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Gerald A. Cole, 92: Pioneer in the Maine trucking industry
SCARBOROUGH – Gerald A. Cole, 92, recently of Piper Shores, died Feb. 1 at Maine Medical Center in Portland. Cole was born in Enfield on Aug. 3, 1913, the oldest child of James Albert (A.J.) Cole and Amy Stone Cole. He graduated from Bangor High School in 1932 and married Edwyna Cohlan in 1934. The pair recently celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary. He started driving trucks for his family’s business, Coles Express, in his teens. This was his life’s work, much of it as the company’s senior vice president. In 1941, he moved from Bangor to Portland, where he resided for the next 62 years. Cole served both as vice president and as a director of the American Trucking Association’s Maine Chapter for many years. He served twice as President of the Maine Truck Owners Association (predecessor to the Maine Motor Transport Association). Cole was very much a part of the development of the trucking industry in Maine. He was present when the road from Bangor to Houlton first was plowed in the 1930s. In 1959, when Alaska became a state, he and former Senator Ed Muskie brought truckloads of items from Maine to Alaska to welcome its residents to the union. On one occasion, he and Edwyna hurriedly left a formal evening function during a storm to repair a broken-down truck so that its cargo could be delivered on time. Edwyna in her gown holding the flashlight while he in his tuxedo turning a wrench must have been quite a sight. Cole served on the Portland City Council for seven years and was elected to the Maine State House of Representatives in 1946. During and after World War II, he served as Maine’s Disaster Chairman, and was instrumental in obtaining Federal assistance to fight Maine’s historic forest fires of 1947. Cole’s philanthropy has been extensive. He was a member of Rising Virtue Lodge No. 10, A.F.&A.M. in Bangor, of St. John’s Commandery No. 3, K.T., in Bangor, of the Lodge Council Chapter Consistory of the Scottish
Rite, Valley of Portland, of Anah Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. in Bangor and of Put Stevens Court No. 107, R.O.J., in Portland. He also was a member of the Kora Shrine Club of Greater Portland, a member of the Kora Motor Corps and an associate member of Kora Temple in Lewiston. He was a member of Unity Lodge No. 3 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in Portland. Cole was a member of Woodfords Congregational Church in Portland. He also was a long standing member of the Kiwanis Club of Portland, where he received the Distinguished Service Award in 2002. He was honored by the Maine Health Care Association at a ceremony at the State House in 2005. Cole is survived by his wife, Edwyna; two children, Sandra Cole Parsons of Arizona, and Kevin T. Cole of Portland; 10 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; two sisters, Winona Sawyer and Dorothy Warren, both of Bangor; and two brothers, Galen Cole and Vaughn Cole, both of Maine and Florida. A memorial service was held Feb. 4, preceded by an Odd Fellows memorial service at Woodfords Congregational Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Shriners Hospitals.Arrangements are by Jones Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home.
Judith Coyne, 42
SOUTH PORTLAND – Judith “Judy” Coyne married her beloved husband, Edward Coyne, Jr., on a windy, rainy day in 1991. But even the inclement weather at St. Christopher’s Church on Peaks Island couldn’t discourage her. Faced with the heavy winds and rains that day, she declared cheerfully, “Now I’ll know who my friends are!” Many will remember Coyne for this cheery attitude. She was always known for her bright smile and easy laugh, and she enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Coyne relished in all that was summer, whether spending time with her husband at her camp on Notched Pond in Raymond, riding their “SUMR” Harley, or simply sunning on their South Portland deck. Coyne, 42, of Wythburn Road, died May 8 at her home after a long illness. She was born January 30, 1964 in Portland, a daughter of Anthony and Patricia Sullivan Silva. She graduated from South Portland High School in 1982. While at South Portland she enjoyed all track programs and swimming. She went on to the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Ind. She graduated in 1986. Coyne was predeceased by her mother-in-law, Ann Coyne and sister Jane Silva. She is survived by her husband; her parents; sisters Mary Jo Silva, Carol Holmes and Connie Gray; brother Tony Silva, Jr.; sister-in-law Carmen Coyne; brothers-in-law Mickey Gray, Kevin Coyne and Peter Coyne; father-in-law Edward Coyne, Sr.; four nieces; and five nephews. Coyne loved and spoiled her Labrador Retrievers, which leads her family to ask that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Animal Refuge League, 449 Stroudwater Street, Westbrook, 04092. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m. May 12 at Holy Cross Church. Burial will follow at New Calvary Cemetery.
Joan M. Solari, 65
FALMOUTH – Until recently, Joan M. Solari walked her two dogs, Sydney and Kramer, in the nature preserve behind her house. It was common to see her and her dogs, passing by her neighbors and enjoying the outdoors, remembers Julie Cameron, her friend and neighbor for 26 years. Solari instilled the love of nature into every child she encountered. An elementary school teach in Falmouth for over 30 years, Solari touched the lives of thousands of young people, while building the blueprint for their future academic success. “She cared about everything living, great or small,” Cameron said. As a young girl, Solari gained her love of nature and all living things from her mother. She was involved in the conservation trust, securing land for Falmouth’s future. She was also famous for bringing in stray animals. Solari’s other passion was teaching. Besides influencing generations of students, she also earned the respect and love of her colleagues. She made many lifelong friends among her fellow teachers. She was most proud of being awarded the Audubon Society Teacher of the Year Award, a moment which was the highlight of her career As a neighbor, Solari made the effort to get to know everyone around her. “She loved having lots of kids and people in her house,” Cameron said, “and having lots of activity around.” During holidays, Solari always made the effort to do something special, whether it was stringing lights on a bush or organizing an easter egg hunt for the children. In her spare time, Solari loved to read, cook and travel. “She was just so interested in everything,” Cameron said. She kept beautiful perennial gardens and loved spending time at her cottage in Greene, where she truly felt at peace. Solari also adored her two granddaughters, Sofia and Arabella, who loved their “Ninny” dearly. Solari, 65, died May 5 following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. She was a caring, passionate woman who will be missed by all. She is survived by son Andy Solari and his wife Amy of Falmouth; brother Richard McElroy of Arlington, Mass.; two beloved granddaughters; and many cousins and close friends. She also leaves behind her two dogs and cats Simba, Harley, and Lilly, whom she loved with all of her heart. The family would like to thank the staff at Maine Medical Center for the wonderful care they gave to Solari and her family. A memorial service will be held June 3 at 2 p.m. at Foreside Community Church on Route 88 in Falmouth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the HART Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 351, Cumberland, 04021; the Cleo Fund, 28 Byfield Road, Portland, 04103; or the American Cancer Society, 1 Main St., Suite 300, Topsham, 04086. Arrangements are under the guidance of Independent Death Care in Portland.
Daniel J. Googins, 61
WINTER PARK, Fla. – Daniel J. Googins, 61, formerly of Portland, died April 26 of complications following a stroke. He died peacefully, surrounded by friends and family. Googins was born in Portland on Aug. 7, 1944, to the late Herbert and Margaret (Griffin) Googins. He grew up in the family residence on Montrose Avenue, where his first job was delivering papers for the Portland Evening Express and Maine Sunday Telegram. Googins graduated from Cheverus High School in 1963. He was a very active member of the Cheverus community, where he participated in many different activities and worked particularly closely with Fr. Conklin. After graduating from Cheverus, Googins worked at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and attended the University of Maine, Portland. He graduated from the University in 1968 with a B.A. in psychology and was presented with the University’s Most Outstanding Student Award. This award is given annually to the student that has given exemplary service to the institution on behalf of his fellow students and faculty. While at the University, Googins was elected to the Student Senate and also was Treasurer of the Student Government in 1968. After graduating from the University, he spent several years working in Maine with the Upward Bound Program for disadvantaged youth and also served in the Army Reserve. Googins then returned to school and, in 1975, received an MBA from the University of Southern Maine. He then moved to Florida, where he pursued several business interests and worked as a tax accountant and realtor. It was in Florida that he met his wife, Renate. They were happily married for almost 24 years. Googins was also very active with his local church, where he was known as Deacon Dan. Googins had a big heart and a great sense of humor. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and was especially valued as a counselor and spiritual advisor by those who were down on their luck or seeking guidance. He loved family gatherings and would find a way to get everyone participating and having a good time. He was especially good at games and excelled at chess, cribbage and bridge. His Scrabble games with his Aunt Mary were famous within the family for their high level of intensity and their creative vocabulary. Googins will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is suvived by his wife, Renate; step-daughter Jackie Terwilliger and her husband Clyde of New Smyrna Beach, Fla.; step-son Jerry Bruner and his wife Penny of State College, Pa.; brothers Bruce of Crownsville, Md., Brian of Washington, D.C., Bradley of Waltham, Mass., Michael of Portland and Mark of Cumberland; four step-grandchildren; as well as several aunts, uncles, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held in Florida on April 29 and the family will hold a private service in Maine.
Raymond A. Landry Sr., 85
SCARBOROUGH – Raymond A. Landry Sr. had a woodworking area in his basement, where he spent most of his free time. His wife, Janet Platts Duffy Landry, remembers the bookcases, magazine racks and other furniture that he made to give to his family and friends. At Christmas time, he gave his neighbors these homemade items as gifts. “He spent hours and hours down there,” she said. Even more so than woodworking, Landry was passionate about sports. He was an original season ticket holder for the Maine Guides and held season tickets for the Sea Dogs for eight years. He also played second base for the VFW Deering Post softball team and enjoyed following Boston College sports. Landry, 85, of Rays Circle, died May 5 at Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough. Landry also liked to travel. He enjoyed bus trips to Atlantic City and Foxwoods. He and his wife took annual cruises for several years. They cruised around the world, never to the same place, although Landry’s favorite destination was Alaska. He was longtime communicant of St. Pius X Church in Portland before moving to Scarborough and became a communicant of St. John the Evangelist in South Portland. He was past president of Cheverus Booster’s Club and Past Commander of the VFW Deering Post # 6859. He was a life member of the Elks Club in Portland. Landry will be remembered as a friendly, loving man. He was also an excellent dancer with a beautiful voice. “He used to sing me love songs that he made up as he sang along,” his wife said. “He even sang to me in the hospital.” Landry was predeceased by his first wife, Ruth (Vangie) Libby in 1990; five brothers; and three sisters. He is survived by his wife, Janet Platts Duffy Landry of Scarborough; sons Raymond Jr. and his wife Francine of Florida and Stephen of Florida; and four grandchildren. Visiting hours were held May 8 at Jones Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home in Portland. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated May 9 at St. John the Evangelist Church in South Portland. Burial followed at Brooklawn Memorial Park in Portland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Maine Children’s Cancer Program, 100 Campus Dr. #107, Scarborough, 04074.
Deborah W. Hildreth, 74
FALMOUTH FORESIDE – Deborah Worcester Hildreth, a native of Massachusetts, was actively involved with education and children’s welfare. After graduating from Vassar College in 1953, Hildreth raised a family with Charles L. Hildreth, her loving husband for 49 years. While caring for her own children, she volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader, a camp councilor, and a swimming instructor. She served on the Board of the Catherine Morrill Day Nursery, the Greater Portland Day Care Center and was Town Chairman for the United Way Fund. Later she returned to the University of Southern Maine for a master’s degree in education. She started her teaching career in Epsom, N.H. in 1957 and then returned to teach at M.S.A.D. #51 in Cumberland/ North Yarmouth, where spent 28 years teaching in the Mainstream Program. She loved and enjoyed all of her children in this program. Hildreth also served on the Board of North Yarmouth Academy for many years. Hildreth, 74, died at home on April 30 after a brief illness with cancer. After retiring in 1999, she volunteered mornings in the Project Story Boost Program working in English as a Second Language Kindergartens at the Jack and Reiche Schools in Portland. In her spare time, Hildreth loved walking with her dogs, hiking, kayaking, swimming, tennis, gardening, reading and skiing in the winters. Most of all, she loved her many friends and family members. She is survived by her husband; son Walter and his wife Alice of Hollis; daughter Sally and her husband Luis Martinez of Bowdoinham; her son Philip and his wife Deirdre Maull of Great Falls, Va.; son Michael and his wife Tara of Portland; brother Frederick Worcester and his wife Robin of Boston, Mass.; two grandchildren; many loved nieces and nephews; and beloved cousins from her mother’s side. A remembrance service will be held at the Falmouth Congregational Church, 267 Falmouth Road, Falmouth on May 18, 2006 at 4 p.m. Arrangements are under the guidance of Independent Death Care, 471 Deering Avenue, Portland. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Project Story Boost, Reiche School, 166 Brackett St., Portland, 04102.
Clifford G. Anderson, 90
FALMOUTH – In the recreational vehicle park in Clearwater, Fla., where Clifford G. Anderson and his wife spent their winters, he will be remembered as “Dr. Mal Practice” and Oliver Hardy. Anderson, whose skits and portrayals kept the audience in stitches, was a perennial favorite at the park’s bi-weekly coffee and entertainment hour. Anderson, who also shared his talents as a story and joke-teller, singer and play-by-ear pianist, was highly sought after to organize and host the event. He and Doris, his loving wife of 66 years, enjoyed a long and happy retirement together, spending over thirty year living summers in their Minneapolis, Minn. home and winters in Florida. The couple was popular because of their love of life and friendliness. This popularity continued after they moved to Falmouth in 2000 to be close to family. They readily made new friends in the Ocean View at Falmouth retirement community in Falmouth and faithfully attended and supported the Falmouth Congregational Church, United Church of Christ. Anderson, 90, died May 1st from complications of prostate cancer after a courageous 18 year battle. Beloved by family and many friends, he was known to all as a man with deep devotion to his family, intense patriotism and just pride about his career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Anderson had a distinguished and serious career at the FBI, while still possessing a warm sense of humor. He first entered duty with the FBI in a clerical position in 1939, after graduating from Central High School in Minneapolis. He separated from the Bureau in 1944 to serve in the U.S. Navy as a court reporter with the Navy Court Martial Board and as a reporter with the U.S. Naval Board of Investigation. After WW II, he returned to the FBI in Minneapolis. While working full-time as a Special Employee, he attended the University of Minnesota and received his BA degree in 1951. Shortly thereafter, Anderson received his appointment as a Special Agent of the FBI and, after a brief assignment in El Paso, Texas, served the next twenty years in the Cincinnati, Ohio office. Anderson specialized in bank robberies and white slavery cases. Most notably, he apprehended a top ten fugitive, an aspiration of all agents. With over 32 years of government service, he retired in 1971 after Director J. Edgar Hoover presented him with his 30 year service plaque. In retirement he maintained his FBI connections by joining the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI. He was a member of the Minnesota chapter, the Suncoast Branch in Tampa, and the Northern New England chapter. Anderson also monitored an ex-FBI agent website with e-mails. He was preceded in death by an infant son Terry. He is survived by his wife; son Dr. Larry Anderson and his wife Janie of Falmouth; daughter Sharilyn Karkowski and her husband Richard of Greenfield, Ind.; grandchildren Steven Baier-Anderson and his wife Cal, Lorie (Anderson) Lindyberg and her husband Robert, Amy Anderson-MacMurdo and her husband Robert, Kristi Karkowski, Michael Karkowski and his wife Betsy, and Paul Karkowski; 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held May 13 at 1 p.m. at the Falmouth Congregational Church-United Church of Christ with Rev. Dr. Dawn Berry officiating. Those who wish may leave an online tribute in Cliff’s memory at www.mem.com Arrangements are under the care of Lindquist Funeral Home, One Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth. In lieu of flowers those who desire may make memorial contributions to Falmouth Congressional Church Capital Campaign, 267 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, 04105; Hospice of Southern Maine, 901 Washington Avenue Suite 104, Portland, 04103; Ocean View Residents Assistance Fund, 20 Blueberry Lane, Falmouth, 04105; or their local cancer society, Parkinson’s society or March of Dimes.
Norma C. DeBevoise, 84: ‘Teacher-friend’ and loving mother
PORTLAND – When Munjoy Hill was supposedly a tough place to raise a family, Martha Connolly DeBevoise would stretch lights over the basketball court and hold summer evening dances for the kids from all nearby streets. There was never any trouble, only fun. When urban renewal took away a nearby house, she made the empty space into a garden, one of the largest on the east end, with peas by Independence Day and strawberries all summer! DeBevoise, 84, died April 11. She was born into a large family on September 25, 1921 in Dallas Plantation (Rangeley) to Guy Bernard and Addie Flora Nile Scribner. Six of the Scribners and their offspring had a wonderful reunion last summer in Harrison. The day lifted DeBevoise’s spirits greatly. DeBevoise was a hard worker and she taught her children the value of work. She always said, “If it’s not happening easily, you’re doing something wrong.” After working in a leather-tanning factory as a young girl, DeBevoise worked for many years as an accomplished waitress. Among the business she served were the Splendid Restaurant, the Casco Room at the St. Regis Hotel, the Tavern in the Town at the Eastland Hotel, and the Poland Spring House. During World War II, DeBevoise supported the United States as a “Rosie the Riveter” welder at the New England Shipyards in South Portland. Among DeBevoise’s proudest accomplishments, aside from family, was earning her G.E.D. in lieu of a high school diploma. She and her second husband attended evening school together and received their real estate brokers’ license, which DeBevoise used locally. Her final two jobs were most rewarding. Putting her G.E.D. to use, between 1965-1970 she worked as a teacher’s aide at the North School, where she made lifelong friends. When she finished there the children presented DeBevoise with a small plaque that she treasured, which simply read: Norma Connolly, Teacher-Friend. From 1970 through her retirement in 1986, DeBevoise worked at New England Tel & Tel, then NYNEX, then Verizon in Portland. DeBevoise married young to Leland Barker, with whom she had one child. In 1950, DeBevoise married Michael Francis Connolly of Portland with whom she lived for twenty years at 28 Atlantic Street on Munjoy Hill. They were together until Connolly’s death in 1970. Together they had three children. While on Munjoy Hill, DeBevoise taught her children to swim at the East End Beach; she eventually learned how to swim there herself. In 1976, she married Paul DeBevoise of Falmouth. They lived on the Pleasant Hill Road in Falmouth until their respective retirements in 1986 from the telephone company and electrical business. After retirement, the couple moved to Leisure World in Mesa, Ariz. In Mesa, DeBevoise exercised her love for writing by creating a regular column for the Leisure World News. In Mesa, DeBevoise suffered a severe stroke that left her with expressive aphasia: the inability to speak or write. When her husband died in 2001, DeBevoise returned to Portland where she lived for three years at The Woods at Canco, and at Saint Joseph’s Manor. Her family wishes to express their deep appreciation for the professional and loving care given to DeBevoise at both of these excellent facilities, especially Kim and Trudy at the Woods and all the nice workers in Wing C and D at Saint Joseph’s. DeBevoise was also a member of the Congress Street Methodist Church near the Observatory on Munjoy Hill, until its merger with Chestnut Street Church. She especially enjoyed waiting on tables for the church’s annual May Breakfast where one could sample exotic breakfast drinks such as pineapple-grapefruit juice. She was predeceased by husbands Connolly and DeBevoise and sisters Montrice Wiles and Lois Rose. She is survived by sons William Barker and wife Phyllis of Buckfield, Michael C. Connolly and life partner Rebecca S. Hitchcock of Portland and Peter L. Connolly and wife Sherry of Portland; daughter Mary F. Connolly and husband Michael Delahunt of Yarmouth; step-sons Jim and John; step-daughters Diana and Cathy; brothers Kendrick Scribner of Oxford and Erland Scribner of Norway; sisters Shirley Thomas of Otisfield, Harriet Hay of Woolwich, Patricia Curtis of Harrison and Charlotte Brien of Harrison; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Jones, Rich, and Hutchins in Portland on April 17. The family will conduct a private Interment ceremony at Evergreen cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation in DeBevoise’s name to The March of Dimes, 60 Gray Road, Unit 8, Falmouth, 04105 or to your favorite charity or, in the spirit of her life, you may simply go out and do something nice with someone you love.
William H. Doyle Sr., 55
PORTLAND – William H. Doyle Sr., 55, a devoted father and veteran who also loved to play the guitar, died June 8 at Maine Medical Center in Portland due to heart complications. He was born in Bath on June 19, 1950, a son of Leon D. and Annabele (Lancaster) Doyle Sr. He attended Bath schools and in the 1960s he served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was employed at Stinson Canning Company in Bath and later at the Portland Fish Market for several years. He was a devoted father who enjoyed spending time with his children, family and friends. But he also loved the finer things in life, like playing guitar, fishing, music and picking blueberries with his cousin. He was predeceased by his parents, two brothers, Charles Doyle at infancy and Leon “Sonny” D. Doyle Jr. on March 6, 1998 and by one sister, Margaret Doyle also at infancy. He is survived by his companion of over 20 years, Marilyn Chabot; two sons, William H. Doyle Jr. and Jonathan E. Doyle; two daughters, Sarah L. Doyle and Stephanie L. Doyle; all of Portland; three sisters, Dorothy A. Hamilton and her husband Vernon of Bath, Ellen L. Leask and her husband Jon of Fryeburg and Sarah L. Hodgdon of Westport Island; two brothers, Richard A. Doyle and his wife Susanne of Brunswick and Edward D. Doyle and his wife Cindy of Bath; sister-in-law, Joyce M. Doyle of West Bath; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Visiting hours were held June 13 at Mayo, Curtis & Hill Funeral Home, 819 High Street, Bath. A Funeral Service was held June 14 at Mayo, Curtis & Hill Funeral Home, 819 High Street, Bath with Rev. Frank Siciliano officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove cemetery in Bath. A gathering of family and friends will be held at the Smith Tobey American Legion on Congress Avenue in Bath. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 343 Gorham Road, South Portland, 04106.
Mary Marcella Foley, 80
PORTLAND – Mary Marcella Foley was the” voice” of Soule Glass and Paint for more than 30 years, and was an advocate for the human treatment of animals, especially cats. Foley, 80, formerly of 284 Danforth St. and 22 Orange St., died on June 8 at a local hospital. Prior to her death, Foley was a patient at Seaside Rehabilitation Center. Foley was born July 17, 1925, the daughter of Nicholas M. and Mary Dillon Foley. A native of Portland, she attended St. Dominic Grammar School and graduated from Saint Joseph’s Academy. After high school, Foley worked as a clerk for Maine Central Railroad before joining Soule Glass and Paint Co. as their switchboard operator and receptionist, where she worked for over 30 years. During World War II, Foley served as a USO Hostess. She was also very active in many Catholic service groups and a long time supporter of Catholic Missionaries. Foley was a former communicant of St. Louis Church. Foley and her family were animal lovers. While they lived on Orange St., they had several cats. Foley also cared for and fed strays, always making sure they had shelter and veterinary care. She was predeceased by her parents and a brother James, who died in infancy. Surviving Foley are her many dear friends. Visiting hours were held 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. on June 12 at Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland, and was followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Louis Catholic Church, 279 Danforth St., Portland. She was buried in the family lot in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Refuge League, 449 Stroudwater St., Westbrook. ME 04092 or a charity of your choice.
Mary Ellen Vierra, 58
PORTLAND – Mary Ellen Vierra loved spending time with her family and friends, and was an employee at Emery-Waterhouse for more than 20 years. Vierra, 58, of Portland, died on June 10, after a long illness. She was born in Lewiston on May 6, 1948, the daughter of Ellen Barrett Vierra and the late Joseph A. Vierra. She attended Cathedral Grammar School and graduated from Portland High School, Class of 1966. She was employed by Emery-Waterhouse Company for 20 years before retiring due to illness. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and at family gatherings. Vierra showed special care and patience with elderly family members and friends, as well as with cats. She loved to shop for gifts to give to those to whom she was close. Vierra is survived by her mother, Ellen B. Vierra of Portland; her brother and sister-in-law, John and Paticia Vierra of Gray; her nephew and his wife, Jay and Robyn Vierra of Raymond; her niece, Patrice Vierra of South Portland; two great nieces; and cousins. Visiting hours were held Tuesday, June 13 from 2-5 p.m. at Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland, where prayers were recited June 14. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress Street, Portland. Interment followed the service in Calvary Cemetery, South Portland.
Laureen Pratt Ricci, 59
SOUTH PORTLAND – Laureen Pratt Ricci was a loving attentive mother, whose hobbies included painting and beano. Ricci, 59, of Bowdoin Ave., died June 9, at a Portland hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Portland October 29, 1946 a daughter of Howard Barrows Pratt and Blanche Laura Hartnett Pratt. Laureen attended South Portland grammar schools and Scarborough High School. Ricci loved spending time with her mother and sister. They all enjoyed the Saturday shopping trips with lunch. Laureen was predeceased by an infant son Patrick James Ricci in 1980, and by her father, Howard Barrows Pratt. Survivors include her loving mother, Blanche H. Pratt of Gorham; her sister, Linda Woodward and her husband William of Old Orchard Beach; five daughters, Donna Poole and her husband Glenn of Portland, Brenda Makela and her husband Alan of Portland, Tammy Ricci and her companion Kris Bowie of South Portland, Jeri Ricci and her companion Matthew Landry of Portland, Tina Ricci of Portland, a son Tony Ricci of Portland, 9 grand children and 1 great grandson. Relatives and friends attended a funeral service on June 13 at Conroy-Tully Crawford South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland.
Charlene B. Rydell, 64
Charlene B. Rydell, 64, died of cancer in her home in Brunswick on June 8. She will be buried in the Beth El cemetery in Bangor beside her daughter-in-law Lynn Rydell. She will be remembered as a tireless advocate for policies that promoted the public’s health, including access to affordable health care for all, the right of individuals with disabilities to live normal lives within their own communities, and for services to children and families. Love of family and love of community were twin passions that led her to a career of service. She was born October 11, 1941, to Harry and Henrietta Becker of Swampscott, Mass. After her father died when she was 8, she moved with her sister and mother to Haverhill, Mass., where her mother joined a small family shoe-parts manufacturing business. She received her A.B. degree in l963 from Brown University in Classics, with a minor in English and Education. In 1967 she received a Master’s degree in Community Organization and Social Service Administration from Case Western Reserve University’s School of Applied Social Sciences. In 1995, she received an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of New England. On May 30, 1963, Charlene Becker married Lars Rydell. The two met at Brown University and found that they shared common interests and values that lasted for 43 years. In 1979, Charlene moved with her family to Brunswick, Me., where she started Project SEARCH, a regional program for coordination of services to families with infants and preschool children with disabilities. Charlene Rydell was elected to the Maine House of Representatives in 1984 and served five terms. At that time the AIDS epidemic had just begun in Maine, engendering fear and uncertainty. In this context, Charlene became an early champion of programs for the prevention of HIV infection and for services to people infected with HIV. In this and other ways, she used her time in the legislature realize her belief that “There is a destiny that makes us brothers / No one goes his way alone /All that we give into the lives of others /Comes back into our own.” [Edwin Markham from his poem, “A Creed.”] From 1994 to 1998 she worked for the Milbank Memorial Fund of New York, first as Project Director of the Fund’s program for preventing domestic violence and then as a Program Officer. In 1998 she joined the staff of Congressman Tom Allen’s Office in Portland as adviser on health care and social issues. She was part of Governor Baldacci’s core group that developed his Dirigo Health Reform Initiative in the winter and spring of 2003, was instrumental in its passage by the legislature, and served as a founding member of the Dirigo Health Agency Board. Throughout her career she served in many local, state, and national organizations, promoting services to children and families and advocating for universally available and affordable health care. Among other awards, she received the Larry Connolly Award for Dedication to Justice and Equality for Maine Lesbian and Gay Citizens in 1998, the Congressman John Joseph Moakley Award for Exemplary Community Service in 2005, and the John Marvin Award in 2006. Her greatest pleasure came from walking on the beach and the time spent with her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Lars Rydell of Brunswick, Maine; her son David and her two grandchildren, Kate and Carl Rydell of Hermon, Maine; and her sister, Judi Becker of Dover, New Hampshire. A memorial service will be held in the Healing Garden at the Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, Maine on Sunday, June 25 at 1 p.m.The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to carry on her work of promoting access to health care and equal justice policies before the Maine Legislature be made to the Charlene B. Rydell Fund at the Maine Community Foundation. Please send your donations to: The Maine Community Foundation 245 Main Street Ellsworth, Maine 04605
Margery “Marge” Groves, 87
YARMOUTH – Margery B. Groves served as an Army nurse in WWII, left with an honorable discharge as a captain and went on to work for the Department of Human Services in Portland. Groves, 87, of Yarmouth died June 7. Groves was born September 27, 1918 on Cousins Island, a daughter of Seth B. Groves and Agnes (Carlson) Groves. She graduated from North Yarmouth Academy, Class of 1936. She went on to nursing school in Massachusetts and became an RN. Soon after she served as an Army nurse during WWII and was stationed in England, France, and Germany and was honorably discharged as a captain. After the war she continued her education in nursing at Boston University and went on to work in Portland for the Department of Human Services from which she retired after many years of service. She had a strong and independent character that was grounded in service to others. Not only did she take care of DHS client families, but also her own family, especially her mother and father, her Aunt Ethel Groves who lived to be 103 and her cousin Louis. Margery is survived by her brother Franklin Groves and his wife Caroline of Yarmouth; brother-in-law Ken Carlin; sisters-in-law Ruth Groves and Celine Groves; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers Clarence, Arthur, and Oscar; and her sister Doris. There was a gathering of family and friends for a brief time of visiting and consolation on June 12 at Lindquist Funeral Home, One Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth, ME 04096. The funeral service took place at the funeral home with Rev. Carra Bradt officiating. Burial then followed in Cousins Island Cemetery.
Elizabeth “Bessie” Reynolds, 92
YARMOUTH - Elizabeth “Bessie” Reynolds, 92, of Yarmouth, formerly of Brockton, Mass., died June 1. Wife of the late James Reynolds; she is survived by a niece, Mary Lou (and her husband John) Dixon of Marlborough, Conn.; their children, David (and his wife Christine) of Austin, Texas, Gretchen of Boulder, Colo., and Christopher of Storrs, Conn., Anne Stenham of Syracuse, N.Y., and her children Kristine Alpuerto, Kelly Kenna of New York, Dan Stenham of Georgia, and a very close friend and family member Ruth and Joe Burke of Freeport, and an extended Sargent family. Visiting hours were held at Lindquist Funeral Home, One Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth, which were followed by a funeral Mass. A graveside service took place at Melrose cemetery in Brockton, Mass. Contributions in Bessie’s memory can be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Gerald F. Holland, 72
BATH - After serving in The United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict, Gerald F. Holland, of Green Street, returned to Bath and worked at Bath Iron Works for 41 years before retiring in 1995. Holland, 72, died June 12 at his residence. He was born in Roxbury, Massachusetts on May 1, 1934, the only child of Gerald F. and Elizabeth Holland. He attended Bath schools and graduated from Morse High School in 1954. He entered the United States Air Force serving during the Korean Conflict. He was employed at Bath Iron Works for 41 years, retiring in 1995 as Engineering Supervisor. On June 20, 1954 he married Eleanore C. Baranowski and they resided in Bath. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Brunswick, and enjoyed spending time with his family and watching baseball. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor C. Holland of Bath; three sons, Walter E. Holland and his wife Lisa of Bath, Matthew J. Holland and his wife Teresa of Northwood, NH and Daniel F. Holland and his wife Marie of Bremerton, WA; one daughter, Rachel F. Holland of Phippsburg; and four grandchildren, Ian Holland, Lucy Holland, Ryan Holland and Hailie Holland. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. John’s Catholic Church on 39 Pleasant Street in Brunswick. Burial was held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Road in Augusta. Arrangements were by Mayo, Curtis & Hill Funeral Home, 819 High Street, Bath. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, 1 Intrepid Square, New York, New York, 10036.
Margaret A. Thurlow, 82
Topsham — Margaret A. Thurlow, 82, of 567 Lewiston Road, died Tuesday, June 13 at her home. She was born in Pejepscot, September 1, 1923, the daughter of William and Marion Barnes Kilbride. She was a graduate of Brunswick High School. She married Walden L. Thurlow in 1950. Mr. Thurlow died Feb. 21, 1996. Mrs. Thurlow had worked at Verney Mill, Worumbo Mill and was a custodian at Mt. Ararat High School for 14 years before retiring. She enjoyed eating out, especially when she met her friends Tuesday mornings at Wal-Mart. She is survived by a daughter, Nancy S. Thurlow of Topsham, a son, Timothy Thurlow and his wife, Gloria of Sidney; a brother William Kilbride and his wife Harriette of Topsham; a niece, Donna Ricker and her husband, Leslie of Brunswick; a granddaughter, and a great grandson. A graveside funeral service will be held at 11 A.M., Monday at Rogers Cemetery, Cathance Road, Topsham with the Rev. Ronald McLaughlin officiating. A celebration of her life will follow at her home at 567 Lewiston Road, Topsham. Memorial contributions may be made to CHANS, Hospice Care, 50 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick 04011 or to a Charity of Ones Choice. Arrangements are in the care of Brackett Funeral Home, 29 Federal Street, Brunswick.
