OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 8, 2023

ANNE E. HOOD

BENTON – Anne E. Hood, 76, passed away peacefully Saturday April 22, 2023, in her home, following a long courageous battle with cancer. Anne was born on September 22, 1946, in Waterville, the daughter of Albert Lemelin and Bertha Roi.

Anne attended Lawrence High School , in Fairfield, until grade nine, when she had to leave school in order to work to help her family financially. Later in 2008 she proudly received her G.E.D. from Lawrence High School.

Anne worked many jobs in her lifetime, including as woolen mill worker, a school lunch lady as well as owning her own businesses, to include Cupie Doll Second Hand Shop and Golden Unicorn Embroidery, to name a couple. At the end of her working career she enjoyed delivering flowers for Flo’s Flower Cart, in Waterville.

In the summertime Anne enjoyed trips to the coast and longed to have the ocean right out her front door. Anne was also a very crafty person. She enjoyed doing all sorts of crafts, especially embroidery and quilting, which she passed on her skills to her granddaughter Vickie.

She loved to try new projects and was a firm believer in doing it herself and putting a crafty twist on things. Another passion she had was competing in shows with her mini horses Dundee and Shiloh. She also had unconditional love for her mule, Precious, and her dog Princess. Who can forget one of her greatest pleasures later in life was competing in cribbage tournaments. Anne was a member of the Waterville Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #905 for the past five years, where she could be seen playing cribbage or watching her girls play darts on Friday nights.

Anne will be remembered for her extraordinary heart, her compassion, her craftiness and always being on the go, as her granddaughter Vickie nicknamed her “Go Go Grammy”. Anne will also be remembered for her never ending love for her girls, family and friends.

Anne was predeceased by her parents, Albert Lemelin and Bertha Roi, her daughter Lisa Thompson, as well as her brother James Lemelin and sister Mary Lou Lemelin, her husband Vernal Hood Jr., and her stepson Chris Hood.

Anne is survived by her daughters, Tammy and husband Mark Gullifer, of Florida, Denise Pooler and wife Bethany Oliver, of Winslow, and Stephanie and husband Jeff Aucoin, of Fairfield; granddaughter Vickie Pooler; great-grandson Damian Colby and Damian’s father Joshua Colby, all of Waterville; five other grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; her sister Ruth Lemelin, of Florida; stepdaughter Sherry Fernald and husband George, of Benton; and stepdaughter-in-law Jean Hood, of Benton; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday June 4, 2023, at the Waterville Elks Lodge, 76 Industrial St., Waterville.

Her girls ask in lieu of flowers donations be made in Anne’s name to Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

KEITH M. CURTIS

WATERVILLE – Keith Merle Curtis, 94, passed away peacefully, at home, on Sunday, May 14, 2023. He was born on March 28, 1929, in Waterville, the son of Merle Leighton Curtis and Marjorie Curtis(Huard).

Keith graduated from Waterville High School with the class of 1947. After working as a design artist for the Sutherland Sign Co., in Waterville, from 1947 – 1950, Keith enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1950, was awarded the National Defense Service and Good Conduct medals and was honorably discharged in 1954.

Keith worked as an electrical engineer for the U.S. Navy, at the Brunswick Naval Air Station, and the Naval Air Station Atlantic City, from 1950 – 1956, and then went on to work for IBM, in East Fishkill, and Poughkeepsie, New York, as an electrical and computer engineer. He helped design, build, and maintain computer hardware for one of the world’s first computers. He was awarded several engineering patents for his work with IBM. He retired after 31 years and moved back to Waterville in 1989, with his wife, to spend a wonderful, very active life in retirement.

For his entire life, Keith was active in community events, sports, clubs, art shows, and he enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting. He excelled in baseball and track at Waterville High School. He was an Eagle Scout – the highest achievement attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. He achieved a black belt in Tae Kwon Do karate, played volleyball, softball, and bowled in many leagues. He enjoyed running 5K races with the Central Maine Striders. Keith organized a benefit softball team, the “Golden Oldies” with local talent; he participated in the Maine Senior Games and competed in the US Senior Olympics for many years.

Keith was active in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine, Trout Unlimited, and was a life member of The American Legion, Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, Waterville. He was a member of the Waterville Area Art Society for 34 years and treasurer for many years. Keith loved painting with pastels. He was passionate about capturing Maine scenery and people. He won Best of Show awards in Maine art shows in 1993, 1994, 1997 and a People’s Choice Award in 2004. Keith was an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and, after retirement, with his wife.

Keith was a man of very high moral standards, empathy, conviction, trustworthiness, patience and understanding. He always considered the well-being of others in everything he did. He was a generous man in mind and spirit. He was very highly respected in the community and he was an exceptional role-model for his children, grandchildren, and his Little Brothers, all of whom he loved and nurtured dearly. His life was a fulfilled life surrounded by peace and comfort at home with his wife Jeannette of 70 years. The memories are enduring, fond, and everlasting.

Keith was predeceased by his father, Merle Leighton Curtis, his mother, Marjorie Curtis(Huard) and by his younger brother, Gary Stillman Curtis.

Keith is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jeannette Veronica Curtis( Michaud), of Waterville; a younger brother Raphael Curtis, of Redding, California; three children including Kathy L. Curtis-Hernandez RN and her spouse Gus Hernandez, of Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. Scott K. Curtis DVM, of Winslow, and Dr. Craig W. Curtis MD and his spouse Sande Curtis NP, of Dedham; five grandchildren including Justin Curtis Jenkins and his spouse Andrew Foster Shi, of Los Angeles, California, Dr. Kimberly J. Curtis PhD and her partner Ian McDonell, of Marlborough, Massachusetts, Ethan S. Curtis, of Winslow, Dr. Kyle E. Curtis MD and his spouse Erika Curtis, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Marcis I. Curtis, of Dedham; a great-granddaughter, Eloise Curtis, daughter of Kyle and Erika Curtis; nephews including Marc Curtis, of Watsonville, California, Bryan Curtis, of O’Brien, Oregon, Kevin Curtis, and niece Linda Park (Curtis).

Keith will be interred at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery mausoleum with Military Funeral Honors, 143 Blue Star Ave, Augusta, at 2 p.m., on Friday, July 14, 2023. A family gathering will take place immediately following the interment. Keith’s life will be celebrated on Sunday July 16, 2023, at the Oakland American Legion, at 22 Church Street, Oakland.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kennebec Valley, 2351 N Belfast Ave., Augusta, ME 04330. Donations should be in memory of Keith M. Curtis.

PAUL E. TRASK II

CLINTON – Paul E. Trask II, 51, of Clinton, died of accidental drowning Monday, May 22, 2023. He was born November 20, 1971, in Waterville to Paul E. Trask Sr. and Meredith Hews Trask.

He attended local schools and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. His primary job was carpentry.

Paul is survived by his mother Meredith Hews Trask, of Clinton; sons, Christian Trask, of Clinton, Dawson Trask, of Waterville; and a daughter Lelia Trask, of Pembroke; grandchildren, Rose and Evan Trask, of Belfast; siblings, Cheryl Gallant, of Woodbridge, Virginia, Vicky Morris and husband Ed, of Benton, William Green and wife Penny, of Winslow, Suzanne Clifford and husband Tim, of Clinton; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Paul E. Trask Sr., fraternal grandparents Donald and Lelia Trask, maternal grandparents Velma and John Lundbeck, all of Clinton.

Graveside services will be held Sunday, June 11, at 2 p.m., Greenlawn Rest Cemetery, Rte. 100, Clinton. Celebration of Life will follow.

JOSEPH P. MENDES

WATERVILLE – Joseph Paul Mendes, 50, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 29, 2023, following a long illness. Joseph was born December 1, 1972, to Alice and Paul Mendes. He graduated in 1992.

Joseph enjoyed time with his family and friends throughout his life. He also enjoyed going to church at St. Francis de Sales and Notre Dame churches, in Waterville. He had a kind heart and always went out of his way to make others happy and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Joseph is survived by his father Paul Mendes, of Waterville; his brother Michael Mendes; and his nieces Bria Ponsant and Kassi Hujara.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, June 7, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, in Waterville.

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

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

REV. ANDREW D. KANE

BELGRADE – The Reverend Andrew D. Kane, 80, of Belgrade, peacefully passed on Friday, May 26, 2023, following a courageous bout with cancer. He was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, to John and Ruby Kane, on May 10, 1943.

After graduating from Chester High School in 1961, he served in the Merchant Marines as a deckhand aboard the USS United States. Known as “Junior” for being one of the youngest on the crew, he learned about people from all walks of life. He received his BA at Eastern Baptist College and Master of Divinity at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In 1966 he married Janet Miller at the First Presbyterian Church of Chester, Pa., where he had attended as a young man with his family.

Andy began his professional career with Scott Paper Company (in Maine, Alabama, and Pennsylvania) and Fox Morris Associates, in Philadelphia, as a corporate recruiter.

He was called into the ministry while attending the Springfield Baptist Church, in Pennsylvania, where he later served as Associate Pastor under the guidance of Reverend Manuel Avila. Andy, Janet and their young son lived on the campus of Ellen Cushing Junior College, in Pennsylvania, where Janet worked as head resident to enable him to pursue his Master of Divinity degree.

Andy had fallen in love with Maine while working for Scott Paper Company, and in 1973, when the opportunity arose to continue his ministry here, he seized it. Andy was privileged to serve the Lord for 34 years as the pastor of the United Baptist Church of Oakland, a loving church family in a caring community. He belonged to American Baptist Churches of Maine/USA and supported many mission projects throughout his ministry, including serving on the board of China Lake Conference Center.

He was instrumental in starting the Oakland Council of Churches Area Food Cupboard and the Oakland Area Summer Recreation Program. Believing that people of all faiths could love and respect each other and work together, he supported the Oakland Council of Churches and planned many events to gather folks for praise and fellowship.

An advocate for preventative health, he served as president of Healthy Northern Kennebec / a Planned Approach to Community Health for many years. Andy also served in various capacities on the board of the Belgrade Regional Health Center. He found it a profound privilege to serve as State Law Enforcement Chaplain – serving state and local communities.

Andy was truly a man of God – full of faith and love. He was so relatable and available, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and immediately make a connection.

He was an avid reader and lifelong learner – full of knowledge and wisdom of the Lord. He always had a humorous line in any situation, bringing peace, joy and hope in Christ. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Andy was predeceased by his parents and twin sister, Elizabeth.

He is survived by his partner in ministry and wife, Janet, of 56 years; three sons; a daughter-in-law; and ten grandchildren; a brother; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Monday, June 12, 2023, at The United Baptist Church of Oakland, at 11 a.m., with a visiting hour at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, it was Andy’s wish that you plant a tree, or you may make a donation to the United Baptist Church of Oakland, 45 Church St., Oakland, ME 04963.

LEE J. HARGADON

Brunswick–Lee J. Hargadon, 91, a longtime Maine resident of Brunswick and South China, died peacefully on Saturday, June 3, 2023. Mary Lee Jones was born in New York, New York, on July 14, 1931, and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. She was the daughter of Barbara Jones Haskins and
Wilmot Rufus Jones, Jr., and sister to the late Wilmot Rufus Jones III.

They spent their summers together in the cottage her grandfather built in South China, in 1898.

After attending Wilmington Friends School (with her father as headmaster), George School, Drexel University, and Katharine Gibbs College, Lee married her former husband, Bernard J. Hargadon, Jr., in 1953.

With three children in tow, Lee and her family moved to Medellín, Colombia, where her younger three children were born during the decade that followed. While raising her family she opened her own language translation business, “Lee Limitada.” After moving to Wilton, Connecticut, and later to Walnut Creek, California, Lee settled in Maine in 1987, where she was warmly welcomed by the many people who would become among the most influential and supportive during her long life.

Lee was an avid traveler, photographer, and explorer. She traveled the world extensively with friends and family and was able to visit every continent, including Antarctica. Inspired by the impact these experiences had on her life, she encouraged and supported her grandchildren to travel, see the world, and expand their horizons.

It was in Africa where Lee discovered her talent for photography, but Maine was her muse. Her body of work became widely collected and exhibited in galleries, including at the State House, in Augusta. Later she shared her photographs with friends on notecards, always favoring handwritten letters over email, with images that were reminders of the things and places that were important to her. Lee described her practice simply: “Often, less is more.”

Lee enjoyed the companionship of her beloved dogs over the years, as well as tracking birds that visited her well-stocked feeders. She cared about all creatures and supported a variety of animal and wildlife causes during her lifetime. She particularly cherished visits with friends at “Lake Hour” on the porch of The Leaning Elm – the cottage that remains in the family today because of her commitment to family and tradition. Above all, Lee believed it was “nice to be together.”

Lee is survived by four children, Geoff, his wife, Patricia La Valley, and their children Ashley Johnston and Stephanie Rogers; Bob, his wife, Tracy Kellum, and their children Mia Tankoos and Ellis Hargadon; Louise and her children Robert O’Neill and Lauren Moesel; David, his wife Suzi, and their children Courtney Button, Trevor, Joseph, and Michael Hargadon; five great-grandchildren..

She was predeceased by her two other children, Mary Lee (d. 1962) and Larry (d. 1982).

A celebration of Lee Hargadon’s life will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to China Lake Association.

Memories and condolences can be shared at www.brackettfh.com.

HOWARD L. EHRLICH
ANN E. EHRLICH

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida – Howard Louis Ehrlich, 96, passed away in St. Petersburg, Florida, on November 29, 2022. His wife, Ann Edwards Ehrlich, 94, passed away in South China on November 2, 2021. Howard was born to Etta and Louis Ehrlich on January 21, 1926, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Ann was born to Johanna and John Edwards on August 14, 1927, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

The two attended Coughlin High School, in Wilkes-Barre, and met at a Halloween party when they were in their early teens. Howard graduated high school and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After Ann graduated from high school, the two were married on January 9, 1946, first living in Norfolk, Virginia, while Howard was stationed there. Ann worked as an admin for the U.S. Navy and was incidentally the clerk tasked with typing Howard’s discharge papers.

Howard graduated from University of Scranton and went on to teach, first in Salem, New Jersey, and later in Washington, New Jersey, upon their relocation to that town. He left teaching to begin selling real estate and later he and Ann opened their own real estate and insurance agency in Washington which they operated until their retirement.

The two were passionate about ballroom dancing and filled their free time with lessons and group dances. They later went on to teach dancing which included serving as dance instructors on cruise lines.

In 1999, the two moved to South China to be with their daughter and grandchildren and continued dancing locally.

They were members of the South China Community Church and also regular patrons of the South China Library. Ann spent hours quietly helping people in need, both in New Jersey and Maine. Howard enjoyed life in South China and often could be found having coffee with friends at Greg’s, Dog Days and China Dine-ah while making his rounds at local businesses. Aside from his fondness for woodworking and antiques, Howard will always be remembered for his quick wit, relentless charm, and expansive vocabulary.

Ann was predeceased by her siblings Madeline, Jack and Lois. Howard was predeceased by his sisters Evelyn and Dorothy. They are survived by their daughter, Kimberley Ehrlich, of South China; and three grandchildren Micah Bloom, Jonah Bloom and his wife Amy, and Kalyn Van Valkenburgh; many nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held for Howard, on Friday, June 16, at 2:30 p.m., at the China Cemetery Extension, where Ann was laid to rest in November 2021. If you would like to honor their memory, please consider a donation to the South China Library, P.O. Box 417, South China, Maine 04358.

Arrangements are under the direction of Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor, Maine.

AWILDA S. GONZALEZ

WINSLOW – Awilda Santos Gonzalez was a wonderful woman. She was a caring, supportive, loving friend, sister, mother of eight, grandmother of 35, and great-grandmother of 19 children. She was definitely the matriarch of the family which she raised.

She will be missed and, in fact, is missed immensely already. The family not only lost a mom but an advisor, mentor, and companion. The time spent with her is truly missed and will continue to be until the day they are reunited once again.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Funeral and Cremation Care 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine 04976.

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 1, 2023

MARY ANN DALBECK

VASSALBORO – Mary Ann (Cronin) Dalbeck, 86, of Vassalboro, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at home. Mary Ann was born on September 5, 1936, to Daniel J. and Bridget A. Cronin.

She grew up in Hallowell and graduated from Hallowell High School in 1955.

Mary Ann worked for J.S. McCarthy Co., State of ME DOT, and Jos. Kirschner Co. , all in Augusta. After moving to Florida she worked for Martin Marietta Corporation and Shades of Green (formerly The Disney Inn) on WDW Resorts before returning to Maine when she retired.

Mary Ann was known as NaeNae by many who loved her. She never forgot birthdays and loved holidays as opportunities for sharing cards and a call. She was like a kid at Christmas time, loving the adventure of finding the perfect gifts. She was especially proud of her Irish heritage.

Besides her parents, Mary Ann was predeceased by her son Michael F. Berryman, an infant daughter Cecelia M. Berryman, her brothers Daniel J, Stephen, Dennis and their spouses, and her sister Eileen Cronin.

She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law Rachael and Ozzie Cummings, of Vassalboro; Debbie and Darrin Cunningham, of Augusta; her grandchildren Wendy and Randy (Sarah) Cummings, Tyler and Allyson Cunningham, Christopher, Joseph, Michelle, Andrew and Cecilia Berryman; several great-grandchildren and many very nieces and nephews.

At Mary Ann’s request there will be no visitation or funeral services, but family and friends may gather at her burial in the Cronin family plot in Hallowell Cemetery when a date is set.

DANIEL R. ALBERT

CHELSEA – Daniel R. Albert, 68, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland as a result of a tragic accident while tending his fire pit on April 26, 2023, in Chelsea. Dan was born November 5, 1954, in Island Falls, to the late Kenneth and Velma Branscombe Albert.

He attended schools in Pittston and Gardiner, graduating from Gardiner Area High School in 1973. He also graduated with an associate degree from the University of Maine in Augusta.

Most of Dan’s life involved his love for music. He had a beautiful voice and could sing anything, with anyone. He played guitar, piano, mandolin, violin and banjo. He was involved with several bands, including a group from the early days of the UMA music program. For several years, he was lead singer for the rhythm and blues band, Red Light Revue. They had a five-year gig at the Big Easy, on Fore Street, in Portland, and it was there where Billy Joel sauntered in to listen after docking his boat. It was a thrill for Dan when, after meeting during a break, Joel joined him on stage. The group also played at many weddings, etc., throughout New England. In his later years, he took his volunteer music gift to patients at VA Maine HCS, as well as to inmates in Warren, with Kairos of Maine for prison ministry.

Dan was passionate about reducing the use of fossil fuels and using renewable resources. He was very interested in windmills for use on individual homes and built a small version to determine the effectiveness; he was satisfied with the results. He was an advocate for providing shelter and homes for those in need, and was dedicated to assisting anyone who was down and out and/or needing help with mental illness. Having experienced many years of untreated bipolar disorder, Dan became convinced maintaining appropriate medication was the way to go.

He enjoyed whitewater rafting in the Forks; fishing trips with his brothers, cousins and nephews; canoeing the Kennebec River on which he enjoyed owning his first home; family pig roasts, celebrations, and just being together; a good game of poker; strumming his many musical instruments; and his great love of reading. He will be remembered for his varied gifts of music, kindness, curiosity, energy and his faith in God.

Danny is predeceased by his parents and grandparents; and brothers, Ken and Rocky in 2022.

He is survived by his partner Cindy Thomas, of Chelsea; daughters Amanda Short and Lindsay (Craig) Richards; and granddaughters Mila, Elena, and Naomi Richards of New Hampshire; siblings Mary Pillsbury, of West Gardiner, Dawn (Jerry) Millette, of Florida, Linda (Denny) Foster, of Gardiner, David (Carol) Albert, of Pittston, Lori (Rick) Hafner, of Auburn, Tom (Dana) Albert of Standish; sister-in-law, Carolyn Albert, of Pittston; and step-siblings Teddy Morin, of North Whitefield, Hershel Albert, of Augusta, Camilla (John) McKinney, of Cape Elizabeth, Julia Peron, of Topsham, Uncle Jack and Aunt Jayne Branscomb, of Bangor; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Gardiner, followed by burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, in Gardiner.

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

For those who wish to contribute, memorial donations are encouraged to help support Kairos of Maine, P.O. Box 578, Auburn, ME 04212-0578 or at http://www.kairosofmaine.org.

KEVIN R. THERRIAULT

SIDNEY – Kevin Richard Therriault, 58, lost his battle to cancer on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. Ke­v­­in was born on February 9, 1965, in Rum­ford, to Rich­ard “Dick” and Margaret “Ann” Therriault.

He grew up in Norridgewock and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1983. He attended Eastern Maine Community College, in Bangor, where he acquired his associate degree in applied science with a major in electrical power technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in business management from the University of Phoenix.

Kevin began his career at Central Maine Power Company in 1986 as a meter reader but moved quickly into electric operations and served in many positions over his 37-year career. For the last 10 years, he was in management and became senior director of system operations in 2021. Kevin was highly respected and loved by everyone who worked with or for him, and he spent the last three years of his career pouring into others through the company’s mentor program.

In 2013, he met the love of his life and best friend, Kerri, and they married on March 26, 2018, on Sanibel Island, in Florida. Anyone that knew them, knew the love, respect, and adoration they had for each other and where you saw one you always saw the other. Kevin adored his children and grandchildren and no matter what time day or night, if they needed him, he was there. Always at the ready with his tools in hand to fix or make whatever they needed. Kevin loved hunting, fishing, photography, golfing, snowmobiling and special projects and made sure he shared those passions with his children, grandchildren, friends, and family. One of Kevin’s greatest loves was being the assistant coach of the Skowhegan girls softball team, and if you knew Kevin, you heard the story of the 2014 state championship more than once.

Kevin was predeceased by his father, Richard, in 2015 and his mother Ann in 2021.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Kerri Therriault, of Sidney; his son Konnor and wife Alyssa Therriault, of Cornville; daughter Kaitlyn Therriault, of Athens; stepdaughter, Jessica and husband Jon Turner, of Augusta; and stepson, Kenneth Foster, of Seattle, Washington; his grandchildren, Harper Elizabeth, 3, Jackson Elliott, 2½, and Sawyer Ryley, six weeks; his brother and sister-in-law, Keith and Dee Therriault; sister and brother-in-law Karin and Chris Carey; his nieces and nephews Michael and wife Rachel Therriault, Chase and Sierra Carey, and Kayleigh and Chloe Therriault; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rodney and Janice Nason, of Waterville; and sister-in-law, Vicki Nason, of Merrimack, New Hampshire.

There will be a celebration of life at the Skowhegan Area High School softball field on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 11 a.m.

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 Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 606, Gorham, ME 04038,for a scholarship in Kevin’s memory for students pursuing careers in the electric technology field of study, or to MaineHealth Cancer Care, 265 Western Avenue, Suite 2, South Portland, ME 04106.

RICHARD CYR

FAIRFIELD – Richard Cyr, 89, passed awy on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at his home. He was born on September 4, 1933, in Waterville, the son of Raoul and Margaret (Donnelly) Cyr. He attended local schools, graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1951.

Dick was drafted into the U.S. Navy and served on the USS Elsmere during the Korean War. After the service, Dickie worked for the family business, D.B. Donnelly Hardware, for over 40 years. He was a very generous man, always willing to lend a hand. If someone was in need, he would open the store on Sundays or let them keep a tab. When the store closed in 1981, he went to work at Bill’s Truck Stop, in Fairfield, as the evening manager until he retired.

His nieces grew up in the hardware store roaming the aisles and spending time with their “second” dad Dickie. He loved taking them to the movies and the fairs. He was known as a terrible babysitter by the parents, but a loved one by the kids!

The month of May was always Dick’s favorite, a very loyal veteran, he would always put cemetery flags for any American Legion member. The American Legion, Post #14, in Fairfield, was very important part of his life. He served as the financial officer and the chaplain for many years. He was very proud to march in the Memorial Day parade for many years. You could also find Richard volunteering as an usher at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, at the 6 p.m. Mass, for years.

Later in life, Dick was known around town for his pets. He would often be seen walking his dogs, Leibchen, Maggie, Zoey and Ziggy with frequent stops at the police department.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Raoul and Margaret Cyr; and a brother, Lawrence Cyr.

He is survived by his sister, Carole Boardman; his nieces Pam Sprague and husband Merton, Mary Bragdon and Stephanie Boardman Wallace and husband Scott; great-nephews Eric Farrington, Edward Hoyt and his wife Ashley Gilbert, David Wallace and wife Desiree and Tyler Bragdon; great-nieces Sierra Boardman and Dalis Bragdon and her partner Kyle Myska; great-great-nephews Jayden Farrington and Henry Hoyt; and cousin, Danny Cyr and wife Pat.

A Mass was held Wednesday May 31, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. A private burial was held at the family plot at St. Francis Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 10660, Portland ME 04104-6060 or Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, 04901 or wherever people would prefer.

BRUCE E. CHADBOURNE

ALBION – Bruce Edwin Chadbourne, 68, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at home. Bruce was born September 19, 1955, to the late Gilbert and Elizabeth Williams Chadbourne.

He attended schools in Oakland, graduating in 1973 from Messalonskee High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on September 5, 1975, as a cable splicer and received an honorable discharge March 16, 1981.

Bruce loved cars, and collected many with great intentions of fixing them all. But, unfortunately, there just wasn’t enough time. He took great pride in his carpentry work. He built his home, several other renovations, jacked camps and earned a lot of respect from his clients.

But Bruce’s biggest enjoyment was yard sales, and he had quite “The Big Eye” for the deals. He could look at a pile of junk and see treasures. Bruce will be sadly missed by many. His smile, his sense of humor, his caring for others, he never had a bad word for anyone.

Bruce is survived by his wife Becky, of 34 years; and his sister Robin, of Winslow.

He was predeceased by his brother, Lynn; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 18, 2023, from 1 – 4 p.m., at the Hudson Homestead, 808 Oakland Road, Belgrade.

In lieu of flowers, please donate, in Bruce’s memory, to Hospice of Waterville, 10 Water St., Waterville, ME 04901.

KENNETH C. ROEVER

WHITEFIELD – Kenneth C. Roever, 79, of Whitefield, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 21, 2023, following a period of declining health. Kenneth was born February 24, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, to Dudley A. Roever and Dorothe (Coleman) Roever.

He graduated from Midwood High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from New York Institute of Technology. Following graduation from college he moved to Saco, where he was employed by Saco Defense for 35 years. During that time, he met and married the love of his life Doris (Legere) Roever, and they were married for 35 years. They retired to a quiet life in Whitefield, where they have lived for the last 24 years. Kenneth was a very intelligent man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He cherished his time with Doris and his dog Mindy. He was a humble man of integrity, patience, strong values and generous with his time. He had a very strong faith in God and was an active communicant of St. Denis Catholic Church, in Whitefield, St. Michael Parish, in Augusta, where he served as an usher, a member of the bereavement committee, and St. Denis Senior Citizens Group.

His hobbies included anything to do with technology, model railroads, trains, cars, reading, learning foreign languages; he spoke French, Spanish and German. He enjoyed nothing more than being home out in his fields enjoying nature on his tractor. He liked watching documentaries on PBS and New England sports teams.

Kenneth was predeceased by his parents, Dudley and Dorothe Roever.

He is survived by his wife, Doris (Legere) Roever; cousin, Betty Jane Volmar, of Maryland; brother-in-law, John Legere and his wife Suzanne, of Windham; and nieces and nephews Katherine Legere, Joseph Legere, Anne Ranger, Blair Legere, Grace Legere and Luke Ranger.

Kenneth’s visitation will be from 4 – 6 p.m., on Wednesday, June 7, at Staples Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., on Thursday, June 8, at St. Denis Catholic Church, in Whitefield, and burial will take place at 10 a.m., on Monday, June 12, at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland.

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

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Michael Parish, 24 Washington St., Augusta, ME 04330 or an animal shelter of your choice, or the American Cancer Society.

RONALD L. SMITH

VASSALBORO – Ronald L. Smith, 75, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at home following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Massachusetts, the son of Arthur and Blanche Smith.

Ronald, a long-time resident of Vassalboro, had many careers in his lifetime, learning to do just about anything. He became involved with landscaping, and this was his passion for 30 years. He started his own business. He had many clients and was well known for his expertise and work ethics. Someone they could count on for any of their needs.

Ron enjoyed hunting and fishing when he was young but gave that up to just enjoy the wildlife. He also enjoyed camping and road trips to Florida with his family, and, oh boy, did he love his road trips to Rangeley and up north, as well as walks on the beach at the coast stopping at places to check out the scenery and new restaurants along the way.

Ron was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Blanche Smith, of Vassalboro; brother, Reggie, of Oregon, sister, Alice, of Augusta; his first wife, June, in 1968 and second wife, Glennis, in 2012.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Whitney Smith, of Vassalboro; his daughter, Stephanie Cormier, of Augusta; Ron (Leon) Smith and wife, of Pittston; and several grandchildren; stepdaughter, Vicki; and stepson, Chad and wife; brothers Arthur, Jerry, Dennis, Virgil, and Warren Smith; sisters Linda, Jessica and Kathy.

At Ron’s request there will be no service. There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Funeral Home.

LOUISE M. BELLOWS

WINSLOW – Louise May (Shores) Bellows, 90, of Winslow, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 6, 2023. Louise was born on August 23, 1932, in Fairfield, the eldest child to Erlon and Gladys (Brawn) Shores.

The family soon relocated to Albion, where Louise attended the Bessey School until the end of her eighth-grade year. Louise attended high school in Winslow, where she met her soulmate, Cecil Bellows, and became a graduating member of the class of 1951.

Louise married Cecil, in Benton Falls, on June 28, 1952. The couple welcomed their first son in 1953 and their second son in 1959.

Louise raised her sons and some of her siblings, all while helping Cecil run Bellows Texaco, in Winslow. They later managed the school busing for Winslow, Waterville, Vassalboro and China. Louise continued her duties alongside her husband Cecil, until his untimely passing on October 19, 1988, and then with her son, for over 55 years.

Louise’s first priority in life was to ensure her family was taken care of, but beyond that, she thrived in taking care of everyone she came across.

Throughout her time on this earth, Louise enjoyed many activities with her friends and family such as camping on Moosehead Lake and watching both her sons participate in stock car racing. Louise welcomed seven grandchildren and enjoyed all their activities some of which were also stock car racing and horse racing. Louise also enjoyed shopping with the grandchildren, lawn-saleing and dinner at the China Dinah. Louise was also able to welcome 11 of her 14 great-grandchildren. Every year Louise insisted on hosting all the holiday dinners for the entire family at her home and she made it a point to visit her brothers on “the farm” multiple times a week, bringing them “snacks”. Truth be told that was just an excuse to check in on them. Louise was a firm believer in showing her love by feeding everyone.

When Route 201 was a major trucking route she would often feed some of the drivers who made reoccurring fuel stops on their way through and would often board and feed other stock car drivers and their family or crew if she deemed their return home at night to be too long.

Louise had a heart of gold and loved to share it with the world around her. She will be loved forever and missed immensely.

Louise was predeceased by her parents, Erlon and Gladys Shores, her step mom Beverly Shores, her husband Cecil Bellows, brother Herbert and his wife Nelly Shores, brothers Fred, Donald and Dale Shores.

Louise is survived by her sister-in-law Lois Shores; sister Gloria and husband Ronald Gregory; brothers Amasa Shores and partner Darlene, Allen and Danny Shores; her sons Edward Bellows and wife Marie, Robert Bellows and wife Marie; her spare daughters Donna Drapeau Bellows and Cindy Rafuse; her grandchildren Brad Bellows and partner Jane, Casey Bellows, Kristie Bellows and husband Jim Wagg, Bryan Bellows and partner Stephanie, Roberta Bellows and partner Kayden, Bobby Bellows and partner Tayla, Nicole Genest and husband Todd; step-granddaughters Montana and Donna Roy; and many nieces and nephews; 14 great-grandchildren, Johnathan, Parker, Kylie, Olivia, Dinah, Judith, Carson, Jacob, Bryden, Caleb, baby girl Genest, Scarlett, Bryce and Freya.

Graveside service at McClintock Cemetery, Nowell Road, in Winslow, will be held at 11 a.m., on Sunday, June 4, followed by a potluck celebration of life at Winslow MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, from noon – 4 p.m. Please email if you are able to bring a dish mcamera@live.com or Facebook Marie Camera Bellows.

CYNTHIA M. ELIAS

BENTON – Cynthia Marie Veilleux Elias, 81, of Benton, died on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Cindy was born in Waterville on September 8, 1941, the daughter of Kenneth and Violet Drowns.

She grew up in Fairfield and was a graduate of Lawrence High School where she was a majorette.

Cindy married the love of her life, Richard J. Elias, Sr. on January 13, 1960. If anyone knew them, you witnessed the love and adoration they had for one another. They had celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary prior to Richard’s death. During their marriage, they raised four children.

She was a homemaker and worked part-time at Colby College, in Waterville, in dining services for over 45 years. She was an active member of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville, for many years and served on the Rosary Sodality.

Cindy loved to entertain, always ready for a celebration, party, or dance. She loved her family, friends, and neighbors. Christmas was her favorite holiday; nothing was ever too extravagant. She also enjoyed her many trips to the Maine coast.

She was predeceased by her parents; and husband, Richard.

Cindy is survived by two sons, Richard Elias Jr. and wife Nancy, of Portland, David Elias and wife Kelly, of Oakland; two daughters, Victoria Littlefield and husband Tim, of Florida, and Gayle Misner-Elias and husband Michael, of Benton; her grandchildren, Anthony, Kristy, Pilar, Nicholas, Kenneth, Benjamin, Anika, Simon, Sarah Grace, Isaac, and Elijah; great-grandchild, Nolan; her sisters Thamera and Deborah.

Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated at 10 a.m., on Friday, June 2, at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville. Interment will proceed immediately following services at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church Hall following interment.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St. Waterville, ME 04901.

SANDRA A. DOLLEY

HARPSWELL – Sandy Dolley, 78, passed away at home on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, following a courageous battle with cancer. Sandy was born August 12, 1944, in Water­ville, to Adrien and Sim­­one (Beaulieu) Paradis.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1962, then went to work as a secretary for the Wyandotte-Worsted Textile Mill, in Waterville, and Scott Paper Co., in Winslow. It was there she met the love of her life, Barry Dolley, whom she married on December 18, 1965, at St. Francis de Sales parish, in Waterville.

Sandy and Barry raised their five children in Winslow. They remained true life partners.

In addition to raising her children, Sandy worked various jobs, including overseeing family businesses, to include vacation/fishing camps and retirement/ Alzheimer’s homes, and baking for restaurants or dementia care facilities.

Sandy enjoyed sewing, crafting, baking and cooking. She especially enjoyed creating gifts, which she would pass out to friends and family liberally. She sold her original jams, jellies, pickles and dried herbs at craft fairs throughout southern and central Maine, where she gained a small following.

Sandy took great pleasure in all kinds of music, which often could be heard piping through her home. She was a fantastic dancer. She was always sporting enough to take her turn at the karaoke machine, although she could not carry a tune.

She was always up for adventures, from tasting food with unidentifiable ingredients out of streetcarts in Beijing, to venturing onto clothing optional beaches in Hawaii and ziplining over tropical forests.

In 2018 Sandy volunteered on a medical mission trip to the Philippines, to provide basic medical attention to those less fortunate than her.

Sandy’s favorite thing was to throw huge parties and invite all family and friends. In 1998, Sandy and Barry relocated and purchased their dream home on the water in Harpswell, and moved there shortly thereafter.

Sandy continues her battle against cancer as she made an anatomical gift of her body in the hope that she can help someone else’s loved one have a better chance of survival. Sandy is survived by her husband Barry, of Harpswell; her children, Michelle and her husband Gil Langlois, of Brunswick, Barry II, of Waterville, Jeffrey and his wife Jessica, of Brunswick, Shawn, of Gardiner, and Reneé, of Old Orchard Beach; her seven grandchildren, Adrienne, J. Luke, Adeline, William, Dylan, Liam, and Luke; her sisters Bonnie Shorey and husband Evan, of North Vassalboro, and Jolyne Paradis, of Waterville; her special cousin who was like a sister Joan Hallee and her husband Roland, of Waterville; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Catholic funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 6, at 10 a.m., St. Katharine Drexel Church, in Harpswell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, 153 Harpswell Neck Rd., Harpswell, ME 04079, 207-721-1121

LUCAS M. THOMAS

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Lucas M. Thomas, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

A Celebration of Life was held on Monday, May 29, at Saint Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton Street, Waterville. Interment was held at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, May 30, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

To learn more about Lucas’s life we encourage you to visit http://www.gallantfh.com.

ROGER P. AVERILL

BENTON – Roger P. Averill, 89, passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at home. He was born on September 28, 1933, at the old Waterville Osteopathic Hospital, to Charles I., and Edna M. Soule Averill, of Benton.

He attended grade schools in Benton and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1952. While in high school he was a member of the Future Farmers of America. He received the Star State Farmer Degree in 1951. While attending high school he was a dairy farmer, having a herd of 15 Jersey cows. He continued farming until 1960 when he went to work at Diamond Match, in Oakland. He worked there for over 30 years and worked his way up to a foreman. When the mill closed, he was sent to Minnesota and North Carolina as a consultant for the mills there. After that he became employed as a boiler operator at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, and retired from Thayer in 1995.

While at Diamond Match he met and married Rachel Curtis, on March 5, 1961, and they celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary in 2018.

In 1984 he built Averill’s Mobile Home Park, in Benton, which is still in operation. He also owned Rocky Heritage Nursery and Gift Shop, in Benton, for many years.

He was chairman of the Benton Municipal Planning Board for many years and then vice chairman. He gave up those positions as he didn’t feel he had the time it required to dedicate to them and stepped down to a regular member of the board. He was also on the executive board of the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments and Revolving Loan Fund Committee, retiring from those positions in 2014. He was a member of the Benton Town Budget Committee. Also, the Cemetery Committee and Library Committee for a short time.

For many years he met monthly during the spring, summer and fall with his high school classmates of ’52 for supper at many restaurants in surrounding areas.

In spite of having two strokes in 2005 he was still able to work in the woods with his tractor, chainsaw and bulldozer and haul logs to several log yards with his son, Lewis Schoenig.

He loved flowers and was always planting something new. He enjoyed the livestock that his son Lou kept in the pastures when he was no longer able to run the farm himself. He also loved going to the coast at Bar Harbor in the fifth wheel camper, with his wife. Having a site right on the ocean, he enjoyed walking the beach and showing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren the sea life from under the seaweed. It always put a smile on his face to see the big oak shade tree and the flowers he had planted at that site. Feeding the seagulls bread and giving the chipmunks sunflower seed and peanuts in the shells by the bowl full was a pleasure for him to watch. The chipmunks would come up and eat out of his hand.

He had a fondness for Fryeburg Fair and was a lifetime member. Most of his time was spent in the horse and oxen pulling arena with Cyanne and Lou although he liked walking the fairgrounds and seeing what the vendors had for sale. He was very fond of steak bombs, dough boys, pizzas, fries and apple strudel with ice cream. He never missed a year, until 2012 while on his way to Fryeburg, his truck caught fire. While at Fryeburg he made a yearly trip to New Hampshire where he liked to shop at the Christmas Loft, Barton and Reid Gift Shop and the Chocolate Factory. Sweets was his passion and he would often eat his desserts before his main meal.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife; and a brother, John, of Winslow.

Survivors include a daughter, Susan Schoenig and husband Lewis Schoenig; daughter, Bonnie Averill, of Waterville; and a stepdaughter, Deborah Green; grandchildren, Cyanne Schoenig and Jordan Thornhill.

Following cremation there will be no funeral services or celebration of life at his request. Roger stated his true family saw him every day and weekly and called him on the phone and with his Facebook. Roger said everyone that loved him visited and spent time with him at the home where he lived and passed away. He and his wife’s ashes will be placed in one urn and they will be buried together at their family cemetery in Benton on the home place where they lived.

NORMAN B. MOODY

VASSALBORO – Norman B. Moody, 92, passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023. He was born on May 21, 2023. He was the son of the late Annie (Bradstreet) and Norman O. Moody.

Norman grew up in Augusta and, after graduating from Cony High School, he became a master plumber. In 1971 he married the love of his life, Avis Stevens Moody. They resided in Vassalboro for the remainder of their lives. They loved spending time at their cottage on Sheepscot Lake, in Palermo. They shared their love for the camp with family and friends.

Norman felt very strongly about getting an education. Norman and Avis started the Norman and Avis Moody Foundation through the University of Maine system to help send high school graduates to college who might not otherwise have had the means to go.

Norman was predeceased by his wife Avis; his sister, Martha Robillard, a sister-in-law, Donna Moody; a stepson, Dana Killam; and a granddaughter, Jessica.

He is survived by grandchildren Brian, Sherri, Steven, Jennifer, Matt, Tom, Jonathan; and Jeremy and his wife Rachel and their three children. Also, great-nieces and nephews; as well as great-grandchildren; his brother, Arnold Moody; stepsons Gary and Jim Killam; nieces Nanette and Sara; nephews Dan and his wife Wilma and Norman.

At his request, there will be no visiting hours. A graveside committal was held on Tuesday, May 30, at Branch Mills Cemetery, China.

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

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

BETTY SMITH

SIDNEY – Relatives and friends are invited to a spring committal service for Betty Smith, 92, of Sidney, who died December 11, 2022, at 1 p.m., on Friday, June 2, at Springer Cemetery, River Road, Sidney.

ELIZABETH FERLAND

WINSLOW – Graveside service for Elizabeth Ferland will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery, Waterville, Saturday, June 3, at 10 a.m.

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 25, 2023

SUSAN WILLIAMSON

JEFFERSON – Susan Williamson’s passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023, following more than a three-year increasingly difficult battle with a very debilitating Parkinson’s like disease (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy – PSP).

Susie was a graduate of Pittsford High School, in upstate New York, and Cornell University, where she majored in home economics.

Following graduation, she taught high school for a year in Webster, New York, and then married and joined her BFF, Bill, in Japan, where he was serving in the U.S. Army. While there, they lived in the town of Chitose and Susie taught English as a second language, in Sapporo, soon to be the site of the ’72 Winter Olympics.

Susie could be very enjoyably persuasive when required. Like her father, who managed a nationwide sales force at Eastman Kodak, Susie got to know and positively influenced many people. She designed the family home in Framingham, Massachusetts, and her home making, design, and decorating here in Maine continues to bless her family.

She worked as the secretary of Plymouth Church, in Framingham, Massachusetts, and the chairman of numerous church committees. She also helped out as a substitute teacher in the school system where her boys were enrolled, managing to keep from embarrassing them while she helped their friends learn to cook. We remember her telling one unruly child that he had better behave because “she knew his mother.” Another time she casually mentioned to a general in the Army buying a pinball game in Japan, that it might not be the best purchase because his wife would probably object to all of the small balls and pieces. Her husband Bill, was quickly making himself a stranger on that one.

The family took many trips together over the years that Susie carefully planned. One of the favorites was a trip back to Japan with the boys to become reacquainted with many friends there. Tad had majored in Japanese while in college and served as a translator. Another trip was to the British Isles where they visited many historic sites, learned about Williamson history, drove on the left side of the road and enjoyed Monty Python tapes. Later, some of the people that were visited in Japan made trips to visit both in Massachusetts and in Maine, and the family was able to return the favor of their kind hospitality.

She is survived by her husband Bill; brother, Chip, of Laurel, Maryland; sons, Tad, of Merrimack, Massachusetts, and Tobey, of Rockland; and four grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the moment, but will be a private celebration of her life and the sharing of many good stories.

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

Because research is ongoing, and will hopefully save other families in the future from this truly terrible disease, in lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to CurePSP, 1216 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001.

ALTON O. DIXON

BENTON – Alton O. Dixon, 79, passed away on Friday, April 28, 2023. Alton (known by all as “Al”) was born on January 10, 1944, in Benton, the son of Ole and Emma (Rood) Dixon.

He was one of 13 children. Al graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1962, and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1963. In 1965, he married his wife, Cora, and went on to have four children.

Al was passionate about making a better life from the start. He was self-motivated and could always be found working, no matter the time of day. He is known locally as the founder and co-owner of Al’s Pizza and Al’s Drive-In, both inFairfield, which he and Cora first established in 1965. After more than 30 years in the restaurant business, Al decided to hang up his apron and pursue his interest in real estate investment.

Al’s gregarious and kind-hearted nature certainly contributed to his success in life. He was always willing to engage a friend or customer in conversation. Despite his relentless work ethic, Al found time to spend with his family and friends. He was an active member of the Benton Falls Congregational Church and was generous to the local causes he supported. Al leaves a legacy of hard-work, grit, and generosity. The family warmly invites friends and family to keep Al alive in their hearts as many were touched by his presence and are better because of that.

He was a strong, kind, loving, and supportive father and grandfather.

Al is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cora Dixon; and his children, June Dixon (Dana), Dean Dixon (Vickie), Dale Dixon (Mary), and Danyl Dixon (Kim); three grandchildren, Rachael Hook (Eric), Jimmy Dixon (Taylr), and Alexander Dixon.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday June 24, from 1 to 5 p.m., at O’Brien’s Event Center, 375 Main St., Waterville.

ALAN R. STEVENS

BELGRADE – Alan R. Stevens, 80, passed away Sunday, April 30, 2023, following a second battle with cancer.

He was an outdoorsmen, avid hunter, fisherman, and trapper. He grew up in Bingham and for some time worked in the fire towers

He was predeceased by his father Alan Elwood Stevens, his mother, and his brother Gary Stevens.

Alan is survived by one son Parker Stevens and his family, of Bingham.

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.

JOSEPH M. DUNN

BELGRADE – Joseph Michael Dunn, 45, died unexpectedly Thursday, May 11, 2023, at home. He was born February 11, 1978, in Augusta, the son of Gary William and Geraldine Rosaria (Dupuis) Dunn.

Joe grew up in Farmingdale where he made life-long friends he loved like family, dubbing themselves the “Bowman Street All-Stars”. He was a 1997 graduate of Hall-Dale High School where he was a natural born leader full of energy and mischief, which undoubtedly made many of his teachers question their choice of profession on more than one occasion.

After graduation, he moved to Portland where he attended Southern Maine Technical College, earning degrees in electrical technology and culinary arts. Joe worked as an electrician for many years, but like his Pépère Dupuis, was a born entrepreneur and went on to successfully own and operate his own business, Grass Root Grower, LLC, in Augusta.

He was an avid outdoorsman most of his life and enjoyed hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, gardening, and spending time with friends, family, and his dog, Kekoa. He treasured the time he spent going to concerts with his wife, their friends, and his youngest sister. Before illness restricted his mobility, he could be seen riding his motorcycle all summer long, traveling to Hawaii or putting on an unforgettable and death-defying fireworks display for his friends and family that put the town’s fireworks display to shame.

Joe was a thoughtful uncle; the kind that always thought to put money in the swear jar when his nieces and nephews were little – frequently paying in advance as he walked through the door. He would take them boating, fishing, camping, hiking and had recently begun revealing the best spots to pick fiddleheads. He loved to spoil them and whenever they had movie nights at his house, he would bring them to the store to pick out “pirate treats” and never tell them no, no matter how much junk food they filled the cart with. He was loved and will be dearly missed by so many.

He was generous in many ways toward so many people and he loved and accepted others despite their faults. As his illness progressed, both friends and relatives spoke life into him and ministered to him. His heart was open, and he looked forward to the day he would be in Heaven and rid of the pain and anguish that plagued his body and mind. We believe God’s promises to be true and know that Joe departed this world knowing, accepting, and believing in the one true God. He is now free of pain and full of the peace and joy that can only come from experiencing God’s presence. We look forward to the day we will see and laugh with him again.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, Kenneth and Audrey (Parsons) Dunn and Michel and Gertrude (Dube) Dupuis; aunts Diane (Dupuis) Hopper and Nancy Dupuis, uncle, Howard Spiller; cousins Shawn Devault and Dominique Harrington; and father-in-law, Daniel Williams.

Besides his parents, Joe is survived by his wife, Crystal (Williams) Dunn; stepdaughters Mary Jane and Miya Williams; his godsons Gavin and Mason Brill; mother-in-law, Wiliwan Tippe; sisters Danielle and her husband Shawn Brooks, and Jessica and her husband Jacob Norton; sister-in-law, Catherine and her husband Shamus Perfetto; nephews Noah, Jason, Ryan, and Christian Brooks, Elijah and Isaac Norton, Cody Davis, and Liam Perfetto; nieces Calleigh Brooks and Aubrey Norton; many aunts, uncles; cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 28, at 1 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. A celebration of life reception will immediately follow the service at the Augusta Elks Lodge. In honor of Joe, attendees are encouraged to wear Grass Root Grower or Tie Dye attire. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

ALICE GOGAN

WATERVILLE – Alice Gogan, 86, of Waterville, passed away Friday, May 12, 2023. She was born June 25, 1937.

Alice had a heart of gold. She never had much, but if you needed help she would give you the shirt off her back. Taking care of others and making sure they felt love and felt safe. When Alice was at Woodland, in Waterville, she would go check on all the other residents at night to make sure they had blankets to keep them warm. She never judged anyone and when she loved, her love never stopped.

Alice’s days were filled with loving and caring for her children, who were Bert and wife Linda, Becky and husband Rick from Texas, Lisa and Peter, from Connecticut, Jesse and wife Gay, Billy and wife Linda, Raymond, Rachel and husband Bun, Tina and husband Doug, of Maine. Alice had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; a sibling, Stella and her husband Leo “Junior”, of Maine; an extended family that she would never turn away.

Alice was predeceased by her parents Albert and Eva Cote; her siblings Roland and Juliette; and her daughter, Rhonda Shaw.

A graveside service was held on Friday May 19, at Ames Cemetery River Road, Benton.

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, the family requests donations be sent to an animal shelter of your choice in memory of Alice Gogan AKA (Jean Gogan). She loved animals.

SUZANNE BOUDIN

WATERVILLE – Suzanne “Sue” Boudin, 74, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a long illness. Sue was a lifelong Maine resident, born on January 4, 1949, in Lewiston, daughter of Constance and Robert LeBlanc, Sr.

She attended Sts. Peter and Paul Grammar School, St. Dominic Regional High School, in Lewiston, and received her B.A. from Rivier College, Nashua, New Hampshire.

She married in 1971 and had two sons, André Dumais and wife Alysia, of Vernon, Connecticut, Jean Paul Dumais and wife Amanda, of Saco. In 1982, she married Kenneth Boudin, of Waterville, the love of her life.

Family meant everything to Sue. One way she expressed that love was through the creation of cross-stitched wall hangings, celebrating family members’ weddings and newborn births. She and her husband Ken hosted summer family reunions at their camp on Lake Quantabacook, in Searsmont. It was always a beautiful family weekend, full of great food, boat rides, swimming, and family tales.

In an effort to create family memories, Sue began scrapbooking. After traveling, she would create scrapbooks depicting various travel adventures. Over the 40 years of marriage, Sue and Ken traveled to Australia and New Zealand, California, historic Richmond, Virginia, Nashville, Tennessee, Branson, Missouri, Austin and San Antonio, Texas, Kissimmee and Ft. Myers, Florida. Sister weeks took them to places such as the Shenandoah Valley, historic Virginia and Washington D.C., Sedona, Arizona, New Orleans, Louisiana, historic Charleston, SouthCarolina, and Savanah, Georgia, and the California San Francisco Bay area. Some of these trips have been documented through Sue’s outstanding scrapbooking.

During the COVID pandemic, Sue used her creative skills once again to make over 200 personalized masks for family members and the fellow patients at the DCI dialysis clinic.

There was never a challenge too big for Sue. With her organizational skills, she was a quick technology learner and then took on the challenge of teaching others. These organizational skills were also evident in her home and projects.

An avid reader, she enjoyed discussing and sharing the books that most appealed to her. It was also a part of the weekly ZOOM conversations with siblings during the COVID pandemic.

She is survived by her husband, Ken; her two sons, André and Jean Paul; four grandchildren, Jori of Syracuse, New York, Abegail, of San José, California, Reagen and Quinn, of Vernon, Connecticut; and three siblings, Jeannine Maloney, Robert LeBlanc Jr. and wife Diane, and Micheline LeBlanc and husband Thomas DeBoni; stepdaughters Susan Harvey and husband John, Jeannine Clark and husband Randy; stepson, Ken Jr. and wife Lori; five step-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Suzanne will be held at Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardner on Saturday, May 27, visiting hours will be from 10 a.m. to noon, followed at 1noon by a memorial service.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Suzanne’s most loved charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital via its website: stjude.org, phone number: 800-822-6344, or mailing address: 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

EMILY MARCHESI

WATERVILLE – Emily Marchesi passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Emily had only recently graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, with her degree in culinary arts and was so excited to begin her new job at a restaurant here in Maine. Her achievements were earned under some of the most difficult circumstances. She was so proud of what she had done and her family was, too. In her short life, Emily showed us not only how to conquer indescribable challenges, but how to do so with true grace, love, and compassion.

Emily’s greatest joy was her son, Jeremiah. She was his angel, and he was hers. Her love for him was unmatched by any other.

She is survived by her son Jeremiah; her parents Peter and Robin; her sister, Katie; her brothers Nick and Vinny; her sister-in-law, Nicole; her grandmother, Gail; her grandfather, Vincent; her niece, Harper; her aunts and uncles.

Her family and close friends will say goodbye to her privately, and a ceremony celebrating Emily’s short but beautiful life will take place in the coming months.

Condolences may be shared at FuneralAlternatives.net.

DANIEL P. MICHAUD

FAIRFIELD CENTER – Daniel P. Michaud, “Woodchuck”, passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023 following a courageous battle with Metastatic Melanoma.

Dan fought this battle as he lived his life with all the strength, determination, and faith, trusting that God had his back.

He worked hard, played hard, and loved hard. Dan’s love for the outdoors led him to become a Sawyer. He owned and operated Mr. Woodchuck’s Saw Mill for over 30 years. Anyone who knew Dan knew how hard he worked and how much he enjoyed knowing that his custom sawn pieces would be in his customer’s homes throughout the state.

His love of his land led him to recently build his second log home using the timber from his property, side by side with the love of his life and partner for over 30 years, Kim Giroux. Dan loved hunting and fishing. He and Kim spent many camping trips to Rangeley and Moosehead Lake, and many beautiful memories were created.

Dan is survived by his life partner, Kim Giroux, of Fairfield; his eldest son, Daniel Michaud Jr. who resides in Ventura, California, along with his wife Shawna; son, Lucien and eldest son Trey who reside in Grand Junction, Colorado; his youngest son, Jason who resides in Coral Springs, Florida, along with his fiancée Noreen D’agosta; a granddaughter, Olivia Beitel who resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico; two siblings, brother, David Michaud, of Parkman, and sister, Dianna Chapman, of Thomaston; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 11, at 1 p.m., at the Fairfield VFW, 246 Main St., Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, plant a tree!

FREDA GRANT

WINSLOW – Freda (Gagnon) Grant, 81, of Winslow, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born in a log cabin in Portage Lake, on April 27, 1942, the daughter of Ronaldo Gagnon and Bertha (Fortin) Gagnon.

She graduated from Winslow High School in 1959.

Freda worked in several positions over the course of her career, primarily as an insurance representative. Her employers included Boothby and Bartlett, in Waterville, where she worked for over 20 years, Napoleon and Louie Marcou-Attorneys, also in Waterville, the local telephone company, and the Wyandotte-Worsted Textile mill, in Waterville. After she retired in 2006, she worked part time at Thayer Campus of MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville, and volunteered in the gift shop.

Freda was predeceased by her parents Ronaldo and Bertha Gagnon, and her brother Reynold Gagnon.

She is survived by her children John Grant and his wife Ankeney Weitz, of Waterville; her daughter Amy Grant, of Winthrop; her grandsons Casey Grant, of Palmyra, and Miguel Schwiderke, of Asheville, North Carolina; and granddaughter Lily Schwiderke, of Lewiston; her sisters Linda Gagnon, of Winslow, and Ida McDonnell and her husband Michael, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, her fiancé John Harris, of Newcastle, Delaware.

Her incredible work ethic was something to see. Through it all, she was a fiercely devoted, protective, loving, generous, overly-doting mother. This she did by herself. If there was a Mt. Rushmore for single, working Moms … She was a completely devoted parent, friend, and grandparent. Especially grandparent.

She was a constant support and guiding light to Casey F. Grant. They spent hours together at a time and she took a colossal number of telephone calls from him, more than she would ever dare admit to his parents. Casey’s mother Teena French also held a special place in her heart.

She also doted endlessly on her grandson Miguel Schwiderke, no matter how often he messed up her hair. Given that he towered over her by 16 inches, it was just too tempting to him.

And her only granddaughter Lily was her favorite young lady by a country mile. Whenever Lily came to town, wild horses couldn’t keep her away.

She had a posse of loyal friends proclaiming about her razor-sharp wit. Her sense of humor saw her and her loved ones through even the darkest of times.

Visiting hours will be at Gallant Funeral Home, in Waterville, on Tuesday, May 30, from 2 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Freda’s name to Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England, 219 East Main Street, Suite 100B, Milford, MA 01757.

BETTY SPENCER

BENTON – Betty Spencer, 77, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023, following a brief hospital stay. She was born to Louise and Stephen Beauregard on July 12, 1945.

Being raised on a farm, she was always fond of animals and never afraid of hard work. She attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, where she was an active student body member. Most who knew Betty remember her as the bus driver. She drove bus for MSAD #49 for over 35 years, only retiring after seeing her eldest grandchildren graduate.

In her free time, Betty loved doing crossword puzzles, watching Jeopardy, and spending time with her loved ones. She loved to travel, whether to the Caribbean on a cruise or just to the coast of Maine with her family. Anyone who knew Betty knew she was an incredibly caring and loving person who lived every asset of her life to the fullest. It was impossible to go anywhere with Betty and have no one recognize her, and she would always remember a fun anecdote about them, too.

Betty was predeceased by her parents, Louise and Stephen Beauregard; and her brother, Stephen Beauregard, Jr.

She is survived by her sister, Marie Philbrook, of Clinton; her brothers Thomas Beauregard, of Foil, Missouri, and Paul Beauregard, of Skowhegan; her three daughters, Bobbi Bard, of Richmond, Amanda Spencer, of Benton, Rachel Sales, of Winslow; her son, Stephen Bard, of Benton; her eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Betty on Sunday, May 28, at Thomas College, West River Road, in Waterville, from 1 to 3 p.m., in the Summit Room, in the Spann Student Commons.

STANLEY D. CAMPBELL

VASSALBORO – Stanley David Campbell, 64, passed away suddenly and peacefully on Thursday, May 18, 2023, from a very rare Primary CNS large B-Cell brain lymphoma. Stan was born in Bangor, on August 20, 1958, the son of David S. and Jean M. (Conrad) Campbell.

During Stan’s childhood, his father served in the U.S. Air Force. He and his family spent time on military bases in England, the Philippines, Texas, Florida and eventually ended up settling again in Maine. Stan graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1976.

While working at Bonanza, in Waterville, after high school, Stan met the love of his life Mary-Ann (Carney) Campbell. They built a beautiful life together and would have celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary in June. Stan worked for the State of Maine-Maine Revenue Services for 40 years. He proudly ended his career as a deputy director.

Stan was a man who was full of life and always fun to be around. Forever a kid at heart, he loved to tease and pull pranks on family and friends. He was always looking for an adventure. Stan enjoyed making maple syrup and loved to welcome in family, neighbors, and friends to be part of the process. He was a league bowler in Augusta for over 40 years and enjoyed playing in the Augusta softball leagues in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. Stan loved the outdoors, spending time at the family camp on Indian Pond, gardening, golfing, and hunting with his crew and his son, Matt (his favorite hunting partner for the last 25 years). Stan was a wonderful Grandpa to his four grandchildren who enjoyed being in his company, playing games, telling stories, and laughing together.

Stan was predeceased by his mother Jean (Conrad) Campbell.

He is survived by his wife Mary-Ann (Carney); daughter Amanda Crommett, her husband Derek and their two children, Liam and Aly, of Manchester; son Matthew Campbell, his wife Erin (Hill) and their two children, Cohen and Griffin, of Sidney; his father David and his wife Madeline (Colby), of Augusta; his sister April Panosian and her husband Mike, of Whitefield; his brother Jeff and his wife Linda, of South China; his baby sister Sandy Weaver and her husband Darrin, of Windsor; his stepsister Cindy Colby and his stepbrother Danny Colby and his partner Kim St. Amand; his mother and father-in-law Bill and Carlene (Labonte) Carney; his sisters- and brothers- in- law, Debbie (Carney) Harrington and Shawn Harrington, Linda Carney-Smith and Larry Smith, Michael and Dyan Carney, Donald and Kathy Carney; and his many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life in Stan’s honor. Visiting hours will be held from 2 – 4 p.m. Friday, June 2, at the American Legion Post #205, 396 Eastern Ave., in Augusta, and will be followed by a casual ceremony. The celebration begins around 5 p.m., which will include food, beverages (BYOB), and live music.

The family wishes memorial contributions to be made to Make-A-Wish Maine, 66 Mussey Rd., Scarborough, ME 04074. Donations should indicate in memory of Stan Campbell.

ROBERT N. DAVIDSON

FAIRFIELD – Robert N. Davidson, 86, passed away peacefully at Mount Joseph, in Waterville, on October 12, 2022. Robert was born in Sangerville on October 16, 1935, the son of Warren and Janette (Arnold) Davidson.

He attended Abbott High School.

Robert went on to serve his country, serving eight years in the U.S. Army and another 12 years in the U.S. Air Force. He was a corrections officer for many years for the State of Maine. He met the love of his life, Doris, and together they raised their daughter.

Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus earning 3rd degree. He was active in his church and loved fishing, woodworking, and genealogy.

Robert was predeceased by his daughter, Debra Ann Chessa.

He is survived by his wife, Doris; his son-in-law, John Chessa; and his grandson, Anothony Chessa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Tuesday, May 30, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 SilverSt., Waterville, followed by a committal at Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, at noon.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 18, 2023

CHESTER E. POULIN

BENTON – Chester E. Poulin, 93, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023, following a brief illness. He was born in Water­ville, January 8, 1930, the son of Philippe and Elizabeth (Wintle) Poulin.

He attended school in Waterville, graduating from Waterville High School. On October 24, 1950, he married Natalie E. Johnston. They were happily married for 73 years. He was a dedicated father working three jobs to support his family.

He worked at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, for 40 years, as a paper maker, raising broiler chickens full time, he also gardened, running a well-known Market Garden, on Benton Avenue, in Benton, with many devoted customers who loved his fresh vegetables.

He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield. He loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed playing cribbage, hunting, fishing, golfing, sports, music, digging for antique bottles. Gardening was a passion, growing tomatoes, cucumbers, garlic, corn, plus many other vegetables. He was a generous person, all excess vegetables were donated to the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, the Muskie Center, in Waterville, or the Waterville Soup Kitchen, which he personally delivered every day.

He and Natalie wintered in Zephyrhills, Florida, for 24 years. They had many special friends, sharing many wonderful adventures.

He is survived by his children, Debra Rancourt and husband Larry, Michael and wife Terry, Stephen and wife Jeannine, Philippe, David and wife Amanda, Doreen Deroche, Andrea Longstreet and husband Jeff; his 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a daughter Darleen Morin; his father Philippe, his mother Elizabeth Poulin, two sisters Irene Nadeau, Julienne Poirier, and four brothers Louis, Percy, Ronald and Raymond Poulin.

Funeral services for Chester are being provided by Lawry Brother’s Funeral Home, in Fairfield, on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Visiting hours will begin at 2 p.m., with a time for sharing and remembrance at 2:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3p.m.

Interment will be at the St. Francis Cemetery in Waterville, Maine.

MARY M. GOWER

WATERVILLE – Mary Margaret Cyr (Gill) Gower, 86, passed away peacefully on Wed­nesday, April 26, 2023, following a short illness. Mary was born at home in Fairfield on June 21, 1936, to Mabel Cecile Galarneau and Lawrence Henry Cyr.

Mary attended schools in Fairfield and Benton. She married Carl Alton Gill on October 17, 1953. She worked many places in Waterville, at the Steam Laundry, McLellan’s, The Elms Restaurant, and as a waitress in Farmington. In later years she worked at Pleasant Hill Nursing Home and HealthCare Agencies, as a Personal Care Attendant, and finally, caring for elderly people in their homes, retiring on October 17, 1997.

Mary began quilting after she retired, gifting family and friends with those quilts, which are cherished. She was a lover of photos and memories, and liked to keep her mind sharp by doing word-find and jigsaw puzzles. Mary also loved to cook, and was well known for sharing those meals and goodies with family, friends and neighbors. In her younger days, Mary loved to dance! Most recently she was remembering her joy as a child running in the strawberry fields out on the farm.

Mary was predeceased by her parents; baby son Boyd Quentin, baby daughter Marianne Rose, sons Alton and Vincent Gill; sisters Florence Cyr, Gloria Grenier, Dorothy (Susie) Landwehr and Julia Fortin, brothers Lawrence Jr. and Richard Cyr; first husband Carl Gill, second husband Stanley Gower, life-partner and father of three sons, Herbert Gilley; sisters-in-law Vina Birchall and Eda Wilson, brother-in-law Ronald Wilson; and special niece Debbie Williams.

Mary is survived by sons, David W. Gill and partner Anne, Francis A. Gill, Ronald H. Gill and partner Pat Alonzo, Terence D. Gill; stepson Larry Palow, and daughters-in-law Barbara Livingstone and Eileen Gill; remaining in-laws Paul Wilson, Maynard Wilson, Gloria White, and Marjorie Wilson; granddaughters Selena Gill, Autumn Grace Gill Murtagh and Alisa Gill, along with grandchildren Justin, Karl, Raymond, Heather, Chantelle, Veronica, Missy, Brad, Abel, Micah; and great-grandson Anthony, besides many more great-grands. Mary wished for nieces Carol Cummings and Susan Boynton to be especially mentioned, along with additional nieces, nephews, and cousins.

All are welcome to attend the graveside remembrance for Mary at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, on June 10, 2023, at 11 a.m.

If you would like to honor Mary’s memory, please consider a donation to an animal shelter or: a homeless shelter or, the Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers.

BARBARA HANSON

WATERVILLE – Barbara Hanson, 96, passed away at the Auburn Hospice House, on Friday, April 28, 2023. Barbara was born in Ripley on May 31, 1926, the daughter of Agnes and Everett Ross.

She attended and graduated from the Hartland School District.

Barbara spent many years working for Federal Trust Co. bank, in Waterville, and various offices after that when it closed. She loved her volunteer work at Thayer hospital for many years.

She enjoyed going to Florida during the cold winters and spent her time there playing cards with lots of friends, playing shuffleboard, and enjoying the many restaurants with friends. She enjoyed her camp in St. Albans and family during the summer months.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Gareth Hanson; her son Gregory Hanson; her brother Charles Ross; and her stepfather Celon Sweet.

She is survived by her sons Aaron Hanson and wife Peggy, of Kingfield, Kevin Hanson and wife Marcia, of Waterville; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at the Veterans Cemetery, at noon, located at 163 Mt. Vernon Road in Augusta.

Donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the Auburn Hospice House, 236 Stetson Rd., Auburn, ME 04210.

DANA J. LaLIBERTE

SKOWHEGAN – Dana Jon Laliberte, 69, passed away on Monday, May 1, 2023, in Skowhegan. He was born in Waterville on May 23, 1953, the son of Bernard and Ann Laliberte.

He was an extraordinarily talented three-sport athlete. In his senior year at Waterville High School, Dana was the quarterback and captain of the football team, captain and high scorer for the hockey team that won the New England championship, and captain of the baseball team. He matriculated at Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, where he played on the freshman football and baseball teams and was a member of two ECAC Division II championship hockey teams in 1975 and 1976. He graduated in 1976, with a major in Classics. Dana was president and social chairman of Alpha Kappa Sigma Fraternity while at Bowdoin.

Following graduation, Dana earned a Juris Doctor degree in 1980 from the Franklin Pierce Law Center, in Concord, New Hampshire. After passing the New Hampshire Bar exam, he was hired as a police legal advisor and City Prosecutor, in Dover, New Hampshire. In 1983, he passed the Maine bar and moved to the Portland area, where he was an assistant district attorney for several years.

Dana was predeceased by his father, Bernie “Boom-Boom” Laliberte in 2004, and mother, Ann Poliquin Laliberte, in 2022.

He is survived by his children, Nate Laliberte (age 42), and grandson Aiden (age 2), Kyle Laliberte Randall (age 33), and Katie Laliberte Randall (age 27); his sisters, Linda Laliberte-Cote and her husband, Claude Cote, of Lincoln, Rhode Island, and Jefferson, and Karen Laliberte and her husband, Dr. John Niles, of Acton, Massachusetts, and Boothbay Harbor; many nieces and nephews.

The family will have a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, on Friday, June 16, at 1 p.m.; all are welcome to come and share memories.

Memorial donations may be made in Dana’s name to Portland Recovery Community Center at portlandrecovery.org.

JOSEPH “GUS” MATHIEU

CHINA – Joseph “Gus” Mathieu, 96, of China Village (formerly of Waterville), passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, following a short illness. Gus was born in Waterville in 1926, son of David Mathieu and Yvonne Giguere Mathieu, both originally from Québec, Canada, before moving to Waterville.

Gus lived independently all but eight weeks of his life.

Gus attended elementary school in Waterville, which at the time, was in French. He graduated from Coburn Classical Institute in 1945, in Waterville, and earned a degree in textile engineering at New Bedford Textile Institute in 1948, now called U. Massachusetts at Dartmouth. It was at college where he met Ann.

Gus worked at Bates Mills, in Lewiston, as a textile engineer before joining his father’s Auto Body repair business in Waterville, David Mathieu Company. David Mathieu Company eventually became one of the oldest businesses in Waterville, closing its doors in April 2023 after 95 years of operation.

Gus and Ann raised their six children in Waterville and spent every summer on China Lake, where they lived full time the last 30 years. They also spent over 25 years in Florida during the winter months, mostly in the Port Charlotte area.

Gus well known for his sense of humor, spirit of adventure, community spirit, and generosity to his family. Among his favorite adventures was driving his Model T Ford from Waterville to New Bedford, Massachusetts, and back in 1976. In 1978 he purchased a train caboose and relocated it to the Sugarloaf area, where it still stands. Always up for a challenge, he ran from Waterville to China Lake (12 miles) when he turned 50 and when he turned 62 hiked West and Avery Peak, on the Bigelow Range, for the first time on a beautiful fall day. As a giver to the community, Gus spent time and resources at the Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen, in Waterville, and participated in several community fundraisers.

Aside from his love for adventure, Gus was passionate about restoring antique cars, officiating at Colby College track events, boating on China Lake, eating lobster, volunteering at charities and food banks, and watching his own children’s sports events. He loved fishing, motorcycling, and most of all, family gatherings.

Surviving Gus is his wife of 72 years, Ann Natasha Nazarchyk Mathieu; and six children and their spouses, Joseph “Joe” Mathieu Jr. (wife, Pam), of Santa Cruz, California, Barbara Themo (husband, Steve Themo) of Milford, Massachusetts, James “Jimi” Mathieu (wife, Janice Hallee), of Fairfield Center, John Mathieu (wife, Stacey), of Bath, Jeffrey Mathieu (wife, Karen), of Coatsville, Pennsylvania, and Heidi Mathieu (husband Ron Dextraze), from Whitefield, New Hampshire; 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

As per Gus’ request no memorial service will be held.

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

Cards can be sent to his wife of 72 years; Ann Mathieu, The Woodlands Room 30, 147 West River Road, Waterville, Maine 04901.

NATALIE E. POULIN

BENTON – Natalie E. Poulin, 91, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Woodlands Memory Care, in Waterville, following a long illness. She was born January 21, 1932, to Arthur and Inez (Smith) Johnston of Caribou.

Her family moved to Winslow where she attended Winslow High School, graduating in 1949. She married Chester E. Poulin, on October 24, 1950. Chester was the love of her life, and they were married for 73 years.

Natalie was a wonderful mother and homemaker to her family. She was very talented and creative. She loved flowers, growing herbs, vegetable gardening, decorating, antiques, crafting, making dolls, sculpting Santa’s, flower arranging, drying flowers and herbs. She was an excellent cook; the grandchildren loved her homemade pickles and cookies.

She was a member of the Fairfield History House. Natalie worked alongside her husband growing vegetables and tending their family Vegetable Stand, on Benton Avenue, for many years. She loved meeting customers, making them feel special, and sharing her flowers and herbs. She was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield. She and Chester wintered in Zephyrhills, Florida, for 24 years, where they shared many special friends and adventures.

She was predeceased by her husband Chester, sisters, Maxine Johnson-Seamans, and Arlene Seamans.

She and husband Chester had eight children, Debra Rancourt and husband Larry, Michael and wife Terry, Stephen and wife Jeannine, Philippe, David and wife Amanda, Doreen Deroche, Andrea Longstreet and husband Jeff, and predeceased daughter Darleen Morin. Natalie had 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren she enjoyed spending time with. She is also survived by her sister Ellen Romanowski.

Funeral services for Natalie are being provided by Lawry Brother’s Funeral home in Fairfield on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Visiting hours will begin at 2 p.m., with a time for sharing and remembrance at 2:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m. Interment will be at the St. Francis Cemetery in Waterville.

M. THERESA DUTIL

WATERVILLE – M. Theresa Dutil, 94, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023. She was born on August 11, 1928, in Waterville, to Charles and Marie Theriault.

She attended and graduated from Waterville schools, and in her early years, worked as a secretary for businesses in the area. On April 30, 1955, she married the love of her life, Norman Dutil, surrounded by the love of their friends and family.

Theresa came from a large French-Canadian family and enjoyed crossing paths with others who spoke French.

She enjoyed playing her piano (self-taught), crafts, puzzles, traveling, competing with her bowling league, playing cards, dancing with her husband and spending time with her family. She enjoyed supporting her favorite teams, the New England Patriots and the Boston Bruins, and especially loved swimming and canoeing on Oak Pond. Theresa and Norman also made journeys to casinos, where they celebrated their frequent wins playing the penny slot machines.

She devoted her time raising her two daughters, prior to accomplishing 10 years as a housekeeper at Colby College, in Waterville.

She was also a lifelong active member of Notre Dame Church/Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville.

Family members always knew her loving door was open if they needed a place to stay. It did not matter how old you were, everyone always left their home carrying a goody bag filled with a variety of refrigerated chocolates, bullseye caramels, and a stomach full of spaghetti. She also made homemade bread and loved giving it out to family and friends.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Frances, Peter, Timothy, Martin, George, and Arthur, sisters, Agnes, Estelle, Regina, and Amanda. Also, by her brother-in-law Arthur.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years Norman Dutil; two daughters, Linda Pooler husband Mike, Tina Principato husband Richard; four grandchildren, Jenny Warger husband Jason, Brock Pooler wife Michelle, U.S. Marine Sgt. Lucas Principato, and Eli Principato; great-grandchildren, Ellie and Cutter Warger, Emma and Riley Pooler; many nieces and nephews; her sister-in-law Dorothy Romano and brother-in-law Marlin Dutil.

Per her request she will not have services at this time.

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

VIRGINIA R. CLARK

ALBION – Virginia R. Clark, 87, of Albion passed away Sunday May 7, 2023, in her granddaughters’ home. Virginia was born November 21, 1935, daughter of Raymond and Lilian (Furrow) Austin of Thorndike.

She graduated from Freedom Academy, in 1954, and married Harvey Clark on June 18, 1955.

Virginia was a caring housewife and mother of five children and dedicated her life to taking care of them. After Harvey passed away, she became a Nanny for Ed and Ann Ervin, of Waterville.

Virginia enjoyed attending church services, listening to music, watching baseball, decorating for Christmas, crocheting, and hanging out in the community room with dear friends Pauline and Evelyn.

Virginia was predeceased by her husband Harvey Clark, of 25 years; daughters Deborah Jean Clark and Rose DePino; grandson Robert Hubbard; mother and father Raymond and Lilian Austin; brothers Paul Austin and wife Laura, Earnest Austin and wife Lois.

She is survived by son Bruce Clark and wife Lisa, of Fairfield; her daughters Ruth Clark and husband Mike, of Live Oak, Florida, Cheryl J. Gould and husband Galen, of Vassalboro; sister Sylvia Elliot, of Oswego, New York; son-in-law John DePino, of East Ellijay, Georgia; grandchildren Nicole Stewart and husband Mike, of Albion, Dustin Woodward and wife Angelina, of Bangor, Marissa Greenlaw and husband Justin, of Winslow, Breanne Christian and husband JJ, of Clermont, Florida; great-grandchildren, Sage Brown, Ryan Brown, Ashtynn Stewart, Mike Stewart, Jude Greenlaw, Spencer Greenlaw, Urijah Christian, Matthew Christian; and a special mention to the Ervin children Kate, Ned, and Carrie whom she loved so much.

A graveside service was held Saturday May 13, at Quaker Hill Cemetery, in Unity.

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

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

GERALDINE P. NIMON

WATERVILLE – Geraldine “Gerry” P. Nimon, 97, of Woodlands, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. She was born December 19, 1925, in Waterville, the daughter of Ernest and Isabelle (Parody) Pooler.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1943.

Gerry was a communicant of St. Joseph Maronite Church, in Waterville.

She retired from New England Telephone Co., in 1982, following 30 years of service.

Gerry enjoyed going to the fairs, listening to music, knitting mittens for the Telephone Pioneers for school children, watching TV, watching the Boston Celtics and Boston Red Sox, reading and using her computer.

She was a life member of Forrest J. Pare VFW Auxiliary #1285, in Waterville, where she held a variety of offices, a member of the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Unit #14, of Fairfield, and a member of the Kennebec Life Member Club of the Telephone Co.

Gerry was predeceased by her husband John in 1995; son John Gerald in 1973, and daughter Judith in 1947; also by brothers Donald, Leland, Bernard, and Carleton.

She is survived by her three grandchildren, Richard J. Nimon and wife Melissa, Shirley M Wiles and Sherry M Forrester; six great-grandchildren, Steven Edgecomb, Eric Worthing, Donald Brochu, Ricky Corbett, Lance Maxim and Sadi Nimon; seven great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Sophie Pooler; a niece Sandra Paulette, and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will take place at 11 a.m., on Friday, May 19, 2023, at St Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Humane Societh Water Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901 or to the American Diabetes Society, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

RODNEY GRADY

CHELSEA – Rodney Grady (Zeke to many) passed away Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at his home in Chelsea, following a lengthy illness with cancer. He was born in Gardiner on August 10, 1940, the son of Arthur and June (Harris) Grady. Rodney “Zeke” graduated in 1958 from Gardiner High School.

Rodney loved to tease and always had a joke and a laugh. After a few odd jobs, he started the career he loved the most. Where he became a top trainer or near the top at every Standard Bred Harness Horse Racetrack he went to, in and out of New England. Rodney was very well known for taking young drivers and grooms under his wing and making them much sought after trainers and very successful catch drivers. Rodney (Uncle Zeke’s) love and knowledge of the horses has been passed onto his nephew, Hunter, whom he was very proud of.

Rodney was predeceased by his parents June and Arthur Grady; three sisters, Marvina Davis of Richmond, Geraldine (Gerrie) Merrill of Chelsea, and Penny Perry of Addison.

Rodney is survived by his wife of 58 years Nettie; son and daughter-in-law Bill and Anne Grady, of Florida; daughter Pam Grady (Lill), of Florida; granddaughter Brandi; great-grandson Jaydyn (JJ), of Pittston; sister Kay Myers, of Wiscasset, and brother and sister-in-law Everett and Sandra Reynolds, of Vassalboro; many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the American Legion Post #4, 46 Griffin Street, Gardiner, on Thursday, May 18, 2023 between the hours of 4 – 8 p.m.

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.

ROBERT PERRY

BENTON – Robert Perry, 93, of Benton, passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. He was born March 2, 1930, in Portland, the son of Roland E. and Theresa M. Perry.

He married the late Norma B. Emerson, of Portland, in 1952. They had three sons, John Perry and his wife Margaret, Andrew Perry and his wife Beth, and the late Peter Perry and his wife Jo Anne, all of Winslow.

Robert is survived by grandsons Christopher Perry and his wife Amy and their children, Matthew, Grant, and Mason, and James and his wife Jennifer and their sons Theodore and Sullivan; granddaughters Kathryn Perry, and Alison and Andrea Perry.

At the request of the deceased, there will be no visiting hours or flowers.

A memorial service for Robert will be held on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 11:30 a.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, Maine.

A private burial will follow the service, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Bath, Maine.

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

MARC LIZOTTE

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Marc Lizotte, 75, passed away on Saturday, April 22, 2023, in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was born on March 21, 1948, in Augusta. He lived his youthful years in Winslow, Maine. Marc attended Winslow schools and graduated from Winslow High School.

He later made his home in Corpus Christi and lived his final days there.

He was predeceased by his mother, his father Louis Lizotte and stepmother Doris Lizotte.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 11, 2023

FRANCIS E. PURNELL

WATERVILLE – Francis E. Purnell, 83, passed away in the early morning hours on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, following a brief illness. Born in Waterville in 1939, he was the only child of Harry and Kathleen Purnell.

After graduating from Waterville High School, he honorably served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1958 to 1962.

Fran spent his career with Ace Tire and Bill’s Tire, both in Waterville, selling truck tires to customers throughout Maine and parts of Canada until he retired. However, he came out of retirement to work with his sons at Granite Corp., in Oakland, where he helped in all possible ways he could.

Fran’s love for animals was second only to his love of baseball. He generously gave his time to work with the local Little League Baseball community, which led to numerous accolades, including proclamation days for the city of Waterville and the renaming of Matthews Field to Purnell Field in recognition of his more than 45 years of service and dedication.

Fran and his wife Joyce believed every child deserved the opportunity to play baseball, and thus they started a new league, the Challenger Division, for handicapped children in the area. Over the years, countless local children had the opportunity to don a uniform and play baseball, thanks to Fran’s unrelenting dedication. He even went so far as to organize games between local baseball/softball teams, parents, and other volunteers, so that the handicapped children had teams to play against.

In 2014, Fran met Ken Walsh, from the Alfond Youth Center, who became a son to Fran and Joyce. Fran retired and passed the baton to Ken, who worked tirelessly to develop Purnell Wrigley Field, a legacy that will be forever remembered.

Fran’s wife of 63 years, Joyce, was behind him every step of the way in supporting his visions and dreams, and together, they learned to share his time with many children in the community, giving them the opportunity to participate in local baseball.

Fran is survived by his wife that he married on May 14, 1960, Joyce; and their three children, Christopher Purnell, Debra Poulin and her fiancé Lou Berthel, Kevin A. Purnell and his wife Lisa; grandchildren, Kevin II and Stephanie Purnell, Nicholas and Jamie Purnell, Max and Mikayla Poulin, Abigail Poulin and her fiancé Tyler Bartlett, Katie Purnell, Ariana and Peter Lepage, Kendall Purnell, and Ashley and Matthew Woodbury; great-grandchildren, Ryker, Livia, Piper, Gavin, Theodore, Brynn, Korbin, Kaycen, Greyson, Grady, and one more due in September; his cousin, Richard Purnell; sisters-in-law, Celeste and her husband David Harris, sister-in-law, Arlene and her husband Gordon Jones, sister-in-law, Annette Rancourt, Muriel Rancourt, and Pat Rancourt; and brother-in-law, Robert LaChance; his nieces and nephews.

Fran was predeceased by great-grandson, Brayden; his sister-in-law, Shirley LaChance, as well as his brothers-in-law Carl, Earl, and David Rancourt.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, May 17, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, followed by a Celebration of Life, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Notre Dame Church Hall. Burial will be in the Niche Wall at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Blue Star Highway, Augusta at a later time established by family and friends.

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, donations and contributions can be made in Fran’s memory to the Purnell Baseball Endowment Fund at the Alfond Youth and Community Center, 126 North St., Waterville, ME 04901, or follow this link https://alfondyouthcenter-ivsrq.formstack.com/forms/untitled_form_13_copy_copy_1.

RONNIE RETAMAR

CHINA – Ronnie Retamar, 57, of China, passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, following a prolonged battle with Sclero­derma. He was born on Feb­ruary 8, 1966, to Puerto Rican parents in St. Vincent Hospital in the major industrial city of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

He lived a colorful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. In his early 20s, he journeyed to Maine, where he met his life partner, Steven Keaten. They were together for over three decades, sharing their lives and building a beautiful home until Ronnie’s passing.

Ronnie grew up in Connecticut and Puerto Rico, attending schools in Connecticut and earned a CNA certificate from the Job Corp, in Bangor. He worked in many places as a CNA and later as a waiter in several restaurants in Kennebec County until disabilities forced him to retire much sooner than he wanted. He found deep fulfillment in his careers where he took great pride in caring for his patients and making sure customers always received a great dining experience.

Ronnie was a happy, non-judgmental soul who welcomed everyone with an open heart. A heart of 24-karat gold. He had a contagious spirit and laughter that would spark up any room and he never missed a chance to dance. Oh, how he could dance, having learned from his siblings.

Ronnie was also very connected with his native Taino roots and collected jewelry and memorabilia of Indigenous communities. He loved watching films and traveling, having visited all 50 states and he was a lover of photos and memories. He enjoyed hosting family gatherings and was always the life of the party. He maintained community over social media and phone calls with loved ones, near and far, and his warm personality would make anyone feel at home. Gloria, his mother, will especially miss the long calls and the sound of his voice, sharing stories, and catching up on each other’s lives.

Ever dashing and dapper, Ronnie had an eye for the finer things in life and his appreciation for elegance, jewelry and thrifting was a shared passion between mother and son. Much of his time was spent antiquing with his partner, Steven and sister-in-law, Julie Searles, tending to his plants and gardening. His home was a testament to his impeccable taste. His home was his sanctuary, and his doors were always open.

Throughout his life, Ronnie remained a constant source of unconditional love and support for his family. From birthdays to graduations and weddings, Ronnie was always present for every significant life event. Despite the distance between them, he never missed an opportunity to be there for his daughter, Jenny Patron and his grandchildren’s important milestones. His commitment to his family was a testament to his unwavering loyalty and nurturing spirit.

As the family historian, photos of his ancestry and family were of utmost importance to him. They were some of his most prized possessions, and he valued them dearly. Ronnie and his partner, Steven, were very active in local politics. They were a force to be reckoned with, and ever the humanitarian, Ronnie was passionate about making a tangible difference.

Ronnie was predeceased by his father, Edelmiro Retamar; brother, Alfredo “Freddy” Carrion; and son, Andrew Keaten.

He is survived by his mother, Gloria Esther Morales-Alicea of Bridgeport, Connecticut; his lifelong partner, Steven Keaten, of China; his brother, Angel Carrion, of Camuy, Puerto Rico; his sister, Marilyn Galindo and husband Luis Galindo, of Fitchburg, Massachusetts; his brother, Robin Retamar and his sister, Michelle Retamar, both of Bridgeport, Connecticut; his daughter, Jenny Patron and his grandchildren Marcus Ramirez and Jaydalee Ramirez of Meriden, Connecticut; his son, Evan Keaten and wife Lydiyah Hawkins, of Clyde, Texas; his daughter, Sarah Keaten and his grandchildren Sapphira Davis and Julian Davis, of Abilene, Texas; his brothers-in-law, Daniel Keaten, of Brighton Plantation, and Derek Keaten and wife Donna Keaten; his sisters-in-law Julie Searles and husband Larry Searles, Sherri Arris and husband Robert Arris, all of Skowhegan; dozens of nieces and nephews.

A graveside memorial service to honor the life of Ronnie Retamar will be held at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, May 30, at the Mount Rest Cemetery, in Athens. Following the ceremony, a joyful celebration of his life will be hosted at the Somerset Academy on Academy Street in Athens.

The arrangements have been thoughtfully handled by Smart & Edwards Funeral Home in Skowhegan. Family and friends are welcome to join together in paying their respects and celebrating the memory of Ronnie’s remarkable life.

SHEILA M. LEMIEUX

VASSALBORO – Sheila M. Lemieux, 69, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, April 18,2023. She was born in Waterville, on May 1, 1953, the daughter of Cornelius and Fern (Leathers) Lemieux.

She attended local schools and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1971.

After graduation she was employed by Deschaine’s Market, in North Vassalboro, and Colby College, in Waterville.

She enjoyed visiting and helping neighbors around town. When at home, she was often crafting, writing letters and quilting, which she learned from her mother and grandmother. She shared these talents while spending time with her ladies group, Pins and Needles, at the Methodist Church. Tigger, her cat, was her cherished companion. She often shared his antics with everyone. They enjoyed feeding and watching wildlife together.

Sheila loved seeing sunrises and would look forward to getting pictures of them from all over the state when her nephew, Ben, was travelling.

Sheila was predeceased by her parents, brother, Wayne, her niece, Sarah, and two great nieces.

She is survived by her brothers, Bernard and his wife, Pam, of Vassalboro, Keith and his wife, Karen, of Winslow; and sister-in-law, Ruth, of Benton; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held at The Mill, 934 Main St, Vassalboro, on Saturday June 17, 2023, from 2 – 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the Lemieux family respectfully requests contributions in Sheila’s memory be made to either the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, Maine 04901, or the Vassalboro Food Pantry, 679 Main Street, Vassalboro, Maine 04989.

Arrangements are in the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremations and Funeral in Skowhegan, where memories can be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/sheila-lemieux.

BETTY F. HUNT

FAIRFIELD – Betty (Fenlason) Hunt, 93, passed away Saturday, April 22, 2023. She was born October 28, 1929, the youngest child of Roy and Nina (Jameson) Fenlason.

Betty attended the Goodwill Hinckley School, in Hinckley, and on May 31, 1947, she married Richard Irving Hunt Sr. The two settled on the family farm in Fairfield, raising sons Richard Jr. and David. Some years later, she was remarried to John Hunt.

In her younger years, Betty was employed at W. T. Grant’s, in Waterville, in the pet department and was known as the “fish lady.” The majority of her working years, she was employed by The Curtain Shop, in Waterville, where she retired. Betty was a member of the Eastern Star and attended church at the Fairfield Center United Methodist Church.

Betty enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, crosswords, and playing cards with her girlfriends, “The Merry Widows.” She was famous for her divinity fudge and lemon chiffon pie, savored by all at family gatherings.

She was predeceased by her husbands Richard Hunt Sr. and John Hunt; son, Richard Hunt Jr.; and siblings, Lyle “Ike” Fenlason, Beryl Fenlason, Mary Dewitt, Ruth Drysdale, Hildred Peterson, and Leah Obe.

She will be missed by her son, David Hunt and his wife Martha; grandchildren, Joshua Hunt and Samantha Maheu and her husband J-Sun Bailey; great-grandchildren, Margaret “Maggie” Maheu, and Charlotte Cowan; her cousin and best friend, Gracie Boyden; and family, Jean Murphy, Barbara Striker, Louise Savage, Tim Hunt; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 25 at 12 p.m. at The Fairfield Center United Methodist Church.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Betty’s name may be made to The Fairfield Food Pantry.

GLENNA B. JORDAN

WINSLOW – Glenna B. Jordan, 89, passed away on Sunday, 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.

She graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1951. She was married to Floyd E. Jordan on June 9, 1951, sharing 61 years prior to his death in 2012.

Most of her working career was with Salter Corporation (formerly Stewart and Williams Inc.), Augusta, until the company closed in 1985. Final employment was with Kennebec Water Power Company, in Waterville.

She was a member and deacon of the South China Com­munity Church, as well as a choir member for much of that time. In earlier years, she served as Sunday School superintendent and later served as the church secretary for many years until retiring in 2012. She remained active in church leadership and participating in church fund raising projects.

She was a life member and Past Worthy Matron of Lily of the Valley, Chapter #157, OES, Weeks Mills.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by husband, Floyd; son, Kermit and son-in-law, Larry Delucchi.

She is survived by daughters Patricia Delucchi and Deborah Gillcash and her husband Mark; grandchildren Darci Campbellton and her husband Nate, Amy Gillcash and Casey Gillcash; a former daughter-in-law, Jane Govostes and her husband John.

At her request, there will be no visiting hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the South China Community Church, Village Street, South China. A private committal of both Glenna and Floyd’s ashes will follow that service.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to do so may make donations to South China Community Church, Living Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 335, South China, ME 04358.

LAURENCE E. FURBUSH

OAKLAND – Laurence E. Furbush, 88, of Oakland, passed away peacefully following a long illness on Sunday, April 30, 2023. He was born May 6, 1934, in Rome, and was married to Frances (Robinson) for the past 68 years.

During his lifetime he worked 43 years for Hollingsworth and Whitney Paper Co., Scott Paper Company, both in Winslow, and Sappi Fine Papers Corporation, in Hinckley. He was a longtime member of the Oakland and Fairfield Church of the Nazarene where he held multiple positions including two mission trips to Africa and Costa Rica with the Work and Witness organization. He also loved to travel and was devoted to his children, and especially to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Frances; children Hope and husband Paul, Robin and husband Reggie, and Aaron and wife Jean; his grandchildren Gary, Nick, Jason, Lance, Nate, Amanda, Chad, Alicia, and Kevin; along with 18 great-grandchildren, Hunter, Hayden, Owen, Kylee, Haylie, Brayden, Codi, Brooklyn, Olivia, Logan, Chase, Kaleb, Isaac, Harper, Matthew, Cruz, Andrew, and Rose; also his great-great-grandchildren Wesley and Wyatt; by his sister, Janice; and brother, Jimmy.

He was predeceased by his father, Frank Furbush Sr., and his mother, Martha (Foss); along with brothers Frank Jr., Wesley, Clarence, Gerald and sister, Shirley.

At his request there will be no funeral, however graveside services will be held at a later date.

SHEILA THOMAS

SIDNEY – Sheila Thomas, 69, passed away peacefully in her sleep, Saturday morning, April 29, 2023. Sheila was born in Waterville on June 10, 1953, the daughter of Albert and Joan (Clark) Cote.

Sheila graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1971. She worked for nearly 30 years as a piece worker, and floor manager at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, of Waterville. She studied mental health and human services at UMA, and after earning her bachelor’s degree, went to work for Beckett Academy, of Belgrade, before retiring.

She loved gladiolas, tiger lilies, lilacs, and daisies. She also loved hummingbirds, origami, and spending time at the beach with her grandchildren, as well as spending quality time with her mom. She also liked creating gifts through crocheting for her loved ones. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by many.

She was predeceased by her father, Albert Cote, mother, Joan Cote; brothers, Larry Cote, and Paul Cote.

Sheila is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Toby Thomas and Robyn Small; daughter, Katie Bauer; granddaughters Bridgette Bauer, Amber Bauer, and Raechyl Pooler; grandson, Dylan Bauer; great-granddaughter, Elayna Pooler; her ex-husband, Johnny Thomas; and ex-son-in-law, Mike Bauer.

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home. kincerfuneralhome.com.

SANDRA STURTEVANT

EAST MILLINOCKET – Sandra Lord Sturtevant, 73, passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, from pancreatic cancer. She was born in Waterville, on August 7, 1949, the daughter of John and Kay (McQuillan) Lord.

She attended Vassalboro and Waterville schools and graduated from the University of Maine in 1971.

All her working years, including volunteer, were in the social services field. She was a fan of day hikes, gardening, trips to camp, running when younger and jogging when older, all her pets and Maine hockey.

Survivors include her husband of 50 years, Patrick; son Brooks and wife Brenna and their two children, Baxter and Lyddie, all of Franklin, Veermont; son Colby, of Denver, Colorado; brother Jack Lord and partner Karla Sturtevant; sister-in-law Jan Sturtevant.

A service will be held at her camp at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Penobscot Valley Humane Society, 1 Park Ave., Lincoln, Maine 04457.

C. RICHARD LaCASCE

WATERVILLE – C. Richard “Dick” LaCasce, 94, died peacefully following a period of declining health on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at his home, in Waterville. He was born November 28, 1928, in Portland.

Dick grew up in Fryeburg. An Eagle Scout, avid skier, and high school athlete, he graduated from Fryeburg Academy in 1946. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict and then returned to his home state to earn his B.S. in business administration from the University of Maine in 1973.

After 28 years of service, Dick retired in 1990 from the State of Maine Bureau of Public Improvements, where he served as Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. He enjoyed an active lifelong membership at the YMCA as well as hunting and camping. Later in life he discovered his love for music.

He is survived by his daughter, Reva Merrill and husband, Dean, of Anson; son, Tom LaCasce and wife, Cindy, of Claremont, New Hampshire; grandchildren Robin, Elizabeth, Rachel, Catherine, and Ryan; great-grandchildren Lacey, Adelinn, Kenley, Jasmine, Holly, Henry, Kilee, Johannah, Emmylou, James, and Josephine; sister-in-law Jeanne; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dick was predeceased by his wife, Nancy (Hill) after 66 years of marriage; parents, Raymond and Helen (French) LaCasce; and brother, James.

In following Richard’s wishes, all services are at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren St., Fryeburg. To make an online condolence please visit http://www.woodfuneralhome.org.

Those wishing to make donations in his memory may do so to the Fryeburg Academy Alumni Fund, 745 Main St., Fryeburg, ME, 04037; or Kennebec Valley YMCA, 31 Union St., Augusta, ME 04330.

DEATH NOTICE

JOHN R. MAROON

SCARBOROUGH – John R. Maroon, 94, of Scarborough, formerly of Waterville/ Winslow, passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Hobbs Funeral Home, 671 U.S. Route 1, in Scarborough. See full obituary at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com.

JACQUELINE S. KORBET

PHOENIX, Arizona – Jacqueline Sue Korbet, 39, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, in Phoenix, Arizona, due to respiratory failure. She was born December 22, 1983, in Portland.

Jackie grew up in Sidney and loved outdoor sports. She started kayaking Maine streams at 16 years old. She was inspired to explore by an untamed spirit of adventure like Lewis and Clark.

She graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 2002, and attended the University of Maine Orono. In the summer of 2003, she became a Registered Maine White Water Rafting Guide on both the Dead River and Kennebec River, in Maine. Jackie was accepted into the student exchange program in her sophomore year with Ft. Lewis College, Durango, Colorado. So, in 2003 she left for Colorado in her Toyota Tercel with her skis, mountain bike and kayak on the roof.

She fell in love with the Rockies, and this is when she started her first career. She spent the better part of her youth chasing rivers, absorbing the infinite beauty and knowledge the world offers. She was a certified raft guide on many rivers like Hells Canyon, Snake River; Middle Fork, Salmon River; and Madison River; just to name a few. She traveled from Alaska in 2009 to the Southern Patagonia Alps in 2010.

Jackie became a professional ski patroller and dog handler while working at Big Sky, Montana. She also received her EMT certificate in 2006 and again in 2010. Jackie and her dog, Atlas, were professional certified Avalanche Rescue and was Wilderness Search and Rescue in the states of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

She continued with her degree with a major in outdoor sport management. In 2015 a rattle snake bite almost took her life. This is when she changed her major so she could pursue a career as a physician assistant. Jackie graduated with honors from Montana State University 2017 with a B.S. Degree in Microbiology.

In 2019 she was accepted to Rocky Mountain College, in Billings, Montana, for a master’s degree in physician assistant. While waiting for her acceptance she became the first woman licensed fly-fishing guide in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

She went to several different states doing her rotations during Covid. This included Maine. Jackie started her second career as an emergency room physician assistant at Yavapai Regional Medical Center, in Prescott and Prescott Valley, Arizona. She loved her job and was incredibly good at it. She made numerous new friends that absolutely loved her dearly. She always had a positive attitude and would be able to lift your spirits with just a few words or a smile and a hug. Once you met her you felt like you had known her forever, like an old friend. She had such an inner peace that a lot of people strive for but can never find. Jackie had the ability to capture the beauty in the world and did so in many pictures and her artwork.

She is survived by her parents, Stephen and Sue Korbet, of Sidney; brothers Matthew, of Cape Canaveral, Florida, Gregory, of Topsham, and Jon, of Sidney; sisters-in-law; two nieces, four nephews; six aunts, five uncles; and 17 cousins. She also leaves her longtime friend who she loved very much, Hayes Buxton, of McAlister, Montana, who is now caretaker of her beloved puppy, Bodhi.

For more pictures of her extraordinary life, visit: share.photocircleapp.com/album/DM3CDYHKW7.

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 4, 2023

LAURIE A. McFADDEN

FAIRFIELD – Laurie Ann (Campbell) McFadden, 54, of Fairfield, passed away Thursday, April 6, 2023, at her home. She was born May 30, 1969, in Waterville, the daughter of Rayola (Pease) Welch and Robert Campbell.

She attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. Laurie loved camping, working around her yard, and her three dogs. She enjoyed spending time with her family.

She is survived by her mother, Rayola (Pease) Welch; two children, Christopher Snow and Katelynn Grenier; one granddaughter, Katherine Grenier; and nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

She was predeceased by two sisters, Connie and Bonnie.

Burial service will be at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scotts Cremation and Funeral Service.

THOMAS G. COWARD

FAIRFIELD – Thomas G. Coward, 61, of Fairfield, formerly of Mon­mouth, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday April 18, 2023, at his home. Tom was born in Woburn, Massachusetts, on January 29, 1962, a son to Norman F. and Agnes P. (Warren) Coward.

Tom had a deep appreciation for family, and he took great pride in his own, especially his grandchildren. Before recently moving to Fairfield, he was a resident of Monmouth for many years.

Throughout his life, and as owner/operator of Mid-Maine Foundations, Tom exemplified hard work and dedication. Outside of work, he most loved spending time with his family and close friends. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hiking, snowmobiling with his friend Richard, ATVing, boating, and traveling the state. When he wasn’t on an outdoor adventure, Tom could be found working around his yard, feeding the deer, watching Yellowstone, or learning about Alaska.

He is survived by his children, Nicole Paul and husband Austin, of Winthrop, Dale Coward and wife Cory, of Auburn, Crystal Hatch and husband Brian, of Monmouth, Jessica Wilbur and husband Jesse, of Biddeford, Brian Hlister and fiancée Ashley Vo, of California, Justine Schroeder, of Palmyra; 12 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his son, Philip M. Coward, who passed away in 2014; as well as his sisters Donna Gowell, Brenda Coward and Mary Nilsson.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 6, at 11 a.m., at the Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St. Winthrop. Interment will follow in East Monmouth Cemetery where Tom will be buried with his son, Philip. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

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

ROBERT C. MORRISSETTE

BENTON – Robert Charles Morrissette, 88, of Benton, passed away peacefully in his “little shack in the woods” on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, following a short illness. Bob was born September 6, 1934, in Waterville, and lived in the greater Waterville area his entire life.

He joined the U.S. Navy in 1952 and served four years. He began a career as an insurance agent with State Farm Insurance; however, his uncle, Vernal Furbush, saw more potential and encouraged him to join the Furbush Chevrolet business, in Waterville, as the loan manager in 1968. He moved quickly up through the company, ending as the general manager in 1975. In 1976, he opened his own used car business, Morrissette, Inc., on College Avenue, in Waterville. He remained active in this business until his passing – though he “officially” retired around 2000.

Bob loved cars! Not only did he make a living running Morrissette, Inc., with son, David, for nearly 50 years, he found great enjoyment in tracking down and buying classic cars for his personal use. He’s had several Cadillacs, one Bentley and four Rolls Royces, going so far as having one shipped from Hawaii. He achieved a dream when he bought that first Rolls Royce.

Bob also enjoyed the peace and quiet of being in the woods. In the early years of married life in Sidney, he cut firewood, bulldozed roads and even tried his hand at dam building and creating a trout pond. In later years, he donated many, many man-hours and machine-hours to the Rotary Centennial Trail section of the Kennebec/Messalonskee Trail system, creating trails, access roads and a parking lot at the Benton/Winslow trail and mowing and maintaining many walking paths. He met so many kind people while doing this work – several that became close friends. And, he always made the dogs on the trails happy with a pocketful of treats. On his own property, he cleared and maintained a network of walking trails so he could stroll along and watch the eagles soaring along the river, catching fish to feed the young in a nest near his house. He enjoyed his trails and his eagles right up until his final days.

Bob and his friend, Arthur Thompson, were a common sight around central Maine hauling tractors that Bob was buying and selling. Arthur was the “muscle man” at 92!

Bob is survived by his three children, Daniel and partner Jennie, David and partner Trenetta, and Janet and husband Pat; grandchildren Nicole, Morgan, Cori and Sydney; great-grandchildren Layla, Cash and AnnElyse; his sister Ruth Albenze; and, his former wife, Simone Kramer.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Odilon and Violet (Norman) Morrissette; brother Harold Morrissette; grandson and namesake Cameron Robert Morrissette; and several beloved relatives and friends.

A graveside celebration of life for family and friends will be held on Sunday, May 7, at 2 p.m., at the Benton Falls Cemetery, in Benton. A private family gathering will follow.

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.

JOHN PAUL HALL

SIDNEY – John Paul “Chef” Hall, 65, died Friday, April 21, 2023, at the Veterans Administration Medical and Regional Office at Togus, following a brief illness. He was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, on June 2, 1957, a son of the late George M. and Lillian B. (Paradis) Hall.

Mr. Hall was a graduate of Wilby High School and earned a couple of associate’s degrees while serving in the Army.

He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving with the Army as a career from 1975 through 1995, first as an infantryman, then as military Pplice.

After retiring from the Army, John worked as an overseas contractor. He then worked for the United States government as a desk officer overseeing construction and security for American Embassies all over the world. He has been in many foreign countries during his career.

Mr. Hall was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, the Legion Riders, Patriot Riders and the Blue Knights.

John loved riding his motorcycles with his friends Perry and Bob. He was quite a comedian, just like his father. He kept everyone laughing and was the life of the party.

He was predeceased by his parents and a twin brother, James J. Hall.

Mr. Hall is survived by two children, George M. Hall, of Pflugerville, Texas, and Jesseca Izquierdo, of Houston, Texas; his sister Becky L. Leveille, of Sidney; as well as a niece and several nephews and cousins.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours. A graveside service with military honors will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Ave., Augusta.

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

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

The family requests that donations in John’s memory be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

COLLEEN SABAN

PALERMO – Colleen Saban, 95, of Palermo, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 23, 2023. She was born on December 12, 1927, in Presque Isle, to Roy C. and Maud (Sinclair) Robideau.

She attended schools in Aroostook County and later Erskine Academy, in South China.

She moved to South China in November 1941. Colleen married Millard Saban Jr. on November 20, 1948, and lived in Palermo. She worked at Health-Tex and Kilroy Army and Navy Store.

She was a member of the American Legion Extension, the Sheepscot Fish and Game Club, the Palermo Grange, the snowmobile club and the Palermo Christian Church, where she made may friends.

Her hobbies were cooking, knitting and crochet, counted cross stitching, hunting, fishing, reading, doing puzzles, and, most of all, playing the piano and giving piano lessons to many children.

She was predeceased by her husband Millard Saban, Jr.; her mother and father; and her brother Richard R. Robideau; many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, May 2, at Smith Cemetery, Level Hill Road Palermo, beside her husband.

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.

JUNE M. DAY

CLINTON – June M. (Levasseur) Day, 83, formerly of Winslow and Vassalboro, died Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn. She was born in Winslow on June 1, 1939, the daughter of Edmond and Antoinette (Roy) Levasseur.

June had fond memories of her childhood. She grew up in a large, but close family. In a home filled with her mother’s love. June passed that love down to her children and grandchildren.

Like many French children at the time June did not learn to speak English until she attended grade school. Later in life she proclaimed not to remember how to speak French, but in fact spoke it fluently when provoked.

June graduated from Winslow High School in 1957. She married Robert Day in 1963, and then moved to Vassalboro, where she raised her children and lived for the next 47 years.

She worked as a seamstress at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, for many years, however, her primary occupation was being a mother. She was a mom not only to her boys, but also a second mom to countless number of their friends.

June steadfastly endured endless “mishaps” and shenanigans through her sons’ teenage years, which for the boys extended well into their 20s. The fact that both reached adulthood unscathed is a testament to both her mothering skills and to the strength of prayer.

June cared deeply for the people around her and devoted her entire life to her family. Becoming a mère was the pinnacle of her existence. Her boundless love, her kindness (and a few French words) will be forever etched in her grandchildren’s memories.

June enjoyed hosting family holidays, especially Christmas. In addition to spending time with her family, she also loved watching football and the Boston Bruins (her dubbers) and visiting the coast.

We will most miss her hugs and her laugh, and of course her cabbage rolls, molasses cookies, dill pickles, and homemade pies.

June was predeceased by her parents; brothers Edmund (Donald), Conrad, Michael, James, Philip and Paul, and sisters Marie Levasseur, Lucille Gagnon, Jeanne Rodrigue, and Ann Merrill.

June is survived by son Robert Day and wife Ginger, of Clinton; son Marc Day and wife Jenniffer, of Cornville; grandchildren Kara and Justin; her sister Claire Paron, of Florida; sisters-in-law Ginger Levasseur, of Auburn, Lorraine Levasseur, of Sidney, and Sue Levasseur, of Albion; and brother-in-law Albert Rodrigue Jr., of Winslow.

There will be a private family committal held at the St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

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.

VERNIE FRENCH

WEEKS MILLS—Vernie French, 87, passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born December 22, 1939, a daughter of James and Marion (Bowman) Haskell Sr..

Vernie grew up in Weeks Mills and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in the class of 1953. She went on to marry Vivan French on July 31, 1954, and the two raised a family in Weeks Mills.

Throughout her life, Vernie held a variety of jobs, the most important one being “Mom”. She was a devoted wife and mother, the matriarch of her family. With an independent spirit and determination, Vernie could accomplish anything, even with six children by her side. She was an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed quilting and embroidery.

She was was a long-time member of the Dirigo Road Bible Church, in Weeks Mills. When the church was unable to hold services, she would open her home and host parishioners. She was a prayer warrior and studied her Bible frequently.

She was predeceased by her husband, Vivan French; her sons, Randy French, Lawrence French, and Keith French; and her siblings, Charles Haskell, James Haskell Jr., Lawrence Haskell, and Betty Keene.

She is survived by her children, Amy Irish and her husband Pete, Roy French and his wife Hope, and Steven French and his wife Karen; daughters-in-law, Penelope French and Penny French; 17 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Georgia Watson, Virginia Wellman, and Gary Haskell and his wife Kathy.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 4, at 11 a.m., at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China.

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

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

ANITA L. SALMON

WATERVILLE – Anita Lorraine (Lamothe) Salmon, 92, of Waterville, passed peacefully on Monday, April 24, 2023, due to natural causes. Anita was born on December 14, 1930, in Newport, Vermont. She was the daughter of Florence and Ernest Lamothe.

Anita graduated from the nursing program at Fanny Allen Hospital in 1952 as her class Salutatorian. Her occupational nursing career began in Chicago, Illinois, and ended in New Jersey, where she resided for more than 50 years. She was always a consummate professional and earned the admiration of her colleagues.

An avid golfer at the North Jersey Country Club, in New Jersey, she was named “most improved golfer” for three consecutive years. She also served as president of the Passaic County, New Jersey Cancer Society, where she was a strong advocate. She enjoyed singing with the Roy Meyers Singers, in New Jersey. She also enjoyed reading and spending time with her family and friends and especially her beloved dachshund, Molly.

She is survived by her five children, Gale Auclair (David), of Augusta, Louis Michael Andreotta, Jr., (Barbara), of Brattleboro, Vermont, Craig Andreotta (Laurel), Laurel Townsend Long, of Neptune City, New Jersey, and Rachel Andreotta, of Augusta; eight grandchildren, Craig Lumbra (Lindsay), of Galena Ohio, Brandon Andreotta, of Bakersfield, Vermont, Sean Andreotta (Carissa), of Tampa, Florida, Nicholas Andreotta, Christopher Andreotta, Brittany Long, of Neptune City, New Jersey, Jacob Rosen, of Washington, DC, and Emily Rosen, of Fullerton, California; two great-grandchildren, Mia and Leyton Lumbra, of Galena, Ohio; as well as Whitney Draper, her dear friend.

She was predeceased by her parents, Florence and Ernest Lamothe; sister, Theresa Goulet, and brothers Maurice Lamothe, Rudolph Lamothe, Roger Lamothe and Roland Lamothe.

A graveside celebration of her life will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Newport, Vermont, later in 2023.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society of your choice in her honor.

For more information, kindly contact her daughter, Rachel Andreotta at rachand66@gmail.com

MARILYN I. FLAGG

JEFFERSON – Marilyn Isabel Taylor Flagg “Peggy”, 93, passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Born July 22, 1929, Peggy was the youngest of seven children, growing up on a dairy farm in Lyman.

Peggy met and married the love of her life, Pastor Raymond Flagg, Jr., at Gorham State Teacher’s Collage. They married in 1950, making their home in Jefferson and raising five children.

Peggy was a devout Christian, a homemaker, a loving mother, an avid reader, a 4-H leader and a prolific writer. Peggy served alongside her minister husband, Ray, in area churches. Her children, grandchildren, and friends admired her cooking and baking skills, and her recipes live on in her published cookbook Recipes for My Family and Remembrances of Childhood Days, 2009.

Peggy graduated from the University of Maine with a BS in Education and received her MA from Bangor Theological Seminary. She was the Jefferson correspondent for the Courier Gazette and the Lincoln County News for over 45 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, of Jefferson, and United Baptist Church, in South Jefferson, for many years.

She participated in Macedonian Ministries and the Knox and Lincoln County Cooperative Extension Service. Peggy was a longtime member of Willow Grange and of the former Lakeview Eastern Star – having served as Worthy Matron.

Her children were proud of her service to the surrounding communities as a Literacy Volunteer. Peggy taught elementary school in area schools for many years and was known as a dedicated teacher.

Peggy was predeceased by her husband, Pastor Raymond Flagg, Jr.; grandson Jason Flagg; and son-in-law Jeffrey Mank, and was the last surviving child of her parents, Curtis Clarence Taylor and Cordelia Alberta Drew Taylor, and her siblings, Celeste Kimball, William Taylor, Jean Small, Claire Scammon, Curtis Clarence Taylor, Jr. (Jim) and Katherine Jo Drown.

Peggy is survived by her children and their spouses, Linda and Donald LaCasce, of Solon, Delia and William Lufkin, of Warren, Robert Flagg and Linda Spydell, of Jefferson, Patricia and Perry Goodspeed III, of Islesboro, and Candace and Damon Hilton, of Jefferson; her grandchildren, Amy McDougal (Cory), of Solon, Eileen Foley (Bryan), of Winchendon, Massachusetts, Beverly LaCasce, of Solon, Marjory LaCasce, of Solon, Dawn Andrick (Curt), Melissa Habib (Tabish), and Sarah McClean (Ashton), all of Warren, R. Forrest Flagg III, of Orono, Perry Goodspeed IV, of Lewiston, Kate Goodspeed Whitney, of Windham, Joseph Flagg (Stacy), and Nicole Mank, both of Jefferson; great-grandchildren, Christopher Foley, Brandon Foley, Kyle Foley, Riley Flagg, Natalie Flagg, Kaydence Barbour, Elias Whitney, Ryan Andrick, Nathan Andrick, Zain Habib, Kamram Habib, Grace McClean and Ella Mae McClean.

A time of visitation will be held on Sunday, May 7, 2023, from 2 – 4 p.m., at Hall Funeral Home, 949 Main Street, in Waldoboro. Peggy’s Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 2 p.m., at the First Baptist Church, 24 Waldoboro Road, in Jefferson.

Hall’s of Waldoboro has care of the arrangements. To extend online condolences, light a candle for Peggy, or to share a story or picture, please visit Peggy’s Book of Memories at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com

Memorial donations may be made to the Jefferson Food Pantry, PO Box 208, Jefferson, ME 04348

SUZANNE M. POOLER

OAKLAND – Suzanne Marie (Michaud) Pooler, 58, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, from dementia. Sue was born on March 17, 1965, in Augusta, to Richard and Joyce Michaud, and graduated from Cony High School in 1983. She attended Mid-State College, in Augusta, and the University of Maine at Augusta, where she earned her bachelor of science in business management in 1995.

Being a lifelong learner, Sue went on to Thomas College, in Waterville, where she earned her master of business administration and was inducted into Sigma Beta Delta in 1997. During her time earning various degrees, she worked as the business manager for Dr. James Davis, DDS, dental practice, in Lewiston, Director of Financial Aid at Mid-State College, in Augusta, Adjunct Faculty, at Thomas College, and ended her working career in 2011 as the Assistant Dean for Graduate and Continuing Education at Thomas College, in Waterville.

She always said the best part of her work in education was helping students succeed. Sue also volunteered her time with the United Way of Mid Maine, serving on various committees and as the board chair in 2010.

Sue met her husband Michael Pooler while they were both students at Thomas College and were married on February 13, 1998. Sue was an avid birder, loved shopping with her sister Mary and spending time “upta camp” with family and friends, especially neighbors, Nancy and Dave Vanorse.

Sue was predeceased by their daughter Kathrine Mary Pooler; her parents Richard Michaud and Joyce Foster, and mother-in-law Mary Pooler.

She is survived by her husband Colonel (retired) Michael Pooler, of Oakland; sister Mary Michaud, of Augusta; aunt Carol Judkins, of Manchester; cousin Gaila and Tom Beach, of Biddeford; father-in-law Dan Pooler, of Brewer, in-laws, Kathy (Pooler) and Steve Smith, of Troy, Rod and Jill Pooler, of New Gloucester, Jim and Michelle Pooler, of Morrill; nieces Jessica Smith, Lauren McArthur, Abbie Berry and Grace Pooler; nephews Ryan Pooler and Austin Turner; and the great- nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours and a Celebration of Life will be at Wheeler Funeral Home at 26 Church St., Oakland, Maine. Visiting hours are from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 4 and a Celebration of Life will begin at noon, on Friday, May 5, followed by a gathering at Governor’s restaurant, in Waterville. A private interment will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation in memory of Suzanne Pooler to the Augusta Maine Veterans Homes, 35 Hero’s Way, Augusta, ME 04330 or at http://www.MaineVets.org.

MEREDITH E. CRESS-VASHON

NORTH CAROLINA – Meredith Evelyn (Haney) Cress-Vashon died Thursday, March 23, 2023, in North Carolina. She was born on October 14, 1930, in Water­ville.

Meredith was the fourth of seven children of James E. and Susan M. Haney (Boles). Siblings include Margaret Kibbin (Haney), Albert Haney, Leroy Haney, Leslie Haney, and Hazel Spires (Haney).

Meredith attended grade school in Augusta. Classmate and friend Alexander Soule, daughter of then Governor Soule, would often give her a ride to school in the governor’s limo. Meredith graduated Valedictorian from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1948, and was awarded a four-year scholarship to the University of Maine. As a teen, she could be found at a local Augusta radio station playing guitar, singing, and yodeling with her brothers Albert and Roy. She was a fantastic guitar player and yodeler!

Meredith married James K. Cress in 1949. They moved to Windsor Locks, Connecticut, in 1950. Meredith worked as a credit investigator for The Hartford Bank, in West Hartford, Connecticut, for 18 years. She then worked as a bank teller in Fairfield for 15 years. She left banking to become an executive secretary to William Zimba, of Zimba Company, in Fairfield, retiring in 1995.

Meredith was a constant presence at Benton’s town meetings and 30 years of state and local elections where she served as a ballot clerk. Meredith was a volunteer for various organizations from United Way, BIA and MS foundation, and could be seen at many events supporting the staff and participants. Rainbow was Meredith’s outlet for her brilliant seamstress skills. Creating beautiful gowns for both her daughter Susan and her granddaughters Samantha and Stephanie, as well as other Rainbow girls over the years. She was known far and wide in Rainbow and loved by all for her constant presence and support.

Meredith married Roy F. Vashon in 1992. Together, they served the community by donating food to the church soup kitchen and community pantry from their large garden. She attended St John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow, and participating in church suppers and community food events.

Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. You could always expect Nana Vashon to deliver homemade cupcakes to the classroom and be in the audience during a school performance.

Meredith is survived by her children Barbara Zook, of Panama, her children James Randolph, John Gannon, of Virginia, Megan Major (Gannon), Kenny Zook, of Tennessee, Susan and her husband Kurt Tidd, of North Carolina, and their children Stephanie Getchell, of Connecticut, and Samantha Getchell, of Maine; 10 grandchildren; two grreat-grandchildren; her brother Leslie Haney and his wife Paula, of Connecticut.

Meredith was predeceased by her husband Roy Vashon, and several of her siblings.

A celebration of Meredith was held Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 11:30 a.m., Ames Cemetery, in Benton.

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.

CAROL L. SOUCY

BELGRADE – Carol Lynn Soucy, passed away on Sunday, April 9, 2023, peacefully at home.

She is survived by her four children, Nancy M. Doiron, of Gardiner, Mark A. Soucy, John A. Soucy and Jeffrey A. Soucy, all of Mount Vernon; 20 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; her sisters Victoria Ames, of Benton, Rita Duemmling, of Fairfield; and brother Frank Taylor, of Waldoboro.

She was predeceased by her father, Roger A. Soucy, her second husband, George A. Soucy, as well as four brothers, Alfred Taylor, Arthur Taylor, Raymond Taylor and Robert Taylor, and four sisters, Leona Soucy, Irene Dubriel, Betty Lou Truman and Mildred Sukeforth.

A Celebration of Life gathering was held at the Manchester Lions Club, in Manchester, on Saturday, April 29, 2023.

 

 

 

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 27, 2023

RUTH M. GERVAIS

UNITY – Ruth M. Gervais, 96, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. She was born April 13, 1926, in Presque Isle, to Fay and Fern (Good) Parks.

She attended schools in Presque Isle, Sidney, and Waterville High School. She was married to Philip L. Gervais in 1947, and they had three children.

In the ’40s she was employed in the office of the Edwards Mfg. Co., in Augusta. After marriage, she took care of the Gervais Refrigeration Co. for 50 years, at home, while raising her children. The family lived near Chicago in the ’50s and ’60s where she worked for the Elgin Watch Co. for a year. In the ’70s she was town clerk of Warner, New Hampshire.

She was always a member of a church and the Eastern Star. She enjoyed writing, reading and nature. While living in New Hampshire, she went for long walks in the woods almost daily.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Gloria Gervais, and son, James Gervais, both of Unity.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Betty Gervais; parents Fay and Fern Parks; brother, Roland Parks; and sister, Iris Clark.

A funeral will be announced at a later date. Burial will be at the Springer Cemetery, in Sidney.

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.

WILLIAM F. DAVENPORT

CHELSEA – William Forrest Davenport, 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Bill was born on July 6, 1949.

He spent his childhood years in Whitefield before he set out into the world as a young man serving in the U.S. Navy. His years as a sailor led him to points around the world and countries far away, which most likely played a hand in his uncanny ability to tell jokes and drop one liners with the best of them.

Once his sailing days were over, Bill went on to spend a few years in Florida and California before his love of Maine and the inability to get Allens and Yellow Cap brought him back home. He settled down in Chelsea and called it home for the rest of his life where he was surrounded by ping pong playing buddies, and neighborhood kids eager to use every power tool in the garage.

Bill knew what it took to be a classic Mainer, the type not confined by an office or a schedule. The type not afraid to try any style of work, to do it well, then go do something else the next day. Over the years, he spent time being a carpenter, digging worms, climbing trees with chainsaws, and lastly, helping the “Maine Cabin Masters”. Bill was with the crew filming the pilot episode up in the Allagash back in 2015 and right along side them up to the end, on set during filming just a few weeks ago. You would think that being on dozens of episodes of a popular TV show would be his greatest accomplishment, not even close! Reconnecting and spending time with his daughter, Chana, son-in-law, Stephen and becoming a grandfather to Jordan Wallace Keating, was by far his proudest and most cherished accomplishment.

Like a lot of classic, legendary Maine men, Bill was the type of guy who some may say looked a bit rough on the exterior, but had a heart of gold. He was selfless, always willing and insisting to give you what he could, and not afraid to tell you like it is. Over the years, Bill had many great friends with a few people that were really special and meant a lot to him. He helped raise Joe Andrews and Rebecca Travis, and was very proud of being a part of their lives.

And lastly, he was an accomplished pilot. As he told it…” his dad would cut wood and he would pile it”.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Chana Danielle Keating (Garmier), husband Stephen Michael Keating, and his grandson, Jordan Wallace Keating, all of Florida; sister, Flora Peyton and husband Marc Moonlight, of Colorado; sister, Florence Harrelson, of Maine; and brother, Howard Davenport, of Colorado.

He was predeceased by his father, William F. Davenport Sr., and his mother, Barbara R. Davenport (Trainor).

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023, at the Woodshed, in Manchester, 911 Western Ave., from 4 – 7 p.m.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

DIANNE P. WINKLEY

WINDSOR – Dianne Patricia Winkley, 80, passed away on Thursday, April 6, 2023. She was born on October 27, 1942, the daughter of Harold and Margaret (Murphy) Grosser.

Dianne grew up in Liberty and attended local schools. She met Charles Winkley and the two were married on June 24, 1961, and made their home in Windsor on the family farm, raising their four sons.

Dianne was a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox and enjoyed watching baseball games. She was an excellent cook and was famous for her yeast rolls. A talented craftswoman, Dianne crocheted countless treasures for her family and friends. For over 30 years, she held a booth at the Windsor fair, selling her crocheted dolls, stuffed animals, mittens, blankets, and baby clothing.

She was predeceased by her infant son, James Winkley; her parents; her siblings, Betty, Billy, and Sandra; her husband, Charles Winkley; and granddaughter Jennifer.

She is survived by her sons, Brian Winkley and his wife Diana, Mark Winkley and his wife Debbie, Timothy Winkley and his wife Sherry and Wayne Winkley; grandchildren, BJ, Thomas, Christopher, Amanda, Tabitha, Zack, Nicole, Craig and Jeremy; several great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews; along with daughters she never had Theresa and Tammy and their children.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at the funeral home.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dianne’s name may be made to Special Olympics Maine, Attn: Phil, 525 Main St. Unit D, South Portland, ME 04106 or accepted at Capital Area Federal Credit Union.

NANCY R. FINLEY

VASSALBORO – Nancy R. Finley, 87, passed away Monday, April 10, 2023, at her residence, in Vassalboro. She was born in Waterville on September 29, 1935, the daughter of Donald and Evelyn Steeves Osborne.

She was one of six children – three boys and three girls. She was educated in the school systems of Guilford, graduating in 1954.

In 1957 she married Richard Finley from Monson. Nancy moved to Virginia and later West Virginia after graduation accompanying her husband, Dick, as he went to work for the U.S. Forest Service.

She returned from West Virginia in 1967, moving into a residence in Monson where she lived with husband, Dick, until 1970. Then they moved to Winslow and lived there until 1973, when they bought a house in East Vassalboro and lived there the rest of her life.

She was the secretary at Carl B. Lord School, in North Vassalboro, in the ’70s and was a hospice volunteer.

Nancy and Dick were avid snowmobilers in their later years, racking up some 5000-6000 miles or so each year.

Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Richard W. Finley.

She is survived by her son, Michael, of North Vassalboro; and one brother, Rick Osborne and family, in Pennsylvania.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

ROSE T. MANZO

WINSLOW – Rose Theresa Manzo, 95, passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023. She was born in Boston, Massaschusetts, on September 7, 1927, to Valentino Valeriani and Mary (Woodward) Valeriani.

She was always the light of the room and a laugh to be heard. If she didn’t know you, she’d be sure to make friends with you. She was always up for anything, including dancing, drinking wine, and all the pranks pulled on her.

She was known for her generous heart and love of life.

She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Henry Manzo; son, James Manzo; sisters Tina Jamerson and Virginia Esposito and brothers Joe, Harry, Don, and Bob Valeriani.

She is survived by her children, daughter Linda Wysocki, son John (Liz) Manzo, and daughter Gena (Dave) Poulin; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Wednesday, April 26, at St. John Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow. Her burial was private.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., 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 the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Services, 19 Colby St., Waterville, ME 04901, the Muskie Center, 38 Gold St., Waterville, ME 04901, or Maine Children’s Home, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

MARCIA H. MOODY

SIDNEY – Marcia Hinckley Moody, 93, of Sidney, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at her home. Marcia was born October 23, 1929, in Gardiner, to Albert and Cecile Hinckley.

Marcia came from a large family that included 14 brothers and sisters, all of whom predeceased her.

Marcia chose being a mother and homemaker as her profession and excelled at this job up until the time of her passing; always caring for her family in any way she could. Marcia enjoyed many activities including family BBQs and get-together, Bingo, going to the beach, boating and later in her life scratch tickets which were always a must-have gift given to her from family on all holidays.

Marcia was predeceased by her son Brian Moody.

Surviving children include Lorraine Skidgel and husband Sheldon, of Randolph, Wayne Moody and his wife Tina, of Pennsylvania, Elaine Smith, of West Gardiner; Sharon Smith and husband Brent, of Sidney, Sherry Libby and husband Dwayne, of Whitefield, Tammy Gagnon and husband Jeffrey, of Sidney, Pamela Decker and husband James, of Sidney, and Richard Moody, of Gorham; many grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Gardiner, on Saturday, May 6, at 11 a.m. A celebration of life will immediately follow at her granddaughter, Sabrina’s, home at 2351 West River Rd., in Sidney. All are welcome.

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

Donations can be made in her honor to Mainegeneral Hospice at https://give.mainegeneral.org/hospice or by mail to MaineGeneral Health Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828

WENDELL C. ROCKWELL

BENTON – Wendell “Bucky” Charles Rockwell, 90, passed away peacefully at Maine­General Medical Center, on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Bucky was born July 13, 1932, to Charles and Edna (Stoddard) Rockwell, of Hodgdon.

Bucky worked on his family farm and attended Hodgdon High School. He went on to a successful career as a truck driver, retiring from Coles Express in 1996. He was recognized for driving two million miles in the state of Maine with no accidents. Bucky was a collector of baseball caps and, at one time, had over 450 hanging in his garage. In his retirement, he enjoyed tinkering in his garage and puttering around his home keeping things just so.

Bucky leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and hard work and will always be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He was predeceased by his parents; six siblings; son, Jerry Rockwell; and grandson, Ryan Rockwell.

Bucky is survived by his wife of 41 years, Barbara Rockwell; sons Larry Rockwell (wife Kathy), Charles Rockwell (wife Tracy), Jay Moore; daughters Debra Russell (husband Butch), Jennie Reid (husband Roland), and Jill Davis (husband David); 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service at the family cemetery in Sherman, followed by a celebration of life, will be held this summer. Date and time will be determined at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cole’s Transportation Museum, 405 Perry Rd., Bangor, ME 04410; or a nonprofit of your choice.

CATHERINE D. VIGUE

WINDSOR – Catherine Dawn Vigue, 90, passed away Friday, April 14, 2023, at Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation. She was born March 21, 1933, a daughter of Leroy and Bessie (Hassan) Richards Sr.

Cathy grew up in Windsor and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China.

Following high school, she married Joseph Vigue, and the two remarried again in 2009. Cathy held various jobs throughout her life including waitressing and cleaning, but her primary work was being a mother.

Cathy was a doll collector, enjoyed crafts and sewing, and was an avid gardener. She canned the fruits of her labor and was known for her delicious jam and pickles.

Some of her favorite past times include day trips to Belfast, eating at her favorite restaurant, Anglers, and browsing through the flea market with Joe. Joe also made sure the bird feeder was full so she could bird watch; and each spring he made sure she had pansies in her flower beds.

She was predeceased by her infant son, Joseph Vigue Jr.; her husband, Joseph Vigue; and her siblings, Leroy Richards Jr., Malcolm Hassan, and Marilyn Glidden.

She is survived by her children, Dawn Vigue, Sandra Jones, Scott Vigue, Todd Vigue, and Lisa Thrace; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held on April 25, 2023, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Winthrop St., Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Cathy’s name may be made to, Alzheimers Association, 383 US-Route One, #2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.

NORA A. GIDNEY

WATERVILLE – Nora Ann Gidney, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023.

Nora was the wife of Raymond Gidney who predeceased her in 1969. Being on her own at the age of 34 with three young children, Nora thrived at raising Bonnie, Scott, and Benny. The challenge of being a single mom in the ’70s only made her stronger as she pursued her driver’s license and employment in the Vassalboro school system. Nora was later employed as a teachers’ aid in Waterville; teachers’ aid and education technician, in Winslow, then culminating as an assistant to longtime friend Betty Turner working for the American Institute.

She was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family before her own. Nora was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity.

Growing up, she was always there for her children, whether they needed help with their homework or just a shoulder to cry on. She was a woman of strong beliefs, and she instilled the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. She was a true role model.

Nora was predeceased by her parents Allan and Nora MacDonald; brother, George, sisters Jean and Frances; and special son-in-law, Dave Huard.

Nora is survived by stepsons Joe Gidney, Ray Gidney and his wife Judy; daughter, Bonnie Huard, sons Scott Gidney and his wife Cindy, Ben Gidney and his wife Denise; and many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday April 27, at 11 a.m., at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

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

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northern Light Continuing Care Lakewood, 220 Kennedy Memorial Dr.,, Waterville, ME 04901, Attn: Activity Department.

BETHANY E. VIGUE

WATERVILLE – Bethany Elaine Vigue, 81, of Waterville, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023. She was born on September 29, 1941, in Provi­dence, Rhode Island, to George and Marjorie Broadbent.

Her family moved to Maine when she was young as her father pastored as a Methodist minister in several small Maine towns including Pembroke, Patten, and Milo. Bethany graduated from Milo High School in 1959. She was a proud Milo graduate and attended reunions for many years.

In 1969, Bethany married her husband Gerald, and they later began a ceramics business and in later years helped run a dance hall in Fairfield. She also was an adult education teacher for the Waterville school district for many years teaching ceramics classes. Bethany loved the arts and crafts and collected dolls and doll houses. She was immensely proud of her doll collection right up to the end of her life.

Bethany also volunteered in local nursing homes and loved giving to others. She was known for her charitable work in the greater Waterville area and touched many lives. Bethany was also very proud of her many lifelong friendships and was loved by many, for her kindness and generosity.

She was an active member of the Pleasant Street Methodist Church in Waterville for many years.

She was predeceased by her husband, Gerald in 2014.

Bethany is survived by her two sons, Scott Folsom, from Port Charlotte, Florida, and William (Elizabeth), of Palmyra; grandson, Liam; her brother, David Broadbent (Paulette), of Florida and Prospect Harbor; and nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held on Friday, April 21, 2023, at Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, 61 Pleasant St., in Waterville. Burial will be held later in the spring.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church.

MICHAEL J. DUMONT

WINSLOW – Michael Joseph Dumont, 70, passed peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2023, following a courageous 16-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Michael was born on December 30, 1952, in Waterville, to the late Reginald and Yvette (Mailloux) Dumont.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1971.

Michael was very proud of the home he built in Freedom and his love of the land where he spent so much time. He had a long career as an electrician with IBEW Local #1253, for 32 years, which allowed him to travel with his family. Michael was happily married to “his Mary” for 36 years. Very much a family man, he was much loved and cared for by his girls.

Always surrounded by friends and family, Michael enjoyed being outdoors and spending time on the lake ice fishing and boating. He could be found on the dance floor wearing his cowboy boots or jamming to the music playing the spoons around the campfire.

He was proud of his French heritage and enjoyed conversing in the language every opportunity he had. Michael always had a helping hand for friends and family with an infectious laugh. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary (White) Dumont; daughters Riva Dumont and Michelle and husband Matthew Leavitt; and his grandchildren Kashton and Nola; his siblings Brenda Hjort (Brian), Cathy Nason (Jay), Regina Nadeau and Jeffrey Dumont; sister-in-law, Doris Grant; and brother-in-law, Frank White; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his in-laws William and Frances (Eaton) White; sister-in-law, Bette Morse and husband Leslie (Skipper), brother-in-law, Larry Grant; and many aunts and uncles.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville. There will be a celebration held after at the Cavern at the Tavern, on Silver Street, Waterville, until 1:30 p.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, in Michael’s memory.

PAUL R. GETCHELL

FAIRFIELD – Paul R. Getchell, 86, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at his home, in Fairfield. He was born in Fairfield on Sept. 13, 1936, to Paul and Greta Getchell.

Paul was the third of five children. He attended the First Baptist Church, in Fairfield, where he sang in the choir. In high school, he played cornet in the band and was on the basketball team for the Lawrence Bulldogs. After high school, he began as an apprentice at the Maine Central Railroad and worked there as an electrician for 41 years.

He purchased his first apartment building in Fairfield where he and his wife raised their family during the early years, then moved to Western Avenue to renovate a turn-of-the-century Victorian. Paul also owned and maintained five apartment buildings in Waterville over many years. His favorite holiday was Christmas when he was remembered for his generosity.

A fiercely competitive spirit, he loved golf and was a member of the Waterville Country Club. Later in life, Paul traveled, making several cross-country road trips. He owned many classic American cars during his lifetime, from Fords to Chevrolets to Buicks, and boasted about the Buick that had over 500,000 miles on it when he traded it in.

Most of all, he had an incredible sense of humor and will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him, especially his children, who could never win a game of checkers or cribbage against him.

He was predeceased by his brother, John Getchell and sister, Joan Waldron.

Paul and Edie Stevens had four children, Carrie LeBlanc (Robert LeBlanc), Amy Safford (Jonathan Safford), Todd Getchell (Sharon Getchell), Nathaniel Getchell (Holly O’Reilly); and seven grandchildren, Sophie, Nathaniel, Isaac, Claire, William, Thomas, and Olivia; and four great-grandchildren, Colette, Lucienne, Miles, and Oliver; his sisters, Sandra Harrell and Susan Bloom.

Visiting hours will be held at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, on Thursday, April 27, 4 to 7 p.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Paul’s memory to, Spectrum Generations, Community Engagement Office, One Weston Court, Suite 109, Augusta, ME 04330. Donate Online: Spectrum Generations | Help our most vulnerable neighbors by donating now! Or Owl’s Head Transportation Museum Maine: Donate Online: Owls Head Transportation Museum.

JULIAN T. SETTLEMIRE

CHINA – Julian Tenney (Brooks) Settlemire (Juli B. Settlemire), 53, of China, passed on Saturday, March 4, 2023, following a two-year journey with cancer. Born in Presque Isle on July 22, 1969, the favorite youngest daughter to Edwin Tenney Brooks and the late Sharon Ann (Lombard) Brooks, and grew up in Gorham.

Juli graduated from the University of Maine of Orono with a B.A. in Performing Arts with a focus on directing, and English.

At 22, she was set up on a blind date and experienced love at first sight, with Todd Settlemire. In November 1992 she convinced him to marry her and it was the absolute best decision ever.

She began her early career in banking then transitioned into the chiropractic field working closely with the Maine Chiropractic Assistants Association while keeping Dr. Leonard G. Saulter on his toes as his office manager for 10-plus years. She then went to the MaineCare offices for a few years before returning to the chiropractic office with a position as the office manager for Dr. Daniel Poole, at Pathways, in Oakland. She continued to provide health insurance consultation to chiropractic offices up until 2021.

By luck or by chance she was able to garner a position in April 2009 with Marshall Communications, where she began as an office manager then business manager. From Nancy and Charlene she learned about strong, compassionate leadership.

Juli’s free time was largely spent at the theater, where in 2009 she wormed her way into a board position with ACAT, in Waterville. She then worked on the Waterville Opera House board and was active during the transition with Waterville Creates! where she focused on advocating for an additional, creative space to develop directors, writers, actors and technicians. During the design phase of the new arts building, she championed additional restrooms for female-identifying patrons as part of inclusive design.

Juli is survived by her husband, Todd; father, Ed; sister, Stephanie Brooks and her fiance, Guy Young; her father-in-law, C. Thomas Settlemire, his wife Sharon; brother-in-law, Scott Settlemire and wife Candy, daughter, Emily with her husband Kalvin, son, Thomas; sister-in-law, Julie Upham along with husband Scott Upham, sons Connor and Ethan.

If you are so inclined, please consider a donation to the following community organizations: ACAT, Waterville Opera House, Kennebec Valley Humane Society, Waterville Public Library, Sparrow Nest Theater, and Recycled Shakespeare.

RUSSELL IBBITSON

VASSALBORO – Russell Ibbitson, 67, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2022, at his home.

Russell attended schools in Hanson, Massachusetts, and was a graduate of Winslow High School.

Russell built his life on the family property in Vassalboro in the early ‘80s, often a team of one. He was always found helping his dad, Howard, working the land, maintaining the road, and whatever else Howard may have needed done. He turned his attention to his mom Shirley after Howard passed. Russell ate dinner with her every night so that she would not have to eat alone. He took her grocery shopping, to appointments, and sometimes just for a ride around the lake! Shirley wanted to meet Bob Marley and Russ made sure that it happened, he brought her on a trip to his restaurant which led to countless stories about how she met the famous man, and he sat right down with them. Those two, Russ and his mom were quite a duo.

Russell was a “Jack of all trades”. He held many jobs throughout his life including warehouse worker, truck driver, Vassalboro Public Works, and most recently KVCAP volunteer driver. Russell also owned his own dump truck and hauling business.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Shirley Ibbitson, sister-in-law, Belinda Ibbitson, and his sister Cindy Douglass.

He leaves behind daughter Shari Bryant and husband John, of Canaan; grandsons Justin and Devon; three brothers, Mickey and wife Tina, of Waterville, Tommy and partner Crystal, of Lebanon, Paul and wife Lisa, of Vassalboro; nieces Crystal Drake (and Ed), Misty Barrios (and Fernando), Jenna Poulin (and Adam), Brittney (and Jarod) Gartley; great-niece Casey Starratt (and Roy); great-nephews, Matthew Starratt (and Cathy), Kai Barrios and Nick Oliveras; the “littles”, apples of his eyes Milayna and Letty Starratt, Paislee and Abel Poulin.

There will be a small graveside memorial on Saturday, June 10, 2023, 11 a.m., at the North Vassalboro Center Cemetery, with a gathering at the home of Crystal Drake, 821 Main Street, Vassalboro, immediately following.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 20, 2023

HELEN E. MURPHY

OAKLAND – Helen Elizabeth Murphy, 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 16, 2023, following a brief illness. She was born Dec­em­ber 2, 1935, in Fort Leaven­worth, Kansas, to Brigadier General Joseph and Inez Ready.

Helen was raised in Oakland and attended Williams High School where she met the love of her life, Larry Murphy. They married in 1960 and remained partners until Larry’s passing in 2018.

During the first 17 years of her marriage, they lived in Massachusetts. Helen would spend every summer in Oakland once the children were out of school until Labor Day, raising their four boys, while Larry commuted on weekends. In 1977, they moved permanently to Oakland on Snow Pond (a/k/a Messalonskee Lake).

Following retirement, Helen and Larry spent winters in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and later Cape Canaveral, Florida. There they enjoyed the warm weather, and new friends.

Helen’s greatest joy was spending time with family on Snow Pond where all the family and friends were always welcomed to create memories and cherish each other’s company. She was an avid Bridge player with many of her friends both in Maine and in Cocoa Beach, Florida, during winter months.

Helen is survived by her four sons, Daniel and his wife Linda, of Manchester, New Hampshire, Timothy and his wife Heidi, of Kingfield, Robert and his wife Heather, of Old Orchard Beach, Scott and his wife Rachel, of Manchester, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Amber, Patrick, Steven, Christopher, Riley, Andrew, Erin and Chloe; great-grandson Sutton; sister Barbara Eckley, of Dayton, Ohio; sister-in-law Sarah Enos, of Concord, New Hampshire, and brother-in-law Jim Murphy of Manchester, New Hampshire.

Along with her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her brother Joseph Ready and cousins Connie Looney and Dotty Campion-Corcoran.

At her request there will be a celebration of life at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St, Waterville, on Saturday, April 22, at 9 a.m. Following the service there will be a reception held at The Governor’s Restaurant, 376 Main St., Waterville.

There will be a graveside service announced at a later date.

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 the Boys & Girls Club/Alfond Youth Center of Greater Waterville, 126 North St., Waterville, ME 04901

MICHAEL McMAHON

SIDNEY – Michael McMahon, 72, passed away at his home, in Sidney, on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Michael was born on October 28, 1950, in Waterville, to the late Richard McMahon Sr. and Nelly (Gwadosky).

Michael joined the U.S. Marines early on in his life. After a tour in Vietnam, he was stationed in Vienna, Austria, where he met his future wife Renee. They were married three years later in West Berlin, known today as Berlin, Germany.

Michael loved to serve his country. He served in the Marines and the U.S. Army. Michael’s intelligence and skills as a Combat Engineer were high in demand, which lead to Renee and him being stationed all over the world throughout the years. No matter where they were or where they were living, Michael would always open the door and say to Renee, “Honey, I am home!”

Even with all Michael and Renee’s travels, they would always try to visit Maine at least once a year. It just so happened that every time they were able to visit, it was always in the cold weather, though this never bothered Michael.

Beyond being known for his dedication to his family and country, Michael was known for his wonderful sense of humor, his intelligence, having a heart of gold, and his willingness to always help a person in distress.

Michael was predeceased by his parents Richard McMahon Sr. and Nelly McMahon and brother Edward McMahon.

He is survived by his wife Renee McMahon, of Sidney; sister Patricia McMahon, of Waterville; brother Richard, wife Kim McMahon, of Sidney; his nieces and nephews, Kelly and Wade Stevens, Mark and Abigail McMahon and James and Megan McMahon.

There will be a graveside service with military honors announced at a later date.

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, Maine.

JACQUES L. JOLICOEUR

WINSLOW – Jacques L. Jolicoeur, 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2023.

Jacques (known as Jack to family and friends) had a challenging but rich and full life. He was born with a spinal and arm defect. His wonderful mother, Claire, fought for him to have a normal life and he was fortunate to be one of the first children treated at Shriners Hospital. Because of his and his family’s hard work, he overcame most of his physical challenges and went on to be a captain of the Winslow High School football team, as well as playing basketball, and other activities. He then went on to graduate from Clark University, with a degree in business.

He landed his dream job as a salesman in manufacturing, which allowed him to travel the country and the world. He loved being a traveling salesman.

He was a wonderful provider for his family, which was very important to him. Throughout his life, he was generous to his family and to others. After semi-retiring from his full-time job, he ran several small businesses and became an active member of the community. He loved to socialize with friends and family. He was known for his joking manner, his sarcastic humor, and for being unapologetically himself. He was a member of the Masons, the Elks, the Le Club Calumet, and the Shriners Temple, in Lewiston.

Jacques was predeceased by his parents, Claire and Louis; sister Peggy; and former spouse, Elizabeth, with whom he maintained a supportive friendship.

He is survived by his children, Joel and Judy Jolicoeur; son-in-law Frank Nava; nephew Tom Page; and niece, Michelle Roberts.

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

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

To honor Jack’s memory, donations can be made to the Shriner’s Hospital.

ANN MARIE MORNEAU

VASSALBORO – Ann Marie (Rodrigue) Morneau, 71, passed away peacefully at her home Saturday morning, April 1, 2023. Ann was born in Waterville, on February 22, 1951, the daughter of Roland and Geraldine (Duguay) Rodrigue.

She attended Waterville High School. She worked at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., in Waterville, for 10 years, after which she ran a daycare out of her home while raising her children. She finished off her working years at Hannaford, in Waterville, and Buddy’s IGA, in Oakland.

She was a devoted wife and mother to three children and grandmother to one. She shared her baking and cooking talents with family and friends. She loved to explore the Maine coast, and always enjoyed a good prank or joke.

She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Fernand Rodrigue and Donald Rodrigue; and her sister, Mary Steves.

Ann is survived by her husband, Richard Morneau, of Vassalboro; her three children, Scott Morneau and his wife Jennifer, of Auburn, Shawn Morneau, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Shannon Dunbar and her husband Benjamin, of Alma, Colorado; her granddaughter, Anna Morneau; her sister, Nancy Wing, of Waterville; and her two brothers, Ronald Rodrigue, of Oakland, and Gerard Rodrigue, of Waterville.

A memorial service will be held sometime in early June. The date and location will be announced at a later time.

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

FRANCES T. YORK

BENTON – Frances Theresa York, 77, of Benton, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Fran was born on October 17, 1945, to Dorothy and Joseph Thibodeau in Nashville, Tennessee.

Fran (aka) Darling met the love of her life, Charles York, in 1961 online (at the 30-yard line at a Lawrence High School football game). They were married for 57 years. They love to dance to their favorite song Tennessee Waltz. If you ever spent time with them, you knew how much they loved each other.

She had the biggest heart and a beautiful smile. She was a private person, but very witty and fun! She knew how to keep Charlie in line. She loved to cook, especially for Charlie’s old workplace, go for rides with him, and stop at lawn sales along the way. The couple traveled all over the state of Maine to poke around in the antiques malls. Fran was a very crafty person, she made beautiful baskets every year for her loved ones in the cemetery. She loved to play games and especially enjoyed beating Charlie in Farkle. There was nothing she loved more than getting the most wins in their yearly tournament. She also liked to line dance and loved all holiday decorations. She collected snowmen and Friendly Village dinnerware. She had two dogs, Rambo and Harvick, that she loved and took care of until it was their time to cross the rainbow bridge.

She had many accomplishments during her lifetime. One of them was that she worked for Colby College, in Waterville, for 34 years in food service. Another accomplishment was that she and Charlie were seasonal campers at Happy Horseshoe Campground for 36 years. You could see Fran riding her golf cart to the different camp sites visiting her camper buddies and playing bingo on Friday nights. She loved participating in many of the events at the “Shoe” over the years. She made many special friends and enjoyed many conversations while sitting in her rocking chair on her deck at their camp site. Oh, are we going to miss the… cabbage rolls… the fudge… and we are all left asking a lingering question, “Who’s going to make the gravy?”.

She is survived by her husband Charles; her daughter Carrie and husband Joseph Pomerleau; her son Charles York Jr.; two sisters Janice Beane and Camilla Levasseur; and her two brothers James and Arthur Thibodeau; two grandchildren, Nicholas Capeless and Owen York; and one great-grandchild Brooke Pullen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Dorothy Weaver Thibodeau, one brother Joseph Thibodeau and one granddaughter Kayleigh York.

A service was held for Fran on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home.

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.

RICHARD J. BEAULIEU SR.

CHELSEA – Richard Joseph Beaulieu Sr., 96, passed away on Thursday, April 6, 2023, at the Togus Springs Hospice Center, following a hard-fought battle with dementia. Richard was born in Augusta, on March 30, 1927, to Willie Beaulieu and Delina Levesque.

He grew up on Cony and Willow streets, in Augusta, with his 14 brothers and sisters. His industriousness was evident early as he collected scrap metal in his homemade wagon, delivered groceries and fixed bicycles to help support the family.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army at the age of 18, in 1945, and served two years during World War II, traveling to France and Germany. He was honorably discharged with an Army Occupation Medal and WWII Victory Medal.

He returned to Augusta, and worked for Statler Tissue where he met his bride to be, Theresa Dumas, which led to a 74-year romance. He worked there for 26 years and later worked for the State of Maine as a carpenter, building exhibits. One of his many exhibits included a 2,500-pound fiberglass egg, used as a booth to promote the Maine egg industry. He retired from the state after 22 years at the age of 62.

He loved life, adventure, home improvements and helping family and strangers. He enjoyed woodworking in a shop he built behind the house. He made unique cabinets for each of his children and grandchildren. He loved camping and explored Canada and New England every year with his family. He was very amiable and would introduce himself to his camping neighbors and anyone else who happened to walk by.

After retirement he and Theresa drove their camper to Alaska, Newfoundland, and explored the West to name just a few of the places they visited. Then in January, off to Florida for a few months to spend time with their extended family. Richard and Theresa also enjoyed cruises to Jamaica and the Bahamas.

Every summer, up until the age of 90, you could expect a huge, meticulous vegetable garden and a bag full of veggies to take home. His generosity extended to church family and strangers. He planted extensive flower gardens and made gorgeous bouquets for Theresa all summer long. At Christmastime, his unique wreath making was exquisite.

He was never a procrastinator. If family or friends needed home improvements, he was on it. He could patch, paint, wallpaper, rewire and build a fireplace or stairs to name just a few of his many self taught talents. He enjoyed checkers or ‘scratch’ as they called it with his brother Rome for years, a game that made them laugh so much. He loved bike riding, playing the piano and harmonica, jumping waves with his children, boating, four-wheeling and mostly making others laugh.

He was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Susan Emerson and her husband David, brothers Willie, Arthur, Ludger, Ronald, Clement, Raymond, Eugene and Paul and sisters; Jeanette, Jackie, Cecile, Gilberta, Simmone and Gabrielle.

Richard is survived by his wife of 74 years, Theresa; five children, Del Smith, Claudette Williams and husband Lloyd, Richard Jr. and his wife Terry, Michelle Newman and husband Doug; eight grandchildren, Lora Trow and husband Norman, Jessie Williams, Chantelle Hahn and husband Dylan, Lyndon Whitcomb and wife Mariah, Cassandra and Gracelyn Beaulieu, Jason and Jessica Skidgel; and six great-grandchildren, Taya and Nolan Trow, Keel and Marina Hahn, Addison and Ella Whitcomb.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, April 19 the Church Hill Baptist Church, 258 Church Hill Rd., Augusta.

Burial followed at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Arrangements are in the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

DAVID L. TIBBETTS

OAKLAND – David L. Tibbetts, 80, has passed away. Born the second of seven children of Helen Kathryn Diamond and Oral Delmar Tibbetts in Augusta, he was raised in Winthrop and graduated from Winthrop High School in 1961.

David worked on the docks in New York prior to entering the U. S. Marine Corp. Following his military service, he entered Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1968, graduating in 1970 with a bachelor of science degree. He married Roberta Cross in November 1970. They resided in Waterville, until 2020, where they raised their two sons Ryan David and Peter Anthony.

After college graduation, David worked for Dead River/Silver Street-Ft. Halifax, in Waterville, as a general manager. His next career move was as assistant manager of Cottle’s Supermarket and then Hannaford, in Waterville and Belfast. David then worked for the State of Maine, Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages as Liquor Inspector and Regional Manager, retiring in 2005.

Community service was important to David. He served as chairman of the board of Notre Dame Federeasl Credit Union, and was chairman of Waterville City Council. For three months he served as Interim Mayor of Waterville. He was also involved in many committees in the community.

Hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, collecting cameras, and watching his family at sporting events and theatrical productions were activities he enjoyed.

David was predeceased by his parents, sisters Caroline, Susan, and Kate, as well as brother Michael.

He is survived by wife Roberta Cross Tibbetts; sons Ryan (Anissa and children Kyrrah and Nicholas), Peter (Cara and children Grady, Maggie, Charlotte, and Sloane); brother Oral D. Tibbetts, Jr. (Carol), of Jay; and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of life will be held at Thomas College, Summit Room, 180 West River Road, Waterville, Maine, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

Condolences may be shared at Funeralalternatives.net.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Thomas College Scholarships in Memory of David Tibbetts.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 13, 2023

JEFFREY M. CROCKETT

SOUTH CHINA – Jeffrey Marc Crockett, 52, of South China, following a year of declining health, died at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. He was born on November 4, 1970, in Augusta, the son of Kenneth and Gail (McArthur) Crockett.

Jeff attended Augusta schools where he later received his GED.

Jeff was employed by Pine State, Coutts Brother, Rick Labbe, ending his career at Stevenson Construction.

Jeff is survived by his mother, Gail Leavitt and stepfather, George Leavitt, of Augusta; a son, Jeffrey Crockett II and fiancée, Mackenzie Sawyer and grandson; Jeffrey Crockett III, of Whitefield; daughter, Liberty Crockett, of Gardiner; a granddaughter, Harper Jackson, of Winthrop; and many aunts, uncles; and cousins.

Jeff was predeceased by his father, Kenneth Crockett, of China; and daughter, Ashley Rideout, of China.

Jeff enjoyed growing marijuana and obtaining his caregiver grow license. He loved T-19. He was an avid animal lover. He loved attending baseball games in Jeffrey II’s younger days, and tossing the Frisbee in the evenings with Jeffrey II and Liberty, and driving his mud trucks.

Celebration of life will be held this summer, date to be announced.

JAMES L. SALISBURY

WATERVILLE – James “Jimmy” Lowell Salisbury, 64, of Waterville, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at his home following a surgery.

He was born September 18, 1958, in Skowhegan, the son of the late Robert Linwood Salisbury Sr. and Gayle Joyce French Salisbury, of Solon.

Of all of the many things Jimmy enjoyed in his lifetime, fishing and poker were at the top of the list. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by the love of his life of 26 years, Karen Crawford; four siblings, Robert L. Salisbury Jr. and his wife Dianne, Lori Ann Salisbury McKinley and husband Richard “Rick”, Jean Louise Salisbury and boyfriend Kevin, Dale Ralph Salisbury; many nieces and nephews; as well as many great-nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his eldest brother, Dennis Elmer Marcue.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, to be announced.

DONNA M. CAYOUETTE

WINSLOW – Donna Mae Cayouette, 71, of Winslow, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 24, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Donna was born October 4, 1951, in Waterville. She was the daughter of Yvonne Wilbur.

Donna grew up in Waterville, meeting the love of her life, Raymond “Shorty” Cayouette

Donna worked in her younger years at Poultry Products. After marrying and having her first child, she became a stay-at-home mother and ran a daycare. In later years, Donna began cleaning homes and camps with a dear friend.

Donna is survived by her son, Peter Cayouette, of Windsor; two granddaughters, Isabella Cayouette, of West Paris, Gracee Cayouette, of Winslow; brother, Everette Wilbur, of Waterville; sisters Linda Rodrick, of Vassalboro, Diane Lane, of Sidney; brother-in-law, Roland Cayouette and his wife Ester, of Florida; and adopted granddaughter, Cierra Johns, of Waterville.

Predeceased by husband, Raymond Cayouette; son, Timothy Cayouette; mother, Yvonne Wilbur; brother, Keith Wilbur and sister, Virginia Veilleux.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, May 6, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame, Corpus Christi Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, graveside burial will follow at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, and Celebration of Life- Reception at Elks Lodge #905, Industrial Street, Waterville, downstairs.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Donna’s memory to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

MARJORIE E. COUGHLIN

OAKLAND – Marjorie Elizabeth Coughlin, 94, of Oakland, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home, on Friday, March 24, 2023, in Belton, Missouri. Marjorie “Honey” MacGregor was born in Freeport, on August 31, 1928, to James Adair and Beryl Glendora (Finnemore) MacGregor.

She grew up in Waterville and Benton Station and was a 1947 alumna of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

Marjorie started working at the Fairfield Creamery and telephone office in Fairfield before joining the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict in 1952. She was stationed in Virginia, Oregon, and Washington State as a teletype operator until her honorable discharge as a TE3 in 1956.

She was married, in Saco, to Robert Francis Coughlin, of Oakland, in 1956 while he was serving in the U.S. Air Force. They had two children, Kevin MacGregor Coughlin and Kathy Ann (Coughlin) Tinkey while stationed in Worcester, Massachusetts.

During Robert’s 30 years of military service the family was also stationed in Texas, Germany, Illinois, and Missouri. After Robert retired, Marjorie and he moved back to Oakland in 1994.

Marjorie enjoyed meeting people and traveling throughout the world. She often fondly spoke of her Scottish heritage and the several months she traveled by herself around Scotland as a young woman. Marjorie was a member of the Eastern Star and the Bourque-Lanigan American Legion Post #5, of Waterville.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents James and Beryl MacGregor, her husband Robert Coughlin of 58 years prior to his passing, her brother Roy MacGregor and sister-in-law Mary (Weston) MacGregor, of Bangor; sister Jacquelyn “Jackie” (MacGregor) Henry and brother-in-law James Henry, of Clinton; brother Robert “Bobby” MacGregor, of Fort Kent; father-in-law Maurice E. Coughlin and mother-in-law Lenore (Carrick) Coughlin, of Oakland; and brother-in-law Maurice C. “Mossey” Coughlin, of Oakland.

Marjorie is survived by her son Kevin Coughlin and his wife Princess; granddaughter Brittany (Coughlin) Mehl and her husband Adam, grandson Preston Coughlin and his wife AnnRene, all of Kansas City, Missouri; daughter Kathy Tinkey, of Belton, Missouri; grandson Joshua Tinkey and wife Tami, of Olathe, Kansas; grandson Marcus Tinkey, of Annapolis, Maryland; great-grandson Palmer Mehl; soon to be born great-granddaughter Mehl; twin great-granddaughters Heidi and Claire Coughlin; great-grandsons Colton, Christian, and Carsten Tinkey; sister-in-law Janet (Pierce) Coughlin, of Waterville; along with several cousins, nieces, and nephews in Maine and Canada.

A chapel service will be held at Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, in Augusta, Maine at 10 a.m., Thursday, May 11, 2023. A luncheon will follow the ceremony at the Governor’s Restaurant and Bakery, 376 Main Street, Waterville, Maine (Exit 130 off Interstate 95), in the Capital Room.

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

As an animal lover her whole life, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd, Waterville, ME 04901. Please put “In memory of Marjorie Coughlin” on checks.

LEO G. GAUTHIER

OAKLAND – Leo George Gauthier, 83, passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2023. He was born in Barre, Vermont, on October 23, 1939, to Clarence and Dorothy Gauthier.

He was one of 10 children. Leo moved to Maine when he was 16 years old to live with his older brother Cliff. He attended school at Williams High School, in Oakland, went on to further his education by taking a business course in Skowhegan. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1956-1964. He married the love of his life, Sadie Farnham, in 1960.

Leo dedicated his life as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1979. He loved his Christian family and enjoyed helping those in need. Leo spent time in his ministry sharing his faith and the Bible’s promise of living on a paradise earth and one day seeing his loved ones again, by means of a resurrection, especially his wife Sadie. Leo was also a family man along with his faith, his family was the most important thing in life. He treasured his relationship with every one of them. He was known by his family and others as a generous man.

One of the joys he had was looking forward to going to the Early Bird Restaurant and having his favorite waitress, Gerry. They had an ongoing discussion of their favorite sports team, which were, of course, the opposite.

He was predeceased by his parents Clarance and Dorothy; his wife of 51 years, Sadie; his siblings Ruth, Cliff and Arthur Gauthier; wife Nancy Warren-Gauthier.

He is survived by his three children, Debbie Dechaine and husband Dominic Dechaine, Terry Blais and husband David Blais, Greg and his wife Nicole Gauthier; his grandchildren Danielle Corradino, Michelle and husband Chris Lemieux, Alyssa and husband Thomas Roberts, Jada and husband Hans Russell, and Madlyn Gauthier named by Gramp as “MPG”; great-grandchildren Liam and Bella Lemieux, Claire and Decker Corradino, Ivy and Thomas Beckham Roberts, named by gramps as “Tiger Jack”; his three sisters, Rita Hebert, Hazel Murtagh husband Ed, Doris Blakeney; his sister-in law, Jeanette Pitt; and his cousin, Bobby and his wife Sandy.

Leo’s memorial service was held on April 8, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 416 Main St., Waterville.

STACY J. McCURDY

SIDNEY – Stacy J. McCurdy, 56, died unexpectedly Saturday, April 1, 2023, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born in Augusta on October 27, 1966, the son of the late Donald J. and Esther M. (Overlock) McCurdy.

Mr. McCurdy was a graduate of Greely High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph College. He had been employed by the state of Maine for over 27 years before becoming disabled.

Over the years, Stacy enjoyed golfing, watching his oldest son during his robotics competitions, sitting on the sidelines with his good friends watching his youngest son play football and lacrosse. Stacy also loved watching sports and more sports. He also thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie of his family, friends and co-workers. The numerous parties with his high school and college friends, as well as gatherings with work family, then all the summer and holiday parties with friends and family. He made an impression on, and quickly became friends with everyone with whom he came in contact. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Mr. McCurdy is survived by his wife of 21 years, Donna L. (Plourd) McCurdy, of Sidney; two sons, Connor J. McCurdy and Ian J. McCurdy, both of Sidney; a brother, Shawn McCurdy and wife Lois, of Standish; sister-in-law, Tammy (Plourd) Manduca, of Augusta; brothers-in-law Ronald Plourd, of Farmingdale, and Bruce Plourd and wife Dana, of Sidney; nieces Kailyn Manduca, Janessa Curtis; nephews Shawn McCurdy, Jr. and wife Jenna, Matthew McCurdy and wife Chelsea, Joel Chadbourne and his wife Chelsea, and Craig Chadbourne; as well as his great-nieces Natalie, Mia, Julianna; and great-nephews David, Logan, Liam, Lennon and Grayson.

Relatives and friends may visit on Thursday, April 13 from 9 – 11 a.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be at a later date.

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

Donations may be made in Stacy’s memory to Muscular Dystrophy Association, National Office, 161 N. Clark, Suite 3550, Chicago, IL 60601.

LAWRENCE A. TIBBETTS

SIDNEY – Lawrence A. Tibbetts, 91, passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2023. Larry was born on September 20, 1931, in Rockwood, the son of Lester and Dorothy Tibbetts.

He was the eighth of 10 children, having seven brothers and two sisters.

His family moved to Winthrop, where he attended public school. Throughout his education he loved sports, excelling at baseball, basketball and football. A star football player at Winthrop High School, he was instrumental in his team winning the class “C” championship Gold Football in 1947.

He graduated from Winthrop High School in 1950. He graduated among a senior class of 34 students which remained in closer relationship for many years.

Patriotism ran deeply in the Tibbett’s family. When conflict broke out in Korea, Larry joined the U.S. Army, serving in the 45th Infantry Division. He was among the first to man the XM31 surface-to-surface missile known as “Honest John” which could carry an atomic warhead. Larry trained at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and was stationed in Germany.

Larry worked several jobs before joining Central Maine Power Company in 1956, becoming a First Class Lineman, retiring after 40 years with that company.

Larry was a member of the Sidney Second Baptist Church for 50 years, serving as Deacon and Trustee, later joining the Oakland Baptist Church, attending until two months of his passing.

Larry’s life was one marked by the love of his wife, his family, and his country. He held many offices in town government in a tenure of 57 years.

He was dedicated to character development in youth, serving as Scoutmaster in Sidney for eight years, resulting in Eagle Scouts each year. He was grandmaster of Masonic Lodge #53 AF and AM and member of the Sidney Historical Society.

Larry married his wife Sandra Marden Tibbetts in July 1999 after which they shared 23 years together. Their love was punctuated by trips to Florida for a month for several winters. Larry and Sandy worked together in community service especially as directors of the food cupboard for 18 years and they also shared work on their farm in Sidney.

Whatever they did, Sandra was by his side through the fun times and though his illness, caring for him at home until the last week of his life.

In addition to his wife Sandy, he leaves behind his daughter Lynda Martin and her husband Peter; sister Thelma Luszcki; stepdaughter Jennifer Marden; granddaughter Samantha Marden and several nieces and nephews.

A Masonic service was held on April 11, 2023. Funeral services were held April. 12, at Knowlton Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church Street, Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made in Larry’s name to Oakland United Baptist Church, 45 Church Street, Oakland, ME, or MaineGeneral Hospice 10 Water St., Waterville, ME 04901.

GEORGE L. COLEMAN

WATERVILLE – George Leidigh Coleman II, 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 1, 2023. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, August 29, 1933, to John Edward Coleman and Jean Mac­Micken Cole­man.

George grew up in Dayton, Ohio. After graduating from Colonel White High School, he went on to Cornell University where he majored in geology and met his wife Joan Pinckney. After their marriage in 1956 they moved to Lawrence, Kansas, where he attended Kansas University and earned his master’s degree in geology.

George and Joan moved to Waterville in 1963 so he could teach geology as an interim professor. At about the same time the tenured professor returned, the registrar position opened up and he became the registrar of Colby College in 1966, where he served for 40 years until retiring in 2006. At his retirement dinner, he was remembered and revered for his wisdom and steady hand guiding both students and faculty through the maze of Colby requirements, and also for the messiest office at Colby – although he always knew exactly where to put his hands on whatever was needed.

There are so many dimensions to George: husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, birder, musician, sports fanatic, and pun master extraordinaire. He was very involved in his community. Of special note, his involvements included Senior Warden, Lay Reader, and Treasurer at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, in Waterville; more than 25 years on the Board of the Waterville Opera house; decades of bird counts with local Audubon; and The United Way.

His long involvement in music and performing arts started in high school chorus and drama, and continued throughout his life including the Cornell Glee Club, St. Mark’s Choir, the Occasional Chorale, Ogontz Choral Workshops, in New Hampshire, the Popular Opera of Pittsfield, and the Waterville Opera House, where he performed in more than 50 shows.

George had itchy feet, traveling frequently inside and outside the United States and especially loved traveling with family and sharing the people and places he found special. When visiting favorite places, he always wanted to be useful and helped wherever he could, whether it was a daughter’s move or house project, or lobstering and haying while visiting friends in Prince Edward Island, which was an annual trip for more than 45 years.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Jean Coleman, and niece Pam.

George is survived by his sister Chase; daughters, Sue and husband Tom, Leigh and husband Alan, and Beth and husband Jimmy; grandchildren, Tess and fiancé Fredrik, Caitlin and husband Harold, Austin and fiancé Jamien, Colin and wife Amelia, Ted and wife Elicia, Niklas, and Samantha; great-grandchildren Harold, Minna, Alex, and Alison; nephews Edward and Christopher; niece Peggy; and numerous friends who became family.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Eustis Parkway, in Waterville.

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

Because George had so many causes that he believed in, remembrance donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

NANCY L. MICHAUD

WINSLOW – Nancy Lee Michaud, 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at Lakewood Nursing Facility, in Waterville. She was born October 17, 1947, in Waterville, the daughter of Gerard W. Bouchard and Jeffrine Yvette (Labbe) Bouchard.

Nancy graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1965. She married her best friend, Donald J. Michaud, on August 31, 1968, beginning their life journey together which spanned the next 54 years. Early in their marriage, she worked for Cottle’s Grocery Store and later for Depositors Trust Co. and then Key Bank, all in Waterville, where she shared her generosity to help others.

Some of her favorite things in this life were watching the New England Patriots and NASCAR, dancing and listening to music, especially to Elvis’ songs, and spending the winter months in Florida with her husband. But most of all, she celebrated the gift of family, by prioritizing birthdays and holiday celebrations, always making everyone feel special and loved. And she loved to laugh and be silly with her grandchildren.

In addition to her mother and father, she was predeceased by her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mark and Nora Michaud; brother, Richard Bouchard; sister-in-law, Constance Barry; and numerous aunts, uncles; and cousins.

She is survived by her husband, Donald J. Michaud of Winslow; daughter, Sheri A. Larsen and her husband, Arthur, of Winslow; son, Scott A. Michaud and his wife, Jennifer, of Chelsea; sister-in-law, Mary Bouchard, of Portland; brother-in-law, Arnold Barry, of Belgrade; eight grandchildren, Joshua Larsen, Brittany Gilboy, Jacob Larsen, Jasmine Michaud, Katelynn Larsen, Meagan Michaud, Caleb Larsen, Brooke Michaud; three great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, April 14, from 5 – 7 p.m. at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

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

ROBERT W. MARCOUX

AUGUSTA – Robert W. Marcoux, “Bob”, 95, of Winslow, passed away Sunday, April 2, 2023. He was born on November 29, 1927, in Moscow, and then returned to his Bay Street home, in Winslow, with his parents. Bob was the oldest son of Joseph A. and Rosa D. (Fredette) Marcoux.

Bob spoke about “back on the farm in Bingham” often. Every summer he lived on the farm during summer school vacation with his Aunt Roselma and Uncle Henry. Bob attended Winslow High School and graduated in 1946. He loved to play football.

Immediately after high school Bob joined the U.S. Navy and was discharged in 1948 with an honorable discharge. During those times, he loved traveling to faraway places. Upon return, he was happily employed by the Morning Sentinel, in Waterville, as a compositor which he spoke of often. He also enjoyed making rosaries, which were requested all over the world. He also loved his wood workshop making picnic tables and well houses. He was a lifelong communicant of St. John the Baptist Church, of Corpus Christi Parish, in Winslow.

In addition to his first wife, Yolande, Bob was predeceased by both parents. He was also predeceased by his sister Doria Drouin and her husband, Fern, formerly of Winslow, a brother and his wife Norman and Jackie, formerly of Augusta, and his grandson Phillip Theriault, of Augusta.

He is survived by his wife Lucille of 29 years; four children from his previous marriage, Eddie Marcoux, of Benton, Estelle Theriault and her husband Jack, of Augusta, John Marcoux and his wife Cindy, of Chelsea, and Kevin Marcoux and his girlfriend Michelle, of Fairfield; stepdaughter Susan Shirley and husband Don, of Winslow; many grandchildren, Danielle, Dan, Jeremy, Jaylin and Robbie; and step granddaughter Amy; sister Annette Kiederling and husband Wayne, of Warren; brothers Leon Marcoux and wife Avis, of Winslow, Roger Marcoux and wife Linda, of Skowhegan; along with many great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

For the past few years, Bob resided at Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta.

At Bob’s request there will be no visiting hours. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday , April 11, at St. John Catholic Church, in Winslow.

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

KEITH H. STAFFORD JR.

SOUTH CHINA – Keith H. Stafford, Jr., 62, was born in Gardiner on June 6, 1960, to Patricia and Keith Stafford, Sr. Keith passed away Thursday, April 6, 2023.

Keith is survived by his wife of 22 years, Carrie Stafford; his two sons and their wives, Jamie and Rachel Clark, Theodore and Isabelle Dowling; his grandchildren Gavin, Odin, Presley, Emma and Jalen; as well as his mother, Patricia; his brother, Steve; his sister, Cindy and her partner Peter; mother-in-law, Nancy Long; uncles Paul Spencer, and Robert and his wife Lana Spencer; and many special nieces, nephews; cousins.

Keith loved his family and trips up to the county to four-wheel.

Celebration of his life is to be held at Boynton Hall, in South China, Saturday, April 22, at 1 p.m. It will be potluck so bring your favorite dish and beverage. Everyone is invited to come and share together. Keith wants everyone to have a good time!

RONALD E. GAGNE

AUGUSTA – Ronald E.Gagne, 81, passed away on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, following a long illness. He was born to Lea (Savage) Gagne and Raphael Gagne on May 7, 1941.

He attended Augusta schools until 1958 when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Lake Champlain and was also in the Naval reserves until 1964, and Maine National Guard until 1972.

He was employed as a police officer for Augusta and Gardiner police departments until. 1968.

He then was a car salesman for Bob Chambers Ford and Homestead Motors until his final employment as security officer for Camp Keyes, in Augusta, until his retirement. He was an amateur radio operator with a love for collecting and displaying his many radios over the years. He was known to the CB world as “Bid. Bird.”

Ron was predeceased his parents, wife Patricia Gagne, wife Joyce Gagne.

He is survived by his children, David Richardson and wife Rose; daughters Laurie Meader, and Missy Ouellette and companion Scott Geroux; grandchildren Danny Weeks, Samantha Romero, Nicole Gagne, Melinda Allen, Heather Burns, Nicole Ouellette, and Donnie Ouellette; two brothers, Dennis Gagne, of Augusta, and David Gagne and wife Ursula,of Germany; several great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at noon on Thursday, April 27,2023, at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 147 Blue Star Highway, off Civic Center Drive, Augusta.

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

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

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 6, 2023

CHRISTA B. PAULEY

SOUTH CHINA – Christa B. Pauley, 87, passed away on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at her home, following a brief illness. She was born in Portland, on April 26, 1935, the daughter of the late Dr. Charles D. and Margret Vesta (Wood) Brown.

Christa was a graduate of Fryeburg Academy and earned her associate degree from Portland School of Art.

She was a homemaker, a marvelous portrait and scenic artist as well as illustrating a number of children’s books.

She was a member, and soloist, of the Augusta Symphony Orchestra for many years. She had a powerful lyric soprano voice and shared that talent in so many ways for schools, countless weddings and funerals, nursing homes and churches from Maine to Florida. Born Free and the American Hymn were her two most requested pieces.

She loved animals and the children grew up with dogs, cats, ponies and horses with Christa raising and riding her three horses over her lifetime.

Christa was predeceased by her sister, Shirley E. Brown Davis, and son Raymond C. “Jinks” Pauley.

Christa is survived by her husband of 67 years, Donald G. Pauley, of South China; her daughter, Dawn P. Hodsdon and husband Ed, of North Monmouth; her brother, Dr. Jeffrey M. Brown and wife Karin, of Gold Canyon, Arizona; four grandchildren, Christa Pauley, of Vassalboro, Sean Pauley, of Weeks Mills, Nastia LaBonte, of Waterville, and Jacob “JD” Hodsdon, of Fort Meyers, Florida.; three grandchildren of the heart, Leslie Wilson and family, of Spotsylvania, Virginia, Stephen Gosselin and family, of Augusta, and Chris Moore and family, of Skowhegan; several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may visit on Saturday, April 15, from 2 – 3 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Road, Rte. 32, Windsor, where a memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. They will be showing the video of her singing the complete score of The Sound of Music with the full Augusta Symphony Orchestra, at the Civic Center, in Augusta, in 1990. Burial will be at a later date.

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

Those wishing to commemorate Christa’s life with a gift, please donate to the Activities Dept., of the Maine Veterans Home, 35 Hero’s Way, Augusta, ME, 04330, Attention: Mona Boucher. Please write “Activities Dept.” in the memo. Christa had the deepest respect for the care given her son for the last 10 years of his life at the Veterans Home.

CLAIRE H. THIBEAULT

WINSLOW – Claire (Dubois) Hanna Thibeault, 86, passed peacefully on Saturday, March 25, 2023, . Claire was born on December 31, 1936, to Fernando and Annette Dubois and was raised in the Biddeford/Arundel area.

In 1963, she married her beloved husband, Robert Hanna, and eventually settled in Winslow where they raised three daughters; Lisa, Michelle and Patrice. Together, Bob and Claire established Hanna’s Flower Shop which Claire ran with love and pride for 30 years, long after Bob passed away in 1979. In 1981, Claire married Ted Thibeault, who passed away in 1988, but provided her with a beautiful extended family that she maintained close, loving ties with for the remainder of her life.

Claire’s unwavering faith, quiet strength and positive attitude gained her the respect of all who knew her. She enjoyed her time with many very special friends in the Waterville/Winslow area and volunteered many hours at the Muskie Center, in Waterville. Her greatest joy though was spending time with and hearing from her precious grandchildren; Danielle, Hanna and Andrew. She moved to the Auburn area in 2021 to be closer to her family.

Claire is survived by her daughters and their families, Lisa Brosius, husband John and son Andrew, of Greenwood, Indiana, Michelle Gagne, husband Gerry and daughter Danielle and Patrice Roy, husband Greg and daughter Hanna, all of Auburn; sisters Eliane Collette, of Biddeford, Aline Fortier and husband Paul, of Nashua, New Hampshire; brother Robert Dubois and wife Janice, of Biddeford, and generations of nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husbands, brothers Marcel and Claude and sisters Pierette and Monique.

Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, 217 Turner Street, Auburn, ME 04210, (207) 783-8545.

Donations, if preferred to flowers, can be made in Claire’s name to The Daybreak Program, Muskie Center, 38 Gold St., Waterville, ME 04901.

BRIAN K. FRANCOEUR

WATERVILLE – Brian Keith Francoeur, 56, passed away peacefully in hospice care on Tuesday March 7, 2023, at the Gray Birch Long-term Care Facility, in Augusta, following a period of declining health.

Brian was born in Waterville on February 11, 1967, the youngest son of Raymond and Constance (Caron) Francoeur.

He was a lifelong resident of Waterville and was educated in local schools, graduating in 1985.

Brian acquired many skills in life and worked several fields including sandblasting, construction, and security. In his younger days, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was also a huge fan of the New England Patriots and loved to cook.

Brian was predeceased by his father Raymond Francoeur.

He is survived by his mother, Constance Francoeur; companion Deborah Dornish; brothers, Michael Francoeur, Steven Francoeur and wife Kathy, all of Waterville, Gary Francoeur and wife Paula, of Vassalboro; niece Stacey Francoeur, of Waterville; nephews Michael Fulcher and girlfriend Heather, of Brunswick, Chris Fulcher, of Florida, and Jeff Fulcher and wife Tracy, of Illinois.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street.

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

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

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Waterville Area Soup Kitchen, 38 College Ave, Waterville, ME.

ROBERT W. PELLERIN SR.

WATERVILLE – Robert William Pellerin Sr., 91, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 20, 2023, at Thay­er Cam­pus of MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville. Robert or “Bob”, to all who knew him, was born in Waterville on December 20, 1931, the first child to Alec Joseph and Grace Ella (Lacombe) Pellerin.

He graduated Waterville Senior High School in 1949, worked at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, until he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force when the U.S. entered the Korean War. Shortly thereafter Bob received a hardship discharge and returned home to help the family when his father became seriously ill.

Bob met Geraldine Boisvert in 1953, a lovely courtship ensued, and they married on July 3, 1954. Bob went to work for Gerry’s father, Bill Boisvert, who was a prominent local businessman, driving one of Bill’s Oil Service fuel oil trucks delivering home heating oil. While working long hours, Bob also attended Thomas College, in Waterville, where he earned his business degree. Performing just about every job at Bill’s Oil, Bob worked his way up to general manager, holding this position for many years until the business was sold in 1991, ushering Bob into leisurely life of a retiree.

Bob and Gerry created a wonderful family consisting of four boys and provided a loving environment for them at their home in Waterville, and during the summers at their camp on Great Pond. Family vacations included many trips to Florida and traveling out west in their motorhome. Bob also enjoyed skiing, snowmobiling, tennis, hunting and golf.

In their retirement years, Bob and Gerry maintained a home in Zephyrhills, Florida, where they would spend their winters, enjoying the warm weather golfing and playing shuffleboard. The family grew up Catholic and would regularly attend Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville.

Bob had a lifelong love of aviation. This started when, as a young boy he would watch the USAAF planes entering the landing pattern for a stopover in Waterville on their way to Europe during World War II. He would frequently hop on his bicycle and ride from his home, on Edgemont Avenue, all the way to the airport to watch them come and go. Bob took flying lessons in the early 1970s and became a private pilot, owning two airplanes along the way. He was also an avid reader of non-fiction books and a history buff, especially with regards to World War II airplanes and ships, had remarkable knowledge on those subjects and many others.

He had many lifelong friends, and it was unusual to for him go anywhere in town without someone saying, “Hello Bob, how are you?”

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Gerry in 2014; and only sibling, his brother, Gene Pellerin in 2020.

Bob is survived by his sons Robert William Jr. and wife Julie, of Sidney, Michael James and wife Claudia, of Winslow, Jeffrey Lee and wife Kathie, of Scarborough, and Brian Scott and wife Amanda, of Midlothian, Texas; nine grandchildren, Tiffany, Kristen, Danielle, Marc, Jamie, Jacob, Alec, Sydney and Noah; as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

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

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scotts Funeral Home, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to your favorite charity.

KERMIT C. KNOWLES

WATERVILLE – Calvin Knowles, 90, passed away peacefully Friday, March 24, 2023, at the MaineGeneral Comfort Care Unit, in Augusta, with a copy of the newest Golf Digest by his side. “Kermie” or “Zike” to some, was born July 7, 1932, in Portland, to Harry and Bertha Knowles.

South Portland was the family home during the Great Depression and World War II years. After the war the family moved back to the family farm in Bingham.

Kermit’s lifelong love of sports began with his involvement in the Bingham High School baseball and basketball teams. Here he excelled in both sports and at one time held the BHS scoring record for most points scored in a basketball game. He is also credited with naming the Bingham High School mascot the “Cavaliers”. He continued to play semi-pro baseball for the Farmington Flyers after high school.

Kermit graduated college from Bowling Green State University, in Bowling Green, Ohio, where he earned an athletic scholarship for baseball and wrestling. He stayed involved with BGSU sports throughout his life as a member of the alumni association and visiting the campus for functions in later years. He was always “in the know” of the current status of BGSU sports and could always be found with “Falcon” memorabilia. It was here that he first discovered his lifelong love for the game of golf. Kermit later pursued graduate studies and completed a master’s degree in education from the University of Maine, Orono.

Kermit started his teaching and coaching career at Pennell Institute, in Gray, and then on to Livermore Falls High School. After LFHS he moved back to Bingham and worked with his father as an electrical contractor until 1968 when he accepted a teaching and basketball coaching position at Unity College, in Unity. Here he enjoyed success with the Unity College “Rams” basketball teams in the late ’60s and early 1970s. After Unity College he taught physical education and coached girls’ basketball at Upper Kennebec Valley MHS, in Bingham. He finished his professional teaching career as the principle at Jackman High School.

His love of sports was consistent throughout his life with golf always at the forefront. “Zike” was a member at Lakewood Golf Course, in Madison, for many years where he won several club championships before joining the Waterville Country Club in the early 1990s. During the golf season “Kermie” could always be found at his second home, the WCC. He seldom missed playing in the Friday scrambles with his buddies and was a proud member of the 80/20 club at WCC. He traveled later in life to Ireland and Scotland to play in the home of golf and spent many winters in Florida golfing and visiting with family. May he forever play golf in the Golf Kingdom.

He left behind many loving family traditions. Most prominent was holiday cards. You could always count on getting a Charlie Brown card for birthdays or holidays from him.

Kermit Knowles is survived by his brother, Duane Knowles; son Terry, daughter-in-law Nancy, daughter Michele, son-in-law Casey, daughter Kimberly; grandchildren Zachery, Brooke, Taylor and Corey; nephew David; niece Laura; and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life to be held later this spring. Messages of Condolence may be left at http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Madison and Bingham.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Comfort Care Unit at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care at Glenridge, in Augusta.

CARLETON E. JONES

VASSALBORO – Carleton E. Jones, 88, of Vassalboro, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2023, at his home. Carleton was born Sep­tem­ber 2, 1934, in Waterville, the son of the late Allen and Phyllis (Leith) Jones.

Carleton grew up in Stoneham, Massachusetts. In 1963, he moved to Maine to the farm of his grandfather, Ezra Jones. Carleton taught machine tool at Waterville High School until his retirement in 1989. Many former students over the years visited him to discuss the successful careers they went on to achieve. He was also an avid hunter and fisherman. He used to take his classes on annual deep sea fishing excursions, and many students spent time hunting with Carleton in the back woods.

Upon retirement, Carleton spent his days outdoors where he most loved to be. He and his wife planted a forest of pine trees, an apple orchard, and he built many stonewalls on the farm. Carleton shared his love of stonewalls by building them throughout Central Maine as part of the family business.

An avid gardener, he had the most bountiful, weed free vegetable gardens every year, saving his own seeds and cultivating his own varieties. He was a gifted artist, builder, and inventor. He loved a good challenge and never passed up an opportunity to try something new. He was a machinist by trade, and among many things he created, he built his house, a boat house, and numerous ponds around his property. A man of many talents, he also had a beautiful singing voice and sang for the Boston boys’ choir, was a scuba diver, a Mason, got his private pilot’s license, was selected as Maine and the Northeast Regional Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year for 1996, and even tried his hand at wine making. From all these adventures came many stories, which his family will be sharing for many years to come.

Carleton is survived by his wife of 68 years Maetta (Patton) Jones; daughters Cindy Jones Spaulding, of Albion, Laura Jones, of Vassalboro; sons Craig and his wife Victoria (Bell) Jones, of Hollis, New Hampshire, and Steven Jones and his partner Robert Milano, of Vassalboro; five grandchildren and their spouses; eight great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Howard and Leith Jones and his son Jeffrey Jones.

Honoring Carleton’s wish, a small family gathering is planned in May at the stone pyramid he built on the family farm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be mailed to Maetta Jones, 53 Quaker Lane, Vassalboro, ME 04989. A fund in his memory has been created and will be used toward a donation of planted trees and other materials at a public park in Vassalboro.

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

RICHARD C. ADAMS

WINSLOW – Richard Curtis Adams, 91, aka “Dick” or “Flicker”, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at MaineGeneral, in Augusta. He was born October 14, 1931, the oldest of four, to Ann Kathleen “Kay” and Leroy Earl “Roy” Adams, in Presque Isle.

It is there he attended public schools and graduated from Aroostook State Teachers College. Richard was known as a kind, generous man who loved and cared for his family deeply, as well as his many friends scattered across the State.

Shortly thereafter, he began his career in education as a teacher in Presque Isle, during which time he met Janice, his wife of 68 years. Following their wedding in 1955, Richard joined the U.S. Army for two years of service. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to teaching in Presque Isle, eventually becoming principal at Skyway Middle School.

In 1968 he moved his family to Augusta to advance his career and a few years later settled in Weeks Mills. He always remained proud of his roots in “the County”, though. Richard was instrumental in the development of adult education in Maine and also helped to advance education for veterans. He held several positions with the State Department of Education, his last as the Director of Education for Unorganized Territories. Along the way he earned a master’s degree in adult education and also taught college level courses. He was passionate about all aspects of public education and was well respected in the field, where he mentored many students, teachers, principals and others, always encouraging them to live up to their potential. He loved to tell his kids “ I taught teachers how to teach.”

Richard also spent many summers painting houses, working for his dad who taught him the skill. He passed on many tips to his children and grandchildren about painting, advising “make sure you choose a good, high-quality paintbrush”!

Richard enjoyed numerous pastimes in his younger days including sports, bird hunting, fishing, and playing cards with friends. In the last few years, he focused on crossword puzzles, Wordle, watching music videos, outings to the casino, family gatherings, and talking on his cell phone (especially to Earl). But, above all, he loved horse racing and formed many life-long friendships with people in the harness racing world. He followed the Maine Fair circuit for years and nearly every day of the Windsor Fair he could be found parked next to the rail on the first corner of the track. He was thrilled to witness American Pharaoh capture the Belmont Stakes in 2015 to become the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years!

Richard spent the last eight years of his life having dialysis treatments three days a week. He truly beat the odds, living well past doctor’s predictions. He was known for his quick-witted, dry sense of humor, which never wavered, even on the worst of days. He loved to gently tease his children/grandchildren and tell tall tales about his own childhood.

He will be remembered by the many people whose lives he touched for his intelligence, resilience, positive attitude, work ethic, steadiness, dependability, loyalty, and gratitude he showed to those who impacted his life.

Richard was predeceased by his parents; son, Mitchell Adams; brother, Walter Adams, and sister, Patricia Irving.

He is survived by wife, Janice Adams; his children Michele Prince and husband David, Michael Adams and husband Meynard Patascil, Marsha Adams and partner Bruce Wescott, Mary Kay Tisdale and husband Greg, his daughter-in-law, Karen Adams; his grandchildren, Joel Allen, Benjamin Allen and wife Megan, Travis Adams and wife Tori, Curtis Adams and Noah Tisdale; his brother, Earl Adams and wife Sheila; his sister-in-law, Lucy Adams; his great-grandchildren Ava, Josie, Angus, Hazel and Ethel; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be no visiting hours or service. A Celebration of Life will happen from noon – 2 p.m., on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, 175 Veterans Dr., in Winslow.

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, donations may be made in Richard’s name to the National Kidney Foundation New England.

WILLIAM M. HILTON

SOUTH CHINA – William “Billy” M. Hilton, 65, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Billy was born in Franklin, New Hamp­shire, on February 13, 1958, to the late Chris­toph­er and Shirley (Washburn).

He attended Skowhegan public schools and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1976. Billy then enlisted into the United States Army where he proudly served his country. After the military, he held many occupations to include small business owner, flooring, manufacturing, and as a machinist until his health no longer cooperated.

In his free time, he enjoyed working in and around his home, golfing, fishing and boating. He was a lifelong fan of the New England Patriots. If you heard Go Pats! at a game, graduation, or wedding it probably came from Billy. Billy enjoyed any HILTON adventure, 4th of July at Bob’s, visiting Myrtle Beach and Darlington, in South Carolina, with Chris, Cape Hatteras, in North Carolina, with Sue, Macy’s Day parade at Thanksgiving, in New York City, Patriots Training Camp, Cherry Blossom festival in Washington, DC, several Caribbean cruises, family trip to Australia, 4-wheeling, Labor Day in Rangeley, Disney, Cedar Point, Las Vegas, and countless athletic games for his children and grandchildren. The list could go on and on.

Billy adored his family and the time spent with them. He leaves a huge hole in their hearts.

Billy is survived by his wife Diane, sharing 32 years together; their five children, Josh, of New Hampshire, Dan, of Auburn, Brittany, of Auburn, Matt, of Lisbon, and Sarah and husband Derek, of Belgrade; his grandchildren, Jake, Miles, Sam, Alec, Kym, Isaiah, Eli, Spencer, Ty, Olivia, Juliette, Charlee, and great-granddaughter Scarlet; siblings Chris and wife Dolly, of South Carolina, Bob and wife Janelle, of Australia, Sue and husband Tim, of Hebron, and James, of Portland; father-in-law, William Rourke, of Readfield; sister-in-law Cindy, of Readfield; brothers-in-law Don and Mark, of Ohio.; several nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Lori Brown, of Brunswick, and mother-in-law, Phyllis Rourke, of Readfield.

A celebration of Billy’s life was held on Friday, March 31, at Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin Street, Winthrop, ME.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Honor Flight Maine, P.O. Box 699, Brunswick, ME 04011-0699, http://www.honorflightmaine.org.

LINDSAY M. PHILBRICK

SIDNEY – Lindsay Marie Philbrick, 37, passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Lindsay was born December 24, 1985. She was the daughter of Robert E. Philbrick and Joyce (Languet) Todd.

Lindsay was a very loving and beautiful girl growing up in Sidney and attending James Bean School and Messalon­skee High School, both in Oakland. Many times during her school years when she had days off, she and her brother would pack a lunch and loved going to work with their father. Lindsay was very competitive in baseball as a child. During her school years, Lindsay enjoyed not only baseball with her father coaching her, but also was very competitive in karate classes, winning many trophies. After her ball games on Friday nights, she enjoyed packing her bags and going to her family camp on Moosehead Lake with her brother and father. At camp, Lindsay liked to fish and hunt birds, and being with her friends. She loved the wildlife around her and made pets with the rabbits and squirrels that she would feed out of her hands. She would always say she was Daddy’s girl and waited for the smile that came with it. After high school, Lindsay took many paths in life that only she could understand. She lived a very interesting life and will be dearly missed by her family and friends. She will always be fondly remembered for her willingness to help others, her kind heart, and her beautiful smile.

Lindsay was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Clarence and Joan Philbrick, and Albert and Joyce Languet.

She is survived by her son Jaydan Philbrick; daughter Ajah Cole; her father, Robert E. Philbrick and his wife Marisa, and her mother, Joyce Todd; her siblings, Heidi Roy and her husband Steve; and her brother, Lucas Philbrick; nephew, Ryan Roy, and nieces, Hallie Bennett and Jaylie Roy; and many aunts and uncles and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, May 22, 2023, at noon, at the Robert E. Philbrick Cemetery, Lindsay Way, Sidney, Maine 04330.

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

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any local charity that benefits children in need.

KENNETH O. ALLEN JR.

AUGUSTA – Kenneth “Ken” Owen Allen Jr., 76, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born on December 2, 1946, a son of Kenneth and Dorothy (French) Allen Sr..

Ken grew up in Windsor and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, in the class of 1964. During his school years, he was an accomplished athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball. Following high school, he went on to further his education at the University of Maine at Orono where he majored in English Literature and Creative Writing, and graduated in 1969. He later earned his teaching certificate from the University of Maine-Augusta (UMA). One of his favorite memories of his young adulthood was backpacking through Europe.

For several years, Ken taught English at Lawrence High School, in Fairfield. He later became a full-time writer and had a regular column at the Kennebec Journal, in Augusra, in the outdoors section called Allen Afield, writing for over 40 years. He was also the associate editor of The Maine Sportsman. An accomplished writer, Ken published two books, a cookbook entitled Cooking Wild and another book entitled Guide to Upland Bird Hunting. Throughout his career he was published in over 90 publications, including national magazines. Even after retirement and throughout his illness, he was actively working on four novels. Although Ken led an accomplished career as a writer, he was most proud of being a father to his two daughters, Heather and Katelyn, and grandfather “Bumpa” to his three grandchildren.

Ken remained active all his life and was an avid cyclist. He was a true Mainer with a love for the outdoors and enjoyed fly-fishing, hunting, birdwatching, wildlife photography and tending his gardens. He was a dog lover and was happiest with one of his labs by his side.

Ken is survived by his daughters Heather Allen and her partner, Phillip Szela, Katelyn Pushard and her husband Brian; and grandchildren, Brice, Luke and Eve Pushard; former wife and mother of his daughters, Marguerite “Margie” Gingras Allen; and cousin, Buddy Norton.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Burial will take place in the spring at Oak Hill Cemetery, Route 32, Windsor. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

ANGELA M. GOLDSMITH

OAKLAND – Angela Mae Goldsmith, 68, passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Angie was born in Waterville on December 30, 1954, the daughter of William and Marguerite Fuller, of Clinton.

She attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and graduated in 1973.

Angie spent most of her life employed at local businesses as a cashier, and manager. She also cared for her grandchildren daily.

Angie’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. During her quiet time, she enjoyed baking, sewing, knitting, and playing games.

She was predeceased by her parents William and Marguerite Fuller; sister, Anita Roy, brothers Peter Fuller and William Fuller III; and great-niece, Tasha Desmond.

She is survived by her children Rhonda Goldsmith and partner Darren Chambers, Amy Poulin and husband Christopher, Megan Gallagher and husband Shane, and Michael Goldsmith and fiancée Amber Gervais; grandchildren Bailey Giggey, Keegan Poulin and wife Hunter, Gabriella Chambers, Gavin Chambers, Alex Crews, Jazlynn Bernier, Mayleigh Crews, Emma Gallagher, Addilyne Gallagher, Emmalyn Goldsmith, Revan Gallagher, and Jordan Goldsmith; great-grandchildren Eleanor Giggey, Caroline Giggey, Greyson Larmon, and two expected great-granddaughters. her sister, Anne Millington; brother, Timothy Fuller and wife Ellen; numerous nieces, nephews, and their respective families.

Service was held Thursday, April 6, at 2 p.m., at the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, Main St., Fairfield. Burial will be held at a later date.

Floral arrangements can be sent to Lawry Brothers.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a children’s charity in her name would be appreciated.

BARBARA R. JOLOVITZ

PORTLAND – Barbara Rogers Jolovitz, 87, of Waterville, died on Thursday, March 30, 2023. Born on May 11, 1935, in Springfield, Massachusetts, she was the youngest of three daughters of Gertrude and Wilfred Sohn.

Barbara was raised in Portland, graduated Deering High School, and attended Westbrook Junior College, in Portland. She moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where she met Eric Rogers, of Provincetown, Massachusetts. They married in 1956 and raised two children, Karl Rogers and Deborah Barlock.

Barbara was a very artistic woman who over the years was involved with creative endeavors ranging from making batik fabrics to Japanese flower-arranging to professional stencil art. She studied painting with William Manning and was a devoted follower of Julia Child. Eventually she went on to run a gourmet catering service for many years in the Portland area.

Barbara met her second husband, Lester Jolovitz, at one of her catering events. They enjoyed many years together traveling, supporting the arts and civic organizations in the Waterville area, and spending winters at their second home in Naples, Florida. More recently, she was inspired to write several small books, among them a children’s book telling the history of Camp Tracy, in Oakland, of which Lester was a founder, and her grandsons now proudly help support.

Her latest passion was to share a Yiddish word-of-the-day with a growing class of 75 “students”, which had started as sharing a bit of her Jewish and Yiddish culture with her grandsons over email. The group called her “Bubbe”, Yiddish for grandmother, and she was the proud matriarch of her “Bubbe’s World”. Her last book, A Daily Dose of Yiddish, was of stories inspired from memories of Yiddish in her life and also included traditional Jewish recipes.

In addition to her children, she is survived by her twin sister, Esther, of Maryland; three grandsons, Benjamin and Amy Barlock and great-grandson Jonah; William and Austyn Barlock; and Nicky Howard-Rogers.

She was predeceased by her parents; her oldest sister, Vivian Slosberg; her first husband, Eric Rogers, her second husband, Lester Jolovitz; and her son-in-law, John Barlock.

Services were held Monday, April 3, at Temple Beth El, 400 Deering Ave., Portland.

Arrangements by Portland Jewish Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Camp Tracy Alumni Fund, c/o Alfond Youth Center, 126 North St., Waterville, Maine; Temple Beth El in Portland; or Beth Israel Congregation, 291 Main St., P.O. Box 1882 Waterville, ME 04901.