FARMINGTON – Lawrence Edward Wilbur, 95 of Farmington passed away on Feb. 14, 2019 at the Pierce House.
He was born on May 20, 1923, in Farmington, a son of Everett and Alice Mary (Walker) Wilbur.
He attended local schools and grew up during the depression. He proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII; 18 months state-side and 18 months in Europe.
Always a hard worker, he first earned money by cutting wood, and later, worked at the Wilton Woolen Mill for 13 years. In 1953, he began his career as a hand stitcher at G.H. Bass and Co. After 28 years and more than 300,00 pairs of hand stitched shoes, he spent another 19 years traveling the world for Bass, demonstrating how the renowned Bass Weejuns were made.
He loved to travel for Bass and with his family. He was a diver for the New England Divers; loved ice fishing and bee keeping. He was proud of his Harley Davidson King of the Road. Later, he became an accomplished cross stitcher and was published in world circulated cross stitch magazines.
He especially loved his camp on Long Pond where he spent time with family. He loved his boats and became an accomplished water skier.
Lawrence volunteered for Franklin Memorial Hospital for more than 15 years, giving more than 6,400 hours.
He was a member of the Wilton Masonic Lodge #156, the Kora Temple Shrine and was a member of the Odd Fellows where he held the position of Noble Grand of Williamson Lodge for over 20 years.
He married the love of his life, Hazel Walker, on Dec. 9, 1941 with whom he enjoyed 67 years of marriage. Following Hazel’s death, Lawrence reflected on his life and wrote his book “Let Me Take Your Hand.”
He is survived by a daughter, Lillian Mary Dagneau and son-in-law, Marcel Dagneau; grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by two daughters: Elizabeth Gosselin and Vera Williams; son-in-law, Ernie Gosselin; sisters, Evelyn, and Everdene; brothers, Elton and Cecil.
He was a life-learner. No one loved life more than Lawrence. His spirit will always live on in the hearts of those who love him.
In keeping with his generous spirit, remembrance gifts may be given to the meaningful charity of one’s choice. You are invited to share a memory or kind word on his memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.
Family and friends are invited to call at the Wiles Remembrance Center: Adams~McFarlane Chapel, 137 Farmington Falls Rd., (Rtes. 2 & 27) Farmington Monday Feb. 25 from 1-2 p.m. where funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. followed by a comfort reception at the Center. Following cremation, private family burial will take place in the springtime at Lakeview Cemetery, Wilton.
Always a great big beautiful smile.
I am so sad that Lawrence has left us, one amazing g, talented man right there. Rest in Peace.
We shall all miss Larry very much. He was a great supporter of live music in Western Maine and a familiar face at all the Celtic and Folk concerts over the past fifteen years or more. He loved his music and greeting all his friends with a familiar smile and a joke or two. Thank you for your service and safe home.
It was a great pleasure bringing your mail to you. Always polite and great smile.. Wonderful gentleman.
Condolences to Lawrence’s family, Jan and Bill. Fly high with your angels, Lawrence. You will be missed.
Rest in peace Lawrence, many happy memories of you, and your family are in my heart.
I had the pleasure of working with Lawrence for years at Bass Shoe , and 20 years later, at FMH where he volunteered. Lawrence always had a smile on his face and a story or two to tell. I also worked with him for several years providing music for hid Odd Fellows dinners, and had the honor , with my partners, of playing at his 90th Birthday Bash.
RIP my old friend.
so sad to hear this. Was so happy to see him last fall at the Bass Reunion. He was so loved