John C. Weston ’51 died on November 8, 2018, in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

(The following was published in the Morning Call, November 13, 2018):

John C. Weston, Ph.D., 91, of Allentown, died at home on November 8, 2018. He was the husband of Jean (Tourtillotte) Weston. The couple celebrated sixty-seven years of marriage. Born in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, he was the son of the late Harold and Sadie (Thorne) Weston. He was an Army World War II veteran. John earned a master degree and a doctorate from Syracuse University after receiving a bachelor’s degree from Bowdoin College. He was a retired college professor, having taught histology, embryology, and electron microscopy at Muhlenberg College from 1967 to 1993, and previously at Ohio State University for twelve years. For some years he was the Muhlenberg College pre-med advisor, and also Muhlenberg’s Marshall. Survivors: wife; sons, Attorney John K. Weston and his wife Marian, and Dr. James D. Weston and his wife Donna; Grandchildren, Katherine Cappaert and her husband Anthony, Brian Weston, Matthew Weston and Ian Weston; great-grandchildren, Jack and Olivia Cappaert; and a sister, Mary Hartnett. He was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Weston, in 2018, and his grandson, Daniel Weston, in 2010.

The post John C. Weston ’51 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

David R. Getchell ’51 died on November 10, 2018, in Appleton, Maine.

(The following was published in The Village Soup, November 13, 2018):

David R. Getchell Sr., 89, author, editor and outdoorsman, died as he wished, at home and surrounded by family, Nov. 10, 2018.

Over the course of twenty-two years, he was managing editor and editor of the Maine Coast Fisherman, National Fisherman, and founding editor of the Small Boat Journal and the Mariner’s Catalog in Camden. Later, he co-founded the Maine Island Trail and created the Georges Highland Path, a forty-mile hiking trail system in the Midcoast, for Georges River Land Trust. In 1994, he edited and was lead author of The Outboard Boater’s Handbook.

Active in the founding or operation of several nonprofit environmental organizations, he always made time for his favorite sport of surf fishing. He also partnered in 1980 with mountaineer Geof Heath of Hammondsport, N.Y., in a month-long two-man climbing expedition of 400 miles along the Labrador coast in an eighteen-foot open boat.

In the early 1980s, he and his wife, Dorrie, made a number of long bicycle trips, the most ambitious being a five-month, 8,000-mile cross-country tour to the West Coast and back to Maine. Both considered this a high point in a happy marriage of sixty-seven years.

Mr. Getchell was born in Bangor, the son of George V. and Nettie R. Getchell. He graduated from Bangor High School, attended Bowdoin College and graduated from the University of Maine in Orono with a degree in journalism. He served in the Army as an infantry training officer.

He is survived by his wife, Dorrie; his son, David Jr., of Camden; his daughter, Heidi, and her husband, David Perkins, of Lincolnville; a sister, Virginia E. Naugler, of Hartford, Conn., two granddaughters, Ali and Holly Perkins, of Lincolnville; two nephews, Robert Verrier III of Cumberland and James S. Naugler of LaCrosse, Wis.; a niece, Michelle Verrier, of Cody, Wyo.; a sister-in-law, Barbara Hall, of Westbrook; and two cousins, Betty Heald of Lincolnville and Marjorie Lucas of Florida. A niece, Martha Kaul, of Lincoln, Neb., predeceased him.

The post David R. Getchell ’51 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Edward L. Spalding Jr. ’63 died on November 11, 2018, in Kennebunkport, Maine.

(The following was submitted by the family in November 2018):

Ed Spalding passed away November 11, 2018, at home surrounded by his wife, children, sister, and devoted dog Scout. Ed is survived by his wife and best friend of thirty-five years Dinorah, son Benjamin, daughter Allegra ’08, sister Mary Marsters and her husband Sandy, and his loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward Sr. and Bertha Spalding, and brother Loring.

Ed was born February 4, 1941, in Newburyport, Massachusetts. He grew up in Meriden, New Hampshire, and attended Kimball Union Academy. He spent much of his time reading in the library or at the hockey rink. Ed grew up admiring his father above all, adopting both his father’s modesty and his kind, gentle demeanor.

Ed attended Bowdoin College as a government major. He was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity and a captain of the ice hockey team. During his senior year, he was an integral part of the team’s top line, which set the College’s single-season scoring record that held for many years. Over the decades, Ed was a regular spectator at Bowdoin hockey games, and was incredibly proud when his daughter decided to follow his footsteps and attend Bowdoin as well, giving him more reasons to visit a school he so loved.

After college, Ed played semi-professional hockey for the Lewiston Twins, a “rough group” with a reputation for fighting other teams—and for keeping a refrigerator full of beer in the locker room for before and after games.

Ed received his masters in education from USM, and worked as an English teacher in Maine for fifteen years before following his passion for building.

He ran his own general contractor business and moved from Maine to New York City after meeting and marrying the love of his life. Ed was dazzled by Dinorah and they exuded a visible adoration for one another throughout their decades of romance. Following the birth of their children, they returned to Kennebunkport.

Ed had a deep love for reading and nature. He loved being on the ocean and spending time on his boat at Turbat’s Creek. He loved being outdoors, whether it was playing golf or tending to his garden. But most of all, Ed loved spending time with his family—including the very many dear friends he considered family—and his favorite pastime was walking to Vaughn’s Island at low-tide with his family and dogs.

Ed will be remembered as a devoted, loving, and thoughtful husband and father. His kindness was second to none—his ability to soothe his loved ones’ worries admirable, his willingness to forgive others’ faults unflinching. He shared countless laughs with his dry sense of humor and brightened countless rooms with his soft smile, and he carried himself with a grace and dignity that washed over all who encountered him.

Ed touched the hearts of many and a celebration of his life will be held in December. Details will be provided by the family when final arrangements have been made.

The post Edward L. Spalding Jr. ’63 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Peter F. Bastow ’59 died on November 17, 2018, in Winslow, Maine.

(The following was published in the Kennebec Journal/Morning Sentinel on November 21, 2018):

Peter Frank Bastow, 82, passed away Nov. 17, 2018 at his home in Winslow after a brief illness. He was born in Oakland, Maine, on Aug. 26, 1936, the son of Frank Jr. and Susan (Strong) Bastow.

He attended Oakland schools and graduated from Williams High School in 1954. Following graduation, Peter attended Maine Central Institute, Bowdoin College, and the University of Maine where he graduated in 1959. He soon began his educational career in York as a teacher and coach.

On June 24, 1961, Peter married Janice Lancaster of Brunswick and moved to East Lyme, Connecticut, before returning to York, where Peter and Jan’s children, Judy and Peter Jr. were born.

In 1968, Peter became guidance director at Gorham High School, and the family moved to Cumberland Center in 1969, where they resided for thirty-four years. After his teaching career, he held a few sales positions in the Portland area, retiring in 1999. Beginning in 2003, Peter and Jan spent their summers at the family camp on Salmon Lake and their winters in Spring Hill, Florida. Then in 2013, they became year round residents in Winslow, where they met and became good friends with many neighbors.

Peter was involved in many organizations and served for over six years in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged as a first lieutenant in 1972.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of fifty-seven years, Janice; daughter, Judith Lafond and husband, Russell, of Bellingham, Mass.; son, Peter Bastow Jr. and husband, John Raymond-Bastow of Skowhegan; brother, Richard Bastow and wife, Nancy, of Auburn; sister-in-law, Joan Bouchard and husband, Henry, of Brunswick; brother-in-law, Richard Lancaster of Brunswick; grandsons, Joshua, Troy, and Sean Lafond of Bellingham, Mass.; and several cousins, nephews, and nieces.

The post Peter F. Bastow ’59 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

James A. Connolly III ’73 died on November 21, 2018, in Wilmette, Illinois.

(The following appeared online at donnellanfuneral.com in November 2018):

James Aloysius Connolly Sr., age 67, of Wilmette, Illinois. Beloved husband of Nancy Connolly (nee Joyce). Loving father of Jac, Nick (fiancé Brooke Galietto), Grace (fiancé Spencer Powers), and Frances Connolly. Dear brother of Carol Connolly, Larry Connolly, and Libby Connolly (Robert) Alexander, and will be missed by all of his nieces and nephews.

The post James A. Connolly III ’73 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Joseph H. Flather ’51 died on August 20, 2018, in Audubon, Pennsylvania.

The post Joseph H. Flather ’51 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Carol Ann Rogers, an Admissions office staff member from 2005-2009, died on November 28, 2018, in Topsham, Maine.

(The following was published in the Times Record on December 3, 2018):

Carol Ann Rogers, age 54, of Adams Landing Road, passed away on Wednesday, November 28, 2018, following a short battle with cholangiocarcinoma. She was born in the Bavarian city of Augsburg, Germany, on March 20, 1964, to Ingrid and SFC John J. Lewis, USA/Ret.

She graduated from General H.H. Arnold High School in Wiesbaden, Hesse, Germany in 1981 and later earned an associate’s degree from the University of Maryland–University College in 2004.

Carol served in the US Navy on board the USS SHENANDOAH from 1987-90 where she met Robert whom she married on December 20, 1990. Carol was honorably discharged in 1990 as a Photographers Mate Third Class Petty Officer.

Her post-service career was highlighted by her work in the Executive and International Medicine Department at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and as the executive assistant at US Naval Hospital Keflavik, Iceland earning her the Department of the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Medal. In 2005, Carol and Robert transferred to NAS Brunswick.

Upon arriving in Maine, she worked in the Bowdoin College admissions office from 2005-09. She then began working at the Maine VA Medical Center as a health systems specialist and administrative assistant directly supporting the center director. Carol excelled in organization and attention to detail. She has been an inspiration to her colleagues and supervisors. She is remembered for her contagious work ethic and her willingness to go above and beyond; leaving a legacy of positive change wherever she has worked.

Carol loved spending time with Robert, daughters Lisa and Sara, and dogs Zoe and Stella. Though “from away,” Carol felt at home in Maine. She enjoyed watching her girls compete on the Mt. Ararat athletic fields and grow into productive, independent women. Carol and Robert enjoyed many memorable meals at their favorite restaurants and taking Stella for beer at the Flight Deck Brewery. A gracious host, she enjoyed mixing specialty cocktails and cooking for friends and family.

Surviving are husband Robert O. Rogers, USN/Ret, of Topsham, daughters Lisa M. Rogers, M.Ed., and her fiancé William W. Greenwood, Ph.D., of Sunnyvale, Ca., 1LT Sara A. Dunn, USA, and her husband CPT Dale M. Dunn, USA, of Fort Lewis, Wa., mother Ingrid Lewis of Ockenheim, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, brother John Lewis of Germany, and sister Manuela Baratto, and her husband Carlo Baratto of Curino, Piedmont, Italy, cousins Mary Ann Delguidice of Warwick, RI, and Kathy Phelan of Dudley, Ma., and her beloved puppy Stella of Topsham, Maine.

The post Carol Ann Rogers appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Widgery Thomas Jr. ’47 died on November 21, 2018, in Portland, Maine.

(The following appeared online at dignitymemorial.com in November 2018):

Widgery Thomas Jr., 94, of Scarborough, passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 22, 2018. Widgery was born at home at 31 Pine Street in Portland, Maine, on July 18, 1924, to Widgery Thomas, Sr. and Zella Bridge Thomas. He was predeceased by his wife, Joann (known as “Jonnie”), with whom he raised five children and enjoyed sixty years of love and friendship. Widgery attended Portland public schools and Governor Dummer Academy in Massachusetts, graduating in 1943. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and became a helmsman on a destroyer in the North Sea. At the end of the war he entered Bowdoin College and joined the Class of 1946. Widgery was the fourth generation of the Thomas family to attend Bowdoin College, and was the great-great-great-grandson of William Widgery Thomas, one of the original overseers of Bowdoin. While at Bowdoin, Widgery proudly carried on the family tradition of being a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon and was a member of the swim team. Widgery met Jonnie while she was a student at Garland Junior College and they married in 1949. After graduating from Bowdoin, Widgery went to work in the sales department for the Portland Company. He eventually followed in his father’s footsteps and had a distinguished career with Canal National Bank, where he served as president and chairman of the board for many years. Many Portland business people gratefully recall Widgery’s willingness to work with them in building their businesses. Widgery later joined Corporate Finance, where he worked with his nephew, Seth Sprague, for many years, retiring in 2006.

Widgery was as at home on the sea as in the boardroom. As teenagers, Widgery and his good friend, John White, could be found pulling lobster traps and later sailing throughout Casco Bay. A lifelong sailor and member and past commodore of the Harraseeket Yacht Club, Widgery and Jonnie and their five children enjoyed summer cruises down the coast of Maine in their many boats, Calypso, Andiamo, Patience, Quikstep and Cockle. Always the fierce competitor, Widgery enjoyed success on the high seas in many races, including Monhegan, Halifax, Newport to Bermuda, and the Friendship Sloop races. Some of the family’s fondest memories were joining the Sprague family every winter weekend at their home in Kingfield, affectionately known as “Wee Farm.” Widgery and Jonnie taught their children to ski at Sugarloaf and shared many laughs and fun times with siblings and cousins.

Widgery and Jonnie traveled extensively and particularly enjoyed visiting England, Bermuda, Ireland, Germany, Alaska, and Hawaii, and their transatlantic trip on the Queen Elizabeth 2.

Widgery was active throughout his life serving others. He served on the board of trustees of Governor Dummer Academy and Westbrook College/University of New England, and was an enthusiastic supporter and alumnus of Bowdoin College. Widgery was very proud of attaining the designation of Eagle Scout and served on the board of the Pine Tree Council of the Boy Scouts. Widgery also served as President of the YMCA board and chaired the committee to build the Portland YMCA swimming pool. He was an active member and trustee of his beloved Trinity Episcopal Church. In the early years, with Jonnie and five children in tow, Widgery could regularly be found at the Sunday morning service sitting in the first pew on the right side.

At the ripe old age of fifty, Widgery decided to take up running. Never one to do anything half-way, Widgery pursued his new sport with a vengeance, joining the Maine Track Club and eventually running the Maine Coast Marathon and the Marine Corp Marathon. Widgery ran his last Beach to Beacon race with his daughter, Gay, at the age of 80.

Widgery and Jonnie had ten grandchildren and enjoyed attending their many sporting events in high school and college. Widgery often traveled many miles to attend his grandchildren’s soccer and lacrosse games throughout New England and was an enthusiastic fan on the sidelines. He never missed an opportunity to watch his beloved Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins.

Widgery was a member of the Cumberland Club, Portland Country Club, and the “Know Nothing Club,” a group of old friends who gathered regularly for lunch at the Portland Country Club to discuss . . . nothing. At Widgery’s father’s memorial service at Bowdoin College, it was said that he was “a man of great energy and of infinite humor.” The same can be said of Widgery Jr. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generous nature, incredible memory, and recall of Thomas genealogy.

Widgery is predeceased by his wife, Jonnie; his sons, William Thomas and Charles Thomas; and his sister, Zella Dewey, and brother-in-law, Ned Dewey. He is survived by his sister, Mary Lou Sprague and brother-in-law, Phineas Sprague; his son, Peter, and daughter-in-law Roxanne and their two sons, Jonathan and Michael; his son, Jonathan (“Jack”), and daughter-in-law, Susan, and their children, Christopher, Alex and Libby; his daughter, Gay Sampson, and son-in-law, Nick, and their sons, Nicky, Tucker and Adam; his grandsons, Joshua and Nathan; his great-grandson, Teddy; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be sorely missed by his great friends, Victoria King and Mickey Higgins.

The family would like to extend their special thanks to all the caregivers and professionals who cared for Widgery at Piper Shores and Maine Medical Center.

The post Widgery Thomas Jr. ’47 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Alison L. Puth ’85 died on December 1, 2018, in Brookline, Massachusetts.

(The following was published in The Boston Globe,  December 9, 2018):

Alison Leeds Puth Died unexpectedly though peacefully on December 1, 2018, at her home in Brookline, Massachusetts. Alison was born in Westport, Conn., and soon moved with her family to Pittsburgh, Penn. At age twelve Alison and her parents relocated to Winnetka, Illinois, where she attended North Shore Country Day School. Alison had great friendships and was a gifted student. She earned degrees in French and art history at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, where she exhibited great talent as a photographer and excelled academically. Alison studied in France, both in high school and college. Alison had a deep commitment to disadvantaged children and others in need. She worked as a teacher and art therapist for at-risk children in Newton, Mass. She cared deeply for animals and provided generously for their welfare. She was particularly fascinated by the eaglets that were shown on live video at the National Arboretum in Washington, DC, for the past two years. She held strong convictions in matters of animal welfare, the environment, civil rights, politics, and rights of the underserved. Alison had an extraordinary sense of humor, and had an infectious laugh. Alison’s creativity was exemplified through her close-up photography of flowers and her life drawings. Her keen intellect was illustrated through a vibrant interest in the creative arts, film, especially foreign films, culture, fine arts, history, and music, for which her taste was wide-ranging and eclectic. In keeping with her family roots, Alison devotedly spent as much time as she could at the New Jersey shore. Alison was deeply moved by the natural world around her. She saw beauty in the sand, shells, and sea life, and found joy in every sunset and rainbow. She was the devoted mother of two rescued black cats, Moxie and Stella, whom she loved unconditionally. Alison was extremely thoughtful and generous with each member of her family. She doted on her five nieces and nephews and loved spending time with them. She is survived by her parents, John and Betsey Puth of Winnetka, Illinois; her brother David, his wife Leslie and their children Aydan, Colin, and Kira of New York, NY; her brother Jonathan, his wife Mira, and their children Asher and Annika of Washington, DC; and her uncle William Tait and his wife Carol of Tampa, Florida. They all miss and love her greatly, and will hold her memory alive forever.

The post Alison L. Puth ’85 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

George R. Pomeroy ’60 died on December 5, 2018, in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

(The following was published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette,  December 9, 2018):

George Robison Pomeroy, loving husband, father, and friend, age 80, died peacefully at home on December 5, of complications from Parkinson’s Disease, a battle that he fought bravely for more than twelve years. He was born on November 29, 1938, in Pittsburgh, Penn., the second of four children to Justice Thomas Wilson Pomeroy Jr. and Maria Frances (Whitten) Pomeroy. George grew up in Ben Avon, Penn. He attended Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, graduating in 1960, and went on to receive a master of divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1963. George served four congregations as minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). From his first post as an assistant minister of Larchmont Avenue Presbyterian Church in Larchmont, New York, he went on to hold pastorates at the First Presbyterian Church in Glenolden, Penn., and Eliot Presbyterian Church in Lowell, Mass.; he was the organizing pastor of Kearsarge Community Presbyterian Church in New London, Nh. During his retirement years, he held several interim pastor positions at other New England churches. For several years, George served the town of Westford, Mass., as Executive Director of the Roudenbush Community Center. While there, he spent a year as moderator of the Northern New England Presbytery. George was the loving husband of Diane Merrill Pomeroy. They celebrated their thirtieth wedding anniversary in August. He is also survived by his daughter, Marion Pomeroy; his son, Bradbury Pomeroy and wife, Kara; and his granddaughter, Devon; two sisters, Anne Martin (Richard) and Helen Hopkins; and a brother, Benjamin Pomeroy; George had been previously married to the late Rosemary Hibbard Pomeroy. Throughout his life, George enjoyed expressing his creative thoughts, words, and woodworking with others. Additionally, he loved the outdoors, especially camping and mountain climbing, his pets, helping others, and being a devoted father and husband. He will be remembered for his love and compassion, his sense of humor, and his commitment to family, his community, to the environment, and above all else, to the Lord.

The post George R. Pomeroy ’60 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Frederick S. Smith ’59 died on December 6, 2018, in North Andover, Massachusetts.

(The following appeared online at contefuneralhomes.com in December 2018):

Frederick “Erek” or “Fred” Smith, 80, of North Andover, Mass., died December 6, 2018, at Edgewood Retirement Community in North Andover. He was born in Tallahassee, Florida, January 29, 1938.

He was the beloved son of the late E. Florine Smith and Ben Lee Smith.  He was also nephew of the late Opal Luttrell of Norwell, Mass.., and Ruby Koontz of Allentown, Penn.

Frederick was a graduate of Bowdoin College in 1959 with a BA in German. He obtained a master of arts degree at Kansas State University in 1965.  Frederick taught German at Bowdoin College in the early 1960s as well as worked for the Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, DC. Continuing his passion for the German language, Frederick worked for Rand McNally, Houghton Mifflin, and finally Heinle and Heinle from 1979 to 1999. As an editor and multi-media specialist at Heinle and Heinle, Frederick was well respected as a considerate and trusted mentor by staff.

Frederick was devoted to his belated mother, who lived with him and his Aunt Opal in Norwell until his mother’s death at age 99. Erek, as he was known by his friends and colleagues, enjoyed travel in central Europe, and, at one time, planned to retire to Budapest Hungary. Frederick was also an accomplished cook and gardener.

His friends at Edgewood in North Andover called him “Fred” and knew him as a kind and good-hearted resident who was quick with a smile. Fred found a true sense of community and family at Edgewood and was grateful for the many friendships formed there.

.

The post Frederick S. Smith ’59 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Raymond E. LeTarte, a member of the dining service staff from 1992-1996, died on December 6, 2018, in Brunswick, Maine.

(The following appeared online at desmondfuneralhomes.com in December 2018):

Raymond E. LeTarte, 86, of Pleasant St., passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, Dec 6, 2018, at his home.

He was born in Brunswick on Oct 21, 1932, a son of John and Georgianna (Lavoie) LeTarte. He grew up in Brunswick, graduating from St. John’s Catholic School and Brunswick High School.

In 1953 Raymond joined the United States Army and proudly served his country for eight years during the Korean Conflict.

On May 7, 1955, he married his one and only, Nancy Huppe, and the couple resided in Brunswick to raise their family.

Raymond was employed at Tondeau’s bakery upon his return to the states from his tour of duty. After many years of service he made a move and was employed by Nissan Bakery as a salesman until his retirement in 1992. Realizing he was not a man to sit and do nothing, he went back to work at Bowdoin College, working in the kitchen. After retiring again in 1996 he then went back to work for his daughter at Carter’s Childrenwear in Freeport. Raymond was a man who always kept busy doing something.

He was an active communicant of All Saints Parish, St. John the Baptist church. He was a member of many bowling leagues and loved socializing with his teammates. He always spoke his mind and had a joke for every occasion. Staying positive was an attribute he shared with everyone. He touched many hearts and will be sadly missed by all those that loved him.

Raymond is predeceased by his parents; his wife Nancy, who died Jan 7, 2010; a son Michael, who died Nov 25, 2012; two sisters and two brothers.

He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Robinson and her husband Robert of Brunswick; a grandson, Joshua Smith of Brunswick; a granddaughter, Jessica Smith of Norway; two great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a big thank you to all the members of Androscoggin Healthcare and Hospice who made dad’s final days comfortable.

The post Raymond E. LeTarte appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

John A. Ritsher ’52 died on December 10, 2018, in Norwell, Massachusetts.

(The following was submitted by the family in December 2018):

John Alan Ritsher of Norwell died peacefully in his sleep on December 10, 2018, at age 88, with his family at his side.

Born in Beirut, Lebanon, on Sept 26, 1930, he moved to the States in 1941 in a circuitous adventure through Palestine, Egypt, Australia, and Honolulu (in time for Pearl Harbor), sparking life-long interest in the Middle East.

A scholar and poet, John delivered the commencement address at Bowdoin College after leading the desegregation of his fraternity in 1951. During the Korean War, his flat feet and good fortune dictated he serve as a medic in Paris. Upon discharge, he earned a law degree at the University of Chicago. As a senior partner at Ropes & Gray, he represented nuclear power plants across New England.

In 1964, he married Cynthia Wilder and had two sons, David and Ken. John moved his family to Lincoln to a home he designed with noted architect Henry Hoover. On the Lincoln Board of Selectman in the 1980s, he was a quiet force of reason and compromise, skillfully finding middle ground during contentious town debates.

John’s lifetime labor of love was a house on Lake Winnipesaukee that he designed and built (twice!) while in college. The home on Ritsher Road was a gathering place for generations of family and friends. John savored time at “the lake” both for quiet mornings of mist and loon song and its unlimited excuses to pound nails and rip pine boards on his trusty table saw.

In 1989, John married Diane Littlefield and they settled in Norwell. He and Diane loved to travel together and to spend time with family, friends, and their grandchildren. An avid tennis player, he played frequently into his last decade. In retirement, he enjoyed making copious amounts of sawdust and wood shavings on his lathe, an endeavor that also resulted in the creation of beautiful hand turned bowls. John also served on the board of South Shore Habitat for Humanity and volunteered to read the newspaper for the blind.

John is survived by wife Diane, sons David and Ken, stepchildren Damon Berry and Meg Berry, their spouses, and six grandchildren: Sam, Lilah, Foster, Theo, Porter, and Berkely. He was predeceased by sisters Ann Carter, Marjo Bunting, and Helen Augusta.

The post John A. Ritsher ’52 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Marilyn J. Ouellette, a former nurse in the Dudley Coe infirmary, died on December 11, 2018, in Brunswick, Maine.

(The following was published in the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram on December 14, 2018):

Marilyn J. Ouellette died peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, in Brunswick. She was born March 2, 1939, in Greenville to Charles Woodrow and Athelyne (Roaix) Simpson. Marilyn moved with her family to the Brunswick area at the age of eight. She was educated in area schools, graduating from Brunswick High School with the class of 1957. Marilyn continued her education at St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Lewiston, graduating and then earning her registered nurse credentials in 1959. On Dec. 31, 1960, Marilyn was married in Brunswick to 2nd Lt. William R. Ouellette, following his graduation and commission from the US Air Force Academy. For the next twelve years, she accompanied Bill during assignments at Craig AFB, Alabama; Loring AFB, Maine; the US Air Force Academy, Colorado; and Headquarters Air Force, The Pentagon, Virginia. Prior to and following Bill’s active duty career, Marilyn worked as a registered nurse at the Brunswick Convalescent Home, Parkview Hospital, and Bowdoin College. From 1975-1998, she was the office manager for Brunswick Eye Care Associates, an optometry practice which she helped establish with her husband Dr. Ouellette. Marilyn was especially proud of having selflessly served her family as a dedicated wife and mother; her country as a military spouse; and the Greater Brunswick community as a registered nurse and heath care professional.

Marilyn truly enjoyed a lifelong love of the outdoors and travel. Together with Bill, they visited most of the the Lower 48 states, Alaska, the Canadian Maritime provinces, the Yukon, Scotland, Wales, England, Germany, and New Zealand. Following Bill’s death in 2001, she later traveled to locations in Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Peru, the Galapagos Islands, and Morocco. Most notably, Marilyn bravely snorkeled with turtles in the seas surrounding the Galapagos, and daringly rode camels in the Saharan sands of Morocco. She also was an avid biker and hiker, being especially fond of the solitude found hidden along the trails at local Bradbury Mountain in Pownal. In addition, Marilyn had a passion for many of life’s finer aspects.These included her beloved Mercedes, fashionable clothing, educating herself on current health and nutrition trends, Metropolitan Opera, and attending Maine State Music Theater performances. Yet, ever the country girl, she had an affinity for watching Professional Bull Riding on television and for attending the Topsham Fair annually where she enthusiastically cheered on the demolition derby contestants. Socially, Marilyn relished every opportunity to connect with lifelong friends, or introduce herself to new ones. She truly loved hearing peoples’ life stories and getting to know them. This quality afforded her a wide audience of admirers.

Marilyn was predeceased by her husband, Dr. William R. Ouellette. She is survived by her children, Shelby (Ouellette) Green and her husband, Kenneth, of Worcester, Mass.; Brian A. Ouellette and his wife, Stacey, of Yorktown, Va.; and Gary A. Ouellette and his wife, Julie Logan, of Brunswick, as well as her grandchildren, Casey Green and Colin Green both of Worcester, Mass.; Meagan (Ouellette) Sutton and her husband, Drew, of Richmond, Va.; Kaitlyn (Ouellette) Martin and her husband, Andrew, of Harrisonburg, Va.; Cameron Ouellette of Yorktown, Va.; and Erin Ouellette of Harrisonburg, Va. Additionally, Marilyn is survived by her most dearest, lifelong friend, Dawn (Stimpson) Colburn of Brunswick.

The family wishes to thank the staff of caring professionals at Horizons Rehabilitation and Living Center, and Beacon Hospice whose compassionate love and care for Marilyn, and family, is deeply appreciated.

The post Marilyn J. Ouellette appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Stephen C. Foster, instructor in art, 1972-73 and assistant professor of art, 1973-74, died on November 26, 2018, in New London, Connecticut.

(The following was published in The Day on December 4, 2018):

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Stephen C. Foster, Monday, Nov. 26, 2018, in New London.

Art historian, scholar, author of numerous books on twentieth century art, faculty member at Bowdoin College in Maine, professor emeritus at the University of Iowa, and founder of Stephen Foster Fine Arts Brokerage, Stephen had a celebrated career spanning half a century.

Born in Princeton, Ill., on Dec. 3, 1941, to Joseph and Vera (Brenneman) Foster, Stephen found his passion in the study of art and its impact on society. He received a PhD in art history from The University of Pennsylvania and was the recipient of honors and awards from The National Endowment for the Humanities, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Getty Grant Program, The Mellon Foundation, and The Smithsonian. A man of humor, considerable charm, and deep principles, he was enthusiastic about his work and loved by his students, friends, and colleagues.

He is survived by his loving wife and collaborator, Estera Milman; his son, Michael (Kalani); his daughter, Carlyn; stepdaughters, Mica Pollock (Joe) and Nira Pollock (Rick); eight grandchildren; and brother, Brian Foster.

The post Stephen C. Foster appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

John J. Alexander, a campus security officer for fifteen years, died on December 3, 2018, in Rockport, Maine.

(The following appeared online at stetsonsfuneralhome.com in December 2018):

West Bath-John K. Alexander, age 65, of Fosters Point Road, passed away at The Sussman House in Rockport on Monday, December 3, 2018. He was surrounded by his loving wife Darlene, daughter Fern, and nephew Dennis.

He was born June 5, 1953, in Brunswick the son of Aubrey and Florence Alexander. John was a graduate of Brunswick High School class of 1972. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

John was a fisherman in Cundys Harbor until he married the love of his life Darlene (Squawzie) in 1980.

He spent fifteen years in the employ of Bowdoin College security, where he completed Orono Police Academy. John was employed at BIW security where he spent the remainder of his career.

He enjoyed membership with The American Legion Post 21 and The Bath Elks Club.

John loved to be in the air. Each flight he took, he said “I should have been a bird.” He enjoyed hunting, fishing, collecting knives, blues music, and his favorite guns.

He was an amazing father who nurtured his children with love and respect. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and uncle.

He leaves behind his wife Darlene Alexander of West Bath, daughter Fern Thompson and husband Kenny of Virginia Beach, sister Margaret Alexander of Cundys Harbor, six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his mother Florence and father Aubrey Alexander, brothers Ernie and Andrew Alexander, and son Trenton Hart.

The post John J. Alexander appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Rosalyne S. Bernstein H’97, P’77, trustee emerita, died on December 30, 2018, in Portland, Maine.

(President Rose sent the following letter to the Bowdoin community on January 3, 2019:)

To faculty and staff,

I write with the sad news that Trustee Emerita Rosalyne S. Bernstein H’97, P’77 passed away on Sunday, December 30, at her home in Portland, just eight days after her ninetieth birthday.

Roz was a remarkable person—a devoted wife and mother, courageous advocate, and someone who made substantial contributions to the law, education, health care, the arts, international understanding, philanthropy, expanding opportunities for women, and the Jewish community in Maine. Roz advised six Bowdoin presidents, including me. She was elected to Bowdoin’s Board of Overseers in 1973—one of the first two women to serve on that board. In 1981, she was the first woman elected to the Bowdoin Board of Trustees, and she remained actively engaged in the affairs of the College after becoming a trustee emerita in 1997.

Rosalyne Spindel was born on December 22, 1928, in the Bronx, New York, to Harry and Bertha (Lehrer) Spindel, both Jewish immigrants from Poland who came to the United States shortly after World War I and who met in New York. Her family moved to Fall River, Massachusetts, when Roz was thirteen, and she attended Durkee High School, where she was captain of the debate team and president of the debate club. She also worked at a part-time job six days a week throughout high school. Roz met her future husband, Sumner Bernstein, when she was beginning her sophomore year at Radcliffe College, and they were married at the end of her junior year. Sumner was practicing law in Portland, and as Roz put it, “I spent my senior year commuting, writing a thesis, and just getting my work done.” She graduated cum laude in 1950 with a major in economics, and the Bernsteins started a family in Portland and began a remarkable record of public service that continued unabated for the rest of their lives.

Thirty-three years after graduating from Radcliffe, Roz entered the University of Maine School of Law. She earned her JD degree in 1986.

The breadth and depth of her contributions to Maine, the region, and the country are remarkable. In addition to serving Bowdoin, Roz founded the Head Start program in the Portland school system, was a member and chair of the Portland School Committee, president of the PTA, a director of the Portland Boys Club, and president of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston. She was instrumental in the creation of the Reiche School in Portland, where more than half the students are from countries other than the United States. She chaired the Maine Health Care Finance Commission, wrote the Maine Legislative Report of the Health and Social Services Transition Team, and served as co-chair of the Transition Advisory Council for Maine Governor John Baldacci H’11. She was a trustee for more than forty years and a former president at the Portland Museum of Art, and a trustee for the Maine public broadcasting station, WCBB. She also served as a trustee of the Maine College of Art, the Maine Medical Center, Maine Mental Health Partners, Spring Harbor Hospital, the University of Maine School of Law, and the University of Southern Maine (where she also chaired the board of visitors), and she served for ten years on the New England Board of Higher Education. She was also the executive secretary and program director for the Maine Commission to Commemorate the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution (1986-1987).

Roz was a leader in Maine’s Jewish community. She served as president of the Southern Maine Section of the National Council of Jewish Women, as chair of the Jewish Federation of Southern Maine’s Community Relations Committee, as a member of the American-Israeli Public Affairs Committee, and as honorary co-chair of the Congregation Bet Ha’am Capital Campaign. With her husband, she led efforts to ban discrimination based on race, religion, and ethnicity in Portland’s social clubs in the 1960s, and she served as a member of the Maine branch of the Anti-Defamation League and the World Affairs Council of Maine. The Rosalyne S. Bernstein Papers in the Judaica Collection of the Jean Byers Sampson Center for Diversity in Maine at the University of Southern Maine give further abundant testimony to her activism and leadership. This past October, she and other members of the Bernstein family were honored by the Maine Jewish Museum as part of the first group of inductees in the Maine Jewish Hall of Fame.

Her community involvement was recognized by the Deborah Morton Award from Westbrook College, the Hannah Solomon Award from the National Council of Jewish Women, and the L. Kinvin Wroth Award from the University of Maine School of Law. At Bowdoin’s Commencement in 1997, she was awarded the honorary degree of doctor of laws, and in 2002 she was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Southern Maine.

At Bowdoin, the Harry Spindel Memorial Lecture Fund (1977) and the Bertha Spindel Library Book Fund (1990) celebrate the lives and spirit of Roz’s parents and their love of learning and Jewish culture. In 1995, Roz and Sumner established the Rosalyne and Sumner Bernstein Scholarship Fund for Bowdoin undergraduates. Her twenty-four years on the governing boards saw many changes under four presidents, including the transitions to a fully coeducational college and a unicameral system of governance, several fundraising campaigns, new buildings, curricular reform, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion among faculty and students.

Roz was predeceased by her husband, Sumner, in 2002. She is survived by a daughter, Beth Bernstein Schneider of London, England; a son, Andrew J. Bernstein ’77 of Bloomington, Illinois; and four grandchildren. There will be a service at Temple Bet Ha’am​ (81 Westbrook Street, South Portland) on Friday, January 4, at 10:00 a.m. Memorial gifts may be made to the Rosalyne and Sumner Bernstein Scholarship Fund, 4100 College Station, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME 04011-8432.

A champion of justice, Roz was devoted to public service, and through her wise counsel, her willingness to discuss tough issues, and her ability to lead by example, she leaves an enduring legacy at the College, in the State of Maine, and beyond. Julianne and I are deeply saddened by her passing, and all of us in the Bowdoin community join with her family and many friends in celebrating her remarkable spirit and a life that truly brightened this corner of the world.

Sincerely,

Clayton

The post Rosalyne S. Bernstein H’97, P’77 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Norman L. Barr ’45 died on December 13, 2018, in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania.

(The following appeared online at Philly.com December 16, 2018:)

Born on May 19, 1923 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, husband of the late Kaye Barr (nee Muehleck), traveled to his final destination at the age of 95 on December 13, 2018, from Dunwoody Village in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Norman was a proud graduate of Penn Charter High School (Class of 1941), in Germantown, Penn., and Bowdoin College (Class of 1945), in Brunswick, Maine. He was a Captain in the US Marine Corp, serving with Marine Air Corps Group 25 (MAG-25) in the South Pacific as a pilot at the end of WWII. A natural salesman, Norman started his career in the building materials industry and eventually found his calling in the financial industry. He went on to become the manager and vice president of the West Chester office of Merrill Lynch. When Norman wasn’t traveling the world, he enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including fishing, photography, golfing, skeet/trap shooting, and boating. He was a real history buff and his adventurous life was full of amazing tales that will forever be cherished. Norman was also a life-long member (and previously on the board of governors) of the Philadelphia Country Club, where he enjoyed many crab cakes and Bombay gin martinis up with a twist. Norman is survived by his daughters, Lynn Day (Harvey Tomlinson, Jr.) and Wendy Spence (Harold Spence); and two beloved grand-daughters, Alyssa and Amanda Spence.

The post Norman L. Barr ’45 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Louis A. Fourcher ’65 died on December 16, 2018, in Park Ridge, Illinois.

(The following appeared online at nelsonfunerals.com in December 2018:)

Louis Arthur Fourcher, Ph.D., psychologist, 75. Doting father of Michael (Teresa) Fourcher, grandfather of Nicolas Fourcher. Devoted son of Pauline and Charles Fourcher; dear brother of Charlene Fourcher Carle. Thinker, photographer, activist, and student of humanity.

The post Louis A. Fourcher ’65 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.

Gordon J. Hoyt ’50 died on December 17, 2018, in Queensbury, New York.

(The following was published in the Post Star, December 19, 2018:)

Gordon J. Hoyt Sr. resident of Queensbury, died on Dec. 17, 2018. He was the son of H. Deane Hoyt and Gertrude D. Hoyt and was born in South Weymouth, Massachusetts, on October 23, 1925. He graduated from Govenor Dummer Academy and received an AB degree from Bowdoin College in 1950.

Upon graduation, he joined Glens Falls Insurance Company and during his twenty-one year tenure he held several positions in marketing and underwriting with his last position as vice president. From 1971 to 1978 he served as executive vice president and director of Puritan Insurance Co., a subsidiary of General Electric Capital. In 1978, he left Puritan to form Gordon Hoyt Associates, an insurance underwriting management firm and, in 1985, was founder and majority shareholder of Hermitage Insurance Co. He was a member of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters.

A veteran of World War II, he served in the Army Air Corps and prior to discharge in 1946 had achieved the rank of private first class. Gordon is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia; six children, Gordon Hoyt Jr., Gail Mason, Rick Grace, Linda Grace, Nancy Griggs, and David Grace; thirteen grandchildren; and Mr. Chumley Dog and Mr. George Cat. Special appreciation to Allyson Owens, his caregiver and companion over the past year.

Active in civic and charitable affairs in Glens Falls, he was also an enthusiastic golfer at Glens Falls Country Club and elsewhere. Gordon was also an avid gardener, fond of classical jazz, and member of the R.O.M.E.O. Lunch Club.

The post Gordon J. Hoyt ’50 appeared first on Bowdoin College Obituaries.