DOVER-FOXCROFT – Donald C. Church, 82, husband of Beverly (Hall) Church, passed away March 20, 2012, at his home. He was born Jan. 15, 1930, in Hopkinton, R.I., the son of Clifford P.H. and Irene (Still) Church.
Donald attended schools in Hopkinton, R.I., before coming to Dover-Foxcroft with his family to operate a mink ranch. In 1951 he joined the U.S. Army, serving for two years before returning home to Dover-Foxcroft to continue the operation of the mink ranch. On June 19, 1955, Donald married his one true love, Beverly. Donald continued his working career at Fay & Scott, Dexter, before entering a long and valued career of wood harvesting with his brother, Rollie. As a Maine registered guide, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and simply being outdoors. Times spent with his family at their cottage on Kingsbury Pond were especially dear to him. Donald will be remembered by most as a big Maine woodsman, while, in truth, was a gentle giant. The love he had for his family was a profound and fundamental part of his life. The countless hours he spent for months at his granddaughter Emily’s side after she suffered a stroke, despite his own daily physical battles, are proof of the deep abiding love he had for his family.
In addition to his loving wife of nearly 57 years, Beverly, Donald is survived by three daughters, Ellen C. Annis, Pamela C. Ross and her husband, Bruce, and Janine C. Dever and her husband, Benjamin; a son, Kevin D. Church and his wife, Michelle; eight grandchildren, Emily L. Annis and her fiance, Todd Winchester, Ethan L. Annis and his wife, Heather, Matthew A. Ross and his companion, Kimbereley Shibles, Zachary J. Dever and his fiancee, Megan Chabot, Katie A. Dever, Mary Beth Dever, Miranda M. Church and Nathaniel K. Church; a great-granddaughter, Ella I. Annis; two special cousins, Charles Church and Gloria Abruzzese; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Donald was predeceased by a brother, Roland G. Church.
Friends are invited to call 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 22, at Lary Funeral Home, Dover-Foxcroft, where a funeral service will be conducted 1 p.m. Friday, March 23, with the Rev. Chad Poland officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the family lot at Dover Cemetery. After the burial all are welcome to continue to celebrate Donald’s life with a reception at the house he grew up in, Ben and Janine Dever’s home, 109 Anderson Road, Dover-Foxcroft. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at
www.laryfuneralhome.com.