OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 1, 2024

KENNETH E. SYLVESTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

DIANE M. GLIDDEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHYLLIS A. FERNALD

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

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

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

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

ALICIA J. SUTTER

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

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

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

Alicia was predeceased by her father, Richard Sutter Sr.

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

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

AUDREY A. HEWETT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FRED DUBE

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

Fred was a very hard worker all his life.

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

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

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

CAROL A. WILLIAMS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GEORGE J. VANDEMARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NANCY C. CUNNINGHAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REGINALD G. CHABOT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DONNA R. COLLINS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RAYMOND A. DELANO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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