DOROTHY FERN (LARLEE) BIRT

EAST MILLINOCKET – Dorothy Fern (Larlee) Birt, 92, passed away peacefully Oct. 3, 2008, at a local health care facility. She was born Jan. 20, 1916, in Perth, New Brunswick, the daughter of Mabel and Bernard Larlee. Like many families, the Larlee family immigrated to Millinocket seeking employment at Great Northern Paper Co. Dot graduated from Stearns High School, Class of 1934. In 1936 she met Walter Birt and married 10 years later, Feb. 15, 1946. Dot was an active member of First Congregational Church of East Millinocket for more than 50 years. She was an accomplished rug hooker, quilt maker, avid reader and was known for her baking skills, especially her yeast rolls. Dot enjoyed going to yard sales searching for a bargain. Whether she was listening or singing, music certainly brought great joy and peace to her life. For many years she accompanied her husband, Walter, to Augusta, where he was a member of the state legislature. Dot and Walter were fortunate to have been able to visit many places around the world, including Russia, Europe and Australia. Dot, also affectionately known as “Dear Heart,” was a kind, most generous and loving lady. Dot’s quick wit and enduring faith were traits that people will always remember. Most important in her life was caring for her family, close friends and her grandchildren, Aaron and Kristen, who loved her dearly. After a long journey she has finally been reunited with her husband, Walter; and two sons, Douglas and Walter “Butch” Birt. Dot was also predeceased by her brothers, Jack and Bernard “Snigg” Larlee; and sister, Phyllis Larson; as well as many close family members. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Randi Birt of East Millinocket; her grandson, Aaron Birt and his special friend, Erika Butler, of Kennebunkport; and her granddaughter, Kristen O’Donnell and her husband, Ryan, of Bangor. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Joan Larlee and Virgie Birt of East Millinocket, Kay Leavitt of Eddington and Kay Larlee of Liberty Hill, Texas; and her brother and sister-in-law, Danny and Polly Birt of East Millinocket. Dot’s family would like to thank Katahdin Nursing Home staff and the staff at Stearns Assisted Living for their excellent care while she was a resident at each facility. Calling hours will be held noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, at First Congregational Church of East Millinocket. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. with the Rev. Andrew McLeod officiating. Burial will be held afterward at East Millinocket Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given in her name to the Memorial Gift Fund at First Congregational Church of East Millinocket. Arrangements are by Lamson Funeral Home, East Millinocket. Messages of condolence may be expressed at www.lamsonfh.com.