Sally Hapenney

LEWISTON — Sally Schantz Hapenney, 82, of North Bridgton, died Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, after a short illness.

Sally was born July 6, 1935, in Berwyn, Illinois, the daughter of Worth and Ruth Hamilton Schantz. She lived in Riverside, Illinois, until 1942 when her family, including her grandfather Orpheus Schantz, moved to Red Bank, New Jersey. Sally graduated from Red Bank High School in 1953.

Sally attended Nasson College in Springvale, Maine, where she was class president and cheerleader captain as well as graduating at the top of her class while receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in 1957. At Nasson, Sally made many lifelong friends including her future husband, Jack Hapenney. After graduation, Sally worked at Nasson College as a dorm mother, classroom instructor and in the administration office. Sally then received her Master’s degree from the University of New Hampshire in 1960.

Sally and Jack married in Springvale in 1961, where they continued to live and where their daughter Susan was born in 1964. In January 1965 Sally, Jack and Susan made what was supposed to be a temporary move to North Bridgton so Jack could coach hockey and recruit at Bridgton Academy. This temporary move lasted 53 years.

While at BA, Sally served as dorm mother in Potter House for 5 years, was Alumni Secretary, Assistant Director of College Placement and then in the role of Director of College Placement for over 25 years, where she guided and influenced thousands of young men in their college application process. At the height of her career Sally had personal contact with hundreds of college admissions directors all over the U.S., and was especially proud of her role in helping students attend the U.S. Naval Academy, and guiding student athletes through the NCAA clearing house process in their quests to attend and play sports at Division I and II colleges and universities. Sally had a knack for knowing exactly the right schools for any and all of her “boys.” In 1983, Sally was named the New England Association for College Admissions Counseling’s Counselor of the Year.

Sally retired from BA in 2002 but continued to live in her home on campus and, along with Jack, was known as an “alumni magnet” Many, many alums who visited campus made it a point to stop in and see the Hapenneys to thank them for their guidance and reminisce about their time at BA. For her dedication to the school, Sally received the Ray T. Macdonald Award for Distinguished Service and was inducted into the Bridgton Academy Hall of Fame in 2009.

Along with her work at BA, Sally was involved in local groups including the Trustees of the North Bridgton Library, the Boards of Directors of the Western Maine Counseling Service and of the Harrison Water District.

Sally was predeceased by her parents; her husband Jack Hapenney; her sister Joan Remington; and her nephew Doug Remington. She is survived by her daughter Susan of Standish; her sister-in-law Joanne Drolette of Alfred; brother-in-law Leslie Remington of Fort Myers Beach, Florida; as well as nieces and nephews Dale Remington and family of North Carolina, Karen Carpenter and family of Wisconsin, Philip Remington of Fryeburg, Ken Drolette and family and Robby Drolette of Massachusetts, and Andrea Berry and family of N.H. and Maine.

A memorial service will be held in March at Bridgton Academy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Jack and Sally Hapenney Scholarship Fund, Bridgton Academy, 11 Academy Lane, North Bridgton, ME 04057. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 8 Elm St., Bridgton. Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.chandlerfunerals.com

Raymond Kelso

RAYMOND — Raymond Williamson Kelso, 92, died peacefully at Gosnell Memorial Hospice on Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, after a brief illness.

He was born on April 27, 1925, in Sabinal, Texas, to Raymond and Bonnie Kelso. He lived in Hawaii and served in the Marine Force during WWII. Ray graduated from Whittier College and married Carrie Jackson in September 1950.

Ray worked for the federal government and moved his family of seven children around the East Coast, most recently at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. He moved to Maine in 1977 and bought a horse-boarding facility in Windham, primarily working with Standardbreds. Ray ran this up until his move to Raymond in 2000. Ray was an active, independent man who loved his family, gardening, sports and animals, most recently his rat terrier “Charlie.” He was able to live independently in his own home up until three months ago when he moved to the Inn at Village Square in Gorham. He participated in numerous activities while living there and his family would like to thank the staff and other residents for making his last few months so enjoyable.

Ray was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Carrie Kelso; and his son, Ross Kelso.

He is survived by his four sons, Gregory Kelso of Athens, Ga., Mark Kelso of Gorham, Scott Kelso of Yarmouth and Paul Kelso of Sabattus; his two daughters, Melissa Maksimenko of Chatsworth, Calif., and Catherine Melinda Kelso of Windham; as well as four grandchildren.

A private ceremony and burial will take place in the spring in Raymond.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray’s name to the Greater Portland Animal Refuge League, PO Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098.

Dr. Douglas S. Hancock

NEWCASTLE & BREMEN — Dr. Douglas S. Hancock, 71, of Newcastle and Bremen, passed away at home on Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, hand-in-hand with his loving wife, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on Oct. 9, 1946, in Portland, he was the son of the late Sumner and Elizabeth “Betty” (Homans) Hancock.

Doug grew up in Casco, attending schools there and graduating from Casco High School in 1964. While there, he was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in many high school sports, including the state championship basketball team. During school, he worked at Hancock Lumber making deliveries, and later worked in the planing mill and on the retail end.

He went on to further his education at the University of Maine in Orono, where he received his Bachelor’s of Science degree in 1968. In 1972, he graduated second in his class from the Massachusetts College of Optometry in Boston. While attending Optometry school, he married Claire Nadeau in 1970, and the couple enjoyed 47 wonderful years and welcomed two children together, Dustin and Cara.

Upon graduating and earning his doctorate, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he attained the rank of Captain as an Army Optometrist at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. He loved his time in the Army and the many lifelong friends they made there.

In 1974, he and Claire moved back to Maine, relocating to Damariscotta, where Doug purchased the optometry practice formerly owned by Dr. Ray Brown. He retired after 31 years in practice, but his love for his patients and community kept him working part-time for several years thereafter.

Following his retirement, he and Claire began spending winters in Hilton Head, S.C. There he made many new friends, and had the opportunity to play golf at several courses throughout the southeast. While in Hilton Head he found great fulfillment working with Volunteers in Medicine, a clinic that provides free medical services to families who otherwise would have no access to health care.

Doug served on the Board of Directors at Hancock Lumber for over 20 years, was a board member at Lincoln Academy, was a lifetime member and served on the board of the Maine Optometric Association, was a proud member of the Damariscotta-Newcastle Lions Club for over 25 years, and served twice as President of the Board of Directors for Wawenock Golf Club.

In his “retirement” he was often found working in the pro shop at Wawenock or on the golf course playing, where you were always greeted with a warm smile and good conversation. Doug continued working at Wawenock even after his cancer diagnosis and during his treatments, and found great solace in the friendships established there.

Doug was a dedicated family man who, despite his many community and professional involvements, always found time to enjoy life with his wife, children and later, his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, Sumner and Betty Hancock; and his brother, Tom Hancock.

Doug is survived by his wife, Claire; son Dusty and wife Bethany; daughter Cara Dolan and husband Scott; grandchildren Tatum, Sadie, and Sid, with a new granddaughter due in June, who he was so excited to learn about; as well as his extended Hancock, Homans and Nadeau families.

A service for Doug will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Dec. 23, at St. Patrick’s Church in Newcastle. He will be laid to rest privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either: Wawenock Golf Club, 685 State Route 129, Walpole, ME 04573; or to the Betty and Sumner Hancock Scholarship Fund, PO Box 148, Casco, ME 04015.

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

Brenda P. Espeaignette

Brenda Priscilla Espeaignette, 68, of Bridgton, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017, surrounded by her family.

She was born in Portland on Sept. 27, 1949, a daughter of the late Frederick and Edith (Foss) Espeaignette. Brenda graduated from Windham High School in 1968.

She was predeceased by brothers, Bill, George, and Gus Espeaignette.

Brenda is survived by her life partner, Kenneth Burnham, whom she met in 1993; children, Kimberly (Call) Nielsen and her husband Brian and Christopher Call and his wife Jennifer Call; her former husband David Call and his wife Martha, who became a trusted friend; sister, Helen Steeves and her husband Ralph; brother, Joe Espeaignette; sisters-in-law, Carol, Lou, and BJ Espeaignette; many nieces and nephews; and her precious grandchildren, Michael and Emily Nielsen, and Julia and Callen Call. Brenda’s grandchildren were the light of her life.

Brenda was always a child-at-heart. In her younger years she enjoyed many hobbies including square dancing, painting ceramics, and roller-skating. As a mom in Casco, Brenda volunteered as a Scout mom, Sunday School teacher, and spent the majority of her time cheering on her children. She loved mismatched socks, snowman figurines, and family gatherings. In more recent years her primary focus was on spoiling her grandchildren and spending time with the biggest joy in her life, Ken, and their dear dog, Snowbabie.

Services will be privately held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton. Online condolence messages may be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com

Arthur B. Johnson Jr.

BROWNFIELD — Arthur Braley Johnson Jr., 80, of Brownfield, died Friday, Dec. 15, 2017, at his home with his family by his side.

He was born in Somerville, Mass., on Sept. 8, 1937, the son of Arthur Braley and Ruth McGrath Johnson. He resided in Brockton, Mass., and Middleboro, Mass., before serving in the United States Navy. He married Gueneth Gibbs in 1959. They were married for 58 years. In 1972 they moved to Brownfield, where they operated Woodland Acres Campground.

He served for many years on the board of directors for MECOA (Maine Campground Owners Association) where he served as Vice President, President of the Burnt Meadow Snowmobile Club, a member of the Saco River Advisory Council and the Saco River Liveryman’s Association. He was a 40-year member of the Masonic Lodge in Brownfield. He was an avid volunteer. He worked tirelessly for the Brownfield food pantry and enjoyed being an elf and cocoa chef for the Polar Express.

Arthur had a great love for animals, particularly horses. He was a 4-H member in his youth and later became a leader. At one time he led one of the largest 4-H horse clubs in Mass. In his youth he rode in local rodeos. After retirement he enjoyed driving his pony Skoski in her road cart.

His family includes a son, Kenneth A. and his wife Peggy of Minturn, Colo.; a daughter, Doreen Swanholm and her husband Richard of Bowdoin; a son, Shawn R. and his wife Tina of Willow, Ark.; and a daughter Barbara Solter and her husband Jeffrey of Brownfield; eight grandchildren, Kizzy, Melanie, Andrew, Jennifer, Christian, Shane, Christopher and Elisabeth; and eight great-grandchildren.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 23 at 1 p.m., at the Center Conway United Methodist Church, Main St., Center Conway, N.H.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Believe in Books Literacy Foundation – North Conway, 41 Observatory Rd., Bartlett, NH; or Maine 4-H University of Maine Foundation Buchanan Alumni House, Two Alumni Place, Orono, ME 04469-5792 umainefoundation@maine.edu – umainefoundation.org or give online: umaine.edu

Arrangements are under the care of Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren St., Fryeburg. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.woodfuneral home.org

Robert F. Couture

NAPLES — Robert F. “Bob” Couture, 87, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, at his home in Naples, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Annette E. “Jackie” (Berard) Couture, to whom he was married 60 years.

Born in Fall River, Mass., a son of the late Napoleon W. and the late Annie M. (Bodeau) Couture. He grew up in Westport, Mass., and was a longtime resident of Swansea, Mass., before relocating to Naples in 2004, where the family kept a vacation home since 1968.

A school educator for 40 years until his retirement in 1993, he began his career in East Fairhaven, Mass., and then moved on to Warren, R.I., where he taught middle school, coached sports and was promoted to Principal of the Liberty and Main Street Schools. Later he served as Assistant Superintendent of the Swansea Schools for nine years and then as Principal of the Saint Michael’s, Luther and Gardner Elementary Schools.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five children, Robert Couture Jr. of Boston, Annette “Nan” Griffin and her husband Michael of Swansea, John Couture and his wife Lee of Raymond, Maine, Thomas Couture and his wife Donna of Auburn, Ala., and Elizabeth Wetterland and her husband Kris of Warren, R.I.; one sister, Joy Smith and her husband Robert; nine grandchildren, Brendan Griffin, Julian Couture, Ashley Wetterland, Amelia Couture, Kris Wetterland Jr., Kate Griffin, Avery Couture, Allie Griffin and Trevor Griffin and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Edith Pelletier and Paul Couture.

His Funeral Service will be held Thursday, Dec. 28, at 10 a.m., from the Waring-Sullivan Home at Birchcrest, 189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, Mass., with a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m., in St. Dominic’s Church, 1277 G.A.R. Highway, Swansea, Mass. Visiting hours will be Wednesday, Dec. 27, from 4 to 7 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited. Contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to: VNA Home Health Hospice, 50 Foden Road, Portland, ME 04106 or https://emhsfoundation.org/vna-donation/ (donation for Robert Couture, VNA Greatest Need).

Lorraine Libby

Lorraine M. Libby, 88, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, after a brief illness.

The daughter of John A. and Blanche M. Cook, Lorraine attended South Portland schools, and graduated from South Portland High School. She spent her working years as a secretary for various companies in the Portland area, concluding a long stint as an executive secretary at Consumers Water Company, from which she retired.

She met her husband, Leonard Libby, when he hired her mother to dip chocolates for the family candy store, Libby’s Candies, on Route 1 in Scarborough. They built a home on Maple Avenue in 1951, where they spent many happy years. They later sold that house and moved to Westwood Avenue, where they cared for Lorraine’s mother until her death in 2009.

Len was well known in the town of Scarborough for his charitable work, but Lorraine was the person who kept things running smoothly. A brilliantly fast typist (her children were amazed at the blur of her fingers on the keys) and organizer, she kept Len’s books, took care of all his clerical needs, mailed, sorted, took dictation, typed, and did everything necessary. The two of them were a great team for 62 years, and when Len died in 2012, Lorraine lost an irreplaceable part of her life.

Additionally, Lorraine loved to sing. In high school, she sang regularly on local radio stations; later she performed in local Lions Club variety shows, sang in church choirs, and performed in community theater.  She passed that love on to her daughter, Leslie, who considers it the best gift she ever received. She also loved the Sea Dogs, traveling, and cats — all cats, but especially hers. Her home always had a cat in it, and Sam, Charlie Brown, Sylvia, Sidney, and her last two, Rosie and Amy, held special places in her heart.

Lorraine is survived by her daughters, Leslie Chadbourne of Portland and Lisa Knight of Raymond; her three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, Dec. 28 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. There will be a private burial in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lorraine’s memory to the Scarborough Fire/Rescue and Police Departments, PO Box 360, Scarborough, ME 04074, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Thomas Hallenbeck

SCARBOROUGH — Thomas G. “Tom” Hallenbeck, of Brownfield, died Tuesday afternoon, December 26, 2017, at Gosnell Hospice Center in Scarborough after a brief battle with liver cancer and ultimate liver failure.

Tom was born in Mass. to parents Dr. Dorr F. Hallenbeck and Dr. Jane Allen Hallenbeck. He resided in Concord during his school years, before he became a world traveler and adventurer. He built the home he currently resided in over 30 years ago.

Tom was an esteemed North American river guide, snow-maker, pool expert, sailor and all-around adventurer. He was delighted to be trip leader on a three-week Grand Canyon paddle trip last year. His current and longest employer was Purity Spring Resort in E. Madison, N.H.

Tom leaves behind his loving wife Deidre Walter; dogs Gracie and Jake, cats Shadow and Oliver; and a flock of laying chickens that loved to see him approach their coop. We all loved him.

At Tom’s request there will be no service and his remains will be cremated. Friends will be contacted after winter to discuss what memorabilia items they would like to have from his possessions. He is adamant that his friends have a little piece of him.

Rest in peace you dear, sweet man. My hero. The love of my life. Go with love.

Arrangements are under the care of Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren St., Fryeburg, Maine. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.woodfuneralhome.org

Carole P. Jurack

CHESTERFIELD, OHIO — Carole P. Jurack (née LaVerne),  77, succumbed to a lengthy battle with cancer on Monday, Jan. 1, 2018.

She was the proud parent of daughter Sandra L. Vega (Lake Havasu City) and son Ronald A. Hayward (Las Vegas), and loving grandmother to Kyle, Kayla, Soleil and Jenna. She was with her family for the 2017 Christmas Season.

Carole was involved in key roles for The Mogul Corporation, Chagrin Falls; Western Maine Medical Center, Bridgton; Bay State Medical Center, Springfield; Windsor Hospital in Chagrin Falls and the Cleveland Clinic. Using her Marketing degree, she was an adjunct marketing team member for a travel agency owned by a friend.

Carole was the owner of a blue ribbon American Saddlebred horse, Regal’s Jewel. She was also credentialed in the Parrelli Method of horsemanship and they enjoyed trail rides at every available opportunity.

She contributed experience-based content and editing to “A History of The Mogul Corporation,” on file with the Chagrin Falls Historical Society and the history of the Knights Hill Community, on file with the Bridgton Historical Society and the Knights Hill Association.

As a long-term supporter of the Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, she took particular joy in being able to rescue orphaned dogs and cats, with her devoted Black Lab “Cash” being her most recent addition to the Jurack family. Monitoring young Loons and habitat protection on Moose Pond in Maine was also an important activity.

An award-winning photographer and artist, she mastered the techniques from black and white film chemistry in a home darkroom to the digital spectrum using pro level equipment. Her skills extended to pen and pencil, watercolor, and oil paint artistic achievements. With her husband, she was also a former board member of the Western Maine Art Group. She was also a volunteer children’s ski instructor at Pleasant Mountain (now Shawnee Peak), Maine.

In addition to a love of the New Hampshire 4,000-foot White Mountains, living in Western Maine, exploring the true American West of Montana and Wyoming, another favorite venue was bicycling the South of France or enjoying Paris. All these things she shared with her husband of 45 years, Charles “Chris” Jurack.

Carole will be remembered as an outgoing and enthusiastic woman who was highly supportive. She was sophisticated and witty and always had a great sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, WildMustangs.com, in Rapid City, South Dakota.

All services will be private. Arrangements by the DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center of Chesterland. Cremation by the DeJohn Crematory.

Online obituary and guestbook at www.DeJohnCares.com

Dena Lord

SACO — Dena Lewis Lord, 90, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Saco.

She was born in Sebago on Nov. 11, 1927, a daughter of the late Guy and Lendora (Mullen) Lewis. After graduating from Potter Academy in Sebago in 1945, she went on to attend and graduate from Gorham State Teachers College in 1949. She then received her master’s degree from Boston University. 
She taught junior high school in Rye, N.H. and Beverly, Mass. and social studies in Lexington, Mass. for several years.

Dena played the piano for church services for many years and led choirs in singing cantatas. She was an active member of the Sebago Church of the Nazarene, the Andover Baptist Church, and Grace Chapel in Lexington, Mass.

She married her husband, Charles Lord in 1969. 
Dena and Charles resided in Hampton, Va. while he was still in the Air Force.  They then moved to Andover, Mass. for many years before moving to Saco. Both Dena and her husband supported orphans through the World Vision program for many years.

Dena is survived by her loving husband, Charles Lord of Saco; sister, Elvira Usher of Andover, Mass.; a beloved nephew and several cousins.

Visitation was held on Saturday, Jan. 6 at the Sebago Center Community Church, 403 Bridgton Road in Sebago, followed by a 2 p.m. funeral service at the church. Burial will be in the spring at Convene Cemetery in Sebago.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home, Cornish.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of Maine, 383 US Rt. 1 #2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.

Mary Hamlin March, 94, passed away on Friday, Dec. 29, 2017. She was the youngest daughter of Roy and Wava Hamlin of Gorham, N.H., the town where she was born and raised.

Mary was proud of her hometown in the White Mountains, and of her lovely family home there. After high school in Gorham, Mary attended Bates College and graduated with the Class of 1945. There was never a prouder alum!

She met her husband, Donald March in Gorham, while he was a music teacher there. Donald was a lifelong musician, and worked in the public schools for many years. During the summers, Don, Mary, and kids would take extensive family camping trips throughout the country, creating many cherished memories.

Mary’s primary focus in life was her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother, raising her children in the town of Millis, Mass. When her kids were older, she taught physical education for many years in Millis, where she formed warm friendships with her co-workers.

After Donald passed away in 1984, Mary moved permanently to Bridgton, which had been a summer home for many years. Mary became an active part of her community and church, joining the Hospital Guild, the Ladies’ Guild at the First Congregational Church, the Literary Club, and a local Button Club. She and her family enjoyed wonderful times at the lakes in Bridgton and never missed a Fourth of July parade!

Mary was an accomplished seamstress and knitter, making many beautiful garments. She also was a rabid sports fan (Patriots!), a lover of black coffee, church suppers, board games and, of course, her friends and family.

Mary was predeceased by her sisters Carolyn Story and Ruth Gutowski; and by her brothers Richard Hamlin and John Hamlin.

She is survived by her children, daughter Meredyth Goss and her husband Gary Goss of York, daughter Judith March; and son Jeffrey March and his wife Noel Cox of South Berwick; as well as five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in the spring.

NORWAY — Ronald Ivan Bean, 66, of Oxford passed away on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 at Stephens Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Lewiston on Jan. 12, 1951, the son of Perley and Ruth Fifield Bean. He graduated from Oxford Hills High School in 1970 and had been a truck driver all of his life. He worked for himself, owning four trucks, then later worked for Brown and Brown Trucking.

He enjoyed hunting with his brothers and nephews, as well as spending time with his family.

He is survived by his brothers, Bobby of Casco and Rodney of Waterford; his sister, Rachel Flanders of Norway; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents.

At his request, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the care of Oxford Hills Funeral Services, 1037 Main Street, Oxford. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com

It is with great sadness that the family of William Haubert, formerly of Bridgton, announces his passing after a long illness on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, at the age of 74.

“Bill,” as he was known to all, will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years Betty; his three children, Kathy Woolgar, Bill and Christopher and Andy and Donna, his son-in-law and daughter-in-law. He will also be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren, Madeleine, Brooke, Gabrielle, Anastasia and Nicholas. Bill was predeceased by his brother George.

Bill was born in Astoria, N.Y., where he grew up, attending St. John’s Preparatory and later St. John’s University, where he achieved his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. Bill was a keen and accomplished tennis player, playing at the N.Y. state level and a lifelong Yankees fan.

Upon graduating from St. John’s, he joined IBM, where he enjoyed an illustrious and successful career spanning more than 30 years.

In the late 1960s, during the early years of his career with IBM, he was drafted into the U.S. Air Force, serving as an Officer in Vietnam until early 1970, when he received an honorable discharge and returned to work for IBM in N.Y., and later White Plains. During this period he returned to St. John’s University to achieve his Masters in Business Administration.

With a young family he established home in Port Washington, N.Y., and later in Ridgefield, Conn. During the Ridgefield years, he made a major contribution in time and coaching for the Ridgefield Basketball Association. His final move was to his beloved Bridgton, Maine, where he ended his career and relished retired life in the Lake Region.

Maine, for Bill, was truly “life as it should be.” From the home he built and retired to, he tended his three cabins on Highland Lake and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren to drive, to swim and to love nature.

In 2013, declining health saw a need for Bill to leave the lakes of Maine and move to Colorado Springs, Colo., to be close to family support.

His passing was infinitely peaceful and he was surrounded by his entire family and loved ones.

A funeral service will be privately held. Memorial donations may be made in Bill’s name to The Alzheimers Association, www.alz.org

Wayne Kenerson

Wayne F. “Wayne from Maine” Kenerson, passed away Monday, Jan. 1, 2018 at his home in Arundel.

He was born in Fryeburg on May 31, 1942, to Lawrence and Marie Kenerson. 

As a Fryeburg Academy graduate, Wayne went on to barber school and joined his dad at the Kenerson Barber Shop in Fryeburg. He later changed his career path, and devoted several years to working in the sales industry until his retirement in 2006.

A member of Lake Kezar Country Club, Wayne could be found every summer weekend at the course, sharing his passion for golf with his close buddies. Wayne could also be found out in the woods, where he loved to hunt and be surrounded by nature and wildlife. Fryeburg Fair week, was his favorite time of year, and could always be spotted in his favorite box seat in the grandstands playing the ponies with his dad and friends.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Cindy Kenerson; his children, Roxanne Rowe of Scarborough, Lisa Kenerson of Westbrook and Greg Kenerson of Brownfield; seven grandchildren, as well loving family members and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Lorraine Genovese.

Wayne will be remembered for his kind spirit, strength and compassion, quick wit and famous one-liners and sayings.

A graveside service will be held at a later date in the spring in Fryeburg.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Wayne’s life may make donations in his name to the Fryeburg Community Center, ATTN: Brad Littlefield, PO Box 41, Fryeburg, ME 04037; and Hospice of Southern Maine.

Condolences and tributes may be shared with Wayne’s family and friends at www.woodfuneralhome.org

In the words of Wayne from Maine, “say goodnight.”

Walter R. McKeen, 87, of Bridgton, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018, at the Bridgton Health Care Facility with his grandson and his longtime partner, “Ginny” at his side.

Walter was born in Bridgton on Dec. 26, 1931, son of the late, Lina and Milton McKeen Sr. He grew up, married, raised his family, attended the Bridgton United Methodist Church, and worked in the Bridgton area most of his life. He owned a camp on Bear Pond in Waterford, where he spent many summers with his family and later watched his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow up there as well. The camp became his true family home where many memories were made. He taught the kids to swim, fish, drive the boat, build fires, and love nature.

He met his wife, Eleanor Libby, in 1953 at Bridgton Variety where she ran the soda fountain. He worked at the State Theater next door and would drop by for a Coca-Cola every night after work. They were married in June of 1954.

He had many jobs including working at a box shop in Fryeburg, in the dowel mill in Norway, but is most remembered for his many years as a butcher in the Red & White store in Bridgton. He later worked at Emery Waterhouse in Portland. His last job was providing a transport service for local doctors’ offices in the area. He was in the Army Reserves, and was a member of the Bridgton Fire Police. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Bridgton where he taught Sunday School and Youth Fellowship. He proudly won the title of TOPS King for New Hampshire.

He loved to travel and made his first cross-country trip with Eleanor to Texas in 1963, and later they visited family in Florida. After Eleanor passed, he partnered up with a longtime friend and neighbor, Ginny, and they traveled extensively.

He was predeceased by his wife Eleanor in 1998.

He is survived by his daughter Kathy Graffam of Kissimmee, Fla., and his stepdaughter Nancy Harriman of Falmouth; four grandchildren, Deborah Stafiej, of Phippsburg, Kimberly, McMakin, of Falmouth, Rebecca Bolduc of Morehead City, N.C., and Daniel Graffam of Vassalboro; six great-grandchildren, Christopher Voynik of Manchester, Katie Voynik of Winslow, Matthew and Gregory Bolduc of Morehead City, N.C., and Gwyneth and Ryan McMakin of Falmouth. He also leaves his brother, Milton McKeen Jr., and his partner, Virginia Hatch, both of Bridgton.

Visiting hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12, at the Chandler Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Bridgton. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 13, at the funeral home. Words of condolence and tribute may be shared with his family and friends at www.chandlerfunerals.com

Donna L. Mannetta

Donna Lorraine Mannetta, 61, of Bridgton, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, at her home.

She was born on Sept. 15, 1956, in Saugus, Mass., and was a longtime resident of Saugus and Haverhill, Mass. Donna graduated from Saugus High School and had been employed as an insurance sales agent for many years.

Donna was affectionately known as "Grandma from Maine;" her children and grandchildren were the light of her life. She was not only strong and courageous but independent and full of unconditional love. Her sense of humor and wit brightened the lives of many and we will all miss our, often multiple, daily phone calls.

Donna is survived by her loving boyfriend of 18 years, Paul Coelho; her beloved children, Michael (Maura), Brian (Jennifer), Maureen (Charlie) Cejour, Danielle, Craig; and her ex-husband and friend George. She leaves behind her grand "kiddos" Jameson, Jaysean, Keira, Sophia, and Ryan; sister Maxine (Willie) McKee; brother Perry (Wendy) Biegon; and brother-in-law Buddy. She was preceded in death by her loving parents Vinnie (Harris) and Max Biegon; and her twin sister Doryne Hynds.

Family and friends attended visitation on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018, at Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 8 Elm St., Bridgton.

Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.chandlerfunerals.com

Patricia Momm Berman

HARRISON — Patricia Ann Momm Berman, 78, passed away at Hospice House in Auburn, on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018.

Pat was born in Summit, N.J., on Feb. 24, 1939, the eldest of Ann (Jordan) Dunne and William Joseph Dunne Jr. Pat resided in N.J. until moving to Bridgton, in 1972.

In 1990, she then relocated to her “home on the mountain” in Harrison. She married C. Martin “Sonny” Berman on Jan. 5, 1999, and spent many happy years with him on Long Lake. She returned to her home in Harrison after the death of Sonny in 2016.

Pat attended St. Teresa’s grammar school in Summit, N.J., graduating in 1952. She attended Summit High School, graduating in 1956. She won a Lions Club scholarship, which she used to attend All Souls Hospital School of Nursing in Morristown, N.J., where she graduated in 1959 at the top of her class. Pat’s first job working as a nurse in the OR of Overlook Hospital in Summit, N.J. This is where she discovered her love of this specialty.

After moving to Maine, she worked at the Northern Cumberland Memorial Hospital, now known as the Bridgton Hospital for almost 30 years. She started as a staff nurse and, in the mid 80s, returned to the SS department where she became the nurse manager for seven years. She continued working per diem up until a few years ago.

She leaves behind a son, Edward W. Momm Jr. of Portsmouth, N.H., married to Lucy White and father to Acadia Momm-White and Jackson Momm-White; three daughters, Maureen Momm of South Portland, Patricia Plante of North Yarmouth, married to Thomas Plante and mother of Ryan Plante and Tyler Plante, Ellen Cunion of Durham, married to Patrick Cunion; two step-daughters, Beth Cecile Berman and Susan Eva Berman (McPherson) both of Newton, Mass.; three step-grandchildren, Emma Caitlin Yi Ying Berman, Sara Rose Zhi Berman and Jacob Ethan McPherson; and a wonderful son-in-law Ian McPherson.

Visiting hours will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12, at Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Rd. Casco, Maine. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., Sat., Jan. 13, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bridgton. Following the service there will be a reception at the Black Bear Cafe in Naples. Online condolences may be left for the family at hallfuneralhome.net

Ervette "Eppie" Strange

WINDHAM — Ervette “Eppie” Strange, 90, of Windham, died at Maine Medical Center on Friday, Jan. 12, 2018.

She was born on March 10, 1927, the second daughter of Fred B. Jordan Sr., and Helen Goff Jordan, and one of seven children. She graduated from Windham High School in 1944, when she delivered her salutatorian speech on the scientific and medical advances in post-World War II America.

On a blind date, Eppie met Neal Strange, who had served as a second lieutenant in the Army Air Corps. They were married in 1947 and began their adventure together. Neal and Eppie settled in the Stroudwater section of Portland, where they raised a family of one girl and five boys. For most of that time they lived at 1871 Congress Street in the house that her father-in-law, Dr. Clifford Strange, had moved from the Stroudwater Flying Field, which he had established in 1929 and which later became the Portland International Jetport.

Eppie was an energetic, devoted mother and an active member of the Stroudwater community, well-known for her initiative and willingness to tackle almost anything. She loved gardening, sewing, and baking, creating beautifully decorated cakes. She served on countless committees at her children’s schools and was an active longtime member of the Stroudwater Baptist Church Ladies Guild.

In later years, she worked outside the home, and particularly enjoyed her job in the office of Drs. George and Charles Geer.

In 1982, Neal and Eppie moved to Crescent Lake in Raymond, where they enjoyed flying over the Lake Region in their 1946 Aeronca Champion seaplane. Their dock was a recognized seaplane base, with a bright orange windsock that Eppie created, billowing in the breeze. The lakeside home was a wonderful gathering place for their ever-expanding family with its countless activities and natural beauty.

Eppie served on the Town of Raymond Planning Board for a number of years.
They left Raymond and moved to Windham in 2008. Eppie soon joined the Cross Roads Garden Club where she made many friends. She also spent countless hours knitting and crocheting for her 14 great-grandchildren.

Eppie was predeceased by her husband, Neal; her son, Glenn Strange; her brothers, Fred Jordan Jr., Malcolm Jordan, Philip Jordan, and Dana Jordan; and her sister, Arlene Tyler.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia Jacobs of Euharlee, Ga.; her daughter, Gail Strange Thompson of Portland, and Oak Bluffs, Mass.; sons, Keith Strange of Lincoln, Eric Strange of Westbrook, Mark Strange of Ridgeland, S.C. and Joel Strange of Lovell. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren and their families.

A family graveside service will be held at the time of her burial this spring in Riverside Cemetery in Raymond.

Memorial gifts may be sent to: Town of Windham Clothes Closet and Food Pantry, 377 Gray Road, Windham, ME 04062.

John Hurley

PORTLAND — John C. Hurley, 85, passed away peacefully Friday, Jan. 12, 2018 at his home in Portland.

He was born Nov. 20, 1932 in Portland, the son of Lewis G. and Jennie B. Hurley. John was a graduate of Deering High School.

He had been employed for many years at Fox Lumber in their cabinet shop. John took great pride in his detailed woodworking skills.

John loved and owned several beautiful antique cars over the years. In his younger years, his daily driver was a 1946 Chevy pickup truck. He even named his dog Chevi.

John spent most of his leisure time at his camp on Beaver Pond in Denmark, this was his favorite place to be.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his sister, Ruth I. Anthoine.

He is survived by three nephews, Stephen Anthoine, Robert Anthoine and William Anthoine. We will always remember John for his love and respect for nature, the wilderness and all animals especially his dogs.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in his memory to: Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, P.O. Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098.

Visiting hours will be Thursday, Jan. 18 from 3 to 5 p.m. at A.T Hutchins Funeral home, 660 Brighton Avenue, Portland.

Burial will take place in the spring in Denmark.

Robert McKinney

SEBAGO — Robert Stephen McKinney, 74, of Sebago, formerly of Hammond, La., passed away on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

The son of the late Joseph and Doris (Alberteen) McKinney, Stephen was born in New Orleans, La., on Feb. 27, 1943. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He enjoyed fishing, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Stephen is survived by his wife, Dale McKinney; three sons, Robert Stephen McKinney, Russell Scott McKinney and Richard Sean McKinney; five grandchildren; former wife, Christine Hayduk; many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Doris Rossi; brother, Bill McKinney; and a son, Eugene McKinney.

Memorial donations may be made in loving memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011.