MILLINOCKET – Vernon G. Haines, 72, died Sunday, Sept. 5, 2004, at a local hospital. He was born Jan. 7, 1932, in Millinocket, the son of Mary Cusack and Clinton Haines. Vernon was a lifelong resident of Millinocket. At the age of 17, in 1949, he enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during the Korean War. His most significant duty assignment was with the Alaska Communication System Signal Corps in Anchorage, Alaska. Vern returned from his service to his country and worked for Great Northern Paper Company for 34 years, retiring in 1986. Vern was an avid sportsman. He loved to hunt, fish, and trap. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and an ardent member of the Fin & Feather Club. Serving in numerous positions as President and on the Board of Directors, he was recognized in 1989 with the 6th Annual Adrian Batson Award for his contributions benefiting the needs and interest of his fellow sportsmen. In 2003, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Fin and Feather Club. Although remaining behind the scene, Vern worked hard to make the great outdoors a place for future generations to access. He was also a member of American Legion Post No. 80. He was a loving family man and was especially fond of his nine grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sylviane (Albert) Haines of Millinocket; four children and nine grandchildren, son, Keith and his children, Desirae and Mackenzie; son, Bruce and wife, Lindy and their children, Nikkole, Brett and Kameron; daughter, Terri and husband, Rich DeFronzo and their children, Brian and Jenna; daughter, Janelle and husband, John Cyr and their children, Nick and Nate; his siblings, Florence Chudio, Louise Hawkins, Anne Soucier, and Clint Haines; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his stepfather, Earl Dow; a sister, Carol DeCoursey. Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 9, at R.L. Bouchard Funeral Home, 11 Tamarack St., Millinocket. A Commemorative Service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 10, 2004, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Millinocket Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Youth Conservation Camp Fund of the Fin and Feather Club, P.O. Box 123, Millinocket, ME or to the Katahdin Area Support Group, 10 Field St., Millinocket, ME 04462 or, donations may be left at the funeral home.
VERNON G. HAINES
