GLENDALE, Ariz. – Gilbert Lawrence Esty, 72, passed away Aug. 22, 2011, from a sudden illness at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Phoenix, with his daughters at his side. Gil was born July 31, 1939, in Island Falls, son of the late Kermit R. and Frances M. (Gardner) Esty.
He graduated from Bridgewater Classical Academy, Bridgewater, in 1957, and the University of Maine, Orono, in 1961, where he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Gil began his teaching career in Island Pond, Vt., and later taught at Woodland High School, Baileyville, Nokomis High School, Newport, and Exeter High School, Exeter, N.H. On his retirement from teaching, Gil and Shirley moved to Glendale Ariz. They enjoyed traveling and visiting around the country in their motor home until Shirley’s health declined. Gil loved the landscape and beauty of Arizona, and could talk for hours about the rock formations, vegetation and water systems of his adopted state. He was a man of deep thoughts, moving slowly to “do it right the first time,” and even deeper love for family and friends. His memories will be cherished.
He is survived by his wife and love of his life for 49 years, Shirley Ann (Smith); their daughters, Sheila and Walter McGuire of Exeter, N.H., and Tammie and Roger Nichols of Santa Fe, Texas; three grandchildren, Daniel and Matthew Rowe of New Hampshire and Sarah Rowe of Glendale, Ariz.; two sisters, Nancy and Butch Benn of New Limerick and Dee and Bill Bess of Presque Isle; two nieces, Jani and Gerard Pare of Augusta and Laurie and Gary O’Neal of Berwick, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate in Gil’s memory to your local animal shelter or charity of your choice, care of Bowers Funeral Home, P.O. Box 579, Houlton, ME 04730.