EAST MACHIAS – Harold “Paddy” R. Geel, 83, passed away Aug. 10, 2006, at a Bangor hospital after a short illness. He was born June 11, 1923, at the family homestead, in East Machias on Scott’s Hill. He was the son of the late Ross E. and Gladys (Holmes) Geel. He graduated from Washington Academy in 1940 after which he went to work for Pratt and Whitney in East Hartford, Conn. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. Paddy attained the rank of staff sergeant and was crew chief of aircraft maintenance working on B-17 and B-29 bombers at several airfields during the war. After returning from the war, he worked at American Sardine Company in Machiasport and the Machias Mill in Machias. He later worked for many years at H. Blaine Davis Est. as a home remodeler. Paddy was best known for his cabinetry and masonry skills. His work graces many of the homes and several schools in Washington county. His furniture pieces traveled to many homes across the country. Harold enjoyed the outdoors, his gardens, animals and his peacocks that he kept for many years. He especially enjoyed his visits from “Little Bit,” a special family dog and sharing moments with his beloved granddaughter, Anna Geel, 11. Harold was predeceased by his wife, Mildred (Dennison) Geel in 1987. He is survived by his two sons, Terry and wife, Deborah; and granddaughter, Anna, all of Ellsworth and Tony and wife, MaryLou, of East Machias; a brother, Raymond H. Geel of East Machias; niece, Tina; several cousins; and special friends, Gayle and Gary Godish, of East Machias and many others friends. A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 14, at the Jacksonville Cemetery in East Machias officiated by Pastor John Sprague. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Baptist Youth Camp Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 5540, Ellsworth, ME 04605 or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the care of Bragdon-Kelley-Camp-bell Funeral Home, Machias. www.bragdonkelley.com
HAROLD R. GEEL
