FALMOUTH – The Rev. Beth Anne Findlen, a deacon in the Episcopal church and a longtime nursing professional, died surrounded by her loving family and heavenly angels as she transitioned from her earthly home to be with her beloved Jesus, Dec. 29, 2008, at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House. She was born Dec. 12, 1952, in Fort Fairfield, the daughter of John B. and Natalie M. Rideout Foster. A 1971 graduate of Fort Fairfield High School, Beth’s love of animals led her to obtain an associate’s degree in animal medical technology from the University of Maine – Orono. Her compassionate nature intensified as she began studying to be a registered nurse, receiving an Associate of Arts degree from the University of Maine at Augusta, in 1982. In 1996, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, graduating summa cum laude, from the University of Maine – Orono. Beth’s professional career included work in the intensive care unit at Cary Medical Center, Caribou, and 15 years at The Aroostook Medical Center – TAMC, Presque Isle, where for 12 years she was the manager of Occupational Health Services. While at TAMC, she served on the Maine State Board of Directors of Occupational Health Services and participated in many health fairs and workshops. As a longtime member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Fort Fairfield, Beth was discerned for an intensive two-year program of study for the diaconate. She was ordained by the Right Rev. Chilton R. Knudsen, April 13, 2002, and served in five churches that comprised the Aroostook Episcopal Cluster. Combining her love of nursing with an ever-expanding empathetic nature and faith, she accepted the position as registered nurse at Long Creek Development Center, South Portland, 2004. She reached the pinnacle of her professional capabilities working with the youth. “Nurse Findlen” was a much beloved figure there. Beth was a woman of many talents and interests. For several years she was a member of Northern Maine Dressage Association participating in horse shows and events. She was a certified yoga instructor, leading classes and retreats in the Aroostook area and providing instruction for the SAGE group, youth at The Maine School of Science and Mathematics, Limestone and at Northern Maine Community College. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her cherished caregiver the Rev. Susan M. Murphy; her beloved son, Matthew R. Findlen, RPh of Miami; her lifelong friend and companion, Daniel T. Findlen, RPh of Fort Fairfield; two brothers, Daniel Foster of Fort Fairfield and John Foster Jr. of Hampden; several cousins, nieces and nephews. She was grateful for all the people she met as she lived with cancer and was especially grateful to Dr. Matthew Dugan, Christine, Marcie and Paige; all the caregivers at Scarborough Cancer Clinic; the members of the lung cancer support group that she met with monthly at Cancer Community Center; and the Hospice team. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Fort Fairfield, with the Rev. Susan M. Murphy and the Rev. Robert A. Smith Jr. officiating. A time for visitation and a luncheon reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, Beth had requested that donations be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 166 Main St., Fort Fairfield, ME 04742. The Autumn Green Funeral Home, 47 Oak St., Alfred, is respectfully handling arrangements. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit autumngreenfuneralhome.com.
REV. BETH ANNE FINDLEN
