WINTERPORT – Leon F. Higgins, 83, died peacefully Tuesday, May 18, 2010, with his family by his side. He was born March 27, 1927, in Orrington, the son of Edith and Frederick Higgins. Leon graduated from Hermon High School, Class of 1944. He went on to be a Merchant Marine for two years until he joined the U.S. Army in 1946. During his time in the military, he was a command sergeant major and he also taught ROTC at Bangor High School. After retiring from teaching ROTC, he went back to Bangor High School as a maintenance engineer, which he retired from in 1986. Leon was a 32nd degree master mason and a member of the Shrine. After retiring, Leon enjoyed spending time with his family at his camp on Swan Lake and working on daily projects at his home in Winterport. He really enjoyed the outdoors, reading books, time with family, watching NASCAR on TV and woodworking, which he spent a lot of time on while working on special projects for his grandchildren. Leon is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Vianna (Nelson) Higgins; one daughter, Michelle Cross and her husband, Gary; granddaughter, Megan Greenlaw and her husband, Buddy; one grandson, Garret Cross and his special friend, Janel; one great-grandson, Carsen; sisters, Lillian, Alice, Carol and Bonnie; two brothers, Bobby and Sherwood; his brother-in-law, Donald and his wife, Rita; his sister-in-law, Irma; several special nieces and nephews. He will be missed by his very special pal, Middy. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Phyllis and Arlene; his brother, Lawrence; and his granddaughter, Kacy Lynn. At Leon’s request, there will be no formal funeral services. Interment will be private at Oak Hill Cemetery, Winterport. Those who wish may make donations in his name to CancerCare of Maine, care of Healthcare Charities, P.O. Box 931, Bangor, ME 04402-0931. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com. <
LEON F. HIGGINS
