M. KATHERINE PEARSON

OLD TOWN and ELLSWORTH – M. Katherine Pearson, 85, died peacefully Jan. 18, 2006, at Collier’s Nursing Home in Ellsworth, after a long illness with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. She was born July 23, 1920, in Greenbush, the fifth daughter to Elizabeth (Harris) and Alonzo Cunningham. In 1941, Kay met the love of her life George A. Pearson from Farmington who was working at the time as a game warden. They married Jan. 18, 1942, shortly after which George left to serve in the Army Air Corp during World War II. Their only daughter, Georgeia, was born the following November while George was in the Army in Texas. Following his discharge from the Army, Kay and George lived awhile at the Dry Mills Fish Hatchery in Gray, where George was assigned by the Maine Warden Service. They then moved back to Old Town and in 1952, settled in Stillwater, where they resided happily together for 47 years. Kay and George spent many winters in Florida, but were most happy at their home where they were avid gardeners. Kay was a loving wife and mother. She was an excellent seamstress and wonderful cook and she truly enjoyed cooking gourmet meals for family and friends. Kindnesses were always repaid with a big plate of fudge or goodies. Kay was a member of the Rebecca Lodge in Old Town and the Eastern Star. She worked tirelessly as a volunteer fundraiser for many organizations including the March of Dimes, the Heart Association and for the building of the new St. Joseph’s Hospital building in Bangor many years ago. In 1999, Kay and George moved to Orland to live next door to their daughter, Georgeia; and son-in-law, Brian C. Burke, where they resided until George’s death, Sept. 10, 2001. They had been married 59 years. In addition to her daughter and son-in-law, she is survived by two sisters, Avis Oberg and Dorothy Weymouth; and by a special niece, Patricia Buchanan; and a special friend, Merilyn Goode. She was predeceased by her beloved only brother, Alonzo “Buddy” Cunningham who was killed in World War II; and by two sisters, Noreen Wright and Hazel Madden. Pursuant to Kay’s request, there will be no visiting hours or funeral service. A graveside service at Lawndale Cemetery will be announced in the spring. For family and friends who wish, a card with a fond memory of Kay would be heartfelt or they may make a donation to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town.