SKOWHEGAN – Harry C. Alward, 88, a longtime resident of Skowhegan, died peacefully March 30, 2007, at Redington-Fairview Hospital, after a period of failing health. He was born Oct. 18, 1918, in Dedham, Mass., the son of Harry L. and Ferne (Bailey) Alward. Harry moved to Waterville with his family in childhood and attended Waterville schools. He graduated from Waterville High School, Class of 1936. After his graduation he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for more than five years, with 39 months of his service in the Pacific theatre. In 1942 he married his wife, Betty Gardner of Pittsfield, who predeceased him in 1989. He was employed by Norrwock Shoe Co., Skowhegan, for many years, retiring in 1985. After retirement, he volunteered at Redington-Fairview Hospital radiology department. Later, he worked as a people greeter at the Skowhegan Wal-Mart. He also was a charter member of the Skowhegan Sportsman’s Club and a member of the American Legion, Skowhegan. He enjoyed the outdoors; snowmobiling was one of his great enjoyments, as well as deer hunting and fresh water fishing. Harry’s children have fond memories of spending time with their dad at Moose Pond. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Judith and husband, Robert Laney, of Skowhegan and Mrs. Jan and husband, Brian Maddocks, of Hampden; a son, John and wife, Frances Alward, of East Madison; nine grandchildren; Sam and Matt Laney, Mike, Craig and Chris Maddocks, John Alward, Allyson Sites, Erin Depner, Amy Alward and their families, including six great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; a special friend, Irene Magoon and also longtime friend, Neal Davis. He is also survived by many relatives in the Caribou area who knew him as “Pat.” He was predeceased by his parents; an infant brother, Walter Cyrus Alward; and a close friend, Tony Gallant. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, April 6, at Smart and Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, with the Rev. Mark Tanner officiating. Interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities, care of St. Michael’s Center, Division of the Blind and Visually Impaired, 1066 Kenduskeag Ave., Bangor, ME 04401 or to the Pine Tree Society, P.O. Box 518, Bath, ME 04530. Arrangements are entrusted to Smart and Edwards Funeral Home, Skowhegan.
HARRY C. ALWARD
