OLD TOWN – Robert E. Thurston Sr., 79, died Aug. 16, 2009, at his residence. He was born Oct. 20, 1929, in Old Town, a son of Guy and Madelline (Rogers) Thurston. Robert enjoyed doing carpentry work and built five houses throughout his lifetime. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed spending time with his family camping, boating and water-skiing. He was a life member and past commander of VFW No. 3381, Old Town; life member of AMVETS, Old Town; and was also a member of the American Legion, Masons, Pioneers and Shriners. Robert retired from New England Telephone Co. after 30 plus years. He will be sadly missed and is survived by his wife of 58 years, Virginia; his children, Rebecca Halloran and husband, George, of Glenburn, Robert Thurston Jr. and wife, Caroline, of Connecticut, Brent Thurston and wife, Sandi, of Florida, Brian Thurston and wife, Joyce, of Bradley, and Guy Thurston and wife, Connie, of Florida; 13 grandchildren with one on the way, 24 great-grandchildren plus three on the way; many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers, Roy Thurston and wife, Janet, of Stillwater, and Alan Thurston and wife, Betty, of West Enfield; one sister, Ann Askew and husband, John, of North Carolina; one brother-in-law, Rex Sibley of Bangor; and his best friend and companion, his dog, Laddie. Robert was predeceased by one sister, Nona Sibley. Friends and family may call 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town. A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Thursday at Stillwater Federated Church, 336 Bennoch Road, Old Town, with the Rev. Joan DeSanctis officiating. Interment will be afterward at Lawndale Cemetery, Old Town. Notes of condolences may be left at www.mem.com.
ROBERT E. THURSTON SR.
