OXBOW – Lester W. Junkins, 90, died June 20, 2012, at the home of Steven and Judy Sherman, whose generous and loving care allowed him to remain in OxBow his entire life. Lester was born May 8, 1922, son of Leon and Eldora (Atkins) Junkins.
One of eight children, Lester attended the one-room East End Schoolhouse and worked on the family farm during his childhood. Lester attended high school in Presque Isle, living with family members during those four years. After serving in the U.S. Army in Japan, Lester returned to OxBow where he farmed, guided sportsmen, and finally worked in the woods industry for various companies including that of his brother-in-law, Lendell McKee, until his “retirement.” After retiring from the lumber industry, Lester still cut and delivered firewood well into his 70s. He also worked for the north Maine woods as a gatekeeper at the OxBow checkpoint for 24 years, finishing his working life at age 88. He made many friends during his time on the gate that looked forward to seeing him from year to year. Lester was a proud and dedicated member of Ashland Rotary Club for more than 60 years. He joined the club Jan. 19, 1950. During the 60th anniversary of Ashland Rotary’s Incorporation in 2008, Ashland Rotary Club formally celebrated Lester’s rotary career, when family, friends and rotary officials recognized his many club accomplishments, including several leadership positions, his membership as a Paul Harris Fellow, and nearly perfect attendance. During the time of Lester’s employment in the woods industry, he traveled, without fail; from whatever woods’ camp he was stationed to attend his Thursday night Rotary meeting. In the club’s recent years, Lester was often looked to as a historian for the club. Additionally, Lester was a 55-year member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Maine. Lester lived a full and productive 90 years. His tenacity and “can-do” attitude inspired family and friends who surrounded him. Lester enjoyed teaming horses, Ashland Rotary Club, planting and sharing his large garden, hosting the annual hunting crew steak feed, visits from his family, good times spent with friends, and pink peppermints.
In addition to his parents, Lester was predeceased by four brothers and one sister, Harold, Hartley, Evelyn, Laurel “Jake,” and Stanley Junkins; and nephew, Pearl Junkins. Lester is survived by his two dear sisters, Ruth McKee and Rita Sherman. Though he had no children of his own, Lester helped parent six nephews and four nieces. His loving care and patient guidance has carried them through childhood into adulthood. Their children and grandchildren also fondly remember him. He was very proud of his family, and was heartened by the fact that he was known by family and friends alike as “Uncle Lester.” Lester’s family thanks the Hospice of Aroostook – Houlton division, for their excellent care.
Friends and relatives may call 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 23, at Stimson-Ouellette Funeral Home, 114 Exchange St., Ashland, where a funeral service will begin 3 p.m. with the Rev. Donald Morton officiating. Refreshments and a time of sharing Lester’s life will be held after the service at the home of John and Susan Beaulier, 69 Masardis Road, Ashland. A private burial will be held at a later date at Willard Cemetery, OxBow.