ORONO – Dede Bartlett, formerly of Chelmsford, Mass., died Oct. 18, 2009, at her home at Dirigo Pines Retirement Community, Orono. She was born July 24, 1923, in Oakland, Calif., the daughter of Rolland C. and Florence W. Kennedy. She attended Oakland schools and graduated from Oakland High in 1942. After one semester at Los Angeles City College, she enlisted in the U.S. Women’s Marine Corps and served at bases in San Diego and San Francisco, until she was honorably discharged in November 1945. In April 1946, through a mutual friend of both families, she met her future husband, Navy Lt. j.g. William P. Bartlett. They were married in August 1946 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, Oakland, Calif. They lived in Chelmsford, Mass., where they raised their three sons. Dede was active in the affairs of All Saints Episcopal Church, Chelmsford, Mass., serving many years on the alter guild and singing in the choir. She was very active in the women’s guild of Lowell General Hospital. She held memberships in Paint and Powder Club, Unitarian Players and Vesper Country Club. For 10 years, she was a nursery school teacher at Belvidere School. In 1969, the Bartlett’s moved to their Deerpath Farm in Dover-Foxcroft. Dede was employed for 15 years at Mayo Regional Hospital and was active in Pine Tree Hospice. She was a member of United Maine Craftsmen and treasurer of Penobscot Valley Craft Association. She made and sold many beautiful all-wool braided rugs. Dede is survived by her husband of 63 years, Will; and their three sons, William P. Jr. and wife, Susan, Rolland A. “Cass”, and Gayton C. and wife, Joanne; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Memorial service announcements will be made at a later date. A service of Brookings-Smith, LaBeau Chapel, 72 Main St., Orono.
FLORENCE KENNEDY BARTLETT
