OWEN H. SMITH

MAPLETON – Owen H. Smith passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 28, 2009, surrounded by family at a local health care facility. He was born May 22, 1920, in Mapleton, a son of Milton and Emily (Porter) Smith. He graduated from Presque Isle High School and then from the University of Maine with honors with a degree in agronomy in 1941. While at the University, he became a brother of Phi Eta Kappa Fraternity. The fourth generation farmer for his family, Owen was a progressive farmer and visionary; he dedicated his time not only to his own operation that dealt with both livestock and crop production, but also with improving and advancing the potato and agricultural industry in Maine. A lifelong learner, his interest in agriculture took him around the world. His experience and knowledge made him a valuable asset in the progress of agriculture in the state. In 1961, Owen was named Outstanding Farmer by the University of Maine. In 1962, he served on the Governor’s Potato Advisory Committee. During his career he also served as president of Young Farmers Association, chairman of Farmers’ Home Administration County Committee, a member of the Grange and Farm Bureau, a member of Maine Farm Bureau Association and president of Maine Potato Council. In 1970, Owen was named Outstanding Conservation Farmer and for several years he served as director of Maine Potato Growers. After withdrawing from the day to day farming operations, Owen worked with Larry Thibodeau to establish an agricultural consulting firm known as Agri-Consulting Services. Owen was a natural leader fueled by his belief in community and agriculture during a critical time in the development of Northern Maine. He understood the kind of commitment it took to create the quality of life available in Aroostook County today. His passions and interests went beyond farming to include many facets of the community. Owen served as a member of the Mapleton Town Council for 18 years. He also was an active member of Presque Isle Rotary Club, where he served as president, and in 1993 was named a Paul Harris Fellow. Among Owen’s many interests was education. He was instrumental in the consolidation of Mapleton and Castle Hill schools and in the formation of SAD 1. He worked hard as a board member for the district. He believed in the power of a solid education and served as a trustee to the University of Maine, 1961-1968. Among other strong interests was The Aroostook Medical Center. Owen was a member of many committees and groups that helped establish TAMC as a premier facility in northern Maine. Owen served on A.R. Gould board of directors, 1965-1969; The Aroostook Medical Center board of directors, 1984-1995; and was also chairman of TAMC board, 1987-1989. A man of faith, Owen served his church as devoutly as he served in other areas of his life. He was a longtime member of Grant Memorial Methodist Church, where he had served as chairman of the board of trustees and in most recent years he was an active member and communicant of St. John’s Episcopal Church. However, above all the things Owen did, it was who he loved, and who loved him that made him the man he was. A charter member of R.O.M.E.O.’s, Retired Old Men Eating Out, Owen made it a point to connect with his close friends often. His advice and steadfast leadership was often sought after, and his gentle and quiet approach made him loved by many that knew him. Owen’s greatest source of comfort and pride was his family. His devoted and loving wife of more than 68 years, Louisa (Whitten) Smith, was a constant source of strength and support in his life. In addition to his wife, Owen is survived by his three children, Penny Harris of South Portland, Sharon Bushey and her husband, Don, of Cumberland and Jeffrey Smith and his wife, Dory, of Mapleton. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Susan, Nancy, Kim, Marc, Lisa, Marcie, Leslie and Michael and their spouses; and 12 great-grandchildren. Owen Smith will be remembered as a leader, visionary and integral member of the fabric of our northern Maine community. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends, who trust that in heaven he will keep a loving eye cast towards the small corner of this world he worked so hard to call home. Funeral services were held May 2 at St John’s Episcopal Church, Presque Isle. Donations in his memory may be sent to The Owen H. Smith Scholarship, University of Maine Foundation, 2 Alumni Place, Orono, ME 04469 or St. John’s Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 8, Presque Isle, ME 04769. Arrangements are in care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.duncan-graves.com.