PRESQUE ISLE – John E. “Hayes” Gahagan, 91, formerly of Caribou and Castle Hill, passed from life into eternity Dec. 13, 2006, at the Caribou Nursing Home, after a brief illness. He was born April 19, 1915, the son of John E. “Ned” and Lula Hughes Gahagan. Hayes graduated from Caribou High School and for many years owned and operated Hayes’ Exxon, currently the Food Trend, Caribou. He served in the Armed Forces for four years during World War II. Hayes was always active in community service, having served as president of the Caribou Rotary Club and as a Paul Harris Fellow. He was president of the Caribou Hotel Corporation, president of the Universalist Men’s Club, president of Band Parent’s Club, and chairman of the town Republican committee. He also served on the Caribou Planning Board and the board of appeals. “Grampy” is especially remembered by his family and friends as an avid fisherman and a champion cribbage player. Along with his wife, Chrystal, he had belonged to the Snowmobile Club and community cribbage clubs. One of his favorite places to be was on his lawn mower at the family farm in Castle Hill, tending the land until 2004, when he and his wife moved into Leisure Gardens, Presque Isle. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Chrystal Smith Gahagan, who now resides at the Caribou Nursing Home; one son, Hayes Gahagan and his wife, Linda; five grandchildren, Aron, Ryan, Adam, Joe and Sarah Gahagan; one great-grandchild, Elasia Hope, daughter of Adam and Evita Gahagan. We thank his many friends for their prayers and condolences. He was loved by many as a kind, gentle and honorable man. Per his request, there will be no calling hours. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to Presque Isle Wesleyan Church, P.O. Box 763, Presque Isle, ME 04769, in appreciation for their ministry to Hayes, Chrystal and other residents during their stay at Leisure Gardens. Arrangements are in the care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, Presque Isle.
JOHN E. ‘HAYES’ GAHAGAN
