The University of Maine| UMaine Foundation | Black Bear Athletics | Continuing Education | Career Services

Welcome
All Maine Women
Alumni Awards
Annual Fund
Alumni Events
Board of Directors
Buchanan Alumni House
Campus & Local News
Chapters/Interest Groups
Class Pages
Homecoming
Insurance Programs
Membership: Join/Renew
Obituaries
Reunion
Senior Alumni

Senior Skull Society
Staff Information
Travel Opportunities
UMaine License Plates
Update Your Records

UM Alumni Association
Buchanan Alumni House One Alumni Place
Orono, ME 04469-5792
Phone: (207)581-2586
Toll Free: (800)934-2586

The following obituaries appeared in the Winter 2008 issue of Maine Alumni Magazine.  For further information or additional obituaries, contact the UMAA Publications office at (207) 581-1137 or
1-800-934-2586.

1928Top

Kenneth “KC” Cousins Lovejoy, 101, of North Port, Florida, and Veazie, Maine, on June 14, 2007. B.S. in dairy husbandry and a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. He later continued his education at Cornell and at the University of Chicago. KC was one of three original 4-H agents in Maine, and served as 4-H state leader for almost 30 years. Upon retirement, he became executive director of the Pine Tree 4-H Club Foundation, traveling the state to raise funds to promote 4-H and ensure its long-term support. He received many awards for his service, including the Outstanding Citizen for the State of Maine, Agricultural Person of the Year, and in 1977 received the Black Bear Award from the University of Maine Alumni Association. In 1962 a tree was planted in his honor in front of The Maples on the Orono campus, where he worked for many years. He was also active in the Rotary Club and belonged to the Church of Universal Fellowship in Orono.

1931Top

Lyndell Emma Smith Arsenault, 98, from Portland, Maine, on December 20, 2006. B.A. in English and a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority and Der Deutsche Verein. She taught high school English in Maine schools for five years before moving to Connecticut following World War II. She taught for 20 years in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She was a member of the National Retired Teachers’ Association, Connecticut Retired Teachers’ Association, and the Women’s Literary Union of Portland. She enjoyed reading, writing, storytelling, was proficient in Latin, French, and German, and later in life learned Spanish. In 1973 she retired to Cousins Island, Maine. She is survived by her son, John ’62; three grandsons, and two great-grandchildren.

George “Smitty” Algernon Smith, 97, of Clearwater, Florida, on February 8, 2005. B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He worked for Gulf Oil Corporation for 40 years, retiring as a supervisor of transportation. He was active in the University of Maine Alumni Association. Survivors include three grandsons and several great-grandchildren.

1932Top

Mary Morton Soule Bateman, 97, of Woolwich, Maine, on August 15, 2007. Attended 1928 to 1930. She later earned a degree from Emerson College and taught school for many years. She began in Machias, and later taught at Cony High School in Augusta, and at Gould Academy. She also taught in Texas, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, retiring from Wellesley High School in 1969. She was a member of the National Grange, Eastern Star in Bethel, Wiscasset American Legion, and a founding member of the Woolwich Historical Society. Survivors include her daughter, twin grandsons, and a great-granddaughter.

Eleanor “Nicky” Clark Meacham Jenks, 98, from Vernon, Connecticut, on October 21, 2007. B.A. in education and a member of Chi Omega sorority, Maine Christian Association, Maine Outing Club, Rifle Club, Maine Masque, the honor society Sigma Mu Sigma, played freshman field hockey, and was the society editor for the Campus. She was employed for many years as an executive secretary for Lever Brothers in Boston and after retirement enjoyed reading, golf, traveling, and bowling. She was past president of the Tolland Library Association, secretary of the Tolland Historical Association, a charter member of the DAR, and sang as a soloist and in the choir at the United Congregational Church of Tolland. She is survived by four children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. 

Charlene Wilhelmina Peterson Sandstrom McIntire, 90, of Presque Isle and Florida, on November 24, 2007. Honorary degree recipient. She worked as an interior-decorator consultant at Sears and Roebuck department store in Presque Isle for 32 years. She enjoyed traveling, camping, and canoeing, having made the Allagash canoeing trip 10 times. She and her late husband, Smith ’32, ministered to many of the senior citizen and nursing home groups, as she accompanied them on the piano or accordion, and they sang hymns together. With Smith, she was a loyal supporter of the University of Maine. Raised in New Sweden, she was proud of her Swedish heritage, and belonged to the New Sweden Historical Society. Survivors include her son, stepdaughter Nancy Todd ’64, ’98G, brother, grandchildren, and step grandchildren.

1933Top

Arthur Albert Francis Brown, 75, of Washington, D.C., on March 25, 1999. B.S. in mathematics and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He was literary editor of the Prism, played basketball, and participated in track and wrestling. He was the University of Maine’s first Rhodes Scholar, studying math at Oxford, and subsequently earned a doctorate from Princeton in 1940. From 1942 to 1952 he worked in naval research. He joined Arthur D. Little Company and later worked in industrial research and management consulting. He became manager of the research project analysis section of General Electric’s appliance services department.

Helen Berniece Osgood Ripple, 95, from West Hartford, Connecticut, on August 23, 2007. B.A. in speech and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. She was employed with Traveler’s Insurance Company before becoming a full-time homemaker. She enjoyed needlework, gardening, music, and dancing. She is survived by three children including Ezra ’69 and Linda Ripple Morin ’73, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Frank Warren Webb, 82, from Brunswick, Maine, on February 16, 1992. Attended from 1929 until 1931 and a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. He was the owner/operator of Mere Point Boat Yard.

Freeman George Webb, 96, from Corinna, Maine, on November 1, 2007. B.S. in agricultural education and a member of Theta Chi fraternity, track team, Sophomore Owls, and Senior Skulls. He was captain of the 1933 track team, was the Maine Intercollegiate Track & Field pole vault champion in 1931, 1932, and 1933, setting a record each year. He also placed second all three years in the high jump. In 1932 he tied for third in the Olympic Trials for pole vaulting. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army in Korea. He was employed as a manager of Moosehead Woolen Mills and later when he moved to Florida, owned and operated a small motel in St. Petersburg Beach. While in Florida he was instrumental in organizing the St. Petersburg Alumni Club and served as its vice president and president. He served as president of his class for many years. In 1973 he received the Block “M” Award and in 1984 received the Black Bear Award, both from the University of Maine Alumni Association for his dedication to the university. He established the Freeman ’33 & Mary C. Webb Track Scholarship Fund with the University of Maine Foundation. He enjoyed fishing, golf, playing cards, and story telling. He was a member of the Corinna United Methodist Church, Masons, Shrine, and the American Legion. He is survived by one daughter, three grandchildren including Elizabeth Satterfield Simcock ’94, and five great-grandchildren.

Eleanor “Babe” DeAlbra West Yerxa, 94, of Falmouth, Maine, on November 21, 2007. B.A. in economics and sociology and a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, Spanish Club, Sophomore Eagles, and All Maine Women. She played soccer, basketball, and volleyball and was on the champion women’s field hockey team in 1933. She was assistant executive director of the Kennebec Girl Scouts Council in Southwestern Maine for 12 years. She lived in South Portland for many years, moving to Falmouth in 1967. She received the Black Bear Award from the University of Maine Alumni Association in 1978, was involved in the College Club of Portland, Osewantha Garden Club, and was grand officer of the Longfellow Chapter of the Eastern Star. Survivors include her children Richard ’59, Dorothy Yerxa Woodbury ’63, and Joan Yerxa Patterson ’67, nine grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, brother Clifford ’43, and sister Leona Clukey ’36.

1934Top

Burton Anderson, 96, of Gorham, Maine, on August 12, 2007. Attended in 1933 and graduated from Gorham Normal School. He was employed at the Auburn Post Office for 38 years, retiring as assistant postmaster. He was affiliated with a number of Masonic lodges, served as treasurer of the Buxton Lodge for 20 years, and led Boy Scouts in the Lewiston and Auburn area for more than 20 years. He enjoyed sports, gardening, reading, construction, and cribbage. Survivors include his son, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Kenneth “Ken” Sharrock Cleaves, 95, from South Portland, Maine, on November 16, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity and the Civil Engineering Club. He began employment with the Army Corps of Engineers in 1935, building dams and air bases in New England. In 1947 he joined Warren Brothers Roads Company as a survey engineer in the Portland area and eventually became regional vice president of New England, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. He retired in 1978 and turned his energy to the service of the poor and hungry. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, Literacy Volunteers at the Maine Youth Center, Project Feed, West End Pantry, Hand to Hand, and the Portland West Neighborhood Planning Council. In 1983 he founded St. Luke’s Soup Kitchen to provide weekend meals to those in need. In 1992 he received the Jefferson Award from the American Institute for Public Service for this work. He was a member of St. Luke’s Cathedral for 48 years where he served as vestry member, senior warden, and also served as trustee of the Episcopal Church of the Diocese of Maine. He is survived by three children, eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Kenneth “Ken” Landmaid Parsons, 95, from Old Town, Maine, on September 28, 2007. B.S. in electrical engineering, M.S. in electrical engineering in 1959, and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, Electrical Club, Rifle Team, and track team. After graduating in 1934 he was employed with Penobscot Chemical Fibre Company in Old Town and with Jordan Lumber Company selling caskets. At the beginning of World War II he was asked to teach electronics at the University of Maine and also at Harvard. He was offered a position at Los Alamos but decided to return to Maine and resumed his teaching position. While teaching, he also worked summers for AJ Harriman and later at Electric Boat helping to develop their sonar program. He and a friend organized a consulting firm which was located out of his son’s home. He was promoted to associate professor of electrical engineering and later professor. He retired in 1990 as professor emeritus. In the 1960s he experimented with trying to cure elm trees suffering from Dutch elm disease. He is survived by son Stuart ’62.    

Eleanor Estes Grinnell Thomas, 95, from Garland, Maine, on September 18, 2007. B.A. in mathematics and a member of Kappa Psi sorority, Math Club, and Rifle Team. She was a full-time homemaker, raising six children. She had a large garden and her vegetables were sold from Dexter to Rockwood, Maine. She was a member of the Dexter Methodist Church, Garland Grange, and Garland Extension Group. She is survived by five children including Allan ’80 and Priscilla Thomas Harding ’69, 10 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.

1935Top

Ira Joseph Packard, 97, from Searsmont, Maine, on November 17, 2007. B.S. in dairy husbandry and a member of the honor society Alpha Zeta and the Rifle Team. For five years after graduation he taught vocational agriculture at Machias High School before owning and operating the dairy farm, Riverside Farm. He was a life member of the Searsmont United Methodist Church and served as a trustee. He was a 76-year member of the Masons, a 35-year member of the Dirigo Grange, a 35-year member and former chairman of the Agricultural Stabilization & Conservation Service, former president of the Waldo County Extension Service, and a 35-year member of the Country View Golf Club. He enjoyed golf, fishing, gardening, and traveling. He is survived by nieces and nephews.

1936Top

James “Jim” Wilder Haggett, 93, from Mashpee, Massachusetts, on October 30, 2007. B.S. in engineering and a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, Rifle Team, Winter Sports Team, Student Senate, Maine Outing Club, and served as advertising manager for the Maine Masque and Maine Campus. He was co owner, with his brother, of Haggett Engineering, a distributor of refrigeration equipment to grocery stores throughout New England. He enjoyed golf, was a longtime member of the Wellesley Country Club, and was a founding member of the Broomstones Curling Club in Wayland. He also enjoyed fishing, sailing, and gardening and for many years planted daffodils throughout Mashpee. He was a longtime member of the Wellesley Congregational Church. He is survived by two children and two grandchildren.

Glen Willard Torrey, 91, from Poland, Maine, on September 4, 2007. B.S. in dairy technology and a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, Agricultural Club, Intramural Athletic Association, and the honor society Alpha Zeta. After graduation he was employed with H.P. Hood & Sons as a milk plant foreman for seven years in various milk plants until he enlisted in the Navy. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy from 1945 until 1946. After the war he joined his father in the family dairy and poultry business in Auburn, Maine. He was active in many agricultural groups including the 4-H, Twin County Extension, Maine Farm Bureau, and served many years with the Soil and Water Conservation District. In 1974 he was elected to the Maine Legislature and served three consecutive terms. He served many civic organizations including the Poland Community Club and Poland Historical Society. He enjoyed following sports events and traveling. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, four children including John ’72, 12 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

1937Top

Loomis Dudley Ashby, 93, from Presque Isle, Maine, on September 24, 2007. Attended from 1933 until 1934. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army and was stationed in Panama. He was employed with the Maine Public Service Company repairing engines on power dams. He was the first pilot for the Maine Forest Fore Watch. He was an avid outdoorsman and worked as a guide. He enjoyed reading, traveling, and spending time in the northern Maine woods. He is survived by three generations of nieces and nephews.

Marjorie “Marge” MacKinnon DeWick, 93, from Woolwich, Maine, on December 1, 2007. B.A. in Latin and a member of All Maine Women, Sophomore Eagles, and the honor societies Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi. She was a full-time homemaker, raising three children. She enjoyed traveling, was active in the Woolwich Historical Society, and was a member of the Grace Episcopal Church of Bath. She enjoyed cookouts, reading the New Yorker, and bird watching. She is survived by three children including Stephen ’63, six grandchildren including Catherine DeWick Johnson ’89 and Jonathan DeWick ’93, and six great-grandchildren.

Jerome Adolphus Emerson, 91, of Corinna, Maine, on August 21, 2007. Attended 1933-1935. He was a self-employed poultry farmer for 36 years. He served as a selectman or assessor for the town of Corinna from 1937 to 1956.  He was a member of the Parian Masonic Lodge for more than 55 years, and a member of Anah Shrine since 1954. He began his legislative service in 1952. In 1978 he was elected to the Maine Senate, where he served for the next 14 years. He joined the Maine Farm Bureau in 1954 and served as president for 11 years. He served on numerous other agricultural and civic boards, including the Page Farm and Home Museum, where he received the Volunteer of the Year Award. He is survived by his daughter.

Ruth Kimball Holmes Gray, 91, of Saco, Maine, on August 18, 2007. Attended 1933 to 1935 and was captain of the women’s basketball team in 1935. She worked for many years as an assistant dietitian at Webber Hospital in Biddeford, retiring in 1978. She was an avid baseball fan, enjoyed lively political discussions, and was fond of music and dancing. She enjoyed visiting her children and grandchildren. Survivors include a son and three daughters, 24 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and twin great-great-granddaughters.

Henry “Hen” True Lowell Jr., 92, from Sun City, Arizona, on October 13, 2007. B.S. in electrical engineering and a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers and Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity where he served as house manager and treasurer. Although he graduated in 1938 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1937. In 1938 he began employment with Westinghouse Electric in the graduate student training program. He then worked in New York and Boston. In 1942 he joined Naval Intelligence and spent 14 months at the Navy Yard in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He requested submarine duty which brought him to Groton, Connecticut, where he deployed in 1943 for the southwest Pacific.  After tours of duty on the USS Angler and USS Gurnard he returned to the States in 1945 and returned to Westinghouse. After 21 years with Westinghouse he began employment with Sperry Products as sales manager, directing all sales activities for the company’s railroad services and manufactured products. In the late 1960s he moved to the Detroit, Michigan, area and formed the distributing company, H. Lowell Company. He enjoyed fishing, skiing, traveling, sailing, golf, lapidary, and volunteered at the local hospital. He was the father of two children and grandfather of one.   

George Seth Williams, Jr., 92, from Falmouth, Maine, on October 30, 2007. B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. After graduation he was employed with Babcock & Wilcox in Ohio until he was called into active duty. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1942 until 1946, achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1945 he was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Germany. After the war he was employed with Fels Company as a mechanical engineer/contractor and later became principal owner of the business, retiring in 1984. He enjoyed sailing and building small wooden boats. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, sons George ’70 and Thomas ’69, one grandson, and one great-granddaughter.

1938Top

Marian “Mary Jane” Jane Moan Sanford, 90, from Branford, Connecticut, on October 3, 2007. B.S. in education, M.Ed. in 1954. She graduated from Washington State Normal School in 1937 and spent one year teaching seventh and eighth grades and coaching public speaking and dramatics at Danforth High School. She then taught English and continued her coaching at Brewer High School. In the early 1950s she was a supervising teacher at Washington State Normal School and in 1954 moved to Connecticut and became an elementary school principal in West Hartford. She retired from Smith and Charter Oak Schools in 1977. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Honorary Society. She is survived by one son and two grandchildren.

1939Top

Mary Bowler Engelbert, 88, from Rochester, Minnesota, on December 27, 2005. Attended from 1935 until 1937 and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority.

Helen Virginia Twombly Severance, 81, from Kennebunkport, Maine, on March 23, 1998. Attended from 1935 until 1936. She was the owner/operator of the Seaside House, guest cottages and private beach club, at Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunk. She is survived by her son Michael ’65.

1940Top

Robert Tristram Coffin, 90, from Brunswick, Maine, on January 12, 2007. B.A. in economics and a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1941 until 1945. He was awarded the Bronze Star and a Purple Heart for wounds received in France. After the war he graduated from Boston University with a law degree. He practiced law in Brunswick for 50 years and in the 1970s served as attorney for Cumberland County. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, and Brunswick Masonic Lodge. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, four children, and many grandchildren.

Alvah “Pang” Edward Pangburn, 92, of Caribou, Maine, on November 21, 2007. B.S. in agronomy and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity. He played football and intramural sports, was a member of Alpha Zeta honor society, “M” Club, and Pale Blue Key. He and his wife lived in New York for a brief period before returning to Caribou. He became a self-employed potato farmer and also worked at the Farmers Home Administration for 23 years. He belonged to Gray Memorial United Methodist Church and served as a Cub Scout leader. Active in his community, he operated the local skating rink and the ski tow for many years. He was a 57-year member of the Caribou Rotary Club, where he had perfect attendance for 50 years, and was a Paul Harris Fellow. He enjoyed fishing, square dancing, the Red Sox, and golf. Survivors include his three sons Garry ’66, Alan ’72, and Paul ’71, eight grandchildren including Scott ’97, six great-grandchildren, four great-step grandchildren, and sister.

Richard Miles Sawyer, 90, from Silver Spring, Maryland, and Little Diamond Island, Maine, on September 3, 2007. B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity, the honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Phi Kappa Phi, and played intramural sports. He began employment with the Department of the Navy as an ordnance engineer during World War II designing guns and gun mounts. He retired in 1974 as the technical director of the armament division of the Naval Air Systems Command. After retirement he taught math in evening classes for people obtaining their high school degree. He was a member of the Woodfords Congregational Church in Portland and the Christ Congregational Church in Maryland where he served as deacon, steward, and Sunday school teacher. He enjoyed photography, boating, classical music, and cabinet making. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, three daughters, and three grandchildren.

1941Top

Walter “Goose” Wadsworth Gosline, 88, of Fort Myers, Florida, and Gardiner on August 9, 2007. B.A. in business administration and a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, French Club, Intramural Athletic Association treasurer, and played football.  He worked in the insurance industry and founded Gosline-Murchie Insurance Agency of Gardiner. He was an agent for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance. He served as trustee for Gardiner Savings Bank for 33 years, 17 years as chairman of the board. He was president of the Gardiner Rotary and served on boards of Vestry Christ Church Episcopal, Gardiner General Hospital, Gardiner school board, and the United Way. He enjoyed golf and reading. Survivors include his two sons, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandsons, and four siblings including Norman ’57.

Miriam “Mim” Goodwin Hamilton, 88, from Bridgton, Maine, on November 23, 2006. B.S. in education and a member of Maine Masque. After graduation she taught dramatics and English at House in the Pines Junior College in Norton, Massachusetts. In 1942 she was appointed to the English, speech, and drama department at Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts. In the early 1950s she was director of properties and programs at Marblehead Playhouse and in the mid 1950s was self-employed as a real estate agent in Bridgton, Maine. In 1954 she began a free ski school in Bridgton where children from three towns came to learn to ski. She volunteered in an art gallery, golf pro shop, and at Bridgton Library. After retirement she spent winters in Punta Gorda, Florida, and summers in Bridgton. She was the mother of two children and grandmother of five.

Walter “Hooky” Allan Hook, 90, from Middletown, New Jersey, on June 16, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, Civil Club, played intramural sports, tennis, and ran track his freshman year. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Corps of Engineers from 1943 until 1946 and participated in the Normandy Invasion, Omaha Beach; and battles in northern France, Rhineland, and Ardennes. While in England he designed decoy planes used to confuse the Germans as to where the actual invasions were to take place. In 1999 he was presented a medal from the French government for his participation in the liberation of France. After the war he was employed with Medcalf & Eddy in Boston as a civil engineer, working on the ice cap in Greenland and later worked as a senior engineer for Western Electric. In 1984 he retired from Bell Telephone as a structural engineer. He was scout master with the Boy Scouts for many years, and a member of the Fair Haven Lions Club, Beacon Hill Country Club, and Christian Science Church. He enjoyed golf, bird watching, reading historical novels, traveling, and church work. He is survived by his wife, three children including Allan ’76, 13 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and three step daughters.

Robert “Bob” E. Johnston, 87, of Melbourne, Florida, and Gouverneur, New York, on July 25, 2007. B.S. in agricultural economics and farm management and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity, Agriculture Club, played football and baseball, and was on the Prism board. Although he graduated in 1947 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1941. During World War II he was employed from 1941 until 1944 in an aircraft plant. He taught and coached at the high school in Mapleton, Maine, for 17 years before relocating to Gouverneur, New York, where he led the agriculture and industrial arts departments at that high school for 19 years. He belonged to civic and fraternal organizations in both Mapleton and Gouverneur and the First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed choral music, and sang with a quartet and choruses in New York and Florida. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, two children including Timothy ’71, two siblings including Edward ’53, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

William Frederick Mussenden, 85, of Topsham, Maine, on November 13, 2004. Attended 1937-1939 and a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He worked in finance at Bath Iron Works, and served on the Maine Republican Finance Committee. He was the father of three sons including Edward ’70.

Donald “Don” Ralph Sprague, 90, from Avon, Connecticut, on August 11, 2007. B.S. in education, M.Ed. in 1950, and a member of the Education Club. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Air Force, spending most of his time in England and France. After the war he began his teaching career in Solon, Maine, where he was teacher, principal, and head varsity basketball coach. He then became a guidance counselor and head baseball and basketball coach at Thomaston High School. In 1948 he moved to Connecticut and began a 26-year career in the Farmington school system as a teacher, guidance counselor, and guidance director. He was a skilled carpenter working on the building of both his home and retirement home and constructed in-ground pools at both locations. After retirement he operated a tree farm on his property and helped friends and neighbors with carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and other home maintenance problems. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, two sons, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.  

1942Top

Virginia “Ginny” Weston Bradford, 89, from Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, on August 31, 2007. B.S. in French and a member of Women’s Athletic Association, “M” Club, Home Economics Club, Le Cercle Francais, chorus, and played basketball, field hockey, and volleyball all four years, serving as basketball captain her sophomore year. After graduation she taught in South Paris and Orono, Maine. She raised three children and was a part-time teacher in Dover-Foxcroft. She retired from teaching at Foxcroft Academy in 1982. She was a member of the Maine Retired Teachers Association, Foxcroft Academy band boosters, co-chaired the Maine All-State Music Festival, was a founder and charter member of the Junior Cosmopolitan Club, and played organ at the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. She enjoyed traveling the coast of Maine, bird watching, rose gardening, and going to the horse races. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, three children, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Dorothy “Dot” Lois Warren Crane, 87, from Milbridge, Maine, on September 13, 2007. B.A. in American literature and history and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, Sophomore Eagles, and the YWCA. During World War II she worked at Eastern Maine Medical Center and taught at Washington Academy. She later was employed as a bank teller at Union Trust Bank in Milbridge. She was a 4-H leader and enjoyed teaching girls to sew and knit. She is survived by two daughters including Betsey Crane ’78, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Howard “Howie” Clifford DeShon, 87, from Perry, Maine, on September 12, 2007.

B.S. in electrical engineering and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity, tennis team, Tennis Club, “M” Club, band, orchestra, Radio Club, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, and worked on the Maine Campus. He obtained his M.S. in math/physics in 1957 from Northeastern University. He was employed in design and processing of semiconductors with Westinghouse, Raytheon, General Instrument, and Teledyne, retiring in 1982. He was a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the American Physical Society, Old South Congregational Church, Pequossette Lodge, and the University of Maine Alumni Association. He enjoyed tennis, golf, fishing, and traveling. He is survived by his wife, Muriel McLellan DeShon ’55G.   

Edward Anson Henderson, 86, of Beverly Hills, Florida, on August 10, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. He served as a radar officer on a Navy destroyer during World War II and remained in the Naval Reserves until 1965. In 1947 he earned a M.S. from Purdue University. He worked for the Army Corps of Engineers and New Jersey Highway Department. He was a partner and vice president of Goodkind and O’Dea Consulting Engineers, and his work took him to Jamaica, Costa Rica, Bolivia, and other places. Upon retirement, he enjoyed fishing and playing cards. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, two daughters, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

1943Top

Albert Robert Blacky, 87, from Waterford, Connecticut, on September 13, 2006. Attended from 1939 until 1940.

Howard “Howie” Alvah Crosby, 86, from Hermon and Bangor, Maine, on August 25, 2007. B.S. in electrical engineering, M.S. in electrical engineering in 1959, and a member of Theta Chi fraternity and the Glee Club. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army. He was employed at the University of Maine as a professor of electrical engineering for 34 years, retiring as a professor emeritus in 1980. He and his wife also owned and operated Hermon Motor Court. After retirement they founded Crosby Gardens and Arboretum, practicing environmentally friendly gardening and land preservation techniques. In 2001 they donated their home and 91 acres to ECOTAT Trust, enabling the public to enjoy the beauty of the many gardens, trails, and wildlife habitat located on the land. The 11-room home includes the Mary Blethen Memorial Library. He and his wife enjoyed 20 years of square dancing, and made many friends through the Maine and American rock garden societies, the American Iris Society, and the Bangor Nature Club. He was an active member and past president of the Maine Society of Professional Engineers. He is survived by five children: Herbert ’69, Lewis ’75, Thomas ’75, Janet Crosby Carey ’74, ’78G, and Carol Crosby Varney ’77, and six grandchildren including Heidi Crosby Becker ’03 and Amy Crosby ’06.

William Bert Gorham, 83, from Manor, Texas, on February 18, 2004. Attended from 1939 until 1941 and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy from 1942 until 1945. After the war he was employed with Prudential Insurance as a life insurance agent and later with General Dynamics as a design engineer. He was the father of two children.

Robert “Jenk” Dunlap Jenkins, 86, from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on October 16, 2007. B.S. in chemical engineering and a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, Maine Outing Club, Pack & Pine, Scabbard & Blade, “M” Club, indoor and outdoor track teams, the honor societies Phi Kappa Phi, Tau Beta Pi, and Alpha Chi Sigma, and served as section editor of the Prism junior year. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1943 until 1946. In 1948 he received his M.S. from M.I.T. He began employment with Proctor & Gamble, moving from Boston to Cincinnati in 1950 and settling in Terrace Park, Ohio, for 35 years. He was a member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Ohio. In 1985 he retired to Tenants Harbor, Maine, and was a member of the Episcopal Church of St. John Baptist in Thomaston. When his wife’s health began to fail they moved to Pennsylvania. He volunteered with the Scouts, Habitat for Humanity, Cambodian family resettlement, and the fire department. He is survived by three children and five grandchildren.

Henry “Bud” Grant Leonard, Jr., 88, from Norway, Maine, on October 6, 2007. B.S. in forestry and a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity, Forestry Club, Maine Outing Club, Maine Christian Association, Maine Day Committee, Scabbard & Blade, was the editor of Maine Forester, a cheerleader, and played baseball and intramural sports. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1943 until 1946. He was awarded three Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star and was a prisoner of war. He was owner/operator of Ayers & Seely coal and lumber business in New Jersey and later Motor Coach Touring Company in Pennsylvania. He served as New Jersey bridge commissioner and served three terms as mayor in Andover Township, New Jersey. He enjoyed traveling, collecting and restoring antique buses, refinishing furniture, and was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Disabled American Veterans, and Masons. He is survived by his wife, four children, three granddaughters, and sister Kate Leonard Attwill ’43.

Barbara “Barbie” Bean Strohmeyer, 83, from Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, on July 26, 2004. B.S. in home economics and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, Maine Masque, Radio Guild, Glee Club, Arts Club, YWCA, Prism staff, Home Economics Club, French Club, the honor society Neai Mathelar, and played field hockey, basketball, and volleyball. She was employed as a secretary with Electrodyne Research Corporation in Pennsylvania and as a teacher in the Antietam school district. She volunteered with the Brownies and Girl Scouts, the United Way, and in her local hospital and library. She was the mother of three children.

Mary Jane Dempsey Wendle, 83, from Wilmington, Delaware, on April 19, 2006. Attended from 1939 until 1940. She lived in Virginia, Washington, and Alaska with her husband who was in the military in the 1950s. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, baking pies, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels and at the local school. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, three children, and eight grandchildren.

1944Top

Frances Ann Sheehy Brown, 85, from Hyde Park, Ohio, on November 2, 2007. Attended from 1940 until 1943 and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. She was a full-time homemaker, raising three children. She later worked in television and radio doing voice-overs and commercials. She was active with the American Cancer Society, Cincinnati Contemporary Art Center, and the Cincinnati Art Museum. In 2005 she was honored at the University of Maine at the Minsky Recital Hall for her support of the music program. She donated the money to refurbish the university’s largest concert piano, buy a new upright piano for rehearsals, and create a piano fund endowment. She enjoyed reading, traveling, playing bridge, and volunteering. She is survived by her husband, three children, three grandsons, and one great-granddaughter.

Josiah “Joe” Edward Colcord, Jr., 85, from Seattle, Washington, on October 21, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, Scabbard & Blade, Civil Club, the honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Chi Epsilon, served as tennis manager, editor of the Prism in 1944, and was on the track and cross-country teams. Although he graduated in 1947, he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1944. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1943 until 1946. He saw action on the European Front including the Battle of the Bulge. He received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Silver Star. Great Britain awarded him the Military Cross for actions of gallantry. In 1949 he received his M.S. in civil engineering from the University of Minnesota and in 1949 he began employment as a professor of civil engineering at the University of Washington. He served in that capacity for over 40 years, retiring as professor emeritus. During this time he served as a distinguished lecturer for the American Society of Civil Engineers and was instrumental in founding the Geometronics Institute under the National Science Foundation sponsorship. In 1998 he was awarded the History and Heritage Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers. He enjoyed traveling, photography, and bird watching. He is survived by his wife of 59 years Hazel Calvert Colcord ’48 and one daughter.  

Paul “Huck” Jean Eastman, 87, from Hallowell and Wells, Maine, on August 24, 2007. B.S. in agronomy and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity, Agricultural Club, and the honor societies Alpha Zeta and Phi Kappa Phi. Although he graduated in 1946 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1944. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Air Force as a radar navigator bombardier with the 20^th Air Force 6^th bomb group in the South Pacific. He flew 32 combat missions over Tokyo. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. After the war he returned to Maine, finished his undergraduate degree, and in 1959 received his M.S. in botany and plant pathology. In 1949 he began employment with the state of Maine in agriculture and retired in 1978 as director of plant industry. Under his leadership the Maine Potato Seed Board farm began production of top quality seed potatoes. After retirement he was employed as a seed potato consultant for McCain Foods. In 2000 his life was profiled in the Northern Maine Journal telling of his family’s 24-day, 300-mile journey in a covered wagon from Danville, Vermont, to Oxbow Plantation, Maine at the dawn of the Depression. He is survived by three children including John ’87, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.  

1945Top

Annette “Toni” Elizabeth Steele Ewers, 84, from Boulder City, Nevada, on September 26, 2007. Attended from 1941 until 1942. She was a civil servant from 1942 until 1945 serving as a clerk typist for the Air Force. She moved to California and became a full-time homemaker and volunteered with many organizations including the Camp Fire Girls. After raising a family, she was employed as a secretary for an automotive shop, retiring in 1976. After retirement she moved to Nevada and enjoyed fishing, rock hounding, camping, and family. She was a member of the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies, Las Vegas Boat & Ski Club, DAR, and the Boulder Gem Club. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, two children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Charles “Pat” Kirkpatrick Foster, 83, from Ellsworth, Maine, on December 2, 2007. Attended from 1941 until 1943 and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Merchant Marines in the Pacific and later as a member of the Naval Reserves. After the war he began employment at the family’s business, C.K. Foster Plumbing and Heating in Ellsworth, retiring in 2006. He was a major stockholder and president of Morrison Chevrolet in Ellsworth. He was very active in his community serving on the Ellsworth city council and was a founding member of the Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, serving on its board from 1947 until 1991. He was a member of Lodge No. 40, Anah Temple Shrine, St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, past president of the Senior Alumni Association at the University of Maine, and served as chairman of the board for Liberty National Bank, Depositors Trust, and Key Bank of Maine. He is survived by four children including Jacquelyn Dearborn ’74, Charles ’01, two grandchildren, and sister Augusta Foster Law ’44.  

Effie “Brick” Susanne Ellis Hendrickson, 84, from Brewer, Maine, died on September 3, 2007, due to complications from diabetes. B.A. in liberal arts and nursing and a member of Phi Mu sorority, Maine Christian Association, French Club, Art Club, and played basketball, tennis, badminton, ping pong, and taught dancing. She was employed at Maine Medical Center in Portland for three years, for 17 years in East Millinocket as a nurse at the local mill, and a substitute teacher. She was involved in scouting and church activities. In 1967 she moved to Presque Isle where she worked as a nursing instructor at Northern Maine Vocational Technical Institute until her retirement in 1983. She enjoyed spending winters in Florida and summers at Springy Pond in Clifton, Maine. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Edward ’58; children Ellen Hendrickson ’77 and Eric ’73, and two grandchildren including Melissa Hendrickson ’04.

1946Top

John “Brookie” Wilmot Brookings, DMD, 83, from Bangor, Maine, on December 3, 2007. B.A. in zoology and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and played freshman football and basketball. Although he graduated in 1949 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1946. In 1937, at age 13, he became the youngest Eagle Scout in America. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1942 until 1946 in the Philippines and Asiatic/Pacific Theater. He was awarded the Purple Heart, Silver Star, Asiatic/Pacific Theater ribbon with one battle star, Combat Infantryman’s badge, and three Bronze Star Medals. In 1953 he graduated from Tufts Dental School and established a dental practice in Bangor where he practiced for 40 years, retiring in 1993. He was an active member of the Maine Dental Association and served as its president from 1979 until 1980. He was a member of the Rotary and the Bangor school board where he helped establish the Southern Penobscot Vocational School. He is survived by his wife of 59 years Barbara Wood Brookings ’50, seven children including Linda Brookings Hull ’72, Barbara Brookings Prentiss ’76, and Robert ’88, 25 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

1947Top

Lewis Jonathan Birt, 88, from Bangor, Maine, on October 16, 2007. B.S. in education. He attended Aroostook State Normal School from 1939 until 1941 and was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1942 until 1945 as a cryptanalyst. He reenlisted and served during the Korean War.  He was very active in the Masons and was recognized in 2002 for his 55-year membership at the Nollesemic Lodge in Millinocket, Maine. He is survived by many nephews and nieces including Arthur Birt ’74, Randi Reed Birt ’71, and Diane Birt Brown ’74.

Ralph Daniel Blanchard, 80, from Auburn, Maine, died on October 8, 2007, from cancer. Two-year agricultural certificate. In 1948 he took over his father’s dairy farm, Blanchard’s Farm, and in 1950 his farm was named the Outstanding Conservation Farm. He and his wife ran the farm until they sold the business in 1966. After the sale of the farm he was employed at Pioneer Plastics and H.E. Sargent. He also worked for the state as a USDA inspector at various poultry plants and he retired from the Auburn School Department in 1989. He was an active member in the community and was a faithful member of the Turner Village Church, a former member of the L/A Milk Producers, and the East Auburn Grange. He is survived by one daughter, two grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.  

Jane Elizabeth Longfellow Cullen, 81, from Waterville, Maine, on October 16, 2007. B.A. in English and a member of Chi Omega sorority, Maine Christian Association, Women’s Student Government Association, and the honor society Sigma Mu Sigma. She was employed in various positions in the Waterville schools including teaching adult education, substitute teaching, and in the Waterville High School library. She volunteered at the Waterville Public Library, Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, Waterville Women’s Club, and the Salvation Army. She enjoyed bridge and reading. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, William ’44, three children, four grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

Marguerite “Peggy” Raymond Googins Dowe, 83, from Turner, Maine, on December 2, 2007. B.A. in psychology and a member of Phi Mu sorority, French Club, Maine Christian Association, Maine Masque, and the honor society Sigma Mu Sigma. After her children were grown she began teaching elementary school in the Turner school system where she remained for 20 years, retiring in 1984. She volunteered with the Turner Library and at a local preschool. She enjoyed reading, sewing, knitting, home decorating, traveling, cross-country skiing, hiking, and had a life-long love of the piano. She is survived by three children, including Paul ’72 and Ann Dowe Fairchild ’79, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.            

Robert “Bob” Haley Parmenter, 79, from Tucson, Arizona, on June 3, 2005. B.S. in engineering physics and a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, Physics Club, freshman football manager, and the honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Sigma Xi. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy from1944 until 1946. In 1952 he received his Ph.D. in physic from MIT and took a position as a theoretical physicist at RCA Research Labs in New Jersey. In 1966 he moved to Tucson to become a professor in the physics department at the University of Arizona. He served as chair from 1977 until 1983 and retired in 1996. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, two sons, two grandchildren, and brother Thomas ’44.

John Coggin Wellington, 87, from Manset, Maine, died on November 19, 2007, from prostate cancer. B.A. in speech and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Air Corps as a flight radio operator in the China/Burma Theater. After the war he began employment as an announcer and news director for WLBZ radio in Bangor. He became the host of one of the first talk shows in Maine, Let’s Talk it Over, and was on the air for many years. He retired from WLBZ in 1974 after 28 years with WLBZ. He enjoyed golf and tennis and volunteered over 5,000 hours as the unofficial greeter and purveyor of the joke-of-the-day plan at Southwest Harbor Medical Clinic. He is survived by two children, two stepchildren, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.  

1948Top

Percy “Joe” Harmon Coombs, 85, from Boothbay Harbor, Maine, on November 26, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering, a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity and Sophomore Owls, and played baseball four years. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Air Corps. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak leaf clusters, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and the Distinguished Unit Badge. Although he graduated in 1952 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1948. He was employed for 38 years with the Maine Central Railroad, most of those years as a track supervisor. He coached Little League and umpired local baseball games. He was a member of the Woodfords Congregational Church and the Cornerstone Masonic Lodge where he was recently honored for 50 years of membership. He enjoyed golf. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, four children including Jim ’83, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Gloria “Mac” Jean MacKenzie Ferland, 80, of Millinocket, Maine, on August 15, 2007. B.A. in English and a member of Delta Zeta sorority, Maine Christian Association, Maine Outing Club, and worked for the Campus. She later earned a M.Ed. at Boston University. She served as director of reading in the Millinocket school department for 25 years. She wrote the class column for the University of Maine Alumni Association’s Maine Alumnus magazine in the 1980s. She also served on the school board for several years. She was Millinocket’s 1986 Citizen of the Year. Upon retirement, she opened The Read-In, a consulting and instructional business that assisted people improve reading and study skills and attain their G.E.D. She is survived by one son and two grandchildren.

Miriam “Mim” Hepburn Mosley, 81, from Standish, Maine, died on October 9, 2007, from cancer. B.A. in romance languages and a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and the honor society Phi Beta Kappa. After being a full-time homemaker she began her teaching career at George E. Jack School in 1962 and then taught at Johnson Junior High School in Sebago Lake Station. After a few years she became the teaching principal at Steep Falls Elementary School where she finished her career, retiring in 1987 after a 25-year career in SAD 6. She enjoyed bridge, bowling, reading, traveling, singing with Sweet Adelines, and summering at Damariscotta Lake. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Howard ’49, three children, eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

1949Top

Morton “Pete” Covell Bartlett, 79, of Lindenhurst, Illinois, on November 21, 2007. B.S. in chemical engineering and a member of Phi Eta Kappa fraternity, Glee Club, “M” Club, Chemical Engineering Club, and track and cross-country teams. After graduation he was employed with the Maine Institute of Potato Starch Manufacturing as a chemical engineer and was drafted into the Army Chemical Corps in January 1951, serving until 1953. In 1958 he obtained his Ph.D. in bacteriology from the University of Michigan and began working for Abbott Laboratories in Illinois as a group leader in biological development. He remained at Abbott until his retirement in 1986. He helped develop Dipel, a bacterial insecticide, and Urokinase, a “clot buster” for heart attack victims. He served six years on the local school board, coached boys’ softball teams for 14 years, served as president of his church board, and enjoyed traveling and reading. His favorite college memory was, “running in the New England championship cross-country meet.” He is survived by his wife of 55 years, four children, and six grandchildren.

Richard “Dick” Jordan Denison, 84, from Norway, Maine, on September 20, 2007. B.A. in business administration and a member of Maine Christian Association.  He was a veteran of the Navy serving from 1943 until 1946. After graduation he was employed with the Norway National Bank as an assistant cashier, remaining with the bank when it merged with Canal National Bank and later with Key Bank. He retired after 40 years as vice president and trust officer for Key Bank. He spent many years as trustee of Norway Memorial Library and was a longtime treasurer and trustee of Norway’s Higgins Crooker Charity Fund. He was actively involved in the establishment of Stephens Memorial Hospital, was a founding member of the Norway Historical Society, and was a longtime member of the Masons. He enjoyed gardening, collecting old bottles, and classic automobiles. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, three children including Susan Denison ’75, and one grandson.

Janice “Jan” Elaine Crockett Fuller, 80, from Orono and Ellsworth, Maine, on September 29, 2007. B.S. in nursing, M.Ed. in 1977, and a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, Women’s Athletic Association, Glee Club, Campus Reporter, Maine Outing Club, Maine Christian Association, and Square Dance Club. Although she graduated in 1950 she chose to affiliate with the Class of 1949. She was employed as a registered nurse at Eastern Maine Medical Center for many years and later as a nursing instructor in the degree program at Eastern Maine Medical Center’s School of Nursing. She retired in 1986 to Branch Lake in Ellsworth and enjoyed gardening, bird watching, quilting, knitting, and traveling. She volunteered for nature projects in Florida and at Eastern Maine Medical Center gift shop. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Sam ’46; three children including Sam ’77, ’80G and David ’78, and three grandchildren.

Ella “El” Dorothy Lehrman Garber, 77 of Marblehead, Massachusetts, on April 22, 2007. B.A. in English and a member of Maine Christian Association, Maine Outing Club, and Hillel where she served as vice president. She worked for the Jewish Social Service Agency shortly after graduation. She then raised four children, and was an active member of the Jewish Community of the North Shore. She helped revive the women’s division of the Jewish Federation and planned and traveled on many Federation trips to Israel. She loved the Jewish holidays and traditions, and was an avid golfer. Survivors include her husband, Irving ’48, four children, and 10 grandchildren.

Malcolm “Mal” Scollay Hayden, 80, from Harpswell, Maine, on October 4, 2007. B.S. in education and a member of the Pale Blue Key, Agricultural Club, Education Club, “M” Club, the honor society Kappa Phi Kappa, and played football. He taught and coached at Mattanawcook Academy, Maine; the St. James School in Maryland, and Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts.  He then spent 15 years in publishing starting as an editor with Allyn & Bacon in Boston and later as vice president and editor-in-chief for Charles Merrill in Ohio. In 1970 he began a new career when he became director of development for Grant Hospital in Ohio. He was a member of the Mayflower Descendents Society, was a mentor and sponsor for underprivileged children, and was a founding member of the Columbus Area Hockey Association. He enjoyed sports, coaching baseball, football, hockey, and tennis: reading, history, and spending time on Seavey Island in Muscongus Bay, Maine. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, three children, and four grandchildren.

Elizabeth Ann Johnston Ostroff, 80, from Sudbury, Massachusetts, on December 2, 2007. B.A. in music. In 1951 she received a master’s in music from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and later attended the Pierre Monteux School for Conductors. She was a flutist and played with the Bangor Symphony. She enjoyed gardening and was a long-time member of the Sudbury Garden Club and the Massachusetts Camellia Society. She is survived by her husband, four children including Susan Ostroff ’74, and three grandchildren.

Paul “Prad” Alfred Praderio, 79, from Clinton, Massachusetts, on November 29, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, Newman Club, and the American Society of Civil Engineers. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the Army Signal Corps and helped build the Alaska communications systems. He was employed with Perini Construction from 1964 until his retirement in 1989. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Church, the American Society of Professional Engineers, and Clinton Turn Verein. He enjoyed golf, vacationing in Maine, traveling, and the Red Sox. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, six children including William ’77, Paul ’83, Jean Praderio George ’80, Lisa Praderio Nolet ’86, and Laura Praderio Lynn ’84, 13 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Carleton Adrian Ranks, 85, of Bangor, Maine, and Melbourne, Florida, on August 6, 2007. Attended in 1946-1947, studying engineering. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1942 until 1946. He worked for several road construction companies, retiring as vice president in charge of major highway contracts. His career took him throughout New England and the mid Atlantic states, where his positions ranged from supervisor to project manager. He is survived by his wife and son.

Norma “Dum-dum” Jean Drummond Rothwell, 78, from Saugus, Massachusetts, on August 14, 2007. B.A. in speech and a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, Maine Masque, Radio Guild, Campus reporter and women’s sports editor, Prism women’s sports editor, and the honor society Phi Kappa Phi. In 1954 she obtained her M.Ed. from Boston University. In the 1950s she was employed at the Worcester Rehabilitation Center as a speech therapist and later was a speech and hearing therapist at elementary and private schools in Saugus. She was a member of the Saugus League of Women Voters, the Saugus American Little League, and the former Cliftondale Methodist Church. She enjoyed antiques and flea markets and had shops in Byfield and Rowley, Massachusetts, and York, Maine. She is survived by four children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.  

Charles Augustine Simonds, 82, of Falmouth, on August 13, 2007. Attended 1946-1948. He served in the Navy as a signal corpsman in the North Atlantic in World War II. He joined his father’s construction business, Simonds Construction, and became president and general manager. He specialized in the construction of service stations and bulk plants from Boston to Aroostook, and also built a variety of commercial structures. He is survived by seven children including Deborah Simonds Colbert ’83, 17 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.

John William Steves, 82, of Hampstead, North Carolina, on October 28, 2007. B.S. in electrical engineering and a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, and played intramural sports. He served as a radio technician in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After graduation he worked as a field engineer with Sperry Rand Corporation and later became the firm’s director of marketing. He joined Scope Electronics and later Dalm Victor, a division of Bell Aerospace Textron, where he worked until his retirement in 1986. His working career focused mainly on the design and development of electronic equipment for the military beginning with the bombing and navigation systems for the B-36 through the electronic equipment for F-15 fighters. In retirement, he enjoyed golf and bowling, belonged to the Pender Watch and Conservancy, and was a life member of the Old Crows. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Virginia Dolan Steves ’50, three children, and six grandchildren.

1950Top

Francis Leo Boyle, Jr., 82, from Portland, Maine, on September 14, 2007. B.A. in economics and a member of the Student Senate. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army from 1943 until 1945. He was stationed in Europe and received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal. After the war he was employed with Liberty Mutual Insurance. In 1965 he purchased Jones Book Store on Congress Street and ran that business for 15 years. He loved planes and in 1967 founded, with friends, the Maine Aviation Historical Society. Throughout his life he was an avid aero historian and in 1997 was awarded the Gaddis Cup by the Maine Pilots Association. In 2003 he received the prestigious State Award from the Aero Club of New England for his “vision and effort in establishing the Maine Aviation Historical Society….”  He was a frequent speaker at the annual “fly-in” in Greenville and at the Owls Head Transportation Museum. He was instrumental in establishing the Maine Air Museum in Bangor and served on the board of directors for the Maine Aviation Historical Society and the Portland Chamber of Commerce Jetport Committee. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, three children including Aletha Boyle Ellis ’79, five grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

Leon “Bim” Fred Brown, 79, of Shreveport, Louisiana, on July 3, 2007. B.A. in business administration and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He was a military pilot during World War II. Later, he worked as a systems analyst for Sperry Rand Corporation, was manager of data processing, and became manager of data processing for Caddo Parish Commission. He enjoyed reading and working in his garden. Survivors include his daughter, son, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

David Clark Cates, 82, from Visalia, California, on June 29, 2007. B.S. in agricultural business management and a member and past president of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He was a member of the Intramural Athletic Association, “M” Club, served as president of Senior Skulls honor society his senior year, played varsity football for three years, and was on the varsity track team for three years. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Marines from 1943 until 1946. After graduation he was employed at Sprague Electric in North Adams, Massachusetts, as assistant to the director of personnel and in 1952 was named personnel manager of the Kingston, New York, plant. In 1964 he transferred to California as western area industrial relations manager. After a 31-year career with Sprague he began employment as director of business services for Visalia Medical Clinic and later as a consultant for Real Fresh. He enjoyed tennis, sailing, swimming, and traveling. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Visalia, serving as an elder. He served on the Visalia cemetery board and Private Industry Council as well as many other business groups throughout the years. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Janice Scales Cates ’48, two daughters, two grandsons, and sister Peggy Cates Carleton ’48.

Abram “Pete” W. Harris III, 85, from Ormond Beach, Florida, died of cancer on December 19, 2007. B.A. in psychology and a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, Maine Masque, and the honor society Sigma Mu Sigma. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Coast Guard from 1941 until 1945. After the war he was employed with MacLeod Motors and in 1964 moved to Florida and began employment as an administrator for professional placement with General Electric. In the late 1960s he created South Peninsula Marina and was one of the organizers of the Ormond Beach Anchor Chasers, an early scuba diving club. His grandfather, Abram Harris, was president of the University of Maine from 1893 until 1901 and in 2005 he created the President Abram W. Harris Award given annually to “individuals whose actions leave the University stronger and better fitted to do its work.” Donations may be made to the fund by contacting the University of Maine Foundation. He enjoyed his sloop, scuba diving, and photography. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, two sons, three grandchildren, stepchildren, and step grandchildren.  

Laurence “Whit” Whitney Hodgkins, 84, of East Winthrop, Maine, on October 28, 2007. B.S. in horticulture and M.S. in 1969 in agricultural and resource economics. He was a veteran of World War II serving from 1942 until 1946 in the Army as a tail gunner. In 1954 he began his career as an extension agent with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service in Augusta. He worked there for 34 years, retiring in 1988. Whitney maintained extensive gardens of vegetables, small fruits, and flowers. With his family, he operated White’s Orchard, one of the first pick-your-own apple orchards in the area, for more than 25 years. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, daughter Kathy Hodgkins Brown ’77, two grandsons, two brothers, and a sister.

Waldon “Wally” Fred Huston, 85, from Portland, Maine, on December 10, 2007.

B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Phi Kappa Phi. He was a veteran of World War II serving in Coast Guard from 1942 until 1946. He served in the South Pacific where he piloted landing boats bringing troops to shore. After graduation he worked at Fafnir Bearing Company in New Britain, Connecticut, where he was a special project engineer for over 30 years. Upon retirement, he and his wife moved back to Maine. He belonged to the North Deering Congregational Church, the Woodfords Club, and the Masonic Lodge in Portland. Survivors include his wife, son, two daughters, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Richard Joseph McGlauflin, 88, of Rockport, Massachusetts, on November 20, 2007. B.S. in horticulture. He worked for the New England Shipbuilding Corporation, which constructed Liberty Ships, and he later served on some of those same vessels during World War II with the Army Transport Service. After the war he was employed at B.F. Goodrich Company in Watertown, Massachusetts, and retired from Mighty Mac Company of Gloucester. He was active in Rockport, and served on various town committees for more than 30 years. He enjoyed bird watching, gardening, walking, woodworking, reading, and local sports. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, two daughters, and two grandsons.

Sterling “Link” Cecil Morris, 82, of Wilmington, Massachusetts, on November 1, 2007. B.A. in public management. During World War II, he served in the Army Air Force as a member of the 404^th Bomb Squadron, 28^th Bomb Group. He was shot down over the Pacific and was held as a prisoner of war by the Japanese for six months. After the war, he joined the Civil Affairs branch of the Army, was the adjutant of the 7^th First Battalion of the 172^nd Armored Vermont National Guard, and retired ranked as a major in the U.S. Army Reserves in 1985. He was a recruiter for West Point. He also served as the town manager in Warren and Camden, Maine; St. Albans, Vermont; and Wilmington, Massachusetts, prior to his retirement to Florida. Survivors include his two daughters, three grandsons, and two sisters including Phyllis Morris Edwards ’43.

Edwin “Eddie” Freeman Smith, 81, from Portland, Maine, on December 14, 2007. B.A. in business administration and a member of the fraternity Kappa Phi Kappa. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Infantry from 1944 until 1946, part of that time in the European Theater. He was employed from 1950 until 1965 as vice president of Maine Cement Products and from 1965 until 1992 was a co-owner of Hascall and Hall working as a masonry contractor. He was a member of the Portland Kiwanis, Associated General Contractors of Maine, Cumberland Club, and a life member of the American Legion. He enjoyed winters in Florida and gardening. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, three children, and two siblings including Lelma Smith Russell ’84.

Harry Wiggins Trask, 82, of Lyman, Maine, on August 16, 2007. B.S. in agronomy and a member of the Agricultural Club, and the honor societies Alpha Zeta and Phi Kappa Phi. He obtained an M.S. in agronomy in 1952. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy from 1943 until 1946 as a radio operator in the South Pacific. He worked as the agricultural extension agent for Cumberland County in the early ’50s, before returning to Aroostook County. In Presque Isle, he worked for Hi-Test Fertilizer Company for a period; then joined Arthur D. Little Company as a consultant specializing in pesticides and fertilizers. In 1971 he joined the Environmental Protection Agency in Washington. He retired to Goodwins Mills in 1980 and continued consulting. He belonged to the Presque Isle Rotary Club, was a lifetime member of the Lyman-Dayton Lions Club, and belonged to the Conservation Commission in Lyman. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, four children, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and three siblings including Oscar ’54.

1951Top

Edwin Thomas Knight, 86, from Machias, Maine, on September 1, 2007. B.S. in education, M.Ed. in 1956. He moved to Connecticut in 1954 and taught elementary school in Darien and New Canaan. After several years he became principal at South School in New Canaan. He retired in 1976 to Jonesboro and after several years moved to Machias. He was a member of the Masons and Harmony Lodge for almost 50 years. He was a member of the Shriners, National Education Association, Connecticut Teachers Association, Jacksonville Grange, and Centre Street Congregational Church. He is survived by two children, three grandchildren, and brother Willard ’52.

Richard William Lovaas, 79, from Scarborough, Maine, on October 6, 2007. Attended in 1947. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army Air Corps from 1945 until 1947. In the late 1950s he was appointed divisional manager for King Merritt, an investment company. He was the owner of Lovaas Funeral Home in Buckfield and was founder of L&M Ambulance Service in West Hartford, Connecticut. He was a 50-year member of the Masons. He enjoyed stamp and coin collecting and was an avid reader. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Priscilla Sturtevant Lovaas ’51, and two siblings including Russell ’54.

Maxine Beryl Lambert Gowen Morgan, 77, of Pownal, Maine, on November 22, 2007. Two-year certificate in agriculture. She raised seven children and worked for many years at Parkview Memorial Hospital as a medical secretary. She retired in 1995 to enjoy motorcycles, grandchildren, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, gardening, and caring for rescued retired greyhounds. Survivors include her brother Elliott Lambert ’54, seven children, step children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Lorraine “Lorry” Frances Curry Niemi, 78, of South Thomaston, on November 30, 2007. B.A. in English and a member of Delta Zeta sorority. She taught English and French and directed many plays at Thomaston High School. Later, she worked at her family’s business, Curry’s Greenhouse, in Rockland. After her marriage, she and her husband ran the Niemi Farm in South Thomaston, which was well known for its strawberries. She loved music and dancing at many of the local granges. She was an avid reader, baker, and enjoyed her time with family at their camp. Survivors include her daughter, son, six grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

Philip Raymond Paiement, 82, of Marietta, Georgia, died of a stroke on August 18, 2007. B.S. in mechanical engineering. He was a paratrooper in the Pacific during World War II and worked in research and development at General Electric for most of his life. Survivors include his wife, six children, and one grandchild.

Virginia Elaine Towne Roberts, 77, of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, on October 26, 2007. Attended 1947-1949 and was involved in interscholastic debating, plays, and won the junior prize for speaking. She raised four children and enjoyed knitting, sewing, quilting, and cooking with her family and friends. She and her husband enjoyed many summers at Parson’s Landing on Sebec Lake. She is survived by four children, 10 grandchildren including Preston Maheu ’97, and four great-grandchildren.

Richard “Dick” Charles Swanson, 79, from Crosby, Texas, on May 25, 2006. B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and Scabbard & Blade. He was a veteran of World War II and was employed with Exxon as a staff engineer. He was the father of two children.

Arthur Stanley Tobiassen, 81, from Falmouth, Maine, died on October 10, 2007, from cancer. B.S. in agricultural engineering and a member of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers and the honor society Alpha Zeta. While attending high school he was employed in the South Portland Shipyard. After graduation he entered the Naval V-12 Program at Bates College and served during World War II. He was employed with Ford Tractor in Birmingham, Michigan, and earned his MBA in 1972 from Michigan State University. He received his professional engineering certification in mechanical engineering from the state of Michigan. He won the Engineering Merit Award in 1984 from the Farm and Industrial Equipment Institute for his contributions in the areas of engineering and safety. He retired after 35 years as safety environmental manager, worldwide, and continued to work as an independent consultant. While in Michigan he was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Oakland President’s Club, Society of Automotive Engineers, and the Farm and Industrial Equipment Institute. Since moving to Maine 18 years ago, he was a member of the Emmaus Lutheran Church and a charter member of the Maine Nordmenn chapter of the Sons of Norway. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, three children, one grandson, and two great-granddaughters.

Richard Joseph Young, 78, from Sandy Hook, Connecticut, on August 21, 2003. Attended from 1947 until 1948 and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II.

1952Top

Gordon Haliburton Falt, Jr., 80, from Woolwich, Maine, on September 6, 2007. B.S. in mechanical engineering and a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Although he graduated in 1955 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1952. He was a 1947 graduate of Maine Maritime Academy and served in the Navy during the Korean War from 1952 until 1954. He retired from the Naval Reserves in 1977. He was employed at Hyde Windless in Bath in the 1960s and was employed for 30 years with Bath Iron Works, retiring as director of naval marketing. He served as a past board member of the Bath YMCA, The Thomas G. Plant Home, the Maine State Museum, and the Neighborhood House. He was a member of the Day’s Ferry Congregational Church and Day’s Ferry Community Club. He is survived by his sons Robert ’79, Daniel ’80, and Thomas ’82, and five grandchildren.

Roy Herbert Gilman, 81, from Fairfield, Maine, on October 4, 2007. B.A. in business administration. He was a veteran of World War II serving from 1943 until 1946, spending a year on the South Pacific Island of Runit. He was employed with the Maine Department of Banking from 1954 until 1969 and then became a loan officer and vice president at Federal Trust in Waterville. He taught banking courses at Thomas College for 10 years and worked evenings and weekends selling cars. After his early retirement in 1984 he continued as a self-employed car dealer, developing a successful wholesale business, traveling to auctions throughout New England. He served on the Fairfield town council and planning board and the Fairfield Industrial Development Committee. He was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church finance committee for six years, a trustee of the Kennebec water district for 12 years, and served as treasurer of the Waterville Humane Society for 12 years. He enjoyed music, played guitar, enjoyed playing cards, and played pinochle regularly. He is survived by his wife of 46 years and three children including Kara Gilman ’92.  

Bernard Atherton Goding, 82, from Enterprise, Alabama, on August 24, 2007.

Attended from 1948 until 1949. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army. He was employed with Farmington Shoe Shop and Maine Freightways. He lived in Farmington until 1992 when he moved to Alabama. He was a member of the American Veterans Association and the American Legion. He is survived by seven children, 13 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Ralph Moses Long, 81, from Lecanto, Florida, on August 22, 2007. Attended from 1948 until 1949. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy. He was employed from 1962 until 1980 as the managing editor of the Boston Herald Traveler. He also worked on the Boston Record, the Chicago American, the Bangor Patriot, and Lincoln News. While managing the Chicago American he twice won first prize in Hearst Newspaper’s headline writing competition. He was a panelist on Boston’s WBZ-TV program, “Starring the Editors” and in 1991 was named as one of the Most Influential Bostonians. Most of his career was spent in print journalism but he also served as deputy director of communication for former Boston mayor Kevin White and vice president of publishing for New England Life. He was a graduate of Syracuse University and was an avid reader, enjoyed golf, and collecting art. He is survived by his wife, five children, two step children, and 11 grandchildren.

James Leo Plunkett, 76, from Hot Springs, Arkansas, on March 16, 2007. B.A. in sociology. He obtained his MBA in 1968 from the University of Missouri. He was a veteran of the Air Force retiring in 1972 as a lieutenant colonel. After retirement he was assistant vice president of the First National Bank in Shreveport, Virginia. He was a member of the Retired Officers Association, Optimist Club, Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, and enjoyed golf. He was the father of three children and had three grandchildren.

Harold “Hal” Seymour Story, 73, of East Greenbush, New York, on August 6, 2001. M.S. in physics. He later earned a Ph.D. at Case Western Reserve. After a few years at Bell Laboratories, he began teaching in 1959 at the University of Albany. He taught physics at various levels and received numerous awards for excellence in teaching. With a colleague he coauthored the textbook Exploration of Space and designed and built the university’s first lecture hall multimedia facility in 1991 with a grant from the Dudley Observatory. He conducted research on magnetic resonance on lunar samples, ferro-electric compounds, and solid ionic conductors. After retirement, he continued to revise the textbook and assist with lectures. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, two children, and two grandchildren.

Clement “Clem” Paul Thorne, 79, of Island Falls, Maine, on November 8, 2007. B.A. in mathematics and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He served in the Navy on the USS Vulcan during World War II. He taught school for a year, and then joined Metropolitan Life Insurance, where he worked from 1953 until 1984. He belonged to the school board, was past chairman of the Presque Isle Country Club, past president of May Mountain Ski Area, a member of the Elks, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Presque Isle Rotary, Island Falls Lions Club, and several other civic organizations. He was a Republican candidate for the state legislature in 1986. He enjoyed fishing, golf, the Red Sox, and was a private pilot. Survivors include his wife, seven children, 13 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

1953Top

Jean-Paul “Jeep” Alberie Cyr, 78, from Rockville, Maryland, on March 26, 2007. B.S. in electrical engineering and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, and the Institute of Radio Engineers. He was a veteran of the Korean War. In 1955 he began employment with the electronics division of the Portsmouth Navy Yard in Kittery, Maine. He later was the president and founder of Acquisition Management in Arlington, Virginia. He was the father of five children and is survived by his brother Roderick ’56.

Douglas “Doug” Eugene Kneeland, 78, from Lincoln, Maine, died on December 15, 2007, from lung cancer. B.A. in journalism and a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, Sophomore Owls, Maine Press Club, Student-Faculty Publications Committee, did publicity for Maine Masque, and worked as the editor of the Maine Campus, Pine Needle, and Freshman Handbook. Honorary Ph.D. in 2005. He was a veteran of the Army serving from 1947 until 1949. He was employed for 40 years as a newspaper man beginning with small newspapers before starting employment in 1959 with the New York Times. As a reporter for the Times, he covered many of America’s most important stories including the Kent State shooting, the Charles Manson trial, the “Saturday night massacre,” and Senate Watergate hearings. He was one of the “Boys on the Bus” during Nixon’s presidential campaign. In 1970 he went to San Francisco as a roving national correspondent and then took the position of midwest bureau chief for the Times. After 22 years with the Times, he joined the Chicago Tribune as national and foreign editor. He later became the paper’s associate managing editor and then public editor. In 1993 he returned to Lincoln, Maine, and in 1995 began to write a column, “Kneeland Street”, for the local paper, the Lincoln News. He was also s guest lecturer at the University of Maine. In 2003 he was inducted into the Maine Press Association Hall of Fame and in 2007 received the University of Maine Alumni Association’s 2007 Block “M” Award for his participation in the association. He served as the chairman of the alumni association’s publications committee and was an active member of the Maine Press Association. He is survived by his wife, four children, and five grandchildren.

Lendall Henry Nevens, 79, of Brownville Junction, Maine, on November 15, 2007. Attended 1949-1952 and a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Marine Corps from 1946 until 1948. He worked for 47 years for Yonkers Construction in New York as an engineer. He later moved to Maine, spending winters in Florida. He enjoyed fly-fishing and the Red Sox, and served as president of the Mount Katahdin Senior Citizens. Survivors include his two sons.

Robert Adrien Neveux, 80, of Lowell, Massachusetts, in May 16, 2005. Attended from 1949 until 1950.  He was a veteran of World War II serving in the Navy. He worked for Raytheon Company in Lowell for more than 36 years, retiring as an electronic-drafting checker. He belonged to a bowling league, was an active member of St. Margaret Church, volunteered for the Chelmsford Senior Citizens, was a Red Sox fan, and enjoyed playing cards and dancing. Survivors include his wife, three children, seven stepchildren, six grandchildren, many step-grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

John Edward Wilson, 79, from Hampden, Maine, on December 1, 2007. B.A. in geology. He was a veteran of the Army, serving from 1946 until 1948 in Los Alamos, New Mexico. After obtaining his degree he began employment with the Maine Central Railroad. In 1953 he began employment with New England Telephone and retired in 1990. He was an active member of the Telephone Pioneers, the town of Hampden zoning board of appeals, and the Branch Pond Association. He enjoyed time on Branch Pond, gardening, hunting, fishing, photography, and family time. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lucille Shaw Wilson ’54; children: John ’79, Larry ’78, Karen Wilson Frye ’81, ’02G, Michael ’82, Cindy Wilson Jones ’83, and Laura Wilson  French ’04G.

1954Top

James “Jim” Gordon Ault, 75, from Hermon, Maine, on October 17, 2007. B.S. in civil engineering and a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Although he graduated in 1961 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1954. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the Army from 1953 until 1955. In 1956 he was employed as an engineering draftsman with Jackson and Moreland and later was an engineer with the Maine State Highway Department. He was the owner/operator of Ault Professional Association. He served as a Boy Scout leader and on the Hermon planning board and was a member of the Hermon Baptist Church and the Society of Civil Engineers. He is survived by his wife of 48 years Donna Snow Ault ’82, three children, two grandchildren, and seven siblings including John ’49, Richard ’55, and Peter ’62.

Edmund “Ed” Skelding Cook, 76, from Gardner, Massachusetts, on April 2, 2007. B.S. in forestry and a member of Theta Chi fraternity, Forestry Club, Rifle Club, and Maine Outing Club. He was employed at Lockheed Aircraft as a manufacturing engineer and obtained his M.A. in wood technology in 1975 from the University of Massachusetts and in the late 1970s was working towards his Ph.D. He was the father of two children.

George Robert Cray, 74, of Palmyra, Maine, on November 4, 2007. Two-year degree in agriculture. He operated the family farm in Palmyra and sold his produce at a farm stand for almost 50 years. He also drove a school bus for 39 years. He supported Nokomis sports and was a Little League and Babe Ruth coach when his sons were young. He served as selectman, was the town cemetery sexton, road commissioner, and served on many other town committees. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and the Red Sox. Survivors include his two sons, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Jean Louise Danforth Goodfield, 91, from Redding, Connecticut, on November 13, 2007. M.Ed.  She was a veteran of World War II serving as an aircraft engine mechanic in the Navy as a WAVE. Her teaching career took her to Bath and West Bath, Maine, before moving to Connecticut. In Connecticut she taught in Goshen, was principal in the Bethlehem school system, and ultimately became a supervisor for the Connecticut Department of Education. She was an active volunteer with the Red Cross and the Danbury Hospital. She was a member of the Eastern Star, Grange, and Long Ridge Methodist Church. She is survived by two stepsons and two siblings including Frank Danforth ’48.

1955Top

Milton Fairfield Beal, 74, from Jonesport, Maine, on September 27, 2007. Attended from 1951 until 1953. He was a veteran of the Army serving for two years in the Signal Corps in Japan. In 1959 he received a B.S. from Washington State Teacher’s College and taught at Machias Memorial High School. In 1962 he moved to Connecticut and taught for 11 years at the Bentley School in Manchester and in 1971 he received his M.Ed. from the University of Hartford. He returned to Jonesport in 1972 and became a wholesale seafood dealer. He was an avid Red Sox fan, a member of the American Legion, and enjoyed relaxing on Englishman’s Bay. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, three children including Brian ’94 Ph.D., and five grandchildren.

Roger Duncan Chandler, 73, of  Caribou, on November 14, 2007. B.S. in chemical engineering and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He served in the Navy during World War II, and was employed as a foreman/engineer with M&H Logging & Construction in Rangeley, Maine. He belonged to the Caribou Masonic Lodge.

William “Bill” Robert Dow, 74, from Fort Myers, Florida, on August 21, 2007. B.S. in chemical engineering and a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, Scabbard & Blade, and American Institute of Chemical Engineers. He was a veteran of the Army serving from 1957 until 1959. After his service he began employment with John Manning Paper Company in New York, retiring in 1986 as vice president of manufacturing. Retiring to Florida, he started a chapter of Mending Hearts, enjoyed photography, traveling, and his summer cottage in Casco Bay. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, nine children, 11 grandchildren, and siblings Joan Dow Scott ’59 and Neal ’57.

Edward Elbridge Guernsey, Jr., 75, from Bangor, Maine, on October 16, 2007. Attended from 1951 until 1953 and a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity and played football. He was employed with Bangor Hydro, Eastern Corporation, and Cianchette Brothers. In 1961 he established Guernsey Monuments where he continued to work until his death. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, five children, six grandchildren, and two sisters including Deborah Guernsey Daniels ’75.

Caroline “Cal” Woodman Gerald Hotham, 72, from Waterville, Maine, on September 21, 2007. B.A. in journalism and a member of the Press Club. She was employed for many years as a newspaper correspondent at the Morning Sentinel in Waterville. After taking time off to raise her children, she was employed at C.F. Hathaway and later at LaVerdiere’s warehouse as an office manager. She enjoyed spending time at camp at Willey Point on Snow Pond. She is survived by two sons and three grandchildren.

William “Bill” Allen Oliver, 79, from Orono, Maine, on September 25, 2007. B.S. in education, M.Ed. in 1958, and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, serving in the Marines from 1946 until 1948 and again from 1950 until 1951. He was a teacher and coach for 15 years before beginning employment at the University of Maine. He served for 21 years as associate director of the continuing education division and summer session. He was a member of the Universal Fellowship in Orono and served in Orono for six years as the town selectman and for two years as chairman. He was a lifetime member of the Second Marine Division Association and the Penobscot Valley Country Club. He was a member of the Grand Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Masons. He is survived by his wife Shirley Doten Oliver ’49, ’53G, two daughters including Sharon Oliver ’77, one grandson, and sister Janet Oliver MacKintosh ’54.

Ralph Harry Perlberg, 74, from Andover, Massachusetts, on August 11, 2007. Attended from 1951 until 1953 and a member of Tau Epsilon Phi fraternity. He was a veteran of the Army serving from 1954 until 1956. He graduated from Bryant College in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1958. In the early 1960s he was employed as a manufacturer’s agent for J&J Corrugated and later as a sales/packaging engineer with Rand Whitney Container in Worcester, Massachusetts. He was a member of Temple Emanuel in Andover and Lodge #141 in Augusta, Maine. He enjoyed tennis, skiing, and basketball. He also was a antique toy dealer. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, two sons including Steven ’88, and two granddaughters.

David Kimball Ward, 72, of Deer Isle, on August 15, 2007. M.Ed.  He earned a doctorate from Rutgers University. A veteran of World War II, he taught biology at the college level, including 27 years at Kean University in Union, New Jersey. He enjoyed his family and nature, including his flower gardens, and identifying birds. He also enjoyed both foreign and domestic travel, model railroads, painting, and antiques. Survivors include his wife of 27 years, step children, and four grandchildren.

1956Top

John Norman Gallagher, 73, from Nobleboro, Maine, on December 4, 2007.  B.A. in economics. Although he graduated in 1960 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1956. He was a veteran of the Air Force serving in Florida, Colorado, Europe, and North Africa. He was employed in various management positions for Minneapolis Honeywell, Sylvania Electric, and General Telephone and Electronics. He retired in 1990 and enjoyed piloting his own plane. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and St. Patrick’s Church in Newcastle. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, three children, and three grandchildren.

Mary Seabury Bowers Seavey, 98, of Hermon, Maine, on August 17, 2007.  B.S. in education and a member of Delta Kappa Gamma honor society. She attended Farmington State Normal School and began her teaching career in Abbot Village. She also taught in Sherman Mills and at Abraham Lincoln School in Bangor, retiring in 1964. Survivors include a daughter, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

William “Bill” Frank Stone, 75, from Prospect Harbor, Maine, on December 1, 2007. B.A. in psychology and a member of the Canterbury Club, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, and the honor society Sigma Mu Sigma. He was employed as an inspector for Factory Insurance Association for three years until he entered the University of Florida. He received his Ph.D. in 1963 and began teaching at Wilson College and Lafayette College in Pennsylvania. He returned to Maine and had a 31-year teaching career at the University of Maine, retiring in 1997. He published extensively and wrote The Psychology of Politics, published in 1974 with a second edition published in 1988. He was a founder of the International Society of Political Psychology and served on local committees including the Gouldsboro budget committee and planning board, Washington Hancock Community Agency, and was a founder of Friends of Schoodic. He enjoyed black and white photography. He is survived by his wife, four children including Curtis ’91, one stepdaughter, three grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and two brothers including John ’63.     

1957Top

Bernard “Bernie” Lee Butler, 75, from Farmington, Maine, on October 2, 2007. B.S. in education and a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He was a veteran of the Army serving as part of the occupation forces in Europe after World War II. He taught math at Wilton Academy and later at Mt. Blue High School. He also coached baseball, women’s basketball, golf, and track. He enjoyed golf, was an avid sportsman, and was a member of the Wilton Lions Club. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, four children, and three grandchildren.

Robert “Spike” Oliver Gerry, 73, of Jensen Beach, Florida, on November 4, 2007. B.A. in economics and a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity, Maine Outing Club, Student Marketing Club, Maine Christian Association; skied, played soft ball, basketball, and intramural golf. He worked for Maine Bonding and Casualty and as an advertising representative for the Portland newspapers, retiring to Florida in 1985. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, three sons, a daughter, and two brothers including John ’53.

Ernest Scott Marshall, 73, from Ellington, Connecticut, on September 10, 2007. B.S. in business administration and a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity, Tennis Team, “M” Club, and Maine Business Club. Although he graduated in 1961 he wished to affiliate with the Class of 1957. He was a veteran of the Army serving from 1955 until 1957. He was employed with W. T. Grant Company and later with Follett College Bookstores. He enjoyed traveling and was a fan of the Red Sox and UConn Huskies. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lodge. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, three children, and four grandchildren.