WHITING – George W. Townsend, 75, passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2013, after a brief illness. He was born June 14, 1937, on Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, to the late Vincent A. and Madge (Newman) Townsend.
He grew up in Eastport and graduated from Shead High School in 1956. He went to work in the local Coca Cola bottling plant as a janitor, began to sell the product and then became a truck driver delivering the product throughout Washington County. He finished his career as general manager for Coca Cola of Washington County, retiring in 1997. He met his wife, Sybil, on a blind date in 1956, and they were married in 1957. He was father to two sons and one daughter. He was a proud volunteer of East Machias Fire Department for many years, worked with the Boy Scouts, was an active member of United Methodist Church, Cutler, and was also a member of several organizations. After retiring to his beloved Indian Lake, he served the town of Whiting on the planning board and budget committees. George loved camping at Herring Cove Provincial Park, Campobello and Cavendish National Park, Prince Edward Island. No matter where the road took him, his heart was always calling him home. He loved telling stories of ‘roustabouts,’”hackmatack” trees and generally joking with his grandkids.
He is survived by his wife, Sybil; son, George II and wife, Theresa, of Machias; son, Robert of Ellsworth; daughter, Laurie Ryan and husband, John, of Falmouth; sister, Agnes of Minnesota; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and will be missed by an extended family of cousins in Massachusetts. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by granddaughter, Jesyca Joy; and sister, Audrey.
At his request a private celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Condolences and memories may be shared with the Townsend family by visiting their Book of Memories at www.mcclurefamilyfuneral.com.
George W. Townsend
