ALPHONSE GEORGE

BLUE HILL – Alphonse George Goodberlet, 82, passed away peacefully during the afternoon, April 28, 2007, at Blue Hill Memorial Hospital. He had endured heart-related illnesses for more than two years. He was with family and loved ones during his final moments. Alphonse was born July 26, 1924, in Rochester, N.Y., and was the first son to George and Catherine Goodberlet. He had three siblings, Rita, Frank and George. At the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Navy, and became a commissioned officer Feb. 29, 1944. He was assigned to duty as a naval pilot aboard the USS Franklin, and was wounded in action off the coast of Japan, March 1945. He later returned to duty, serving more than 22 years and attaining the rank of com-mander before retiring. During his years of service he attended Columbia University, General Line School and the Armed Forces Staff College. He was awarded the Purple Heart and received other commendations relating to Asiatic-Pacific War, Korean service, China service, American defense, American campaign, World War II Victory, Navy Unit Citation, United Nations and National Defense. His last active assignment was within the Office of Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon. He married Helen Gleason in 1954, during his years of military service. In 1965 he relocated his family from Alexandria, Va., to Elm Glen Farm, West Sumner. There, he and Helen raised their four children in the company of many newfound friends and dear neighbors. In Sumner, he served on the School Board for SAD No. 39 for 18 years and as town selectman for several years. In 1985 he and his wife moved to Blue Hill. He briefly volunteered time to assist in the setting up of an informational internet system at the hospital, and to work with youths in improving conditions at the town park. While living by the sea, his interest in sailing grew. During many summers he would sail a small vessel along the nearby coast, mostly in among the islands, but sometimes venturing out to open waters. He always looked forward to taking family members for a sail. He is survived by his wife, Helen; four children, Mark, Karen, Joan and James and their spouses, Min, Mark, Frank and Kathleen; three grandchildren, David, Melanie and Matthew; and his brother, George of Rochester, N.Y. A private service will be held in Ellsworth. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blue Hill Memorial Hospital, P.O. Box 823, Blue Hill, ME 04614. Arrangements by Acadia Burial & Cremation Direct, P.O. Box 99, Mount Desert.