BREWER – R. Francis Serafin passed away after years of declining health March 19, 2013, at his home, as was his wish. Born Aug. 21, 1928, Fran was the third of six children born to Peter A. and Bernadette A. (Pelletier) Serafin of Rumford.
He graduated from Stephens High School in June 1946, and enlisted in the U.S. Army. After a honorable discharge from military service, he married Mary Catherine (Agnes) Shea in September 1949. They made their home in Rumford until relocating to Brewer in 1966. A papermaker from age 16, Fran began his career at Oxford Paper Co. and accepted a position with St. Regis Paper Co. in 1966. He retired in 1986 as the production manager at what was Champion Paper Co., Bucksport. After retirement, he traveled the world as a consultant to the paper industry. While able, he enjoyed an African safari, tulip time in Holland and Elderhostel excursions. Fran liked to start his day reciting the Rosary, followed by completing the crossword puzzle. He was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church, Brewer, and served for years as an usher at the Saturday afternoon Mass. Fran was an outdoorsman, a gunsmith, an avid reader, a hunter and a gifted storyteller. He could astonish listeners with his recollection of detail. His yearly deer hunting expeditions with George Cayer and his father, Adelard, were among his fondest memories.
In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his sister, Juliette Blake; and brothers, Elmo and Robert. He is survived by his daughters, Laura A. Horan of Dover, N.H., and Margaret M. Maranian of Leominster, Mass.; grandsons, Matthew S. Horan of Brooklyn, N.Y., Peter A. Maranian of Newton, Mass., and Brandon L. Maranian of Boston; sons-in-law, Patrick J. Horan and Alan L. Maranian; and sisters, Gertrude A. Downs and Peg Russell of Rumford. His family is grateful for the unwavering friendship of Bob Mushrall and the many kindnesses shown to him by Todd Mower as well as his neighbors. They also wish to express sincere thanks for the outstanding and loving care provided by Dr. Gary Ross, Corrin and Barbara. The efforts of the team from Premier Home Care, especially Melanie, Amy, Nadeen, Paula, Lindsey and Trudi are also greatly appreciated. Collectively, they allowed Fran to complete his journey with dignity.
Relatives and friends are invited to call 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 22, at the Brewer Chapel of Brookings-Smith 55 S. Main St., Brewer. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23, at St. Paul the Apostle Parish, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 531 N. Main St., Brewer. Spring interment will be at St. John Cemetery, Rumford. A believer in the power of education, Fran made provisions for a scholarship to University of Maine. If desired, memorial donations can be made to R. Francis Serafin Fund, care of University of Maine Foundation, Two Alumni Place, Orono, ME 04469-5792. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com.
R. Francis Serafin
