CARIBOU – Katherine “Kay” M. Irving, 86, passed away June 21, 2010, at a Houlton health care facility after a long illness. She was born Dec. 14, 1923, in Stockholm, daughter of the late Wilbert E.R. and Olga E. (Stockson) Nelson. She was known as “Grammy Kay” to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, of whom she loved and cherished. Even as she experienced health issues, she never missed noting a birthday, a special occasion and of course, the most special holiday of all, Christmas. A person of great courage and compassion, she raised four sons, instilling in them the importance of character, love and faith. She set the example for others to follow. In her early years her education was interrupted, as she had to meet family commitments by helping her parents. Much later on in life she returned to school and met all education requirements for graduation. Kay was employed for many years by the Maine Department of Human Services, working out of the Caribou office. She was also a highly skilled seamstress whose passion for her craft brought her much recognition. She was a member of Gustaf Adolph Lutheran Church, New Sweden, and was a past active member of Elizabeth Chapter Order of Eastern Star, having been inducted into the order in 1990. She was also a member of Ladies Auxiliary to Perkins-Plourde Post No. 136 American Legion, Stockholm, and was a volunteer at Maine Veterans Home, Caribou. She is survived by three sons and their wives, Calvin and Mary Lund of Caribou, Raymond and Kathy Lund of Saco and Arlo and Anita Lund of North Carolina; two sisters, Rita D. Ottaviano of Massachusetts and Martha Justus of Michigan; one brother, Wilbur Nelson of New York; nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her first husband, Ervin H. Lund; by her second husband, Kenneth Irving; a son, Ronald A. Lund; and two brothers, Byron and Elwin Nelson. Friends may call noon until the time of service 2 p.m. Saturday, June 26, at Mockler Funeral Home, 24 Reservoir St., Caribou, with the Rev. Gordon Compton, pastor, officiating. Interment will take place at New Sweden Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, friends who wish may contribute in memory of Kay to Caribou Public Library Children’s Education Program, 30 High St., Caribou, ME 04736. Envelopes may also be obtained through the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.mocklerfuneralhome.com.
KATHERINE ‘KAY’ M. IRVING
