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In Memoriam

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In Flanders Fields

Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)

Canadian Army

 

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

 

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Annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony in Sabattus

Hosted by American Legion Harry J Conway Post 135

 

 

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World War I

World War II

Korea/Vietnam

    

 

Photograph

Obituary

Military

Branch

Wartime

Service

 

Rosaire Delorme

August 9, 1933 – March 22, 2024

Florida - Rosaire Joseph Delorme, 90, of Homosassa, FL, peacefully passed away on March 22, 2024 as the results of Alzheimer’s. Rosaire was born on August 09, 1933 to George Delorme and Alice Carrier in Sabattus, Maine.

 

In 1953, Rosaire joined the United States Army and was sent to Korea. After separating from the Army, Rosaire started a career in the automotive industry as an auto body mechanic. He married Irene Cecile Raymond in 1956 in Lewiston, Maine.

 

Irene preceded him in death in 2014. Rosaire and Irene had 7 children, Simonne of Auburn, Anita deceased in 2016, Roland of Greene, Bert deceased in 2000, Leo of Lisbon, Marcel of Homosassa, Florida, and Georgette of Providence, Rhode Island.

 

Rosaire is also survived by his brother Joseph (Gloria) of Sabattus and his sister Theresa Morneault of Sabattus. And numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

 

He was a member of The American Legion, Post 135 of Sabattus, Maine. While being cared for by his son, Marcel, Rosaire got close to Harley, Marcel’s dog. Harley saw Rosaire just days before he passed. Harley followed Rosaire 2 days later.

 

US Army

Korea

 

 

 

 

Alton Forest Merrill

January 27, 1935 – February 1, 2024

 

Alton Forest Merrill, 89, a lifelong resident of Sabattus (Webster), passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024 at Marshwood Nursing Home.

He was born January 27, 1935 to Arlene and George Merrill in Webster (Sabattus). Altonwasa 1954 graduate of Lisbon High School where he played hockey.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army and was in the Army Reserves. On September 26, 1959 he married his wife of 64 years, Judith Page. Alton ran the family dairy farm until he sold the herd in 1986, at which time he continued to cut hay and went to work as a Sawyer for Bickford's Sawmill retiring in 2000.

Alton was very involved in his community; serving as a firefighter for 52 years, plowed snow, drove school bus, was a selectman. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 135, Litchfield Farmers Club (Litchfield Fair), the West Bowdoin Cemetery Association and Oak Hill Boosters Club.

Alton, was avid outdoorsman; hunting (shot his last deer at 85), camping (where he excelled at playing horseshoes, he was the first place player at the Riverbend Campground tournament in 1995), snowmobiling and cutting firewood. Alton also liked to bowl in the league at Sparetime Recreation in Hallowell. He could always be heard cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events. He and his wife both enjoyed dancing and could be frequently found on Saturday evenings at the Litchfield Sportsman Club or Legion Hall.

He is survived by his wife Judith, of Sabattus: Daughter Suzanne, Sons George and Daniel (Nancy) Merrill all of Sabattus: Three grandchildren and two great grandchildren with a third on the way.

He was predeceased by his parents and sisters Patricia Fenimore and Beverly Coburn.

US Army

 

 

Richard Joseph Thibodeau

May 6,1945-January 18, 2024

 

Auburn, ME – Richard Joseph Thibodeau, 78, of Greene passed away peacefully after a battle with metastatic lung cancer on Thursday, January 18, 2024 with loving family by his side.

Richard was born in Lewiston, Maine on May 6th, 1945, a son to Edmund and Evangeline (Pelletier) Thibodeau. He attended Lewiston schools and graduated from Saint Dominic Academy. He spent many years working in grocery stores until he was drafted into the US Army.

After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned home and rejoined civilian life. Shortly after returning home, he met the love of his life, Doris Nadeau. The two were married for 44 wonderful years, being blessed with their two children Becky and Vicky. Becky was taken from this world too soon due to a tragic car accident.

Richard spent his final working years in an auto body shop painting cars until he was injured, taking him out of work. He enjoyed hot rods and restoring vehicles which he did many times throughout the years. In his free time, he loved hunting, fishing, four wheeling, boating, and playing cards. He loved spending quality time with his family and friends.

Richard was loved by everyone who knew him, and he will be greatly missed.

Richard is predeceased by his parents, his adoring wife Doris and his beloved daughter Becky.

He leaves behind his daughter Vicky Lacombe, her husband Ernie and his granddaughter Brooke.

US Army

 

 

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Raymond E. Ames

July 15, 1930 - December 7, 2023

LEWISTON - Raymond E. Ames, 93, of Lewiston passed away on Dec. 7, 2023. Raymond was born on July 15, 1930,

LEWISTON – Raymond E. Ames, 93, of Lewiston passed away on Dec. 7, 2023. Raymond was born on July 15, 1930, the son of Stanley C. and Gladys May (Scott) Ames in Auburn. He attended local schools graduating from high school and entering the Air Force to serve his country for the next 20 years. Raymond is survived by his twin brother Wesley Ames whom he had a very close relationship with.

After retiring from the Air Force he began a career at Phillips Element before becoming a volunteer at Central Maine Medical Center for the next 20 years working in day surgery and the mail room. He was a loyal member of the VFW and American Legion, as well as East Auburn Baptist Church where he was a volunteer during services. In his spare time Raymond was an avid amateur photographer taking many pictures but always being at the Balloon Festival in order to photograph the launches and events.

Raymond is survived by his two sons, Christopher and Michelle Ames of Sabattus; Shawn Ames and Jovita Bilodeau of Biddeford; and his three grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents.

A graveside service will be celebrated on Friday December 15, at 9 a.m., at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 980 Turner St, Auburn, which will include military honors from the Air Force.

 

US Air Force

 

 

Obituary of Joseph Edward Breton

Joseph Edward Breton

August 28, 1930 – October 13, 2023

Auburn, ME - It is with great sadness that the family of Joseph (Edward) Breton announces his passing. He died peacefully on Friday, October 13,2023, after a well fought battle with Mesothelioma. He was 93 years old and a resident of Sabattus.

He was born August 28, 1930 in Livermore Falls and was the patriarch of five generations. He is survived by his wife Irene and four children, Richard Breton and his wife Doris, Daniel Breton and his wife Barbara, Kathlene Bourget and her husband David, and Cindy Gilman and her husband Elliot. He has nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

Eddie, as he liked to be called, graduated from Saint Dom’s in 1948 and went on to study at the Auburn School of Business. He joined the United States Coast Guard during the Korean War and served for 39 years. He worked at the Brunswick Naval Air Station for over 30 years.

Eddie retired in 1985 and went on to create two more careers. The first, selling Ceramic Christmas decorations and in later years he and his wife started The Breton Group Tours to organize Senior Citizen Trips. He loved all things creative and enjoyed woodworking, gardening, golf, and in his later years Bingo and puzzles.

He was a wizard with numbers and shared that talent for many years on his church’s finance committee and as the Finance Officer of his post at the American Legion.

 

US Coast Guard

Korea

 

 

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William E. Henshaw

Sept 30, 1931- Jul 22, 2023


Sabattus, Maine – William E. Henshaw, born September 30, 1931, passed peacefully and quietly on July 22, 2023, at VA Togus Hospice in the company of family after seven months of in-home hospice with his daughter Susan.

Born in Taunton, Massachusetts, to Wilford B. and Grace (Haines) Henshaw, he was a graduate of Taunton High School, Class of 1950. He married his wife Helen Louise (Porter) Henshaw in 1952 and together they raised six children.

In 1950, he entered the United States Army at Fort Dix, NJ; he was deployed to Korea during the Korean War, and was also stationed at Fort Bliss, TX, Beale AFB, CA, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Germany.


He served as an artilleryman in the 1st Cavalry, 61st Field Artillery Battalion, and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds received in combat when the Chinese crossed the Yalu River. He was Honorably discharged from the Army in 1959 at the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Bill and his family traveled in the Army then lived in Abington and Whitman, Massachusetts. Later he and his wife moved to Sabattus, Maine to live with his daughter Susan, and they were snowbirds in Holiday and New Port Richey, Florida.

After his service in the US Army, he worked for the North Abington Post Office, Farm Bureau, and Wes-Pine before beginning his career at New England Art Publishers (NEAP) in Abington. He worked in several positions before retiring in 1997. Mr. Bill loved his NEAP family.

In his retirement in Maine, Bill drove veterans for the DAV for over 5 years, traveling all over Central Maine to make sure they got to their appointments. He served as an Adjutant for the DAV for several years. He also held an officer position in the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Bill was always involved, from his membership in the Knights of King Arthur in his youth in Taunton to in later life enjoying square dancing; he was active in the Republican Party, his Church, and served as a Selectman in the Town of Sabattus.

Bill was a proud member of DAV Post 1, Augusta, and American Legion Harry J. Conway Post 135 in Sabattus, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and 61st Field Artillery Association. One highlight of his life was a trip with Honor Flight Maine to see the Military Memorials in Washington D.C. with his son Scott.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, his beloved Louise, his brothers Wilford, Walter and Raymond and his sister Phyllis Phillips. He is survived by two brothers, Wayne, and Ernie, and three sisters, Jaqueline Medas, Sarah Bullen and Rosemarie Manganaro. His six children also survive: sons William, Bruce, and Scott (Noreen) and daughters Susan (Amedeo) Lauria, Kathryn Joubert and Wendy (Phil) Reichert. Bill was proud Papa to ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and three great-great- granddaughters. He was also proud of his many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend thanks to the Togus VA, his VA caregiver, and to the staff of Beacon Hospice for their amazing support during his life, and as he transitioned to the next life.

 

US Army

Korea

Purple Heart

Combat Wounded

 

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Robert O. Caron

Oct 20, 1944 – Apr 27, 2023

AUBURN- Robert O. Caron, a resident of Sabattus, passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at the age of 78, following a yearlong battle with cancer.


He was born in Lewiston, Maine on October 20, 1944 the son of the late Ludger and Cecile (Caron) Caron.


He attended schools in many states and overseas in France.

 

He graduated from Sabattus High School in 1963. He continued his education, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Gorham State College and later a Masters of Science in Education from the University of Maine.


Bob taught at Sacred Heart School in Auburn for three years before leaving to serve in the Army during the Vietnam era.

 

His military service involved serving in Commissary Administration. The primary function of that position was to see that military troops were fed at Fort Dix in New Jersey.

After his time in the Army, Bob took a position in his home town of Sabattus at the elementary school. He spent over 30 years at the school of which 12 years were as Principal of the school.

 

He retired in 2002. In his retirement, he enjoyed the peace and tranquility of country living. He would often be seen “puttering” in his yard. He also enjoyed the three daily newspaper that kept him busy and aware of local and national events.


He is survived by his brother Ralph Caron and his wife Ann of Sabattus; his sister Rita Miller and her husband Larry of Eldridge, Maryland.

 

Army

Vietnam

 

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Yvonne “Diddy” Winslow

June 11, 1931 – March 2023

PORTLAND – The family of Yvonne “Diddy” Winslow are sad to announce the passing of their beloved matriarch. Yvonne Winslow, known to all as Diddy, was born on June 11, 1931, in Sabattus, Maine, to Durward Russell and Luciene Lampron Russell Gagnon. In her childhood, Diddy was known for being a good friend and scholar. She was spunky, opinionated, and a leader, even being named “The Bosses” in a photo in the school year book, alongside friend, Barbara Austin. Diddy attended Sabattus High School and was a proud student and graduate of the class of 1949.

Diddy met her husband Leon Winslow through a mutual friend, Alma Fisher. They began dating soon after Leon discharged from the Army and the two married on Oct. 25, 1952. Diddy and Leon were blessed with two children, who they raised in their hometown of Sabattus, and with 42 years of marriage before Leon’s passing. During much of this time, Diddy worked at Peck’s Department Store, Northeast Bank, and Advantage Payroll.

Diddy Winslow was the epitome of community. Over her many years, she was involved in numerous groups and organizations, and she brought so much knowledge, help, care, and laughter to each. She effected change wherever she went and made others question, learn, and grow. Diddy was an active member of the Eastern Star Lakeside Chapter #60 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 135 for years, still dedicating time to them right up to the end. She contributed to both in any way she could, whether that be baking for a supper, writing and putting on skits, attending parades and social gatherings, meetings, and more. Diddy was also a charter member of the more recently established Sabattus Historical Society, attending meetings from day one, giving her oral history, and even self claiming her own committee- the membership and social events committee. Diddy was all about getting people together. Diddy loved her community and served it in countless ways. She was a school board member for many years, attended town meetings, and had a flair for town politics. The memory of Diddy Winslow putting together suppers at the KP hall for any community member in need, is a memory shared by many. Diddy was always the person others thought to call when they had a question or needed help. And she never failed to be there.

Diddy loved playing cards and trivia, being sharp at any game and filled with a plethora of facts and knowledge. Diddy also loved animals of all kinds and especially enjoyed watching birds which she regularly fed year-round. She took joy in music and radio talk shows, gardening, sewing, and crafts. She never slowed and always kept busy.

There is an innumerable amount of people who Diddy Winslow touched in some way or another. Her spark, sly smile, laughter, jokes, sensitivity, and unsurpassable memory for everything, made her an amazing person to have the privilege to know. You felt special in her presence and left a better person. Though she will always be with them in heart, Diddy’s family will certainly feel the massive hole that this loss has created. Others will mourn their friend. And the community will grieve. But Diddy would want all to put on a smile, tell a joke, and keep on being and doing.

Diddy is a reminder to all to do good by your fellow neighbor, to look on the bright side, to have humor, to keep learning, to use your words and actions for good, and to live this blessed life for all you can.

Diddy was the kind of soul that you just always assumed would be there. She was an eternal being. She will be deeply and greatly missed.

Diddy is survived by her daughter Judy Bewley and husband John, her son Thomas Winslow Sr. and wife Suzanne, her grandchildren Joshua Stetson, Thomas Winslow Jr. and wife Stacie, Jessica Dean and husband James, Melissa St. Amand and husband Michael, and her great-grandchildren, Samantha Stetson, Cameron Bradley and husband Joseph, Tyler Desmarais, Owen Desmarais, Ethan Dean, Michael St. Amand Jr, and Matthew St. Amand.

Diddy was predeceased by her husband, Ralph Leon Winslow Jr.

American

Legion

Auxiliary

 

Army Spouse

 

 

Source: Lewiston Sun Journal

March 23, 2023

Bertrand J. Cote

May 26, 1937-March 20, 2023

 

GREENE – Bertrand J. Cote, 85, of Greene died Monday March 20, 2023, at home with his family by his side. Mom and Dad are finally reunited.

He was born in Lewiston on May 26, 1937, the son of Elisee and Alice (Veilleux) Cote.

 

He was the widower of Madeline H. (Levesque) Cote whom he married on Aug. 11, 1956. He served four years in the military as a Marine. He was a supervisor in the shoe factory industry. He enjoyed drives with his wife of 64 years along the Maine coast.

 

Bertrand was predeceased by his wife; parents; and all of his brothers.

 

He is survived by his son, Rickey and his wife Tina, daughter, Gail and her fiance Ron Raymond; grandsons Jeremy Tichy and his companion Yulila, and Ryun Cote, granddaughters Kayla and her husband Cameron Kessler, Myranda and her husband Colin Reed; great-grandchildren Ayden and Natalie Tichy, Ellie Reed and Andrew Kessler; as well as two sisters, Lucille Dick and Carmen Teixeira; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Per the wishes of the family, a committal service will be held privately at St. Peters Cemetery in Lewiston.

 

US Marine

 

 

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Source:  Finley Funeral Home

Reginald R. Pomerleau

May 24, 1940-January 14, 2022

 

Auburn – Reginald R. Pomerleau, 81, of Greene, passed away peacefully, Friday, January 14, 2022, surrounded by his family, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 24, 1940, in Livermore, the son of Omer Pomerleau and Alfreda (Michaud) Breton.

He attended Livermore Falls schools and joined the U.S. Navy in June 1957, where he served as a photographer aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt and the USS Compass Island, until his retirement in 1980.

He married Sheila Lane in Livermore and they had four sons, Barry, Gary, Reginald, and Jack. Reginald was a member of the American Legion Post #135 in Sabattus where he enjoyed playing cribbage and exchanging military stories with his friends.

He was a skilled craftsman and enjoyed woodworking in his free time; he sometimes would spend years hand carving a single project.

He is survived by his sons, Barry Pomerleau of Lisbon Falls, Gary Pomerleau and wife Patricia of Tennessee, Reginald Pomerleau Jr. of Florida, and Jack Pomerleau of Lisbon Falls, 8 grandchildren, Barry Jr., Kristina, Ashley, Heather, Meagan, Paige, Zachary and Danielle, his brothers, Lawrence Pomerleau of Greene, and Laurie Pomerleau of Billerica, MA., his sister Dorian Pomerleau of Leeds, and 13 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Brenda, brothers, Omer Jr., Roland “Babe”, and Henry Pomerleau, sisters, Rita Dubois, and Laurette Bryant Beaulieu.

US Navy

Vietnam

 

 

Source Lewiston Sun Journal

January 12, 2022

Gerald Thompson

Passed:  January 8 2022

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Gerald “Jerry” Thompson of Jacksonville, Fla. passed Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022 with his wife and family beside him.

Born in Hyde Park, Mass., Jerry was one of 11 children, being the middle child.

He is predeceased by his father, James Stafford Thompson and mother, Estella Lee Betts Thompson.

Jerry is predeceased by 10 brothers and sisters, Donald Thompson (Bertha), Doris Thompson, Alice Peterson (Earnest), Esta Pearl Laflamme (George), Virginia Clark (George), James Michael Thompson (Mary), Rosemary Thompson (infant), Mary Elizabeth Gamble (Neal), Josephine Rowell (Clarence) and Marion Lee Boyer (Roger). Jerry Thompson being the last of the siblings of Hyde Park, Mass.

Jerry was predeceased by his first wife and mother of two daughters, Madeleine “Maddy” Fisher Thompson. Married Feb. 7, 1957. His first love and best friend, Jerry was a loving, faithful husband to Maddy 58 years. Jerry was predeceased by several nieces and nephews.

Jerry is survived by his present, loving, caring wife and soulmate at time of passing, Shirley J. Thompson; two daughters, Nancy Duck (Brian) of Jacksonville, Fla. and Laurie Tauch (Curtis) of Orange Park, Fla.; one grandaughter, Katharine Lee Tauch of Orange Park, Fla., and two grandsons, Jonathan Ross Duck (Meagan) of Jacksonville, Fla. and Christopher Joseph Tauch (Cindy) of Orange Park, Fla.; and one great-grandson, “Little Man” Colton.

Jerry became known as “Pops” to three sons through his second marriage to Shirley, Daryl (Shannon), Marty (Cindy) and Shane (Heather). Jerry was always proud of his children, especially the grandchildren. Jerry is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Jerry also wants to thank all of the doctors for such great care: Dr. Rita Dhaliwal, Dr. Youssef Al-Saghir, Maria Antonio Miranda and everyone in the VA especially the Orange Team.

Gerald J. Thompson was a proud veteran of the United States Navy for 22 years and retired as a Senior Chief Aviation Ordnanceman in 1974. This is Jerry’s story of his U.S. Navy Career:

I joined the United States Navy at 17 years old. I attended Bootcamp at the United States Navy Training Center in Bianbridge, Port Deposit, Md. in 1952. I completed eight weeks of Airman School in Oklahoma, 14 weeks of Aviation Ordnanceman School in Jacksonville, Fla., six months at Whidbey Island in Oak Harbor, Wash., six months at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan. In 1954, I took a 10-month discharge from the United States Navy. I then reenlisted in the United States Navy in 1955 and was stationed at NAS South Weymouth, Mass. for one year. In 1956, I received orders to NAS Brunswick for four years. It was here I met many great friends including current friends, Lee Baird and Bill Taylor. I also met Madeleine Fisher while stationed in Brunswick and married Maddy in 1957. We had our first daughter, Nancy in 1959. In 1960 I received orders to North Island Naval Air Station in San Diego, Calif. Our second daughter, Laurie, was born while stationed there in 1961. In 1962, orders were received for B School in Jacksonville, Fla. I received orders in 1963 to Naval Station Guantanimo Bay, Cuba. The family and I lived there for three years.

In 1965, orders were received to NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach, Va. for one year. In 1966 I received orders for shore duty to NAS Jacksonville Weapons for two years. 1968 I received orders for Sea Duty and was stationed in squadron VF-213 at Miramar Naval Air Station, San Diego, Calif. and assigned to the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63, Vietnam until 1971. In 1971 orders were received for shore duty and I was stationed at NAS Jacksonville Weapons for my final three years of military service. I proudly retired from the United States Navy as Aviation Ordnance Senior Chief in November 1974.

Upon my retirement from the United States Navy, I obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1975. I was employed by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs Housing Department 1975 in Jacksonville, Fla. In 1983, relocated to the St. Petersburg Office of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs Housing. After 19 years of service, I retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 1994 as a Property Management Specialist. Thank you to all that were a part of my U.S. Navy career and my Veteran’s Affairs Property Management career.

Jerry was a respectful, dedicated grandson to his grandparents, a great son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, sailor and friend. Jerry never spoke unkindly about anyone and will be deeply missed by all that ever met him and knew and loved Jerry.

Due to floral limitations at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, the family requests no cut floral arrangements be sent to Jacksonville Memory Gardens or as an alternative, donations may be made in Jerry’s name to your favorite charity.

US Navy

Vietnam

 

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Donald Roger St. Pierre

July 20, 1950 – December 3, 2021

Portland- Donald R. St. Pierre 71 of Sabattus died Friday December 3, 2021 at Maine Medical Center. He was born in Lewiston on July 20, 1950 a son of the late Rene and Elyata (Nadeau) St. Pierre. He was educated in local schools and graduated from Lewiston High School. Donald married his true love, the former Susan Emond on August 11, 1977. She predeceased him on May 13, 2014. Donald proudly served his country in the US Army and Army Reserves, serving a tour in Desert Storm.

Donald was a very dedicated employee for the City of Lewiston Public Works Department, holding many different job titles: locating storm water sewer lines for Dig-Safe, paving inspector, driving many-many hours in the winter plowing and sanding, and his last title the one he enjoyed most was a CDL driver instructor. Don was a very hard worker taking great pride in his jobs and also working and maintaining his home. He was a very giving man and was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need especially his family. He was a member of The Prince of Peace Parish attending Masses at The Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul.

He is survived by his three children Christopher St. Pierre and his wife Annette of Lewiston, Jennifer Costello and her husband Eric of Readfield and Joey St. Pierre and his companion Stacy Marchand of West Gardiner, his three grandchildren Ryan St. Pierre, Jonathan Whittaker and Kyle St. Pierre, his three brothers Eugene St. Pierre and wife Donna of Auburn, Lucien St. Pierre and wife Helen of Wales and Laurier St. Pierre and wife Sue of Auburn and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by a brother Normand St. Pierre.

 

US Army

Desert Storm

 

Source:  Lewiston Sun Journal

November 27, 2021

Robert C. Sherman

Passed  on November 25, 2021

 

LEWISTON – Robert C. Sherman, 98, a resident of Wales, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 25, 2021, in Lewiston.

 

He was born on Aug. 8, 1923, in Wales, the son of Charles Sherman and Annie (Stewart) Sherman. Robert attended grammar school in Wales and then Edward Little High School in Auburn.

 

He proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

 

On Aug. 2, 1947, in Auburn he married Alfreda M. Dearborn and they shared a wonderful life together for 62 years. She passed away on Aug. 11, 2009.

 

Robert worked for Albany Felt, Tech Tex Industries and repaired televisions retiring in 1987. He enjoyed taking care of the yard, cutting grass, and in the winter months, loved to use the snowblower.

 

He was a member of the American Legion Post 135 in Sabattus.

 

He is survived by a daughter, Donna Lanctot and her husband, William of Wales.

 

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Alfreda M. Sherman, a son Steven Sherman, four brothers; Cecile, Charles, Walter, and Ralph, six sisters; Helen Lyman, Marion Johnson, Madeline Stuart, Beatrice Hawkins, Lilla King and Ruth Snyder.

 

Funeral services was with Full Military Honors.

 

Interment was at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Pleasant Hill Road, Sabattus, Maine.

US Army

WWII

            

Source:  Lewiston Sun Journal

October 21, 2021          

Edward N. Taylor

Passed:  Oct. 13, 2021

 

AUBURN – Edward N. Taylor, 92, died Oct. 13, 2021, at Schooner Estates Memory Care. Born in Auburn at home on March 30, 1929, Ed was a son of Olin and Pearl Hines Taylor.

 

He attended Auburn schools and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict.

 

He met Anita Caron while she was attending nursing school in Lewiston and they exchanged letters during his military service. On Nov. 28, 1953, the couple wed and were married for over 67 years.

 

Ed had a career in the construction industry for over 50 years. During his long building history, he oversaw the construction of many roads, bridges, and buildings throughout the state. One early project was the building of the Basin Dam in North Auburn. Serving as construction manager for Platz Associates, he directed the renovation of the Knapp Shoe Building in Lewiston. Now known as 29 Lowell Street, it houses a variety of medical offices and the Dempsey Center.

 

In his earlier years, Ed enjoyed nature and was fond of taking Anita and their five children on weekly hikes chronicling the outing with his Argus rangefinder camera and spending summer weekends enjoying many of the beautiful campgrounds in western Maine. In the early 70s, he built a rustic cabin on Richardson Lake. Later on, Ed enjoyed splitting his time between Richardson and a log cabin built on Long Island in Harpswell. He was able to have the best of both worlds, gathering friends and family for boating, hunting, fishing, lobstering; celebrating Maine’s natural world. After his retirement, in addition to his favorite outdoor activities, Ed took up landscape and watercolor painting.

 

Survivors include his wife, Anita, sister, Joyce Taylor King and her son, Dennis; his five children Karen Taylor, Ron Taylor and his wife Cindy, Kevin Taylor, Jeff Taylor, Colleen Taylor and her partner John Dana; nine grandchildren: Jeremy and Justin Taylor; Jessica, Grace and Elijah Taylor; Brian, Scott and Matthew Taylor and Ben Capano. Also surviving are eight great-grandchildren.

 

US Army

Korea

 

 

Henry J. Verville

Passed:  28 September, 2021

 

Henry J. Verville passed away 28 September, 2021.

 

Henry was a Vietnam Vet, a member of our Post for 29 years and lived in Lewiston.

 

*There was no obituary to be found.

 

*If anyone has any further information or photos of Henry please contact the webmaster.

 

Vietnam

 

William H. Stuart

Passed:  September 16, 2021

 

SABATTUS – William H. Stuart, 82, of Sabattus, died Sept. 16, 2021 at Androscoggin Hospice House of a long-standing condition. He was the son of Ernest Stuart and Mildred Dearborn Stuart of Lewiston.

 

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Patricia Sutton; his children, Dr. Scott Stuart (Aidi) of Austin, Texas, Kristina Peirce (William) of Queensbury, N.Y., Angela Stuart Palmer (Jarrod) of Johnstown, N.Y.; two grandchildren, Nathan and Amanda Stuart; a brother-in-law, Robert Sherman of Wales, a brother in-law and sister-in-law, Raymond and Sylvia Sutton of Hyde Park, N.Y.; and many nieces and nephews.

 

Bill was predeceased by his mother and father; his brothers Alfred Stuart of Lewiston, Merton Stuart of Wales, and Harold Dearborn of Richmond, as well as a sister, Alfreda Sherman of Wales.

 

Bill served in the United States Army, worked at the Sun Journal for 45 years, served as a Eucharistic Minister at our Lady of the Rosary Church since 1983, and belonged to the American Legion, Post 135 in Sabattus. After his retirement in 2005 he worked at the Sabattus transfer station for 12 years and volunteered at St. Martin de Porres for 15 years.

 

US Army

 

 

Richard “Richie” Oscar Behr

August 8,1937- March 1, 2021

 

BEHR, Richard (Richie) Oscar, 83, of Sabattus passed away March 1st, 2021, at d’Youville Pavillion in Lewiston, where he had been a patient for a few weeks.

 

He was born in Queens, NY, August 8th, 1937 to Christian and Lydia (Kurth) Behr. He grew up in Amityville, NY, where he attended the local schools. Richie joined the Navy in his senior year and was stationed in Brunswick, ME at the Naval Air Station for four years.


On November 29th, 1959, he married the love of his life, Florence Dilberger. Together they raised four children, one of whom was born in Maine. In 1969 the family moved to Sabattus.

 

Richie worked in his father’s bakery before and after the Navy. When his father sold it, he joined Village Fuel Oil in North Babylon working in oil burner service. He was a volunteer fireman in Amityville and North Babylon. After moving to Sabattus he worked for National Fuel in Lewiston and then Enterprise Foundry, from which he retired after twenty five plus years.


He was active in Sabattus with youth hockey as a coach and referee. He was a selectman and then Code Enforcement Officer for many years. He was on the Sanitary District board for many years also. Richie loved to tend a large garden and mow the grass and plant trees and flowers. He was a “gadget guy” and had all kinds of them!


After retirement, he and Florence went on cruises and to Disney in Florida many times with family and friends and made wonderful memories that will last forever. In recent years, he loved going to the Oxford Casino and hanging out with “the Brunch Club” in Litchfield.


Richie is survived by his wife of 61 years, Florence. His children Diane Salisbury and husband Elmer of Rhode Island, Christian Behr and wife Sara of Winthrop and Linda Behr and companion Tom Hallowell of Sabattus. Also his brother Bob Behr of Amityville, NY and Henry Behr and wife Judy of New Paltz, NY, grandchildren Brian Bouyea of Rhode Island, Lauren Bouyea of Massachusetts, Jennifer Martin and her husband Josh of W Leyden, NY and Kayla Hallowell of Bowdoin. He has three great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Christian, his infant daughter Elaine and his eldest son R. Michael Behr.

 

Burial service will be held on May 14th, 2021 at 9 AM at Mt. Vernon Road Maine Veteran’s Cemetery in Augusta, Maine.

US Navy

Korea

 

Stuart Gross

January 2021

LANDENBERG, Pa. – Stuart Gross, beloved husband and father, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021 after a 14-year battle with mantle cell lymphoma.

Stu was born in Bath, raised in Wiscasset, and graduated from Wiscasset High School. He enlisted in the Coast Guard after a year at Washington State Teachers College. He always said the only good thing that came from his time in college was meeting the love of his life, Jeannette. They had a wonderful 52 years of adventures together, Stu’s Coast Guard career taking them from New Hampshire to Alaska, North Carolina, and finally to Delaware. In their retirement, Stu and Jeannette moved back to Maine and had 18 years among family and friends. This past summer, Stu and Jeannette moved to Landenberg, Pa.

Stu loved travelling and was always looking forward to their next big vacation. As a member of the New Castle Irish Society, he enjoyed set and ceili dancing, going as far as Ireland for dancing. He also loved eating out and trying new restaurants. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became a 33rd degree Mason.

In his retirement, he developed a love of gardening, especially growing potatoes. He was an avid collector, and enjoyed researching and seeking out rare coins, banks and pocket watches.

Stu is survived by his wife, Jeannette (Lepage); daughters, Suellen Glover and Jennifer Miller (David Aksim); and three grandchildren, Brandon Glover, Ella Glover, and Zoe Aksim. He is also survived by a brother and five sisters, Ralph Gross II, Helen Amazene, Rita Melville, Jean West, Jane Albert and Donna Lester.

 

US Coast Guard

 

 

 

 

Source: Lewiston Sun Journal

November 12, 2020

Gino R. Camardese

Past Post Commander

1956-2020

 

LEWISTON – Gino R. Camardese, 64, of Greene, died on Sunday Nov. 8, 2020 at St. Mary’s Medical Center with his loving family at his side.

 

He was born in Kittery on Sept. 14, 1956. A son of Anthony and Janet (Hamel) Camardese, he was educated in local schools and graduated from Lewiston High School class of 1975.

 

Gino proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, receiving a Purple Heart. Later he attended CMVTI receiving his degree in Applied Science in 1986 and began his career as a machinist.

 

Gino married his true love, the former Joan Morinon August 29, 1981. Together they settled in Sabattus and started their family.

 

Gino was very involved in his local community, he was a Selectman for the town of Sabattus and volunteered for The Boy Scouts of America for many years as the Ranger for Camp Gustin. He also was a member of the American Legion Post 135, where he was a Post Commander.

 

Gino was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. In 2017 he was inducted to the Maine Antler and Skull Trophy Club for a trophy black bear.

 

He is survived by his wife, Joan Camardese of Greene; his mother, Janet Camardese of Greene; his son, Andrew Camardese and wife Chantel of Brunswick, his daughter, Jenna Sfraga of New York; a sister, Tonie Crandall and husband Steve of Pennsylvania; his three

grandchildren, Logan Sfraga, Reagan and Emilia Camardese; and several nieces and nephews.

 

He was predeceased by his father, Anthony Camardese; and a sister, Julie Camardese. You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Gino’s life by visiting his guest book at http://www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.

 

US  Navy

Vietnam

 

Philip Vatcher Obituary - Monmouth, ME | Finley Funeral Home

 

Finley Funeral Home

Philip H. Vatcher

September 19,1930-November 2, 2020

 

AUGUSTA – Philip H. Vatcher, 90, a resident of Wales, passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2020, at the Maine General Hospital in Augusta. He was born on September 19, 1930, in Lynn, Massachusetts, the son of Howard Vatcher and Fanny Mae (Drinkwater) Vatcher. Philip graduated from Lynn English in Lynn, Massachusetts.

 

He proudly served his country for eight years joining the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. Philip was a “jack-of-all-trades”, from tool die maker to carpentry and everything in between. He enjoyed working for the Community Concept and the RCAM. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Sabattus American Legion Post 135. Philip was a deacon of the Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Sabattus, Maine.

 

He is survived by a daughter, Donna M. Vatcher of Wales, two sons; Stephen Vatcher and his wife Sue of Lewiston, Richard Vatcher and his wife Rita of Framingham, Mass., a brother, Howard Vatcher of Swampscott, Mass., five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and eight step-great-grandchildren.

 

He was predeceased by his parents, a son, Philip Vatcher, a brother, Edward Vatcher and his companion for many years, Marjorie L Caron.

 

The family would like to thank the staff at the Veteran’s Home in Augusta for the wonderful care they provided.

 

US Army

Korea

 

 

Gary Blais

1964-2020

 

SABATTUS-Gary Blais, age 56, of Sabattus, Maine passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Gary was at home surrounded by the love of his family.

 

Gary graduated from Lewiston High School in 1982 and left soon after to proudly serve his country in the United States Air Force. Following his service, Gary respectively received degrees from Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute of Auburn, and Maine Maritime Academy. Shortly following graduation from CMVTI, Gary began his lifelong career at Bath Iron Works. Gary was a First-Class Machinist until October 2018, when his fight with Glioblastoma began.

 

Gary was father to two amazing children, but more than that, he was the kind of Dad to Magan and Tim that any man would be proud to be. He coached football, baseball, and softball for many years when his children were active in sports. Gary was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing, shooting, archery, camping, four wheeling, hunting, and any outdoor activity. He was a hunter safety instructor for years, competition archer, and mentored his children and many of his nieces and nephews in all the outdoor activities. He was a loving husband, partner and best friend to his wife Roxanne for thirty-three spectacular love filled years. He was a loyal, son to his parents, a loving brother to his sister and brother, caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.

 

Gary is survived by his spouse Roxanne; daughter Magan and husband David and their daughters Madison, Quinn and Harper; son Timothy and wife Lindsey and their son Ryder; his parents Normand and Marguerite Blais; sister Deane and her husband James; brother Keith and his wife Cathy; mother-In-law Rudy Gayton, brother-in-law Robert and his wife Wanda, brother-in-law Randy, many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

 

There will be a graveside service at Togus National Cemetery in Augusta on Thursday, June 18, 2020 at 2:00 P.M.

 

Gary and his wife Roxanne found great comfort with programs offered by the Dempsey Center in Lewiston Maine. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.dempseycenter.org in memory of

GaryBlais.

 

Roxanne and family want to extend their gratitude to the teams of doctors that stood shoulder to shoulder during Gary’s battle against glioblastoma. Their warmth, fortitude and “never surrender” attitude kept the family in the fight. A special thank you to the team of Dr. Christine Lu-Emerson, Abby and Sam at Maine Medical Partners in Scarborough, Maine along with Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner and Dr. William Curry of Mass General.

 

“The responsibility of a man is to lead his family.” ~ Ezra Taft Benson.

 

Well done Gary Blais.

 

US Air Force

 

 

 

Source:  Lewiston Sun Journal

June 13, 2020

Donald “Don” Andre Gosselin

February 20, 1938 – June 9, 2020

 

LEWISTON – Donald André Gosselin, 82, a resident of 16 Valley Street, Lewiston, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2020, at d’Youville Pavilion.

 

Born in Lewiston Feb. 20, 1938, Donald was the sixth of seven children born to Archille and Beatrice (Coulombe) Gosselin.

 

On Sept. 23, 1961 he married Jeannine Mary Ann Lavoie. A Lewiston High School graduate and certified in several trades, Donald was a firm believer in continued education. Donald begin his work career at his father’s sawmill and continued as a certified machinist, sheetmetal worker, and welder. He retired after several years at Sappi S.D. Warren Paper in Skowhegan. He finished his career as a millright specializing in vibration analysis.

 

He was also a proud veteran of the Army National Guard and Army Reserve with 22 years of service. He later became an active member of the Sabattus American Legion Post 135 and Holy Cross Knights of Columbus Council 12652. He was a dedicated parishioner of Holy Cross Catholic Church and volunteered for numerous church activities.

 

He is survived by his sister, Yvette Gosselin, sfcc of Lewiston; his daughter, Anne-Marie Albaugh and husband Will of Maryland, and sons André Gosselin and wife Veronique of Switzerland, Marc and wife Linda of Greene, David and wife Michelle of Tennessee, and Sean of Lewiston. Also survived by companion, Irene Plante; sisters-in-law, Doris Meservier, Veny Lavoie, Joan Casavant, Louise Demas, Gertrude Gosselin, Doris Gosselin, Giselle Lavoie, and Lucille Gosselin, and brothers-in-law, Bill Lavoie and Robert Lavoie and their families. Also survived by grandchildren, Aaron Gosselin, Mélanie Gosselin, Joshua Rystedt, Sarah Gosselin, Christopher Rystedt, McKenzie Rystedt, Tayelor Gosselin, Andrew Gosselin, David Albaugh, Anna Albaugh, and Ben Albaugh. Also survived by six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.He was predeceased by wife, Jeannine of 49 years; and his brothers, Germain, Jean-Paul, Marcel, and sisters, Exilia and Liette.

 

Donald enjoyed time with family, especially grandchildren, traveling, working in his woodlot, gardening, reading, driving his Jeep, socializing, and fellowship over food around the dinner table. He was proud of the home he built. He identified strongly with his Franco-American origins; he was an avid volunteer at the Franco Center in Lewiston. Special thanks to the staff at d’Youville Pavilion, CMMC that cared for him.

 

 

World War II veteran Del Gendron, 93, second from left, and his son, George Gendron, pause as the family of Don Gosselin brings the casket of the Army National Guard and Army Reserve veteran to Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street in Lewiston on Thursday. Gosselin, of Lewiston, died June 9 at the age of 82. Veterans’ organizations held a “goodbye ceremony” at the park following his funeral at Holy Cross Church. “Don was very active with veterans and with his church,” Norm Cote of the L&A Veterans Council said. “He was strong as an ox and a very hard worker,” veteran Bert Dutil said. Cote said Del Gendron was a very good friend of Gosselin, who wanted to be sure plans were in place to have a bench in his memory placed next to one honoring Gendron. Daryn Slover/Sun Journal

 

 

William Albaugh plays taps during a ceremony for his father-in-law, Don Gosselin, at Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street in Lewiston on Thursday. Gosselin, 82, of Lewiston died June 9. Veterans’ organizations held a “goodbye ceremony” at the park following the funeral at Holy Cross Church. “Don was very active with veterans and with his church,” Norm Cote of the L&A Veterans Council said. “He was strong as an ox and a very hard worker,” veteran Bert Dutil said. Daryn Slover/Sun Journal

 

 

Sarah Gosselin and Andrew Gosselin fold the American flag during a ceremony for their grandfather, Don Gosselin, at Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street in Lewiston on Thursday. Gosselin, of Lewiston, died June 9 at the age of 82. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard and Army Reserve. Veterans’ organizations held a “goodbye ceremony” at the park following his funeral at Holy Cross Church. Daryn Slover/Sun Journal

 

Army National Guard

 

Army Reserve

 

 

 

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

June 7, 2020

Robert “Bob” Adrien Tanguay

Past Post Commander

1935-2020

 

HUDSON, Fla. – Robert “Bob” Adrien Tanguay, 84, passed away on May 30, 2020, at his home in Hudson, Florida, surrounded by family.  Bob was born on July 2, 1935, in Lewiston Maine, to Albert J.Tanguay (Blackie) and Yvonne (Dulac) Tanguay, both of Canada.  Bob was educated in local schools:  St. Mary’s, Jordan Junior High, and Lewiston and Edward Little High Schools.  Bob married Labor Day, Sept. 5, 1955 to Theresa Paulette Gahagan of Lewiston, who predeceased Bob in 2007. They lived in Lewiston, Auburn, and Sabattus for their 50-plusyears of marriage. Both were members of the Our  Lady of the Rosary Parish in Sabattus.  Bob remarried in 2015, to his surviving wife, Beverly(Aldrich) Tanguay, of Lisbon Falls. They spent their winters in Florida, and summers on Damariscotta Lake in Jefferson.

 

Bob proudly served his country for 24 years, in the U.S. Army and National Guard, culminating in a rank of platoon sergeant first class. In 1982, Bob helped form Maine’s only Bugle and Bells Drum Corps, which continued well after Bob’s retirement in1987.

 

Bob’s work life began at age nine, delivering newspapers in Lewiston’s Little Canada district, followed by work at area bowling alleys and shoe shops. From 1956 to 1990 Bob worked in the grocery business, beginning at Olfene’s Red and White, becoming the Store Manager of the first Shop n’ Save in the L/A area, the General Manager of four supermarkets, and then the Sales and Service Manager for Associated Grocers of Maine, and Sam Prawer Company.  Bob owned and operated R and R Superette in Sabattus, with partner Ron McBride, a store that was later owned by his daughter Brenda and her husband Jack. Bob and his wife Theresa owned and operated Kitty Korner Store in Lisbon Falls, which was later operated by their son Rob and his wife Michele, followed by their daughter Tina and her husband Neal. 

 

Bob ventured into the store and restaurant supply business. With partners Will Willette and son Robert Tanguay II, they operated Maine Refrigeration Sales Company. Bob served the Town of Sabattus, his home for over 40 years, as Recreation Director and an Officer in the Sabattus Recreation Club. He was the major developer of the Youth Hockey program, and directed the Winter Carnival for years.  Bob was a major organizer of the Kennebec Valley Youth Hockey Association, and was their first President. Bob also coached, refereed, and played hockey for many years.  Bob was a 15-plus year member of Sabattus American Legion Harry J. Conway Post #135, for which he served as Post Commander in 2000-2001. Bob and his Bells and Drum Corps provided music for the Legion’s Memorial Day Parades, where Bob also often played “Taps”. At the state level, Bob was a member of the Veterans Assistance Fund.

 

Bob played in drum corps for over 55 years, and was a life time member of the Montagnard Club, playing in their Snowshoe Drum Corps for more than 25 years. Bob played many instruments, but was most well known for playing “The Bells”, or Glockenspiel, which he began playing in 1952, in the National Guard’s first Drum Corps, directed by his brother Tony. Bob was a member of the Knights of Columbus, where he reached the level of 4th Degree, its highest and most prestigious degree, and was also a member of the Board of Officers. 

 

Bob was adept at shooting pool, pitching horseshoes, playing cards and cribbage, shuffle board, ping pong, bowling, dancing and music. Despite Bob’s many interests and accomplishments, his family was first in his heart and were his loving pride and joy.

 

He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Bob was predeceased by his wife Theresa, his parents, brothers Roland, Armand (Al) and Antonio (Tony), and sisters Gilberte Tanguay, Jeannine Bellevance and Irene Roy.  Bob is survived by his wife Beverly Tanguay, daughter Tina Marie (Tanguay) Buiniskas and Husband Neal, daughter Brenda Lee (Tanguay) Hutchings and husband Jack, and son Robert Adrien Tanguay II and his wife Michele. Bob is also survived by five grandchildren: Amy Barkley Roy and her wife Jill, Kristy Alexander and her husband Wayne, Randy LeClair and his wife Alicia, Shane Hutchings and his wife Jennifer, and Ashly Sadat and her husband Misagh. Bob is also survived by eight greatgrandchildren: Mariah, Kylee, Jaiden, Autumn, Spencer, Finley, Baylor, and Sovereign. Bob is also survived by sister Cecile Samson, sister Doris Pelletier and her husband Stan, and brother-in-law Omer Roy.

 

US Army

 

Army National Guard

Korea

 

 

 

Source: 

www.dignitymemorial.com

 

Armand Roger Truchon

1929 – 2020

AUBURN – Armand R. Truchon, 91, of Sabattus passed away on Friday, March 6, 2020, at the Androscoggin Hospice House after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Armand was born in Lewiston on February 5, 1929, the son of Ovila Truchon and Victoria (Gagne) Truchon. He was a graduate of Lewiston High School and a member of Holy Cross Church. Armand was a veteran of the U.S. Army and the Maine Army National Guard for a total of thirty-three years of combined service.

 

Upon retirement, Armand started a lawn maintenance company, which he operated for twenty-five years. Throughout Armand’s life he preferred to keep himself busy, whether he was parking cars at the Lewiston Raceway, buying cars at auction, working part-time at Delekto Bros., or scrapping metal.

 

Armand was also a proud member of the American Legion Post 135, where he enjoyed many nights playing cribbage with his friends. Armand married Stella (Celani) Jalbert on December 18, 1959, and together they enjoyed sixty wonderful years of marriage. Armand and Stella spent forty-seven years on River Road in Lewiston, raising their family and making many great memories. Armand adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him much joy over the years. Armand’s family still cherishes the special nicknames and ditties that he created for his grandchildren. Armand had many close friends. He enjoyed hosting lobster bakes in the summer, watching the New England Patriots and taking his chances on scratch tickets.

 

Armand leaves behind his wife, Stella Truchon; his four sons and daughter, Patrick Truchon of Walnut Creek, California, Nancy (Jalbert) Fournier and her husband Thomas, of Lewiston, Patrick Jalbert and his wife Anita (Castonguay) of Turner, Michael Truchon and his wife Carol (Gats) of Turner and Thomas Truchon and his wife Rolande (Castonguay) of Lewiston; his seven grandchildren, Benjamin and Jonathan Fournier, Jeffrey Truchon and his wife AmyLou (Craig), Jamie Truchon, Maegan (Truchon) Bagley and her husband Brian, Monica Truchon and Kaela Jalbert; and his two great-grandchildren, Cole Bagley and Elaina Mailhot. Armand is also survived by his sister, Fedora Lavertu of Rhode Island and sister-in-law, Joan Truchon of Lewiston and his dear friends, Bob and Linda St. Pierre. Armand was predeceased by his parents; brother, Romeo Truchon; sisters, Florence Christian, Cecile Roussea, Anita St. Hilaire, Germaine Dube, Jeanne Cloutier and Helen Ashby.

 

The family thanks the staff at the St. Mary’s Infusion Center and the Androscoggin Hospice House for their quality care and compassion.

 

US Army

 

Maine

Army

National Guard

WW II

 

Source:

Lynch Brothers Funeral Home 

 

William “Bill” Penard

1948-2019

William “Bill” A. Pinard, 71, a lifelong resident of Sabattus passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22, 2019, at Maine Medical Center in Portland after a short illness with his loving family by his side.

Bill was born on January 5, 1948 in Lewiston, Maine, the son of Arthur and Geraldine Pinard. He graduated from Sabattus High School in 1966. He was enlisted in the Navy from 1967 to 1971. After an honorable discharge from the Navy he worked in construction for Blue Rock.

In 1971 Bill married the love of his life and the apple of his eye, Pauline Nadeau, on August 14, 1971. After marrying, he worked for Hemonds Dairy as a milkman and for his brother at A.F. Paradis Co. Bill also worked for a short time at BIW until he was hired at Bates College where he worked for over 30 years, retiring in 2013.

In 1984, while still working full time at Bates College, he decided to start his own plumbing and heating business, Bill Pinard and Son Plumbing and Heating. In March of 2004, Mark started working full time for his father. Shortly after they brought on his son-in-law Mike and together the three worked side-by-side as a team.

As the years went by, he hired other family members such as his grandsons Kyle and Keith and granddaughter Hayley. All having helped build this small family company into the business that currently employs 23 people who have all become part of their extended family.

He was well known in the community for his big smile, contagious laugh and ability to light up any room he walked into. He loved sports but especially basketball and baseball. He loved working outdoors but most of all loved spending time with his family.

The family would like to thank the staff at Maine Medical Center for their wonderful and compassionate care of Bill and his family.

Bill was also a very proud Vietnam War Veteran and proud member of the American Legion, Harry J. Conway Post 135, in Sabattus.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Pauline. His daughter Tina and her husband Mike Ridley of Sabattus. His son Mark Pinard and his wife Cindy of Wales; six grandchildren, Kayla Ridley and fiancé Brian Rench of Sabattus, Kyle Ridley of Saco, Hayley Pinard and fiancé Zac Charette of Wales, Kelsey and Hayden William Pinard of Wales and Keith Kramarz of Wales; Two and a half great-grandchildren, Laila Ridley, Wesley Charette and coming in February, Easton William Rench. His brother Robert Pinard and wife Cheryl of Sabattus, sisters Jacki Gahagan of Lewiston and Connie and her husband Robert Donoghue of Sabattus.

He was predeceased by his parents and his brother-in-law Matty Gahagan.

US Navy

Vietnam

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

October 23, 2019

Rodney Woodrum Jr.

1935-2019

 

Portland - Rodney Woodrum Jr., 83, of Sabattus passed away on Monday, Oct. 21, 2019 in Portland.

 

He was born on Christmas Day in 1935 to Rodney and Allie Woodrum Sr. in Ward, W.Va.

 

Rodney served his country retiring after 20 years in The United States Air Force doing tours in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He also retired from Bath Iron Works in 1995.

 

He enjoyed bee keeping, cooking, gardening and making maple syrup.

 

Rodney was a member of the American Legion Post 135, Webster Masonic Lodge 164 of Wales, Lewiston Lodge of Elks, and Sabattus Knights of Columbus Council 13181.

Preceding him in death are his parents; sister, Barbara Amrhein and brother, Roy Woodrum.

 

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 60 years, Sonia Whitehouse Woodrum of Sabattus; daughter, Lisa Roy of Sabattus, son, Jeffry Woodrum; grandchildren, Kristin Warner and Heath Woodrum; sisters, Alice Barnett of Columbia, S.C., Phyllis Rutan of Red House, W.Va., and Brenda Goldman of Cross Lanes, W.Va., brothers, Jack Woodrum of San Antonio, George Woodrum of Bancroft, W.Va., and Russell Woodrum of Denver; great-grandchildren, Shaylie and Kamden Warner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

US Air Force

Korea

Vietnam

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

June 1, 2019

 

Anthony R. “Tony”Camardese

Past Post Commander

1934-2019

 

LEWISTON – Anthony R. Camardese, 85, of Greene, Maine, passed away on Wednesday May 29, 2019, at Woodlands Memory Care in Lewiston. He was born in Ona Aquila, Italy on May 5, 1934, a son of the late Savario and Ida (Rotellini) Camardese.

 

At the age of 13 he came to the United States to begin a new life in America. In 1948 he enlisted in The U.S Navy where he proudly served his country for 20 years until his honorable discharge in 1968. He served during the Korean Conflict and in The Vietnam War. He was a great patriot of this country.

 

In 1948, he married the true love of his life, Janet Hamel. He was a very positive person whose upbeat personality just lit up any room he walked into. He taught his children to never tell a lie and never dishonor their country or family. He earned the distinct privilege to serve as an Honor Guard at President John F. Kennedy’s Funeral Ceremony in 1963 .

 

Upon retiring from the Navy in 1968 as a Senior Chief Petty Officer, he went on to continue his education at The University of Maine where he received his bachelor’s degree in Education with a major in History. He then went on to have a very successful career as a history teacher at Lewiston High School until his retirement. In 1986 he was honored as a Presidential Scholar and traveled to Washington D.C. to personally receive this award from President Ronald Reagan, whom he greatly admired. He was a member of VET 160, American Legion Post 135 and The VFW in Auburn. Beyond all of his achievements, he enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening and spending time with his grandchildren

 

Anthony is survived by his wife of 67 years, Janet Camardese; a son, Gino Camardese and wife Joan of Greene, a daughter, Dr. Tonie Crandall and husband Stephen of Pennsylvania; five grandchildren, Andrew Camardese, Jenna Sfraga, Stephen Crandall, Julie Crandall, Rebecca Lesagonicz; a brother, Zachary Camardese and wife Amy, two sisters, Lucy DeVito and husband Lino, Gemma Colianni and husband Angelo.

 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Julie Camardese; and a brother, Vincente Camardese.

US Navy

Korea

Vietnam

 

 

Clarence Hinkley Jr.

 

January 14, 1937 – April 21, 2019

 

LEWISTON – I lost my best friend, the love of my life of 62 years. We know you are in a better place, but it’s not easy to accept. You were the best father our three sons could have had.

 

He was born on Jan. 14, 1937 in Lewiston, the son of the late Clarence Hinkley Sr. and Harriet (Young) Hinkley. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and Reserves for seven years. In his younger years, he served the town of Sabattus as the code enforcement officer and plumbing and electrical inspector. He retired from BIW after 45 years of dedicated service as an engineer and designer. He will be deeply missed by many.

 

He is survived by his loving wife, Simone of Sabattus; his three children, Clarence “Skip” and his wife, Jennifer of Richmond, Guy and his wife, Stacey of Winthrop and Lee and his wife, Jaynne of Monmouth. He also leaves behind his sister, Marilyn Austin and her husband, Paul of Topsham; along with his grandchildren, Jamie Hinkley of Lewiston, Amber Jade and her husband, Bjorn Coyne of Winthrop, Shelbie Braithwood and her husband, Andy of Winthrop; his great-grandchildren, Isabelle Berry, Sophia Hinkley, Elyse and Jac-lynne Hinkley and Emma and Bradley Braithwood; and two very special cousins, Carolyn Robertson and Brother Irenee Richard who were always there for us when we needed extra support. He loved all of his cousins.

 

US Navy

 

 

 

 

Source: 

Dignity Memorial

 

Harry W. Dixon

Past Post Commander

May 14, 1923 – October 28, 2018

 

Skowhegan – Harry W. Dixon Jr., 95, of Skowhegan, passed away on Sunday October 28, 2018 at The Cedar Ridge Nursing Home in Skowhegan with his loving family by his side. He was born in Boothbay Harbor, Maine on May 14, 1923, the son of the late Harry W. Dixon Sr. and Alice (Lewis) Dixon.

 

He served his country in the U. S. Army during WW II. He landed on the beaches of Normandy during the Great Invasion of Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe where he earned and was issued The World War II Victory Medal.

 

Following his Honorable Discharge from the Service, he married his sweetheart, Mary Gertrude Golder on August 10, 1946 at Trinity Church in Lewiston. She passed away in 1983. He then married Charlene Black in 2000 who passed away in 2003. He lived and worked in the Lewiston area his entire life as a watch and clock serviceman, many of those years at J. Dostie Jewelry on Lisbon St. He was very proud of having gone to Switzerland to earn his certification as a Rolex Technician.

 

He was a lifetime member of Trinity Church in Lewiston, civil defense director in Sabattus, fireman, reserve officer, a member of the Sabattus and Skowhegan Legions, the Exchange Club of Auburn and was also a very dedicated Boy Scout Leader in Sabattus. In his spare time, he was known as a man who loved to tinker with anything he could get his hands on.

 

Harry was a man who loved being involved with his community, serving his country and especially spending time with his family.

 

Harry is survived by his special friend: Thelma Lever, 2 children: Stephen Dixon and wife Kathy of Warren, Me., Carol Corson of Skowhegan, 5 Grandchildren: Tabetha, Todd, Justin, Stephen Jr., Matthew, 9 Great-grandchildren, Daughter-in-law: Gwyn Dixon of Whitefield, a niece: Nancy MacDougall and husband Jim, her daughter Jessica and husband Michael and their daughter: Adeline. Besides his parents, Harry was predeceased by his wife Mary Gertrude in 1983 and wife Charlene in 2003, his son: David Dixon and his brother Wallace Dixon.

 

The family would like to give special thanks to the girls from Care and Comfort, Mainely Elder Care and the staff at Cedar Ridge Nursing Home for the love and care they showed Harry in his later years. You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Harry’s guestbook at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

 

US Army

WW II

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

May 25, 2018

Richard "Frenchie" Denis

1937 - 2018

 

LEWISTON — Richard Albert “Frenchie” Denis, 81, of Hebron died Monday, May 21, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston.

 

He was born April 15, 1937, in Lewiston, the son of Philomene and Frank Denis. He participated in Boy Scouts as a youth and was altar boy several years for Saints Peters and Paul Church.

 

He worked at BIW for 30 years. He also served in the Maine Army National Guard for 26 years.

 

He was predeceased by his parents.

 

He is survived by his loving wife, Angie M. Denis, of Hebron; sister, Lorraine Levesque, of Greene; brother, Ray Denis, of Henderson, Nev.; children Matthew, David and Andrew; and stepchildren Priscilla and Ricky; several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

 

Member of Sabattus American Legion Post 135 for 12 years.

 

US Army

Vietnam

 

 

 

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Friday, June 2, 2017

 

 

Donat L. Fournier

Past Post Commander

1937 – 2017

 

SABATTUS — Donat “Don” L. Fournier Sr., 80, passed away Thursday, June 1, in his home, with his family at his side.

He was born Jan. 10, 1937 in Auburn, the son of Paul and Lillian Fournier. He attended Auburn schools. He served in the U.S. Army 1954 to 1957. In 1958, he married Joan Caron and together they raised three children.

Don worked as a contractor and truck driver most of his life. He took great pride in his family and his home. He is remembered most for always giving a helping hand to anyone in need.

He is a lifetime member of the Harry J. Conway, Post 135 American Legion and a member of the Pastime Club, Lewiston.

He is survived by his wife, Joan (Caron) Fournier; their three children, Karen Connor and her husband, John, of Lewiston, Lyn Carroll and her husband, Greg, of Virginia, and Donat “Don” Fournier Jr. and his wife, Ronda. of Sabattus; as well as his seven grandchildren, Patricia Veilleux and her husband, Richard, Chad Fournier and his fiancée, Natasha, Joshua Connor, Ryan Michaud and his wife, Sara, Candace Baker and her husband, Joshua, Caleb Fournier and his wife, Chelsea and Christine Carroll; and seven great-grandchildren, Jacob Veilleux, Leanna Mulligan, Owen Michaud, Sophia Veilleux, Alyvia Fournier, Evan Michaud, and Nora Fournier. He is also survived by his siblings, Joyce St. Pierre and her husband, Roger, of Auburn, George Fournier and his wife, Joyce, of Tennessee, Lillian Wright and her husband, Sumner "Dutch,” of Florida, Leroy Fournier and his wife, Elaine, of Lewiston, and Pauline Paradis of Poland; and many extended family members.

He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Maxine Fournier, and Lillian (Michaud) Fournier and his siblings, Paul Fournier Jr., Claire St. Laurent, and Victor Fournier.

The family would like to thank the staff at Central Maine Medical Center T3 and Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their dedication to Don. You made him feel safe, secure and loved.

US Army

Korea

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Saturday, April 16, 2016

 

Eugene B. Deslauriers

1925 – 2016

 

LEWISTON — Eugene B. Deslauriers, 90, formerly of 18 Union St., Sabattus, died Wednesday, April 13, at Montello Manor in Lewiston.

 

Born in Lewiston on Oct. 20, 1925, he was the son of Josephat and Yvonne Sylvain Deslauriers.

 

Educated locally, he left high school early to enlist in the U.S. Navy and serve during World War II. After the war, he returned to Maine and on April 12, 1947, married the former Muriel Scott. He was employed for a while at the Farnsworth Mill in Lisbon and later went to work as a truck driver for Anthoine Rubber Co. in Lewiston.

 

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, home-brewing his own beer and was always tinkering with projects around the house. A devoted father to his two sons, he was active in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts while they were growing up. He had strong ties to the Sabattus area, serving on the board of directors of the Sabattus Regional Credit Union, as a member of the American Legion Post No. 135 and as a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Church.

 

Besides his loving wife of Lewiston, survivors include a son, Michael and wife, Ann, of Sabattus; a sister, Irene Boisvert of Georgetown and Lauderhill, Fla.; three grandchildren, Vicki Roy, Michael Deslauriers II and Amy Morissette; five great-grandchildren, Keagan Deslauriers, Emily Roy, Abriana Deslauriers, Olivia Roy and Isaac Morissette; and nieces and nephews, Terence Nadeau, Raymond Boisvert, Robert Boisvert, Janet Scott Wood and Robert Scott.

 

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a son, David Deslauriers; brother-in-law, Donat Boisvert; brother and sister-in-law, Hector and Maxine Nadeau; brother and sister-in-law, Gerald and Loreen Scott; and nephew, Donat Boisvert.

 

US Navy

WWII

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/story_large/2015/04/29/OBTcastonguayP043015.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Alcide L. Castonguay

 1949 - 2015

 

BOWDOIN — Alcide L. Castonguay, 65, of Bowdoin, passed away on Monday, April 27, at his home.

 

He was born in Lewiston on Oct. 2, 1949, a son of the late Antoine and Yvette (Dube) Castonguay. He grew up in the Sabattus area and attended local schools there. He was a graduate of Sabattus High School, Class of 1967.

 

In 1968, Al enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served for 20 years. During that time, he attended the University of New Hampshire from 1977 to 1984 and received his bachelor’s degree in management.

 

In 1972, he married Connie Tomlinson and they had three children.

 

From 1986 to 1988, he attended West Coast University, where he earned his master’s degree in management Information systems. On Dec. 3, 2013, he married Arlene Duricko in Key West, Fla., and the two have resided in Bowdoin ever since.

 

Alcide has been a member of the American Legion Post 135 in Sabattus for 24 years and he was also a selectman in Sabattus for six years. He was very passionate about the farm and working on it. He put a lot of time and effort into the farm, as well as his love for maple sugaring. He also enjoyed being outdoors, fishing and hunting when he could.

 

Alcide will always be remembered as being amazing. He was one of those fellas that would always lend a helping hand. He was quick to snicker and had a dry sense of humor. His grandchildren, Aiden Ensor, Hunter Castonguay and Isla Hankins were his pride and joy. He loved them fiercely and supported them generously in all things they enjoyed.

 

He is survived by wife, Arlene of Bowdoin; his children, Gary Castonguay of Sabattus, Angela Castonguay of Key West, Fla., Sarah Ensor of Hagerstown, Md., Erica McIver of Bowdoin, Carrie McIver of Lawrence, Mass., and Larry McIver and his wife, Ellen, of Brunswick. He also leaves behind his siblings, Julien Castonguay and his wife, Donna, of Sabattus, Denis Castonguay and his wife, Irene, of Sabattus, Aline Moore and her husband, Phil, of Missouri, Maurice Castonguay and his wife, Janice, of Cape Cod, Mass., and Monnette Lane of Texas; a brother-in-law, Normand LaChance of Sabattus; as well as three grandchildren.

 

He was predeceased by his sister, Ann LaChance.

 

US Air Force

Vietnam

 

Source:

https://maine.funeral.com

Reginald J. Dakin

Past Post Commander

February 19, 1937 - December 22, 2014

Winthrop ~ Reginald J. Dakin, 77, of Old Lewiston Road, died unexpectedly on Friday, December 19, 2014 at the Maine Veterans Home.

He was born in Farmington, Maine on February 19, 1937, the son of Merton and Carolyn (Turner) Dakin.


Reginald graduated from Winthrop High School, class of 1955. He served in the U.S. Army before going to work at Inter Chemical Co. in Winthrop. He later worked for D&B Industries in Lewiston, was groundskeeper at Elan School in Poland, and most recently drove bus for the city of Lewiston.

He was past Commander at the Sabattus American Legion Post 135, and was a member of the Alfred Maxwell American Legion Post 40 in Winthrop.


Reginald enjoyed playing cribbage with his Tuesday night group at Buker School and also at the Calumet Club. In his earlier years, he loved to hunt, fish, snowmobile and golf. He could often be seen logging many miles around the streets of Winthrop in his wheelchair.


He is survived by 2 daughters; Carlene Steele and her husband Mark “Boo-La” of Winthrop, and Amy Glidden and her husband Rusty of Manchester, NH.; a son Glen Dakin and his wife Angela of Winthrop; 2 brothers, Conrad Dakin and his wife Shirley of Mechanicsburg, PA. and Larry Arnold and his wife Carol of Sidney; 2 sisters, Nancy Lathrop of Zephyr Hills, FL. and Melanie Pushard and her husband Rick of Manchester; 6 grandchildren; Gina Pomerleau, Tia Pomerleau, Sasha DeLorme, Samantha Tobin, Joel Dakin and Josh Dakin; 6 great grandchildren; Madison, Matthew, Lebry, Najala, Brynn and Aydrian; also an aunt and uncle, several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

 

US Army

 

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/story_large/2014/10/06/PBTGGalipeauP100714.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Gerard R. Galipeau

 March 10, 1938 - 2014

 

WALES — Gerard R. Galipeau, 76, a resident of Wales, passed away Sunday, Oct. 5, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

 

He was born March 10, 1938, in Lewiston, the son of Gerard and Therese (Beaule) Galipeau. Gerard attended Lewiston schools.

 

On Nov. 5, 1960, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Sabattus, Gerard and Lorette Morissette were married.

 

He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves for eight years. Gerry worked as a millwright at International Paper in Jay, and worked with various construction companies before starting his own carpentry business, known as G.R. Galipeau Construction.

 

He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed going to his camp in West Forks.

 

Gerard was a member of the Eagles Club in Lewiston and the American Legion in Sabattus.

 

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lorette Galipeau of Wales; his children and their spouses, Lena Galipeau and Don Champagne of Wales, Dorothy and Fred Mason of Lisbon, Gerard Galipeau Jr. and Lisa White of Wales; seven grandchildren, Christopher and wife, Chrissandra, Jack and girlfriend, Amethyst, Tom and wife, Angella, Wendy and husband, Noel, Thomas and wife, Nancy, Amanda and husband, Michael, and Hunter; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Rita Morissette of Florida and Jeanette McCarthy of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

 

He was predeceased by his parents; his mother-and father-in-law; and several special aunts and uncles.

 

US Army

Vietnam

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/grid-3/2014/07/08/OBTRLevesque1P070914.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Robert A. Levesque Sr.

May 23, 1936 – July 7, 2014

 

LEWISTON — Robert A. Levesque Sr., 78, a resident of Sabattus, died unexpectedly on Monday, July 7, at Central Maine Medical Center.

 

 He was born in Sanford on May 23, 1936, a son of the late Alfred J. and Geraldine (Bodwell) Levesque. Bob attended Sanford schools and graduated from Sanford High School, Class of 1954.

 

He served for five years in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service in Korea, he was employed at Pioneer Plastics in Sanford and moved to Auburn in 1965, as a foreman as well as co-owner of Pollyanna’s Catering for 11 years with his wife, Pauline. He retired from Pioneer Plastics in 1988 as a project manager. He also served as scoutmaster of Troop 327 in Sanford and served as a committee member for Scout Troop 111 in Auburn for a number of years. During retirement, Bob was employed for 15 years at Sears, retiring in 2007.

 

The Franco American War Veterans Association was a huge part of his life. He spent countless hours donating his time and held almost all elected positions in the organization, including national vice commander. He was a member of the American Legion Post 135 in Sabattus and a member of the AMVETS Post 6 in New Gloucester.

 

He is survived by his wife, the former Pauline Brosseau, whom he married on Sept. 1, 1958, of Sabattus; one daughter, Debra Sparks and her husband, Thomas, of Rumford; three sons, Robert A. Levesque Jr. and his wife, Wendy, of Turner, Randy Levesque and his wife, Jennifer, of Lisbon and Raymond Levesque and his wife, Cindy, of Mechanic Falls; one brother, Richard Levesque and his wife, Patricia, of Springvale; three sisters, Patricia Morin and her husband, Roland, of Sun City, Ariz., Linda France of Sanford and Shirley Demers and her husband, David, of Sanford; 12 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a special aunt and uncle, Yvonne and Philip Randall; as well as two sisters, Joanne Gray and Jacqueline Demers; and a brother, Ronald J. Levesque.

 

US Navy

Korea

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/grid-3/2013/08/23/OBTRBailey1P082413.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Saturday, August 24, 2013

 

Ralph H. Bailey Jr.

March 12, 1926 – August 19, 2013

 

SABATTUS — Ralph H. Bailey Jr., 87, of Chadbourne Road in Lewiston, died on Monday, Aug. 19, at the home of his daughter Judy Pinard where he had been staying for the last few months.

 

He was born on March 12, 1926, the son of the late Ralph H. and Gertrude (Brink) Bailey in Farmingdale. He graduated from Edward Little High School in 1943. Ralph joined the Army-Air Force and served in WWII as a tail-gunner in the Pacific Theatre in the 500th Bomber Squadron.

 

On June 12, 1948, he married the love of his life, Frances V. Terrio, in Sabattus. He worked for Ducharme Bros. and Satler Corp. as a mason, then at Bates College until his retirement. Ralph was a member of the American Legion Post 135 in Sabattus and Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Sabattus.

 

Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was an avid fisherman, he loved camping and hunting, and he and Frances traveled across the U.S. to Alaska. He especially enjoyed his plane and flying out of Twitchells Airport with his friends, Cedric Abbot, Bob Chouinard and Dick Thayer.

 

Ralph is survived by his wife of 65 years, Frances; two sons, Michael and his wife, Claire Bailey, of Poland, William and his wife, Janice Bailey, of Sabattus; and one daughter, Trudy and her husband, Ronald Pinard, of Sabattus; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Freeda Fickett Merrill of Ft. Myers, Fla.

 

He was predeceased by his brothers, Alden and George; and a sister, Ermengarde Tibbetts.

 

US Army

US Air Force

WW II

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/story_large/2013/07/23/OBTfrechettep072313.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Guy Frechette

Passed:  July 17, 2013

 

BOSTON — Guy Frechette, 65, of Monmouth passed away peacefully at the West Roxbury VA Medical Center on the evening of July 17, in the presence of his family.

 

Born and educated in Lewiston, Guy was proud of having earned his GED. He worked locally as an automotive mechanic and was known to have an extraordinary, self-taught sense of how things worked.

 

He took great pride in being able to provide for his family by fixing things that were broken and creating useful things out of nearly nothing.

 

He served as a Marine in the Vietnam War, earning medals for service, including a Purple Heart which he recently accepted, but struggled to feel he deserved. He returned from Vietnam, carrying burdens he had difficulty overcoming.

 

He had tremendous love for his family despite strained relationships he struggled to repair and was grateful for mended relationships in his later years.

 

He leaves behind his wife and greatest love, Marlene; his children, Annette and Mike, Dianna, Robert, Amy, Tammy and Michael and their spouses; brothers, Henry and Denis and sister, Connie, and their spouses, including Joselyn Frechette, a special person in his life; and many much-loved grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by his special friend, Bob, who helped him heal greatly in recent years.

 

Guy chose a simple cremation without a service in keeping with the simplicity of his life, wishing that any celebrations be in remembrance of his life.

 

US Marine Corps

Vietnam

 

http://www.sunjournal.com/files/imagecache/grid-3/2015/06/17/OBTwrightP61815.jpg

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

 

Rowena 'Red' J. Wright

February 14, 1924 – 2015

 

AUBURN — Rowena “Red” J. Wright, 91, of Sabattus passed away after a brief illness at the Androscoggin Hospice House in Auburn.

 

She was born in Wilton on Feb. 14, 1924, the daughter of the late Gerry and Caroline (McLaughlin) Swett. She attended local schools and graduated from Wilton Academy in 1942. On June 22, 1942, she married her husband, Wallace Wright, and together, they raised their family of two children.

 

Rowena worked many years at Shaw’s supermarket, checking out the first customer in the Auburn store, before she retired from full-time work. She later became a lunch aide at Longley Elementary School until the age of 80, when she stopped working.

 

Red was a person that loved adventure, excitement and taking daredevil chances. On her 90th birthday, she jumped on the back of a snowmobile for a nice ride and had plans to skydive. Being outside and camping was always a pleasurable event for Red, and she spent 37 years at Muskegon Campground in Oxford. While there, she would ride in the back of the race cars from Oxford Plains Speedway and make trips around the campground.

 

She was an Eastern Star and American Legion Auxiliary member for over 70 years. In all of those years, she only missed one Memorial Day parade. No matter the time of year, you could count on Red having some Drumstick ice cream cones and any kind of chocolate.

 

She is survived by her daughter, Shelia and her husband, Francisco Ortiz, of New Jersey; four grandchildren, Arrica Wright Cooper and her husband, Robert Cooper, Natasha Wright, Jennifer Meza, and Joshua W. and his wife, Natalia Ortiz; and three great-grandchildren, Alexandre Meza, Devon Meza and Sydney W. Cooper. Rowena was predeceased by her husband; her son, Gerry Wright in 2010; and her sister, Delcena Welch.

 

She will be missed by many friends and family members.

 

Post 135

American Legion Auxiliary

 

Navy Spouse

 

 

Source:

www.dignitymemorial.com

David D. Tapley

1924 – 2011

 

Lewiston - David Derwood Tapley, 86, World War II veteran, of Lewiston, died Monday, May 2, 2011 at Marshwood Center. Born in Litchfield, Conn. June 12, 1924 son of the late Allen Tapley and Grace (Doucette) Tapley.

 

David enlisted in the United States Marine Corp December 30, 1941, serving his country proudly in the capture and defense of Guadalcanal, Rendova and Munda Islands with the USMC 9th defense battalion.

 

He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 9150 in Lewiston and American Legion Post 135 of Sabattus.

 

After the war, he was employed by Whiteholm Dairy, Specialty Paper Co., State Paper Co, St. Mary's Hospital and Central Maine Medical Center. David married Clarice Casson on September 3, 1951, having 59 years and 8 months together. He was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather.

 

He is survived by his wife; two sons, Ronald Tapley and wife Linda and Alan Tapley and wife Sarah; one daughter Barbara Kennedy and husband Scott; 5 grandchildren, Justin, Quintin and Veronica Pringle, Cole and Chase Tapley; 4 sisters, Ione, Shirley, Merline and Bonnie. He was predeceased by a brother, Norman and two sisters, Daisy and Arlene.

 

David's family extends a special thank you to Androscoggin Hospice Care for his comforting, loving care, especially to Kate, Guy, Beth and Barbara also to the staff from the Gilbert Wing at Marshwood Center and a big thank you to the Veterans Administration.

 

 

US Marine Corps

 

WWII

 

Source:

Lewiston Sun Journal

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Wallace E. Wright

Past Post Commander

July 30, 1925 – February 8, 2010

 

AUBURN — Wallace E. Wright, 84, a resident of Island Road in Sabattus, passed away Monday, Feb. 8, at the Hospice House, with family at his side.

 

He was born in Sabattus, July 30, 1925, a son of Arthur and Jennie (Ligget) Wright. He was educated in local schools and remained a lifelong and active resident of this community. On June 22, 1944, he married Rowena Swett. He was a veteran of the military, having served his country in the Navy during World War II.

 

He was an extremely dedicated, loyal and active member of his community and a very patriotic American who took great pride in his country and helping others. For many years, he was a volunteer for various local community groups and would strip copper to get money that he could donate to many different deserving community groups in need.

 

His civic memberships included years on the Sabattus Fire Department and school board as well as serving as a Sabattus selectman, member of Sabattus Senior Citizens and a volunteer and leader for the Sabattus Boy Scouts.

 

He was a member and strong supporter of both the VFW and the American Legion and was a 64-year member of Sabattus Legion Post 135, where he held an official office almost every year, including serving as a seven-time past commander and past legion county commander. For more than 50 years, he participated in every Sabattus Memorial Day parade and in 1978, he donated the land and building where the current post stands today. In 1988, a new addition to the building was constructed and dedicated to the post from Wallace and his brothers.

 

He was a 59-year member of the Masons, serving in various chairs throughout the years, including past master of Webster Lodge 164. He was a member and past worthy patron of Order of the Eastern Star, Lakeside Chapter 60, as well as a member of Kora Temple Shrine. For many years, he donated his own money to provide tickets for local children to attend the Shrine Circus.

 

Among his favorite enjoyments in his free time were playing horseshoes, cribbage, billiards, fishing, cooking and camping, as he and his wife Rowena spent 38 summers as regulars at Two Lakes Campground in Oxford.

 

He leaves his wife of 65 years, Rowena Wright of Sabattus; a daughter, Shelia Ortiz and her husband, Frank, of Elizabeth, N.J.; four grandchildren, Arrica Cooper and husband, Robert, Natasha Wright, Jennifer Meza and husband, Javier and Joshua Ortiz; two great-grandchildren, Alex Meza and Devon Meza; a great-granddaughter, Sydney Cooper, soon to be born, due March 1; two sisters, Mildred Darling and Shirley Duquette, both of Sabattus; a brother, Robert Wright and wife, Rita, also of Sabattus; and two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Wright and Vada Wright.

 

He was predeceased by his son, Gerry W. Wright on Feb. 5 in Florida; his brothers, Albion, James, Phillip and George; and his sisters, Edna, Mary and Margaret. He will be missed dearly by many nieces and nephews.

 

US Navy 

WW II