity College, in 1973, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

Bob was an inquisitive child, sharing many stories of lighthearted, mischievous times with childhood friends, especially longtime pal Charlie Pomeroy. He was a passionate sports fan with his early years working in the P.A.L. program while attending college. Bob coached baseball, basketball and football for his sons. He impacted many young lives while coaching kids within the community and would transport them to/from their practices and games to make sure they could attend. In the fall, Bob could be seen in the end-zone on Friday nights at Lawrence High football games rooting on his favorite Bulldogs. In 2022, he received the “Bulldog Pride Award” for which he was humbled and extremely proud.

Bob worked at Huhtamaki for 43 years. He appreciated his time there and took great pleasure in entertaining/needling his co-workers; Bob had many jokes to share with his extremely playful banter. He was an avid golfer enjoying his time with his friend Jeff Beeh, at Cedar Springs, in Albion, playing with his sons/grandkids or playing in league play. During his retirement, Bob took up pickleball and enjoyed the people he met at the Alfond Youth Center.

He was a husband and a wonderful dad to his three sons, of whom he was very proud. His grandchildren were the light of his life and any time he got to spend with them was very special to him. A gentle soul, he cared about people, greatly loved his family and deep down enjoyed the company of others.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Peter; his mother-in-law, Hilda Seeley; and his brother-in-law, Edward Moffitt.

He is survived by the love of his life for 52 years, Susanne (Seeley) Dyer; his father-in-law, Roland Seeley; his children Kevin (Tammy), Kelly and Kasey (Jenny) Dyer; sisters, Jane Moffitt and Nancy Simpson (Bob); and brother, Ron Dyer; his grandchildren Alli (Connor) Tulley, Kaden Dyer, Haylee and Lillyanne Dyer, Gracelyn Dyer, Cody (Summer) Grenier, Kayla (Jeff) Duprey, and Ryan Gagne; great-grandchildren, Reese Tulley, Gavin and Aubrie Grenier, and Paisley Duprey. Bob also had many aunts, uncles; cousins; nieces and nephews who were very special to him.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 11, at the Waterville Elks Lodge, from 5 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the HealthWell Foundation or Compassionate Care ALS in his memory.

DAVID W. BARNES SR.

SOUTH CHINA – David William Barnes Sr., 69, passed away on Thursday, July 6, 2023, while at home. Over the last five years, David fought courageously against cancer. He was born July 25, 1953, a son of Charles W. Barnes and Mabel (Harrison) Ward.

David attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and prior to finishing school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving during the Vietnam War. He married Sandra J. Trask on November 19, 1977, and the two settled in Weeks Mills where they raised their family.

He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1979, and earned college degrees in business management and computer science from the University of Maine at Augusta.

After being introduced to the sport of fishing by his granddaddy, Frank Harrison, David found his passion in life, fishing. He became a Master Maine Guide, and truly enjoyed his work as a Professional Bass Fisherman. David taught countless people the art of bass fishing and he was regarded as one of the best anglers in the country, participating in countless tournaments throughout the United States. He was honored to be the first inductee in the Maine Bass Nation Hall of Fame, and has been featured on many TV shows, newspaper and magazines articles, and even co-authored a book entitled Maine Bassin’. In addition, David was a founder of multiple bass fishing clubs. An avid hunter, he also enjoyed hunting deer, bear and moose; the epitome of an outdoorsman.

Not only a fisherman, David was also a true patriot, Christian, and family man. His love for God, his family, and country were unmatched. It’s hard to condense such a special life in a short obituary but one undoubtable thing is that David went home to be with his Lord and Savior, and he would want every one of his loved ones to abide in Christ also.

He was predeceased by his father, Charles Barnes, his mother, Mabel Ward and her husband, Lloyd; his son, Steven Barnes, and a sister, Patricia James.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sandra Barnes; his children, Angela Frey, David Barnes Jr. and his wife, Jessica, Daniel Barnes, Shawn Barnes and his wife Trisha, Susan Baker and her husband Alexander; and his granddaughter who he raised as his own daughter, Catlin Main and her husband, Brandon; as well as 16 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; and siblings Linda Warner, Sandra Barnes, Sherry Smith, Lloyd Ward, Brenda Campbell, Charlotte Vintion, Charles Barnes Sr., Christopher Barnes, Chester Barnes, Cheyenne Barnes, Cheryl Granquist, and Chauncey Barnes; and his stepmother, Ruby Arnold, who was a second mother to him.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Central Church, 627 Rte. 3, China, on what would have been David’s 70th birthday.

Burial will follow at Dyer Hill Cemetery in Windsor, a Celebration of Life will follow at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835, VFW hall, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories, or photos may be shared and a full obituary can be viewed by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David’s name may be made to: Travis Mills Foundation at travismillsfoundation.org or, 647 Castle Island Rd., Mt. Vernon, ME 04352.

KIM L. AU

OAKLAND – Kim Linda Au, 66, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. Kim was born in Waterville on July 13, 1956, to Theresa (Roy) Liberty and Gerald L. Vigue, both deceased.

Kim lived most of her adult life in Oakland with her husband of 40 years, Carino Au.

Kim graduated from Waterville High School in 1974. She was a hard worker, often working multiple jobs at the same time. In her younger years Kim worked a variety of jobs. In 1986, she opened Kim’s Kitchen Restaurant, in Oakland. In 1989, she joined the Service Merchandise team, in Augusta, as a diamond consultant until the store went out of business in 1997. In 1997, she joined her husband Carino as co-owner of Jade Island, on the West River Road, in Waterville, operating the business for over 27 years. Kim then went on to work for Colby College, in Waterville, for many years, and in 2018 worked for John’s Market, of Waterville, until the store was sold in 2022. Even though Kim was retirement-eligible she chose to work as a cook and baker for Androscoggin Camp, in Wayne, and would have continued “working at camp” to this day.

Kim was a very talented artist, and had a passion for painting wildlife and custom pieces on organic materials such as glass, wood, metal, and slate. She turned this hobby into her own business and opened Au Artistry of Maine, in 2021, making her one of a kind artwork available for sale to the public. Kim also enjoyed traveling, riding her motorcycle with friends, cooking and decorating for holidays.

Kim is survived by her husband, Carino Au, of Oakland; two daughters, Kendra Littlefield and husband Wes Littlefield, of Oakland, and Jerri Lee Au and partner Dirk Caire, of Gardiner; two granddaughters, Weslee and Bodhi Littlefield, both in college at Ohio University and living in Oakland; three siblings, Karen Vigue Theriault and husband Tony Theriault, of Waterville, Kenneth Vigue and wife Diane Vigue, of Palermo, and Kelley Vigue Strout and husband Jody Strout, of Cornville; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Winslow VFW Post #8835, 175 Veteran Dr., in Winslow, on Monday, July 24, at 6 p.m.

Graveside service will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Waterville Food Bank, 61 Pleasant St., Waterville, ME 04901, tel: 207-616-0363; Email: watervillefoodbank@ gmail.com.

RONALD L. PRESSEY

OCOEE, Florida – Ronald “Ron” L. Pressey, 60, of Ocoee, Florida, and Oakland, died peacefully, after battling cancer, on Monday, May 8, 2023. Ron was born on June 22, 1962, to Lynn and Pauline (Turner) Pressey.

He was a 1980 graduate of Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

Ron worked maintenance at Mt. St. Joseph Nursing Home, in Waterville, Hussey’s General Store in Sporting Good, in Windsor, drove for PT Cab, of Waterville, but his favorite job was doing Dr. Ron DJ services doing weddings, anniversaries, etc.

Ron is survived by his stepson, Chris Roney and girlfriend Grace Hartung, of Waterville; his stepdaughter, Elizabeth Roney and boyfriend Lateef Pele; his step-grandchildren Jasimine, Catherine, Rafael, Aubrey, Sophia, Chanel and Drake. He also had several great-stepgrandchildren; his sisters Tracy Chartrand, of Winslow, Karen Cayford and husband Vance, of Benton, brothers Lynn Pressey and wife Phoebe, of Wells, George (Jody) Pressey and wife Charlene, of Chelsey, and Shawn Pressey, of Waterville; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no funeral services by his request.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 15, 2 p.m. at the home of Karen Cayford, 43 Averill Mobile Home Park, Benton.

LORETTE MARTIN

FAIRFIELD – Lorette Martin has passed away. Lorette was born February 18, 1951, the daughter to the late Leo and Laurence (Maheu) LeClair. Just one of six siblings.

Just like her mother she was the most dedicated and giving person. As a close family they built a bond that was stronger than anything. A true foundation of family and faith would guide Lorette through her lifelong journey.

She was educated in the Fairfield schools and was a 1969 graduate of Lawrence High School.

Lorette met her husband Joseph “Ricky” Martin on a blind date, Valentine’s Day 1969. Soon they were engaged on April 9, 1969, and married December 13, 1969. Together they built a wonderful life with the addition of their four children. The four T’s: Timmy, Tommy, Terry, and Tori. Over 54 years together they gave an example of what love should be. Often, you’d find them dancing in the kitchen to one of their favorite songs.

Lorette worked hard all her life, often sacrificing her needs to give to others. Growing up there were always fond memories of her working at the family Maheu Farm, the Waterville IHOP and Scott Paper Co, in Winslow. Everyone knew of her work ethic. She always did what needed to be done.

After the mill closed, she worked at Huhtamaki, in Waterville. While there she was given the opportunity to go back to school. Lorette became a medical coder for Maine General MDFP, and to no surprise when she retired in 2016 it took three people to replace her. Retirement meant more time with family. Never missing a game, concert, or event for her 11 grandchildren. By far her most favorite role was that of Mémère. You could always hear her in the crowd, the biggest cheerleader and the greatest fan of her children and grandchildren. She wore blue and gray with pride.

Lorette was a wonderful cook, especially her Sunday dinners or big family meals. They all knew fresh cookies meant Terry would be coming home to visit. Her cookie jar was hardly ever empty. She enjoyed drawing, gardening, playing cards with her sisters and their yearly vacation at camp. She loved crafts, often making them with her daughter and grandchildren. Her generosity and selflessness were a testimony to who she was; often a staple volunteering in the MSAD #49 community, she was passionate about helping her son Tim with the Brady Martin Memorial Thanksgiving Drive every year.

She’d do anything to help others in need because she was grateful for what she had in Life. Lorette was the first to bring a comforting meal or make a donation. Her warm smile made you feel at home. She was a hugger, pulled you right in. During her illness her faith never wavered.

Lorette was predeceased by her parents; her in-laws, Clinton and Doris Martin; her sister Lucille McCannon; and grandson Brady Martin.

She is survived by her husband Joseph; her sons, Timothy (Michelle), Thomas (Kirstie), and Terry; and her daughter Tori Richards (James); grandchildren, Kimberlyn (Mike), Cody (Bri), Curtis (Katie), Katelyn (Zenawi), Kaylie (Jake), Cassie (Hunter), Preston, Allie, Cooper, and Brock; great-grandson Greyson; siblings, Paul McCannon, Geraldine Shirley, Leona (Leo) Moses, Louise (Larry) Grenier, Dicky (Linda) LeClair; many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on July 10, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, in Waterville. Burial immediately followed at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville. A Celebration of Life was held after burial at the Victor Grange, in Fairfield Center.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, ME

In lieu of flowers, honor Lorette’s Legacy of Giving Back to the Community. Please donate to the Lorette Martin Scholarship Memorial Fund, c/o Tim Martin. For more information, please email tim@cornerstonefinancial-inc.com.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 13, 2023

THEODORE R. BROOKS II

CLINTON – Theodore “Ted” R. Brooks II, 57, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. Ted was born on April 4, 1965, in Milford, Connecticut, the son of Theodore R. Brooks Sr. and Helen Mae (Dodge) Brooks.

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. Theodore was a long-time worker for HealthReach.

Theodore loved to collect old money and was a long-time sports fan of NASCAR, New England Patriots, and the Boston Red Sox. He loved to watch and attend these sports with his children. Theodore never missed a good flea market and his animals meant the world to him.

Theodore was predeceased by his parents; and his sister, Lillian Brooks.

He is survived by his sons Theodore III and Thomas Brooks; daughters-in-law, Shawna Brooks and Leslie Greene; his stepchildren Joe and Courtney Greene; grandchildren Cameron Dyer, Kayden and Alexander Brooks, Mackenzy, Joe, Evan, Max Greene, and Madilyn Hall; brother, Richard and sister, April Brooks; and lots of nieces and nephews.

His funeral was held on Saturdday, July 8, at the Church of Nazarene, in Fairfield, followed by a graveside service.

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.

JANE L. MITCHELL

WATERVILLE – Jane Laura (Black) Mitchell, 84, passed away peacefully on Thurs­day, June 15, 2023. She was born Sep­tem­ber 23, 1938, to parents Delight (Taylor) Black and Chesley Black.

A graduate of Waterville High School, Jane spent many years working in the medical field: from pathology to medical transcriptionist to CNA. She was a lifetime lover of animals and was never without a pet in her home – often two or three. For many years, Jane and her golden retriever, Nike, were frequent visitors at area nursing homes and hospitals, bringing pet therapy to patients and residents.

A parishioner of the Pleasant Street Methodist Church, one of Jane’s favorite events was the church’s annual blessing of the animals.

Prior to her health declining, Jane was perpetually active: walking her dog, visiting friends, and taking regular exercise classes with her dear friends at the Muskie Center (Spectrum Generations), in Waterville. From the glint of mischief in her eyes to the sheer joy in her laugh, Jane brought her natural charm into every room, and her effervescence will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Jane was predeceased by her parents; and her brother.

She is survived by two sons; two grandsons; and an array of nieces and nephews.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no funeral or ceremony.

To honor her life, please consider a donation of any size (monetary, or food, toys, etc.) to the Humane Society Waterville Area. Jane was an avid supporter of their mission, and it would mean the world to her to know animals in need might find comfort in her memory.

EUGENE E. BOURGOIN

CLINTON – Eugene Edmond Joseph Bourgoin, 85, passed peacefully Thursday, June 15, 2023, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. He was born on August 14, 1937, in Van Buren, to father Edmond and mother Albertine (Berube) Bourgoin.

He attended Waterville area schools.

On October 6, 1956, he married the love of his life, Nancy Ann (Giroux) Bourgoin, they were happily married for 57 years.

He worked around Central Maine, being a foreman at the Fort Halifax chicken packaging company, in Winslow, a general laborer with local union at S.D. Warren, now Sappi, in Skowhegan, and ultimately retired from MSAD #49 as a grounds maintenance personnel and bus driver. Eugene was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Waterville.

Eugene had many hobbies he was passionate about, most of all, he loved spending time gathering with family whether it be spent playing hearts, spades or cribbage. He also loved snowmobiling, four wheeling, landscaping, repairing and building things.

Gene was a loving and supportive husband, parent, grandparent and great-grandparent. He loved spending as much time as he could with his family, always hosting barbecues and gatherings. Gene was a family man through and through. In his early years he would hold multiple jobs in order to support his wife, Nancy, and three children, Dana, Tammy and Darlene.

Eugene was predeceased by his parents, father Edmond and mother Albertine; his wife, Nancy; four brothers, Raymond, Ronald, Ed and David, three sisters Deloris, Charlene, and Jackie; along with four in-laws, Bertt, James, Sandra and his son-in-law, Richard.

Eugene is survived by his son, Dana and wife Julie Bourgoin, of Benton; his daughters, Tammy Leblanc, of Weeks Mills, Darlene and husband James Talbot, of Clinton; his granddaughter, Krista and significant other Loui; grandsons, Joshua and significant other Sarah, Dustin and fiancée Kali; granddaughters, Kellie and significant other Chad, Simera and husband Steven; grandson, Devin and wife Sarah; his two brothers, Joe and Donald; and sister, Patsy; 10 great-grandchildren, Tegan, Savannah, Damion, Miranda, Brianna, Wyatt, Colby, Ella, Dakota and Kayden; and seven in-laws, Rachel, Denise, Francis, Carlene, Libby, Carol and Eddie.

Arrangements are being made by Dan and Scott’s Funeral and Cremation, of Skowhegan. At this time there will be no graveside funeral. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date.

KAZIMIERZ SWIERCZ

WATERVILLE – Kazimierz “Kaz” Swiercz, 80, of Waterville passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 22, 2023, following a long illness battle. He was born in Wolany, Poland on November 23, 1942, to the late Leon and Halina (Lewandowska) Swiercz.

In 1981, Kaz moved his family to Germany and then in 1984 they all immigrated to Waterville for new opportunities. He worked to create a new life by starting with auto body work and then drove a truck for C&J Transport before starting his own trucking company. He was able to see all the corners of the new country he called home from the seat of his big rig. He also shared these experiences with his sons and taught them the same skills he had.

Even though a stroke robbed him of his ability to venture across the country, it didn’t stop his hard work ethic nor his love of tinkering with everything in the house. He renovated two houses for his family and was always in the midst of many projects.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Teresa (Karpinska), of Waterville; his two sons and their families, Darek (Paul) and his wife Ania, of Winslow, their children Pascal, Alex and Marcel and Maciej “Mike” of Waterville, and his children Danielle (James) Schifano, Justin and Jayden.

He was predeceased by his sister, Mirka, and his other sister, Renata, currently resides in Poland.

At this time, there will be no formal services, but a celebration of his life will be scheduled later in the year.

Donations may be made in his name to Maine General Hospice, in Waterville.

RICHARD A. JONES

CLINTON – Richard Alan Jones, 85, passed away at the Maine Veterans’ Home, in Augusta, on Saturday, June 24, 2023. He was born in Waterville on November 5, 1937. Richard, better known by his friends and loved ones as Dick or Dickie, was the second child of Harold and Linnie (Clark) Jones, also of Clinton.

Dick graduated from Clinton High School as a member of the class of 1956. After high school Dick served in the United States Army as an MP stationed at the Presidio, in San Francisco, for the majority of his enlistment.

After his honorable discharge, Dick was employed by Keyes Fibre (now Huhtamaki) and Hagerty Refrigeration during his early adult years. He retired in November 2002 from MaineGeneral Medical Center where he spent almost 30 years working as a dedicated HVAC technician.

Dick married M. Helen (York) Jones on May 20, 1961, and after living briefly in Fairfield, they bought an old farmstead on River Road, in Clinton, and settled down on the “hill” overlooking the Kennebec River. It was there they raised their family of four daughters and remained together until Helen passed away in April 2020.

Dick was an avid outdoorsman; hunting, fishing, and bird watching gave him both great enjoyment and tranquility. When he wasn’t outside, he loved to read mysteries, thrillers, and stories, both fiction and nonfiction, about the natural world. Dick also enjoyed all types of puzzles, but his favorite was the daily Jumble in the Morning Sentinel. He was also a great lover of dogs and had many four legged companions over the years from his teens until the last year of his life.

Dick is survived by his four daughters and their husbands, Ann and Ron Doody, of Canaan, New Hampshire, Tina and Matthew Bernier, of Pittsfield, Natalie Jones and Joe Dembeck, of Skowhegan, and Gail and Mark Abbott, of Winslow; his five grandchildren, Ryan Doody, Paige Doody, Nathan Abbott, Ben Abbott, and Abby Bernier; his brother Robert A. Jones and his wife Rita, who reside in Florida; and his sister Bev (Jones) Wallace, of Bowdoinham; numerous nieces, nephews, and their children.

Dick was predeceased by his parents, wife, and brother-in-law Robert Wallace Jr. of Bowdoinham.

At Dick’s request there will be no funeral.

Cremation arrangements are by Dan & Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services – Skowhegan 207-474-0000

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

JOHN PICKETT

WINSLOW – John “Jack” Pickett, 87, passed away on June 26, 2023, at home. Jack was born in Manhattan, New York, on June 18, 1936, the son of Albert and Frances Pickett.

He grew up on Long Island until the family relocated to Milford, Pennsylvania. After attending local schools, and a short stint in the U.S. Army, he attended Paul Smith’s College, in upstate New York, where he earned an associate degree in forestry.

He moved to Bingham, fresh out of college, to work for Scott Paper Co. and start a family with wife, Susan. After gaining experience from wood industry related jobs, he started his own land surveying companies, one of which included aerial photography. He claimed to have done work in all 16 counties’ Registry of Deeds in the state of Maine.

Jack had an adventurous soul and was driven to succeed. He was an avid pilot, sailboat captain, and sportsman. He flew his own plane to Alaska and back and lived on his sailboat for a year, and traveled up and down the east coast. He loved to share the stories of his adventures and enjoyed the companionship of many a black lab.

He was predeceased by his parents; and daughter, Tracy; and his companion, Patsy.

He is survived by daughter, Julie Read and husband Rob, of Orono; and son, John Pickett, of Bingham; sister, Sarah Mattar and her three sons, George, John, and David; granddaughters Tara, Kate, Sarah, Sydney, Taylor; and great-grandchildren William and Hazel.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Congregational Church, in North Anson, Saturday, on July 22, at 2 p.m.

MARY MAROON

WATERVILLE – Mary (Zelenkewich) Maroon, 95, passed away on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Mary was born to Victoria and Joseph Zelenkewich, Sr.

She graduated from Winslow High School and attended the University of Maine at Orono to become a dedicated physical education instructor.

She married her husband, Charles Samuel Maroon, and together they raised their four boys next to the “Zelenkewich Farm” where they enjoyed many family gatherings. Mary enjoyed dancing and going to plays with her husband, listening to her son, Brent sing, and watching her boys play sports and musical instruments. She loved taking time to be with her grandchildren, in her later years, she became especially fond of seeing her great-grandchildren known as her “littles”.

She is survived by her children, Kevin Charles Maroon and wife Susan, of China, Randall Charles Maroon and his wife Ellen, of Winslow, and Derek Charles Maroon and his wife Gayle, of Winslow; daughter-in-law, Gayle E. Maroon, of Waterville; grandchildren Shane (Kelsey), Jared (Erin), Kyle, Sam, Kali, Cody (Arie), Jamie (Jesse); and Autumn (Dalton); “littles” Bode, Kasen, Jace, Parker, baby boy Maroon due in December, Jesse and Quinn; brother, Felix Zelenkewich and his wife Lucille; sisters Rose Hymers and Helen Poulliot; brother-in-law, Paul Maroon; many nieces, and nephews; and extended family members.

She was predeceased by her husband, Charlie; son, Brent Charles Maroon; grandson, Jordan Derek Maroon; her parents; sister, Gunefa, brothers Major Joseph Zelenkewich, Jr., Ludwig, Lucien and Florian.

A graveside service was held at the St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville on Sunday, July 9. A reception followed in the Alumni Center at Colby College.

Donations can be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

K.J. HALL

ALBION – K.J. “Kenny” Hall, 70, passed away unexpectedly at home Thurssday, June 29, 2023. He was born November 21, 1952, the son of Kenneth and Patricia (Day) Hall.

K.J. attended local schools, graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

He started working for the railroad as a brakeman and then as a conductor for 25 years. He also served as the Animal Control Officer for the town of Albion for many years.

K.J. was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting, and being on his farm spending time with his cows. He played men’s softball for many years. He was a history buff and loved to learn about the history of America. Kenneth was very patriotic and served in the Maine National Guard from 1976 to 1992.

He was predeceased by his parents; and three sisters, Kelly, Cindy, and Candy.

He is survived by his brothers Mike, Doug, Tracy, and Tommy; sister Marty; daughters Desirae and Darcee; son Brandon; grandchildren, Nicholas and Demika, Ayla, Wyatt, and Lydia; great-grandchildren, Gray, Blaine, and Paul Allen.

There will be a celebration of life on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 2 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home 107 Main Street Fairfield, Maine.

A private burial will take place in the family cemetery at a later date.

NOELLINE BELANGER

WINSLOW – Noelline “Lynn” (LaChance) Belanger, 82, of Winslow, wife of over 61 years to Lawrence Belanger, passed away in her sleep at home on Sunday, July 2, 2023, following a long illness.

Although she wasn’t ready to die, God had a different plan for her, and welcomed her home.

She was born in St. Zacharie, Québec, Canada, on January 21, 1941, daughter of the late Lionel and Simone (Lapointe) Lachance.

She married her sweetheart Lawrence Belanger on July 22, 1961, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville.

Together, they raised their two daughters, Tina and Lisa.

She was employed at the C.F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, until her retirement in 2003. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends as often as possible. She especially enjoyed family gatherings and listening to her husband sing and play the guitar. She was so proud of all her grandchildren and was always happy when they would visit. She liked making crafts and using her iPad to play games.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, daughter Tina Faucher, and her two children, Jason Faucher and his wife Bryn, all of Winslow, Amanda Dostie and her husband Ryan, of Rome, and daughter Lisa Breton, and her husband Donald, of North Vassalboro, and their two children, Justin and his husband Will, of Brooklyn, New York, and Jessica Breton, of Winslow; one great-grandson, Corey Faucher and one great-granddaughter, Adelaide Dostie; step-great-grandsons Brandon and Cody Green; her sisters, Micheline Laraviere, Carole and her husband Bob Getchell and Liliane Davidson; sister-in-law, Theresa Culbertson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents; great-granddaughter Mariah Faucher; sisters, Marielle, Pierrette, Marjolaine, brothers, Robert and Ghislain “Butch” Lachance.

A committal will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville, at 10 a.m., on Monday, July 17, 2023.

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

LENA M. KING

WATERVILLE – Lena Marie (Rancourt) King, 84, passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Lena was born on December 6, 1934, in Waterville, and attended Waterville schools and Mount Merci Academy, in Waterville. She met the love of her life, Augustus King, and they had four daughters.

Lena worked several jobs during her life: inspector at the C.F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, and clerk at several Main Street businesses. Most will remember her as the kind lady at the door of Walmart where she was a greeter for several years.

Lena spent much of her life serving others. She was Democratic chairman for Ward 7. Lena also worked on campaigns for Ken Curtis and Ed Muskie. She also served on the board of registrations during elections. She was a volunteer at the St. Frances Soup Kitchen, the Waterville Boys and Girls Club, the American Legion Auxiliary and countless suppers and other community events. She was bilingual and could speak both French and English to community members. She enjoyed spending time at her camp on Great Pond. Lena loved to travel with her daughters, going out to lunch and shopping.

Lena will be missed by her family including Mary Ellen and Chuck Reny, of Atlanta, Georgia, Linda and Vinal McGraw, of Clinton, Catherine Rancourt, of Belgrade, and Joan King and Alice Montestruc, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She had six grandchildren who know her as “Meme”; 16 great-grandchildren that called her “Old Meme”; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Wilfred and Irene Rancourt; husband, Augustus King; and a sister, Rose Doyon.

At her request there will be no visiting hours. A small private service will be held by the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to the American Cancer Society.

RONALD D. KENERSON

WATERVILLE – Ronald David Kenerson, 65, died unexpectedly on Monday, May 22, 2023, at his home, in Waterville. The youngest of six children, he was born on September 17, 1957, in Wey­mouth, Massa­chusetts, to Norman Francis Kenerson and Marion Mae (Pratt) Kenerson.

He grew up in East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, and later moved to Alton, New Hampshire, before living in Maine.

Ron worked as a truck driver, mechanic and carpenter throughout his life. He was an avid New England sports fan and most of all loved spending time with his family. His greatest pride in life was his children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Lindsay (Kenerson) O’Connell; his parents; and brother, Stephen Kenerson.

He is survived by his son, Derek Kenerson and his wife Marisa, of Barnstead, New Hampshire; daughter, Wendy (Kenerson) Noyes and her husband Steven, of Alton, New Hampshire; his grandchildren Annabelle, Ethan, Olivia, Levan, Kaylin, Stevie, and Maximus; and siblings Donna and husband Joe Tibbetts, Donald and wife Kay Kenerson, William and wife Dottie Kenerson and Robert and wife MaryEllen Kenerson; also many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be announced at a later date by his children.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Lindsay O’Connell and/or Marion Kenerson to the American Cancer Society.

EVERETT J. ROSSIGNOL

OAKLAND – Everett J. Rossignol, 79, Oakland, passed away Wed­nessday, July 5, 2023. He was born Oct­ober 17, 1943, the son of Daniel and Yvette (Gagne) Rossignol.

He lived in Oakland his entire life and attended St. Francis de Sales Grammar School and Williams High School, in Oakland, graduating in 1961.

Everett also served in the Maine Army National Guard for six years.

Everett started his own business, Rossignol Excavating, in 1974 and continued to operate this business for the next 49 years including many years working with his son. He took great pride in building this business and providing quality work and service to all his clients. He was a man of integrity and always hard working. Everett had a great passion for staying active so when the ground was too frozen for digging, he kept himself busy by plowing snow and sanding around town for local businesses. Everett also managed and expanded the Pine Acres Business Park, helping his father and eventually taking over.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister, Carlene Rossignol, and brother-in-law, Ray St. Pierre.

He is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Hollee; their children, Michael (Lisa) Rossignol, of Oakland, Monique Rossignol (Peter) Gladziszewski, of Scituate, Rhode Island, Karen (Keith) Curtis, of Vassalboro; nephew, Stephen Pouliot who lived with the family for several years; grandchildren Jeremiah and Laura; Emma and Amy; Alyssa and Anna; great-grandchildren Liam, Alister and Elle; Layton; and Thomas, Alaina, Amelia, Wyatt and John Everett; his sister, Joyce; many cousins; and several nieces and nephews.

Everett was a faithful member of Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville/Winslow. Over the course of many years, he served as a dedicated member of several town committees, including the planning board and budget committee, and served as the Willey Point Road Commissioner.

Everett enjoyed snowmobiling, four-wheeling, boating and spending time with family and friends on the lake. He and Hollee also enjoyed camping and traveling to various destinations such as Alaska, Arizona, Aruba, Florida and taking several wonderful cruises. He always looked forward to Thursday night dinners with special friends known as “The Clique.” He loved talking with old friends and making new ones

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., on Friday, July 21, at Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., in Waterville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 22, at 9 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, in Waterville, with a reception to follow.

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

JEAN Y. BERARD

WINSLOW – Jean Y. Berard, 83, of Winslow, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2023. She was born on March 28, 1940, in Waterville, the daughter of Florien J. and Helen (Charland) Poulin.

Jean had a zest for life and found joy in spending time with her grandchildren, indulging in shopping trips, visiting the casinos, and enjoying summers on East Pond. Throughout the years, she dedicated herself to running a home daycare, and later cared for the elderly, touching the lives of numerous families in the community.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; and her granddaughter, Haley E. Berard.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Arthur Berard; their three children and their spouses, son, Jeffrey and wife Judy, of Oakland, son, Ronnie and wife Sherry, of Winslow, and daughter, Penny Sears and husband Archie, of Winslow; eight grandchildren, Cameron and Ryan Berard, Adam and Alex Berard, Joshua, Jacob and wife Leah, Jordan, and Jamie Sears; great-grandchildren, Asher, Colton, and Willow Sears; her sister and brother, Diane (Ronald) Blicharski, and Ronald Poulin; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins,

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no services.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the cancer center or humane society in your area.

GLENNA B. JORDAN

WINSLOW – Glenna B. Jordan, 89, passed on April 30, 2023.

She was born in Vermont, the daughter of the late Albert and Myrtle Cantwell, and later raised in a foster home in Windsor, by Mrs. Ada Buck.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 22, at 11 a.m., at the South China Community Church, Village Street, South China.

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

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 6, 2023

RANDALL D. CLEMENT

FAIRFIELD – Randall “Randy” Dennis Clement, 59, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. He was born January 11, 1964, at Redington Hospital, in Skowhegan, to Dennis and Nancy (Rines) Clement.

He graduated from Skowhegan Area High School in 1983. He entered the service in 1985 and graduated boot camp as Outstanding Recruit. He served four years in the United States Navy aboard the USS New Orleans, LPH11 Amphibious Assault Ship as an Aviation Machinist Mate. Upon departure from the service, he worked in construction.

Randy and Sheila Dean Clement became parents in 1990 with the birth of their daughter Ashley. After his marriage to Roxie Moran Clement, their son, Jesse was born in 1999. Randy was involved in the Clinton Baptist church and served his Lord and Savior diligently.

He loved ice fishing, snowmobiling, four wheeling, and motorcycles – anything with an engine. His love of engines made him quite a daredevil throughout his life.

Randy was a prankster; he loved having fun, teasing and making people laugh. A storyteller, he enjoyed sharing with family and friends. Sunday meals with family were very important, having everyone gathered around. Despite his large stature, he loved animals and had a soft spot for his pet cats, Snowshoes and Psycho.

He leaves behind his daughter Ashley Marie Clement and boyfriend Daniel Hearn; his son, Jesse Theron Clement and partner Kacey Winigar; stepdaughter, Kelli and her husband Chris Ramsook; stepson, Joel and wife Amber Moran; his mother, Nancy Rines Clement; a sister, Tammy and her husband Charles Jones; grandchildren, Zayden D. Corson and Karah M. Ramsook; nephew, Justin and wife Raquel Leusner Jones and his grandnephews Clark and Cedar; niece, Leilani Jones and fiancé Kevin Weeks; and many family members and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife, Roxie M. Clement; father, Dennis B. Clement; and granddaughter, Amelia K. Corson.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, July 1, at Clinton Baptist Church.

He will be laid to rest alongside his wife at Maplewood Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, for all the love and support they gave, the family would appreciate donations made to Temple Academy, 60 West River Rd., Waterville, Maine

RONALD YOUNG

CHINA – Ronald Young, 80, passed away on Tuessday, June 20, 2023. He was born in Albion, on July 19, 1942, the son of Winnie Hall Young and Warren S. Young.

Ronald Young of China, and Marietta, Georgia, was a devoted family man, a U.S. Air Force veteran, emeritus professor, and a sailor.

Ron had a career of teaching at Southern Technical College (now a division of Kennesaw State University) in Marietta, Georgia. Much of his spare time was spent sailing or restoring boats. He also collected cars and enjoyed his family and traveling.

He was predeceased by his parents, Winnie and Robert Milliken.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ellen; his daughter, Alice Werner; son-in-law Victor Werner; and granddaughters Brooke and Laura Werner; brothers Enoch “Nick” R. Young and wife Sandra, Robert E. Milliken and wife Kathleen, Brian E. Milliken and Peggy Huff; along with numerous other relatives.

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.

PETER RANCOURT

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Peter Rancourt, 81, passed away Thursday, March 9, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he had made his home for the last several decades. He was the only child of Bernard and Jeannette (Dusty) Rancourt, born November 27, 1941.

Peter was a 1956 graduate of Waterville High School, where he was a member of the debate team and manager of the football team. In 1960 he graduated from Northeastern University in Massachusetts. His career was in the field of computer system analysis.

He is survived by his son, Rain Rancourt and a large circle of friends in Las Vegas, Nevada. He also leaves many cousins throughout Maine.

Burial took place at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, alongside his parents on June 28.

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.

A. ROBERT CASTONGUAY

WINSLOW – A. Robert “Bob” Castonguay, 98, formerly of 5 Lee St., Winslow, died December 8, 2022, in Richmond, Virginia. Bob was born April 18, 1925, in Waterville, son of the late Alfred and Bernice (Poulin) Castonguay.

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

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

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

Bob served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a heavy machine gun squad leader in the European theater with the 20th Armored Infantry Battalion, 10th Armored Division. He returned to active duty during the Korean conflict, serving with the 33rd Infantry Regiment.

After his discharge, he served with several active Army Reserve Units, and as a Senior Instructor with the 417th Training Group 76th Division.

Over his distinguished military career, Bob’s awards and decorations included the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, among others.

Always ready to serve, Bob was an active life member of the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835 VFW, in Winslow, and of the Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, American Legion, in Waterville.

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

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

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

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

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 29, 2023

GWYNETH M. BOWN

OAKLAND – Gwyneth “Gwyn” May Bown, 66, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. on Monday, June 5, 2023, following a chronic illness. She was born in Waterville on May 1, 1957, the youngest of three siblings.

Her parents, William and Nancy (Sweet) Bown, both served in World War II in the U.S. and British Army. Gwyn graduated from Waterville High School in 1976 and earned her degree in Early Childhood Education in 1980 from the University of Maine at Orono. She was an exceptional athlete in many sports including field hockey, track and field, and ice hockey. Her proudest accomplishment was placing seventh in the nation with her 169-yard javelin throw, missing the Olympic Trials by six inches. She also scored the first goal in history for the UMaine Women’s Ice Hockey Club against Colby College.

After college, Gwyn worked at the Waterville Boys/Girls Club for 10 years and coached field hockey and track at the high school. In 1989, she joined the Department of Defense as Coordinator of the Landstul School Age Program, in Germany, and later as Childcare Coordinator of the Baumholder School Age Program, in Germany, for over 13 years.

During her tenure, Gwyn touched several lives, entertaining many of the local German community with her witty humor, her culinary skills, and her wonderful gift of living life to the fullest.

Priority placement returned her to the states in February 2003 as the 412th Force Support Squadron Youth Program Director at Edwards Air Force Base, in California. She supervised multiple programs and facilities while at Edwards and served for a year as acting Flight Chief for the Squadron’s Child and Youth Flight.

Following her 30-year retirement and decorated service to the Department of Defense, she fulfilled her dream of returning to her roots in Maine to live on Messalonskee Lake, in Oakland, by her beloved, life-long friends and family. Gwyn spent her brief retirement years traveling to her favorite Maine places, fishing on her boat, cooking for the neighborhood, snowmobiling on the lake, swimming at the Alfond Youth Center, and watching the loons migrate each season.

Gwyn was predeceased by her parents William and Nancy Bown, of Waterville; her brother, Warren Bown, of North Anson, and her brother-in-law, Paul Hopkins, of Syracuse, New York.

She is survived by her sister, Chris Hopkins, of Syracuse, New York; nephews Eric Hopkins, of Londonderry, New Hampshire (wife Meredith Hopkins, son Ericson); Ryan Hopkins, of Syracuse New York; sister-in-law, Beth Bown, of Skowhegan; nephews Matthew Bown, of North Anson, (wife Amy Bown, daughter Ashley Bown, of Mssachusetts); Nathaniel Bown, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee (wife Kate Bown, sons Silas, Adien, and Oakley); niece, Katy Perkins, of Cornville (husband Don Perkins, daughter Annah Perkins);

There will be no visiting hours or funeral services. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life in late July. Share thoughts, pictures, and memories at Dan & Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service Dignity website.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be made directly to South End Teen Center, 5 Libby Court, Waterville, Maine in memory of Gwyn.

ROBERT C. EMERY

WATERVILLE – Robert C. Emery, Jr. “Beaver”, 79, passed away, Wednesday, June 7, 2023. He was born February 16, 1944, in Waterville, at Sister’s Hospital, in Waterville, to Robert and Shirley Emery.

He attended Waterville schools and worked all his life as a carpenter for many people. Everybody loved him. He was very funny and always joked around. Everybody knew him as “Beaver.”

He was predeceased by his father, Bob, mother, Shirley; sister, Sandra, brothers David and wife Joyce, Ronnie and wife Cheryl.

He leaves behind brother, Lawrence and wife Janice; sisters Becky and Susan; brother, Jeffery; son, Richard; grandchildren Dillon, Tristan, Devin, Carter Emery, Chelsea Jones, and Jacob Reed.

Services, Ames Cemetery, in Benton, Saturday, July 8, at 11:30 a.m., and Celebration of Life after, at the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Post #14, in Fairfield.

DAVID R. CROWELL

WATERVILLE – David R. Crowell, 64, passed away Thursday, June 8, 2023. Born in Waterville on March 25, 1959, the son of the late Arthur and Velma (Cloukia) Crowell.

He was educated in the Winslow/Waterville Public Schools, graduating from Waterville High School class of 1978.

David was predeceased by his parents; and by siblings Carolyn Boudreau, Marjorie, Richard and Jody Lynn Crowell.

Surviving are his brothers, Paul and Daniel Crowell; sisters Gail Swain, Cynthia Veilleux, and Paula Homer; brothers-in law Wayne Boudreau, Daryl Swain, and Stephen Homer; many nieces and nephews; and Christopher Caron and Anthony Carpenter, who he loved as his son and grandson.

Celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, July 9, at 3 p.m., 305 Burrill Hill Rd., Norridgewock. Open invitation for all who would like to attend. Please bring lawn chairs, share your memories and laughs. If you would like to bring a dish to share or dessert that would be greatly appreciated. BYOB, non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

DOROTHY E. MARTIN

AUGUSTA – Dorothy Elada (Moxcey) Martin, 93, a lifelong resident of Waterville, passed away peacefully, on Monday, June 12, 2023. “Dot” was born on December 2, 1929, the daughter of Ralph S. Moxcey and Violet Fowler Moxcey.

She attended schools in Waterville, graduating from Waterville High School in 1948 where she loved being a Panthers cheerleader and a member of the Purple and White Club.

In 1949, she and her husband of 55 years, Leo, were married. They had two children, Gail, and Michael. The family grew to include five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dot’s first job was with LaVerdiere’s Drug Store (where she met Leo!), moving on to the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, then to Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), all in Waterville, where she was employed for 32 years until her retirement in 1990.

She enjoyed neighborhood get togethers, playing cards with friends, walking, and skating when young. She loved to dance, especially to country music tunes! Cooking was another favorite pastime for Dot, and she took pride in her strawberry jam, peanut butter fudge, and baked beans. She and Leo traveled to Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Florida, and cruised the Caribbean.

Dot was predeceased by her husband, Leo; her daughter, Gail Cole; and three sisters, Gloria Luce, Jean Norton, and Darlene Lanquist.

She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law; grandchildren and their spouses; and great-grandchildren; two brothers, their spouses; and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Saturday, August 5, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. Luncheon to follow.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com There will be a private burial at a later date .

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to MaineGeneral Health-Comfort Care at Glenridge, Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828, or online at give.mainegeneral.org.

RAYMOND W. POULIN

WATERVILLE – Retired Fire Chief Raymond W. Poulin, 73, of Waterville, passed away Wednesday June 14, 2023, at Maine General Medical Center, in Augusta. He was the son of the late Bernard and Anna (Roy) Poulin, of Waterville.

Raymond attended Waterville High School and also received his associates degree in Fire Science. Raymond has been a member of Waterville Elks Lodge #905 for 47 years. He served in the Army National Guard for nine years. He worked at W.T. Grant Store, in Waterville, for 10 years.

He joined Waterville Fire Department as a volunteer in 1973 and in 1976 became a full-time career firefighter. He became assistant fire chief in 1994 and was promoted to fire chief in 1999. One of the biggest accomplishments for Raymond while working at the fire department was his work in getting a new central fire station in 2002. Chief Poulin retired in August 2003 after a 30-year career with Waterville Fire Department.

After taking some time off he became a security officer at T-Mobile and worked there for 10 years. He greatly enjoyed his time there meeting many new friends. In 2003 he was able to assist some of the Empire Falls crew while they were filming locally and was excited to meet Helen Hunt and Paul Newman.

Raymond enjoyed spending time with his family, taking trips with his wife, visiting casinos, seeing concerts and shows, watching his grandchildren play sports or dancing in a recital. He also enjoyed having coffee with friends and stopping at lawn sales or Goodwill, picking up collectibles to sell at the Antique Mall.

Raymond was an amazing husband, father, son, brother, and friend who dedicated his life to his family and serving his community. He was often heard telling people they were his favorite as though no one knew he said that to everyone.

Predeceased by brother, Maurice Poulin and sister-in-law, Charlene Poulin.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dianne Poulin; daughters Barbie Brockway and husband Ryan Brockway, Brenda Barnes and husband Michael Barnes; grandchildren, Brittni Martell, Cameron Brockway, Tyler Brockway, Lexi Barnes; sister, Noella Plourde and husband Larry; brothers Patrick Poulin and wife Rose, Francis Poulin; many brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews.

A public funeral service was held on Saturday, June 24, Centerpoint Community Church. A private family burial was held on Monday, June 26.

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

JULIE A. HUTCHINSON

WATERVILLE – Julie Alice Hutchison, 68, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in the care of her family and Northern Light Hospice in her home at Brown House Commons, where she had lived with her mother since her diagnosis of scleroderma a little more than two years ago. Julie was born, in Waterville, December 26, 1954, the fifth of seven children to Norman and Marie Hutchison.

From a young age, she had a sharp mind, and a quiet, determined spirit. She graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1973, and went on to earn multiple degrees in science and nursing. She spent many years practicing in the ER and OR as a Nurse Practitioner and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Maine, Connecticut, and Florida.

Outside of school and work, Julie demonstrated that same passion, fiery independence, and joy for living. She loved the outdoors. She fished and hunted all over Maine, took road trips on her Honda 500CC, and went on cruises to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Alaska. She played multiple sports and brought so much grit and spunk to the game, it didn’t seem to matter that she was often the smallest one on the team. She was a spectacular softball catcher and a relentless hockey goalie. She was a racquetball tournament champion and even won a sanctioned arm wrestling tournament! She was also the loudest voice in the crowd, cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots, and Bruins, with her beloved dogs, Mackie, Brook, and Piper, by her side.

She was predeceased by her father, Norman Hutchison; and a nephew and godchild, Caleb Hutchison.

Julie is survived by her mother, Marie-Berthe Hutchison, nee Breton; her siblings Norman Hutchison (Candy), Paul Hutchison (Mary Ellen), June L’Heureux (Daniel), James Hutchison (Cindy), Bruce Hutchison (Mary) and Rob Hutchison (Lisa); and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on June 29, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow. A burial immediately followed. A Celebration of Life was held after the burial at The Elks Lodge, on Industrial Road, in Waterville.

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

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

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

PATSY M. WHITE

VASSALBORO – Patsy Mae (Tardiff) White, 69, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 15, 2023. She was born March 20, 1954, in Waterville, the daughter of Bernard and Rena (Sylvain) Tardiff.

She attended Winslow schools, graduating from Winslow High School in 1974. She married Douglas F. White on April 23, 1983, in Vassalboro.

She was employed in the accounting field for many years ending her career at O’Brien’s Oil, in China, due to declining health. Pat enjoyed boating, snowmobiling, hosting Halloween parties and spending time with family and friends. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, quick wit and her caring, compassionate spirit.

She was predeceased by her father, Bernard Tardiff, her mother, Rena Tardiff, father in-law, Floyd “Ikey” White; brother in-law, Nelson Adams, sister-in-law, Cathy (White) Fisher.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Douglas F. White, of Vassalboro; brother, Paul Tardiff (Maggie), of Waterville, sisters Barbara Otis (John) of Lebanon, Marlene Cobb, of Vassalboro, Theresa Tardiff (Mark McCluskey) ,of Fairfield; mother in-law, Theresa White, of Vassalboro; sister-in-law, Nancy Adams, of Winslow; brothers-in-law Harland White (Ann), of Vassalboro, Glen Fisher, of Vassalboro; and many nephews, nieces; and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Bridget’s Event Center, 864 Main St., Vassalboro, on Friday, June 30, from 1 to 3 p.m.

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

JANE MARLEY

SIDNEY – Jane Marley, 76, of Sidney, passed away peacefully, at home, on Saturday, June 17, 2023. She was born on July 19, 1946, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Wendell Wing and Patricia Simons.

Jane grew up in Oakland with her family which also included her siblings Kathleen (Taffy), Penny, Mickey, and Harvey. She lost her mother, Patricia, and youngest brother, Harvey, at a young age, and through that loss, grew up to be a strong, independent, caring woman.

She married her first love, Albert Stanley Bangs, Jr., and they started their own family with the births of Terri and Tracey. While raising her family with endless love, Jane worked at various companies over the years in the customer service field and made many friends along the way. Everyone she encountered fell in love with her, as she exuded kindness, compassion, and tenderness, and always cared for others before herself.

Jane’s family, friends, and neighbors were very important to her throughout her life, and all of the neighborhood children called her “Mom”. While the kids were growing up, her big green station wagon was always lovingly referred to as “Mom’s Taxi”, as she always volunteered to bring the children and all of their friends wherever they wanted to go and didn’t mind when they wanted to listen to music and sing along the way.

After the girls were grown, and Stanley and Jane grew apart, Jane was lucky enough to meet and fall in love with Roger Carter. Jane and Roger spent many wonderful years together and created a blended family of children and grandchildren to love with all their hearts. Roger loved Jane so deeply that he made the promise to care for her at home throughout her prolonged illness. He created a safe and loving environment for her and built her a gazebo in their back yard so she could continue to admire her flower gardens.

Jane loved to dance, listen to music (Elvis was her guy), enjoy the outdoors, and beautify her gardens. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor, and will be sadly missed by all who loved her so much.

Jane was predeceased by her parents, Wendell and Patricia; her sister, Kathleen (Taffy) and brother-in-law, Lou, her brothers Harvey and Mickey; her first husband, Stanley; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albert and Mary; her sister-in-law, Nancy; her niece, Darlene, her nephew, Keith, and Brittany who was very special to her.

Survivors include her partner of many years, Roger Carter; her daughter, Terri, daughter, Tracey and her husband Jacob, her stepsons Matthew and Jeffrey, and his wife Ashley; her grandchildren Jeramie, Devin, Tesla and Justin, Kaela, Kelsey, Ivan, Alaina and Amanda; her seven great-grandchildren; her sister, Penny and brother-in-law Barry, her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Mary and Dan; nieces and nephews Charlie, Dan, Cristal, Ronnie, Donna, Duncan, Amy, Mickey, Charlie, Joey; and many other family members. She also held a special place in her heart for Mike, Kristy, Logan, and Matt.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services. There will be a graveside service at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, on Saturday, July 8, at 10 a.m., for family only. A celebration of life will be held afterwards, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, with light refreshments for all family and friends. Please bring yourself and your memories to share.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Winslow VFW in memory of Jane Marley, as she was a lifetime active auxiliary member.

STEPHEN J. PLUMMER

WEEKS MILLS – Stephen John Plummer, 80, of Weeks Mills, died Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Inland Hospital, in Waterville, following a long illness. He was born in Portland on March 21, 1943, the son of Stephen Charles and Muriel (Clark) Plummer.

He attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and grew up in Weeks Mills. He worked for a short time for Railway Express, a subsidiary of Central Maine Railroad, as a transportation driver. He was employed for several years by Pine State Beverage, in Augusta, as their sole over the road long haul driver. He later launched his own trucking firm, P&P Transport.

Throughout his lifetime, Stephen was dedicated to assisting his father on the family farm in Weeks Mills. He had taken over the family farm after his father’s passing and continued to run it for many years. He was personally driven by hard work.

In his younger years, he enjoyed snowmobiling, boating, motorcycling, camping, hunting, and fishing. Never idle for long and was always drawn to Northern Maine.

He is survived by four children, son, Stephen R. Plummer and wife Lisa, of Augusta; daughter, Karen J. Mason and husband Mark, of South China; sons, Jeffrey S. Plummer and wife Angela, of Palermo, and Joshua E. Plummer and wife Jessica, of Portsmouth, Virginia; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews; two sisters, Martha Gurney, of Vermont, and Linda Howe, of China; as well as a devoted companion of many years, Barbara Mayberry, of Weeks Mills.

A graveside service was held at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China, on Tuesday, June 27.

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, do something nice for a loved one or someone in need.

GARY D. CHATTO SR.

AUGUSTA – Gary Douglas Chatto Sr., 71, a lifetime resident of Augusta, passed away on Monday, June 19, 2023, following a short battle with congestive heart failure. He was born in Gardiner, the son of Robert F. Chatto Sr. and Frances Chatto, on September 1,1951.

He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1969. He worked a variety of jobs including meat butchering for Kirshners and Swift., and tree climbing for Rutland Tree Service. He was also a foreman for Kennebec Valley Tree Service, taking down some of the largest elm trees in Augusta. Owning his own tree service for a bit as well. He also worked for Bath Iron Works for several years as stage builder.

He had a love for the outdoors since boyhood. Gary and his brother Bobby had many whitetail deer and dog sled racing adventures as young men. He also enjoyed many seasons of deer hunting from the shack with his son Gary Jr. He was an avid trapper, hunter, and fisherman. He was a Registered Maine Master Guide for 43 years as well as an Alaskan Fishing Guide,where he ventured later in his life to his beloved Kodiak Island where he guided many people to their first 30-pound King Salmon. He loved to help others foster their love of the outdoors with his advice and experience.

Some of his most treasured adventures and memories took place with his lifelong friends Bob Smith and Jeff Pyska guiding fishing expeditions in the Alaskan backcountry. The story telling of his adventures will be missed by all who knew him. He loved living on the pond for all his life. You could find him sitting around the campfire at the pond on most weekends and reminiscing about his adventures of hunting and fishing in the wild woods of Maine and Alaska. If it had to do with the outdoors he was there with advice and twinkle in his eyes. He had a way of making it seem like you were right there with him. You might say he was a master storyteller as well.

He was predeceased by the love of his life of 30 years, Pammy. He was also predeceased by his father, Robert F. Chatto Sr., his mother Frances Chatto, and brother Robert Chatto Jr.

He is survived by his son Gary Chatto Jr.; his daughter Heidi Muse and husband Aaron Muse; granddaughter Mallory Muse; and grandson, Bradley Muse; his sister Nancy Biggs, her husband Mark Biggs; his nephews Travis Biggs, Kurtis Biggs, his wife Ashley and grand niece Jade Biggs.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, July 8, at 10 a.m. , at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 2539 Riverside Drive, Vassalboro, ME. At Gary’s request there will be no viewing services.

A private family graveside ceremony will be held at a later date.

THOMAS KING

FAIRFIELD – Tom was born September 8, 1940, to Alida and Rene King, in Fairfield. At 19, he married the love of his life, Deanna.

He will be greatly missed by his wife and his children, David and Jennifer King, Corrina and Marc Marcoux, Brian and Valerie King, and Greg Garber.

Tom was predeceased by his daughter, Rhonda Garber.

Services will be held on July 29, at 11 a.m., at the First Baptist Church, in Pittsfield. A full obituary is available online at LawryBrothers.com.

FREDERICK V. GLIDDEN SERVICE

SOUTH CHINA – Join us Saturday, July 1, at 12 p.m., to celebrate the life of Frederick V. Glidden at the family camp (77 54th Fire Rd.) in South China.

LUCAS M. THOMAS

OAKLAND – Lucas Michael Thomas, of Oakland, and Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

Kindness is the act of being friendly, generous and considerate, and is a virtue that’s often overlooked. Whether by choice or by some condition of birth, Lucas Thomas was a kind man. Isaac Asimov once said that “in life, unlike chess, the game continues after checkmate.” And so, it is with Luke. Lucas was both wise beyond his years, and compassionate beyond measure, and he was comfortable and natural in that role.

Each person is as unique as a snowflake, and Lucas is no exception. He lived a wonderful life unlike any other. To be part of that journey from the beginning was as interesting as any movie you would see or any book you might read.

Lucas is the son of neighborhood sweethearts and the great grandson of Lebanese immigrants. He was surrounded by the influences of two cultures, both of whom valued education, religion and family. Some recognized early those remarkable leadership traits Lucas was exhibiting…not only did he love to read, but he could be found hiding under the kitchen table at a family gathering reading two books at once. He had an ability to observe and absorb greatness, and the knack for summoning forth that quality at opportune and appropriate times. True to his character, he did not fill his life with unnecessary things, nor did he waste his words. His belongings were well chosen, and always included a football, and his dog.

Much like his father, his mother and great-grandfather before him, he was adventurous, a risk-taker. Following a family tradition, this young man “went west” to pursue his goals and dreams. Lucas was a journalist; this is what he made of himself. He was a passionate story teller, and quite aware of the pressures placed on those who dug deep to reveal the truth.

His love of sports and journalism began at an early age. His memory and mastery of sports statistics turned peoples’ heads. Calling him a Dolphins and Yankees fan would be an understatement. The only time Lucas was heard to complain was when someone had an adverse opinion about his Dolphins or his Yankees, but of course, that was always in good fun.

Lucas was many things to many people – a leader, an athlete, a poet, a silent hero. He was an accomplished writer, and a fan of Bob Dylan and John Prine.

It’s been said that intelligence may be more important than physical ability in playing quarterback. Lucas was selected to play quarterback at the Maine Shrine Lobster Bowl. This was not luck or fate, he earned his spot, though some would call him lucky. Remember that he was atop of World Trade Center a mere three days before the bombing of the Twin Towers. The fate of place and time can be a factor in our outcomes, but Lucas always blazed his own path.

He always found it easy to say “I love you.” Those three words are the memory we share of Lucas. It manifests itself when we see that smile, hear that laughter and remember that presence.

Lucas is a silent hero, with this deliberate act of kindness; Lucas Thomas chose to be an organ donor. His legacy will include a simple Christian act of kindness, sharing everything he has with strangers in need. His walk will continue as an unselfish gift to all who know him, and to those who will come to know and appreciate him.

Lucas was predeceased by his grandparents, John and Marietta Thomas, Fernand and Antoinette Mathieu, and an uncle, Paul Thomas.

Lucas Thomas is survived by his parents, John and Jeanne; his brother Jack, of Las Vegas, Nevada; aunts and uncles – Pam and Dan Casavant; Paul, Moe, Norman and Aunt Pete Mathieu, Pat and Monique Kelley, Diane Dostie; and cousins – Ethan and Rachel Casavant, Thomas and Michelle Casavant, Jacob and Misti Bearce and family, Ben and Katie Mathieu and family, Megan Kelley Ferguson and family; his very special friend Leanne Harding.

A memorial Mass was held at St. Joseph Maronite Church, in Waterville, Monday May 29.

Interment was on Tuesday, May 30, at the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 22, 2023

GLORIA J. GERVAIS

UNITY – Gloria Jean Gervais, 74, passed on Sunday, May 28, 2023. She was born to Philip and Ruth (Parks) Gervais on May 11, 1949, in Waterville.

Gloria earned two degrees from the University of New Hampshire, and later spent eleven years living and working in Boston.

While growing up, she loved her horse and all things equestrian. She befriended cats and enjoyed their company throughout her life. Her hobbies included gardening, reading, and seeing the world around her. Her fascination with color and flowers led her to actively pursue lessons in painting with acrylics. She dedicated many years to genealogy, researching the family history and meeting long lost relatives.

She is survived by her brother, James Gervais; a paternal aunt, and many cousins.

Gloria was predeceased by her parents, Philip and Ruth Gervais, and sister, Betty Gervais.

A funeral will be held at the Unity Union Church, Depot St., Unity, on Friday June 23, at 1 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.

Rather than donating to a charity, Gloria’s wish was that folks reach out to others and spend time with them.

CARY L. JOHNSON

BELGRADE LAKES and St. Petersburg, Florida, – Cary Lee Johnson, 76, passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2023, succumbing at the hospital from heart issues. Cary was born in Waterville, Maine on May 21, 1947, to Albert and Lydia (Farnham) Johnson.

His father was a house painter and caretaker, and his mother opened the Brass Knocker Gift Shop, which she ran for over 60 years. From both of his parents, he learned the value of a dollar and hard work which he carried with him through life and passed down to his children. In the fall of 1951, Cary’s parents boldly moved to a little hamlet of 300 people in Boca Raton, Florida, starting a lifetime tradition of wintering there and summering in Maine – a tradition that Cary would adopt later in his life. Starting school each year in Maine and finishing in Florida, Cary learned early on the importance of building friendships and being adaptable. He graduated high school in 1965 and attended Florida Atlantic University, majoring in Business Administration.

Cary’s career was diverse. As a young boy, he started off in the family’s bait business. At the age of 16, he worked nights at the local funeral home as a rescue worker and parked cars on the weekends at the local country club. In college he worked in manufacturing for IBM, eventually moving into sales after graduating college. In 1972, IBM transferred Cary to Boston where he continued a successful sales career for many years until 1984 when he joined Progress Software – a small startup company – as one of its first employees. He worked his way into senior leadership roles and was instrumental in taking the company public. After he retired from Progress and took a few years off, he founded Open Meadow, a highly regarded general contracting business that built and renovated custom homes. He loved the detailed, day-to-day operations and working with clients. He sold his business and retired in 2022. Although proud of his many professional accomplishments, Cary believed they all paled in comparison to what he described as the single most important achievement of his lifetime – his children.

Cary’s interests evolved over the years from bird hunting in Maine with his father to learning and enjoying the game of golf, where he was a member of the Waterville County Club. While most of his hobbies centered on camaraderie, he recently began and enjoyed woodworking. Whether you were a friend, family member, colleague, or a near stranger, people loved Cary’s easy-going manner, friendly smile, and genuine interest in all they were willing to share. His calming demeanor, positive outlook, and passion for helping others made him a natural and sincere friend to many. He was a mentor – both personally and professionally – to what must have been hundreds of people, the majority of whom still refer to him as one of their dearest or best friends.

Cary is survived by Lynne, his wife of 19 years; his two daughters and their spouses, Kimberly and Andrew Dallas, of Belgrade Lakes, and Amanda Johnson and Russel Jesski, of St Petersburg, Florida; his son Scott Mayo and his new bride Jen Mayo, of New York City; his grandson Christopher Jesski, of Boston, and granddaughter Olivia Leigh Jesski; his sister Carol Johnson, of Belgrade Lakes; his brother Christopher Johnson, of Kittery Point; his uncle Juss; first cousins Rod, Ernie, Duane, Dawn, Peter, their families; and numerous other cousins; his mother-in-law Velma; his brothers and sisters-in-law Susan, Ira, Toni, Mitch, Steve, Melissa, and their families.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 24, at 1 p.m., at the Union Church of Belgrade Lakes, 67 Main Street, Belgrade Lakes, with a celebration of life following at 194 Main Street.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association, PO Box 404, Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918; American Heart Association PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692. Belgrade Lakes Association, PO Box 551, Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918

JOSEPH H. POMERLEAU

WATERVILLE – Joseph H. Pomerleau, 72, died Friday, June 2, 2023, at home, following a brief illness. He was born in Waterville on July 13, 1951, the son of Adeline (Vigue) and Harold Pomerleau. He attended Waterville schools.

After school he moved out to Colorado and built car washes for years. Joseph enjoyed hanging out at the VFW with all his friends.

He is survived by his son, Joseph Pomerleau Jr. and his wife Carrie of Norridgewock; sister, Ann Maheu and husband Lucien of Benton; three nephews and one niece.

He was predeceased by his parents; three brothers, Ronald Pomerleau of Waterville, Donald Pomerleau of Waterville, and David Pomerleau of Waterville; and his companion Sandy Crowey of Waterville.

There will be a celebration of life Saturday, August 12, at the Waterville Forrest J. Pare VFW #1285, from 2 – 4 p.m.

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

CAMERON C. MADORE

PORTLAND – Cameron Carl Madore, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 2, 2023, in Portland. Cameron was born in Wat­erville on Dec­ember 10, 1984.

He graduated with honors from Wat­erville Senior High School in 2003. His participation in high school sports included varsity basketball, football and track. Cameron’s passion for sports was only matched by his passion for creating music. Music has been an integral part of Cameron’s life since birth, possessing an innate ability to hear sound and break down its components. He never ceased to amaze family and friends with his artistic and creative abilities.

Cameron went on to attend college at New England School of Communication before transferring to The New England Art Institutes, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in audio engineering in 2008.

Upon graduation Cameron worked at T-Mobile, in Oakland, for 15 years and held various positions including coach. He interacted with many people and was able to share his wisdom both on the job and off. One couldn’t help but become uplifted in his presence; he’d strive to make sure his interactions left the person feeling confident and supported.

Upon returning from college, he reconnected with the music group eventually known as Northern Lights Nation (NLN) with two of his best friends, Dylan Kay and Ryan Durgin. He spent the next several years working on producing and performing. Watching his fans interact with him was always surreal. He clearly loved people and enjoyed sharing his artistic expression.

Recently Cameron obtained a position at Headlight Audio Visual, of Portland, as an AV technician. He was thrilled to be working in his field and greatly enjoyed the challenges, traveling to various locations and making magic happen. Despite only being there a short time, he made a huge impression on management and the team and will be missed.

Cameron was passionate about family. If he loved you, you were family, and family is forever. Cameron will be greatly missed by his friend, mother of his daughter, Chelsey Ashby, and longtime high school friend Shannon Mansfield.

Regardless of the cause, Cameron was passionate about helping. Since childhood he stood up and protected those without the confidence to stand up for themselves. He was an adventurer, not in the sense of exploring Australia, but more like when he climbed on the roof to see how far he could jump. Cameron continually challenged himself and encouraged others to do the same. Fear never stopped him. Hearing the word no only motivated him more. He was fiercely passionate and driven, while being deeply compassionate and sensitive. This world will not be the same without him.

Cameron is survived by his parents Nathan and Jacqueline Madore; sister Ashley Madore (Sean Sullivan); brother Tyler Madore (Megan Poulin); and daughter Callie Madore.

Funeral services will be held at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 11 a.m.; followed by Interment Service at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery and Celebration of Life at O’Brien’s Event Center, located in the Best Western Plus, 375 Main Street, Waterville.

BRUCE HEBDA

OAKLAND – Bruce Hebda, 74, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023.

Born in Fall River, Massa­chusetts, Bruce led a vibrant life that impacted many. He began a career in medicine as a medical technician. His aspirations then brought him to Wrocław, Poland, where he studied to be a doctor at Wroclaw Medical University. Bruce began his residency at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor, and opened his family practice in Oakland. He treated countless patients throughout his 28 years in practice.

While in Maine, Bruce developed a passion for cross country and downhill skiing while also continuing to pursue his loved hobbies of traveling, sailing and golfing. Though these hobbies were a passion, neither surpassed the dedication he had to his family.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dorene; his son, Tim; his daughter Anya; his brother and sister; five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Stella, and his daughter, Victoria.

Visiting hours will be held at Wheeler Funeral Home in Oakland, Maine on June 19, 2023 from 10 -11:15 a.m., with a short liturgy to follow.

CLAYTON R. STEVENS JR.

EMBDEN – Clayton (Sonny) Stevens Jr., 87, passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023.  Sonny lived his life out loud and left no stone unturned.  He greeted everyone with a smile, a shake of the hands, a beer and a joke. He always said, “If you get to the river – Drop in!”  His house was home to everybody who wanted fun, laughter and friendship.

Sonny began his work life following high school at Allen Quimby Veneer, in Bingham, (where his father worked) for over 20 years until its closure in 1974.  He then worked for Nissen Baking Company.  His last employer was Cianbro Corporation, in Pittsfield, where he ran a tool crib.  Throughout this time, he was a well-known dowser to people in the local communities, finding water countless times with a dowsing switch which he cut off their property.

Sonny is survived by his daughters Dianna Gram and partner Steven Huber, Debbie Veneziano and husband Albert; and son Clayton (Rusty) Stevens III; grandchildren Ashley McGowan and husband Cory, Breanna Conners, Benjamin Gram and partner, Danielle Capalbo, and Garrett Huber; and great-grandchildren Tucker Lavasseur, Brady Lavasseur, Evan McGowan, and Denver Whipple; sisters June Ann Giroux and Diane McCollor; and special friend Angeline LeHay.

Sonny was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Ann (Bunny) Stevens; parents, Clayton Sr. and Alice (Adams) Stevens and his brother, Ernest Stevens.

There will be a graveside service at Sunset Cemetery, North Anson on Saturday, July 1, at 2 p.m.  As Sonny was a Mason at Keystone Lodge #80, in Solon, for 66 years, representatives of the lodge will be participating in the service.  Afterwards, friends and family are also invited for light refreshments at the Solon Hotel, 4 South Main Street, Solon, ME.

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

“Soar like an eagle, Dad – just like the ones you watched on the river!”

PAMELA J. FEYLER

SOUTH CHINA – Pamela Jeanne Smith Feyler, 75, daughter of the late William T. Smith and Jeanne Turner Smith (Creighton) passed away at home, in South China, on June Tuesday, 13, 2023. Pamela was born on March 19, 1948, in Rockland.

She graduated from Georges Valley High School in 1966 and married her husband of 56 years, Gary W. Feyler, on January 28, 1967. Pam and Gary spent the first years of their marriage in Fairbanks, Alaska, while Gary was in the U.S. Air Force. Pam was a proud military wife, and they made many friends during this time.

Pam and Gary later returned to mid-coast Maine, living in a Victorian home in Rockland where they raised their daughters Amy and Holly. The family often went boating out of Thomaston Harbor in the summers and Pam enjoyed painting scenery from these excursions.

While her daughters were young, Pam stayed home and eventually ran Uncle Wiggily Nursery School for years, positively impacting the lives of many children. She later attended UMF, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in psychosocial rehabilitation and becoming a social worker. She loved caring for others at local hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient centers. Pam was a CASA volunteer, member of Kiwanis, and Red Hat Lady.

As they neared retirement, Pam and Gary moved to a home they built in Thomaston. They frequently traveled in their motor home and went on several Caribbean cruises. In 2008, Pam and Gary moved to Leesburg, Florida, where they were involved in many activities in their community. Pam especially enjoyed organizing health screenings with her nurse friends. She participated in chair yoga, poker night, book club, and chorus and often walked around the neighborhood, visiting with those she met along the way.

When Pam’s Parkinson’s disease progressed, she and Gary moved to South China, in 2020 to be near family. Pam loved watching birds and spending time with family in her final days. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pamela was predeceased by her parents and Aunt Nancy Turner.

She is survived by her husband Gary Feyler; daughters, and son-in-law Amy (Feyler) and Carl Gartley, daughter Holly Feyler; grandchildren Alyssa (Gartley) and Jeffrey Pulver, Jared and Brittney (Ibbitson) Gartley; and great-grandchildren Isabella and Jackson Pulver.

The family will be having a private memorial service at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to MaineGeneral Homecare and Hospice at MaineGeneral Health, Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

WARREN MOODY SERVICE

Funeral services for Warren Moody, of Zephyrhills, Florida, will be held Saturday, June 24, at 11 a.m., at the Freedom Congre­gational Church, with burial to follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, in Freedom.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Warren to the American Heart Association, Freedom Church or a charity of your choice.

 

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 15, 2023

HANS E.W. HAASE

Hans E. W. Haase, 78, of Waterville, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023, following a lengthy battle with cancer.

He emigrated from Germany to the United States in 1951 across the Atlantic Ocean on the vessel, Rotterdam. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and attended the prestigious Lane Technical High School.

In 1967 he met and married Patricia Simpson. They were married for 55 years. Hans attended Judson University, in Elgin, Illinois, and graduated with a BFA degree in 1971. In that year the couple moved to Maine with one young son. Hans taught art in Maine until he retired in 2019.

He was greatly loved and respected by the students. His love for life brought him many opportunities besides teaching. He was also a sales professional, draftsman, sign maker, and photographer.

From a young age and throughout his life, Hans loved to fix/restore things such as gramophones/record players, fishing reels, boats, classic cars and trucks. He loved nature and often spoke about the infinite design elements it exhibits. He did love waking up early to be out on a lake as the sunrise greets the fog cloaking the mysteries and possibilities of what may lie beneath. He had just about landed what would likely be the state record’s biggest bass had it not broken the line upon seeing the net.

As a strong classical music/opera advocate, Hans was always enthusiastic about sharing the benefits of acoustic and refined music on mood, mind, body and the community. Over the years, Hans brought many students to operas and classical music performances, instilling the love of music in future generations. He wanted people to know – there is other music – where the focus is on beautiful melodies, musicianship and tone rather than marketing and revenue.

Throughout his life, Hans always had a painting on the easel and many of his works of art are gracing homes across the country. Some of the artwork and photography can be seen on his website – haasefineart.com.

Hans found his avenue to communicate in teaching. It was destined to happen, because he loved learning and discovery. He always had a great enthusiasm for being alive! He
says: “Life is a gift! Health is our blessing. An enthusiasm for truth and beauty should be shared. Quality and honesty go hand in hand. We should all be positive and loving
ambassadors for our planet (our FINITE environment!)”.

Hans Haase is survived ty two sons, his wife, a daughter-in-law and a grandson, two brothers, two sisters, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial is now online at mykeeper.com/profiles/HansErichHaase.

A memorial by the immediate family will be held in the near future. His creative energy and sense of humor are greatly missed by his family, those he helped, and those who truly knew him. His spirit lives on.

KAYLA M. STEWART

FAIRFIELD – Kayla May Stewart, 28, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. She was born on March 4, 1995.

Growing up, Kayla was a very bubbly and feisty child, who was determined to get what she wanted one way or the other. She was determined to be who she wanted to be and do things she wanted to do, even if others told her she couldn’t, she would make sure she did. She wanted to play football, so she did. She wanted to play baseball, so she did. She did all the things she wanted without any hesitation.

As Kayla got older, she had big dreams of helping those who could not help themselves. She always wanted to build homes for the homeless and make sure people always had a roof over their head. She was giving in every sense of the word, selfless above all else. She idolized her brother Eriq’s work ethic and wanted to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career that was just like his. She knew if she followed in his footsteps, she would be successful and would have his support through it all.

In the most recent years, Kayla had held various jobs and was working very hard to build a life for herself of which she would be proud. In this last year she bought her first vehicle on her own, got her own apartment, went skydiving and saved money to go on a family vacation to Florida, the trip of a lifetime. Kayla was also attending online school through UMA in Augusta, where she was achieving high honors as she worked to obtain a degree in liberal arts, with a major in history.

Most recently, she had a newfound joy in helping her brother, Adam, build her tiny home, for which she had big plans. She would spend countless hours mapping out her ideas, helping with the construction and was his confidant on this new project.

Kayla was ever so proud of her daughter, Cadence, and loved her more than anything. She was looking forward to dancing in Cadence’s upcoming recital, where they were practicing a family dance together, along with her mother, Lucie.

Kayla had a never-ending support system, so many friends and family that loved her to pieces. She was a very easy person to love, as she was the one to always make you laugh and smile on the hardest of days. People could always look to her to brighten their days, which she did until her last days.

Kayla will be remembered by her selfless nature, her sense of humor, her contagious laugh and her smile that lit up any room. She will be deeply missed by her loved ones, friends and all who knew her beautiful soul.

Kayla is survived by her parents Lucie and Randy Stewart; her daughter, Cadence Stewart; her siblings Erica Strickland and significant other Jake Pierce, and children Jayden and Kaitlyn; Adam and Shanna Strickland and children Aidan and Zackary; Eriq Stewart and fiancée Aaliyah Towle and children Preston and Lenox; Joyce Lawrence and family; by her significant other, Damian Boullie.

A funeral service was held Sunday, June 11, at Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home with burial following at Maple Wood Cemetery, Fairfield.

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

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm. St., Waterville, ME 04901.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Cadence’s College Fund, c/o KSW, 222 College Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.

GEORGE R. HOY

BELGRADE LAKES – George R. Hoy, of Belgrade Lakes, passed away, in New Jersey, on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Born in Long Branch, New Jersey, to John and Mabel (Magee) Hoy, George was the middle of three children.

He married Joan (Sculthorpe) in 1949. He was employed in many capacities throughout his life. He was a U.S. postal employee, plumber, and fireman at Fort Monmouth. He ultimately retired in 1983 as a Captain from Naval Weapons Station Earle. George also took great pride in the many memorable years he spent as a volunteer fireman for the city of Long Branch, New Jersey.

George and Joan raised their family of three children in Long Branch, New Jersey, and in 1960 took their first two-week summer vacation to Bel­grade Lakes. These trips would become an annual tradition for the Hoy family, and upon his retirement, George and Joan purchased a set of camps on Long Pond and opened Hoy’s Belgrade Lakes Cottages. In 1989 they sold the camps and moved into a new home just up the street.

George’s time in Maine was well-loved and well-spent. As to be expected, he easily made friends who became family and kept himself quite busy. He was a member of the Rome Ruff Riders (local snowmobile club), the Belgrade Lakes Dams Committee, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Rome Intellectual Club. Anyone who drove by his house could expect to see one of several scenes: George meticulously mowing his lawn, washing his beloved Ford F-150, or hosting happy hour on his front deck. Each summer George and Joan would await the arrival of their children and grandchildren for their annual vacations to Belgrade Lakes, a tradition that continues to this day with the fourth generation of Hoys visiting Long Pond.

When he did relax, George could be found in his favorite recliner doing Sudoku, watching golf or an old Western, or listening to Classic Country. An avid racing fan and hating to be late to anything, he passed away the morning of the Indy 500 to ensure he had the best seat in the house for the main event. George was an excellent cook (fan favorites include bacon-covered pork loin and his special Sunday breakfast) and so enjoyed preparing meals for those he loved. He was also known for his vodka martini, coined a “Hoy-tini,” taking out his trusty pocket knife to slice the olives, and up until the end, enjoyed a daily shot and a beer.

Any and all who found themselves lucky enough to cross paths with George would quickly know they had found a friend. He will be remembered for his hearty laugh, his immense heart, and his love and pride for his family.

He was predeceased by his wife, Joan; his son, Kevin Hoy, his son-in-law, Robert Featherstone; and his brother, Jack Hoy.

He is survived by his sister, Lois Pierce, of Eatontown, New Jersey; his son, Robert Hoy and his wife, Michele, of Belgrade; his daughter, Stephanie Featherstone and her partner, Steven Kiernan, of Paramus, New Jersey; his daughter-in-law, Karen Hoy, of Long Branch, New Jersey; his grandchildren, Andrew Hoy and his partner, Lindsay, Billy Featherstone and his wife, Jessie, Ashley Featherstone and her husband, Scott Darwick, George Featherstone and his wife, Kelly, Vin Berardi and his partner, Amy Blitz, Travis Hoy and his fiancée, Ashlee Bobb; and his great-grandchildren, Angelina, Benjamin George, Natalie and Weston.

George’s life will be celebrated with a memorial gathering on Sunday, July 9, at noon, at the Elks Lodge, in Augusta, 397 Civic Center Dr.

LYNNE M. NUTTING

FAIRFIELD – Lynne Marie Nutting, 75, passed away on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. She was born on September 16, 1947, in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Lynne grew up in Skow­hegan, graduating from Skowhegan Area High School in 1965. She was a learner, always seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge. She would use her wisdom about the world around her to teach and help others.

She spent her working years in the Augusta engineering department for Verizon, where she had a successful career for 33 years and built lifelong friendships. She was well known for thinking outside the box and developing efficiencies for the company, earning her recognition and an award prize trip to Hawaii. She took pride in all she did; she was a true hard worker with meticulous attention to detail.

Lynne had her son, Michael Batey, in her early adulthood. Mike spent his younger years alongside his “Ma” as they learned to navigate life together; their memories and time together left no question they were “cut from the same cloth”. When she met Jim Nutting, that cloth became eternally woven into the Nutting family – the family of two became a family of eight. She loved and cared for the five Nutting children so deeply and they truly were her children, too. Lynne and Jim married on June 28, 1986.

She executed her values of pride, a sense of purpose, success, and meaningful relationships through her actions. She saw success as connections built on trust, mutual respect, caring, thoughtfulness, and honesty. She was prideful about what she put out to others, the magic of gift giving, of extending a listening ear, of just being there in whatever way someone may need. She had a way of knowing what you needed more than you did at the time. Those are the moments we look back and on and think, “She was right.” Lynne found her purpose through helping others, in a gentle, present way that just made you feel special. Anyone who was blessed enough to experience her in this way knows she accomplished this because she was so special.

She loved any chance she could get to celebrate others. This meant grand, sentimental, and sometimes silly gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas – you never knew if you were about to open a card filled with confetti, a hand knitted blanket, puzzles and “busy” crafts, a gag gift, or something special you mentioned you were interested in months ago. Regardless, you always knew it would be something well thought out… again, just to make you feel special.

She loved to travel with Jim. They visited Alaska, Hawaii, and many trips to Las Vegas, Nevada. They also spent many years competing in car shows, going to the racetrack, and many family sporting events.

When she was spending time for herself, she loved to scrapbook, knit and embroider, read, watch and collect movies, watch the Boston Celtics, and spend time in her garden. Her garden was her solace, her place to be alone with her thoughts, maybe talk out loud if the flowers and trees wanted to listen.

Lynne’s granddaughter, Adelia, had the privilege of interviewing her a few years ago while taking a course on the aging process in college. She asked her, “How do you wish to be remembered?” Lynne replied, “Just that I was here.” She giggled and paused, then said, “That I did some good along the way. That something I said, or did, made a difference. And that I made a difference in the life of a child. My essence will always exist in this world. The little things I do, the things I share with you, my kindness when talking with the grocery store cashier, those things spread my essence. They create a butterfly effect.”

She was preceded in death by her parents Russell and Mildred Allen; and her son, Michael Batey.

Lynne is survived by Jim Nutting, her husband and best friend of 37 years; brothers, Wayne Allen and wife Julie, of Skowhegan, Steve Allen and wife Debbie, of Albany, Georgia; nieces, Elizabeth Hess (husband Steven; daughter Alex); and Hannah Allen; granddaughter Adelia Batey-Kee (wife Kassandra), of Readfield; daughter, Kim Dunton and husband Travis, of Pittsfield; grandson Mackenzie; son, Mike Nutting and wife Jane, of Fairfield; grandson Jordan (wife Taylor; great-granddaughter Parker), grandson J.T.; son, Cory Nutting and wife Jill, of Fairfield; grandson Conner; daughter, Kelly Alley and husband Jeff, of Albion; grandson Zachary and granddaughter Raygen (husband Garrett); son, Kevin Nutting and wife Jaime, of Oakland; grandson Kobe; brother-in-law, Lindsay Nutting and wife Tammy, of Belgrade.

At Lynne’s request, there will be no funeral or visiting hours or specified places for donations.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, where condolences, photos, and stories may be shared by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

JAMES CROSBY

ALBION – James Crosby, 88, of Albion, passed away June 2, 2023.

There will be a full obit on Lawry Brothers website, lawrybrothers.com.

JUANITA C. HOLLINGSWORTH-VAUTOUR

BELGRADE LAKES – Juanita “Nita” C. Hollingsworth-Vautour, 76, of Belgrade Lakes, passed away on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Andros­coggin Home Healthcare and Hospice, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born in Durham, North Carolina, on June 15, 1946, daughter of William and Edith (Bowen) Pickering.

Nita grew up in Durham, North Carolina. As a child, Nita loved to work in her grandfather’s (Archie Lee Bowen) grocery store after school and attend Bull Durham baseball games, which Archie was a part owner of at the time. Nita graduated from Elwood Regional High School in Newfoundland, where her father was a commander on Ernest Hermon Air Force Base.

After high school, Nita married and worked at raising three boys (Matt, Chris and Ben). After her husband had honorably fulfilled his military obligation, both enrolled at the University of Maine at Farmington. Even though all her college advisors and teachers tried to talk her out of it because, “she was too small to handle the students she would face,” Nita became the first woman to graduate with a degree in special education from UMF in the early ’70s. Little did UMF know how strong Nita was, as she spent the next 30 years working as a special education teacher and director in the State of Maine.

Although her first marriage did not last, family was the most important thing to Nita, and she never gave up, sometimes working two to three jobs at a time to raise her three rambunctious, rule breaking, not always law-abiding boys. The boys had no idea who they were up against though, their mother ensuring in the end that they all grew up to be mature, successful, and law-abiding men (at least two out of the three, anyways).

On April 16, 1998, Nita married Doyle Vautour and they spent the next 35 years inseparable from each other. Nita and Doyle went on numerous cross-country adventures, but always ended up back at their home on Long Pond.

Besides her parents, Nita was predeceased by her brothers Ernie Pickering, Sidney Pickering, and her sister, Sue Pickering.

Nita is survived by her husband, Doyle Vautour, of Farmington; her three sons, Matthew Hollingsworth and wife Isabelle, of Westwood, Massachusetts, Chris Hollingsworth, and wife Jodi, of Farmington, and Benjamin Hollingsworth and wife Candace, of Copperas Cove, Texas; nine grandchildren, Tucker, Taylor, Cooper and Casey Hollingsworth, of Farmington, Alexandra Cochran and Nicholas Hollingsworth, of Copperas Cove, Texas, Autumn McIntire, of Grovetown, Georgia, and Alanna and Garson Hollingsworth, of Westwood, Massachusetts; as well as two great-grandchildren, Amyas and Amara.

Cremation care has been provided by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 488 Farmington Falls Rd., Farmington, ME 04938.

FAYE KITCHEN

OAKLAND – Faye Kitchin, 80, passed away Tuesday, June 6, 2023, following a brief illness. She was born in Oakland on August 11, 1942, the daughter of Melville and Pauline (Mulliken) Knox.

She graduated from Williams High School in 1961 and began working at Harris Baking Company, in Waterville.

While working at Harris Baking Company, she met her husband, Leroy Kitchin. They were married on September 4, 1965, and celebrated 42 years together before he passed away in 2007.

She is survived by many family members and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband, one brother, three sisters and a grandson.

At Faye’s request, there will not be a service, but a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

There will be a full obit on Lawry Brothers website, lawrybrothers.com.

ROLAND E. DECHAINE

PITTSFIELD – Roland E. Dechaine, 94, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, in Pittsfield. Roland was born on Jan­uary 9, 1929, in Millinocket, a son of the late Pierre and Leona (Martin) Dechaine.

He graduated from Water­ville High School with the class of 1947 and furthered his education at Bentley College, in Massachusetts. He worked at Veilluex’s Market, on Sherwin Street, in Waterville, before moving to Pittsfield in 1972. He was employed for many years as the store manager at LaVerdiere’s Drug Store, in Pittsfield, retiring in 1993.

He married the love of his life, Vernette Veilleux, in November of 1959. He was an active parishioner of St. Agnes Catholic Church, in Pittsfield, and member of the Knights of Columbus #4861, Pittsfield. He was a member of the American Legion Post #5 Waterville, U.S. Army 1950-1953, serving in South Korea.

Roland enjoyed spending summer days at Big Indian Lake, sailing and fishing. He prided himself on maintaining his home and working in the yard. He loved spending time outdoors. He will be remembered as never meeting a stranger, and always having a joke or story to share. Roland’s love for his family is reflected by the many fond memories he leaves for his wife, children, and grandchildren to cherish.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers Claude Dechaine and Don Dechaine; brother-in-law, Lee Veilleux and wife Bernley, sister-in-law, Jeanette Bourgoin and husband Roland, sister-in-law, Evelyn Veilleux (wife of Roland Veilleux); and infant daughter, Kathy.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Vernette Dechaine; children, Kenneth Dechaine and wife Nanhee, of Pittsfield, Susan L’Heureux and husband Lucien, of Georgia, and Diane Wadsworth and husband Michael, of Ohio; grandchildren, Leah Dechaine and Heidi Dechaine, of Pittsfield, Krista Roop and husband Richard, of Georgia, Kiera Plante, of Georgia, Emma Wadsworth and Ian Wadsworth, of Ohio; siblings, Gloria Gamache and Theresa Perkins; sisters-in-law Gladys Dechaine (wife of Claude Dechaine) and Joan Dechaine (wife of Don Dechaine); brothers-in-law Roland Veilleux, of Skowhegan, Lucien Veilleux and wife Glennis; great-grandchildren, Colton and Caiden Roop, of Georgia; and many nieces, and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, June 13, at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Detroit Street, Pittsfield. A luncheon will follow in the Parish Hall. A committal followed at the St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, with military honors being presented for his service to our country during the Korean Conflict.

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

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

JANET M. DENNIS

WATERVILLE – Janet M. (Sullivan) Dennis, 77, formerly of Waterville, passed away on December 20, 2022. Her funeral Mass was held Thursday, June 15, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

WARREN A. MOODY

ZEPHYRHILLS, Florida – Warren Allen Moody, 93, long-time resident of Freedom died peacefully on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Warren was born in Liberty on June 24, 1929, to Allen and Freda Wellman Moody.

He married Mildred Shaw and during their 50 years of marriage they raised six children, who in turn gave him 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

He was a truck driver by trade as well as being a blueberry farmer. He loved gardening, feeding the birds, traveling, camping, fishing, hunting, and playing cribbage. Family gatherings were the best. His last years were shared with partner, Helen Farrar. Together they enjoyed many adventures in Maine and Florida.

Warren was predeceased by his parents; brother, Richard, sister, Betty; wife, Mildred; son, Ronald; grandson, Derek.

He is survived by Helen; her daughters Karen (Mark) and Elaine (Bill); brother, Carl (Brenda); sons Barry (Cheryl), Lyndon John (Tammy); daughters Cheryl (Dennis), Connie (Jim), Cynthia (Bruce); grandchildren, Kelli (Larry) sons Cameron and Brady; Heidi (Josh) son Jakob; Tauri, daughters Katelyn (Adam), Grace, and son, Riley; Casey (Emily) sons Jonas, Rowan, Julian and daughter Ainsley; Devin and daughter, Marley; Brian (Kari) sons Everett and Desmond; Trevor; Jessa (Trent); Tyler; Benjamin (Jacqueline) son Jason; Mark; Jason; and Amelia (Cody); cousins; nieces and nephews.

BASIL GRANT

WATERVILLE – Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life for Basil at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 17 at the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, 61 Pleasant St., Waterville with a reception to follow at 82 1st Rangeway, Waterville from noon – 2 p.m.