SHERIDAN – Raynold F. Caron, 84, passed away April 14, 2010, at his home. He was born April 1, 1926, in Sheridan, the son of Frederick and Olive Brown Caron. Raynold’s mother died when he was 6 weeks old. He then lived with his grandmother, Christine Caron. His working career started very early at Bates Mill, Lewiston, and later at the shipyard in Portland. When he was old enough, he joined the Navy. During World War II, Raynold saw action in the Pacific Theatre on the USS Dayton, which was one of the first ships to enter Toyko Bay. When he returned home, he married Rella Theriault, the love of his life. They moved to New York and he worked at Optical Die and Tool as a welder. Raynold was needed by his family, and he returned to Sheridan where he began a long and varied career with Great Northern Paper Co. He worked as a woods camp clerk, blacksmith, harness maker and heavy equipment operator. Later he trained workers in fire protection. He retired from GNP in 1970. After that, he opened Caron’s Rec Center which he ran for four years. He also owned and operated apartments in Sheridan. Raynold was known as “Dad,” “Pepere,” and “Uncle Ray” to family and friends. They turned to him for his knowledge and guidance. He was a perfectionist in all aspects of his life. Raynold was a self-taught mechanic, welder, carpenter, electrician and plumber. He often helped others by sharing these skills. He enjoyed working on his property and buildings, and kept them in immaculate condition. It was common to see Raynold riding in his Kubota or his John Deere tractor. Raynold took pride in his family and their accomplishments. Family time with him often involved telling stories. He was known for his sense of humor – his punch lines came quick and easy. He also enjoyed desserts – maybe that’s where his sweetness came from. Red Sox games were an important part of his life and he often scheduled his visits around their games. Raynold was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9699. Raynold was predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Rella R. Caron. Raynold is survived by two sons, Randy Caron and his wife, Mary, of Garfield, and Roland Caron and his wife, Linda, of Portage; by five precious grandchildren, Ryan and his wife, Lynn, Kristina, Reuben, Robin, and Rudy; and two great-grandchildren, Lexi and Ty. He is also survived by a special nephew, Dennis Maddi and his wife, Debbie and their daughter, Andrea; and by two foster daughters, Darlene Sullivan and her husband, Steve, and their sons, Lance and Steven, and Jamie Turner and her husband, Terrance. He also leaves behind many special friends. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, April 17, at St. Mark’s Church, Ashland. Relatives and friends may call 6-8:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral Saturday at Stimson-Ouellette Funeral Home, 114 Exchange St., Ashland. Interment will take place after the service at the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Ashland Ambulance Service, care of Pat Long, P.O. Box 910, Ashland, ME 04732.
RAYNOLD F. CARON
