1929 – 2003

AUGUSTA – John A. Bragoli of Pittston went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Nov. 20, after courageously battling a brief illness at Maine General Medical Center. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Ruth, who he has dearly missed since her death in 1990.

He was born in Rumford, April 1, 1929, the son of Emilio and Adele Insani Bragoli. After graduating from Stephens High School in Rumford, he attended the University of Maine at Orono, where he received a bachelor’s degree in biology and then a master’s degree in education.

He proudly served his country in the Korean War. He was a Sgt. First Class in the United States Army, Infantry Division from 1951 to 1954.

His bride, Ruth Norma Flagg, predeceased him in 1990. He and Ruth were married on Oct. 4, 1956. He was also predeceased by his brother, Alfred Bragoli of Cortland, N.Y.

He taught chemistry and biology at Gardiner Area High School for 10 years and then served as vice-principal for the following 23 years before retiring in 1989. During these 33 years he coached several varsity sports and was a key participant in the Gardiner Recreation Program. After retiring from GHS, he worked for nearly 10 years at Verhille’s Hardware, as well as volunteering a lot of his time at a local golf course doing some maintenance and grounds work.

He was known as a strong yet fair disciplinarian to many students as well as a very kind hearted and generous man, who deeply enriched their lives. Not many people knew except the numerous children who benefited from his generosity that he would often times see they had new clothes, a warm winter jacket or proper dental care which otherwise they never may have received.

He loved life, was an avid outdoorsman and a Maine Guide. He loved the state of Maine and enjoyed the many hobbies each season offered such as camping, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, woodworking and most especially golf, to name a few.

He was a man of strong faith and a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Gardiner. He was a member of the Hermon Masonic Lodge, Gardiner, Kora Temple and was past patron, Eastern Star, Marion Chapter 63 from 1998 – 1999, Gardiner.

He was deeply loved and will be missed dearly by his many friends and loved ones. All of our lives are richer and fuller for having known him. He was a blessing to each of us, a brilliant man who made a tremendous contribution to this world and it was a privilege and honor to call him our friend. God bless you John, you will never be forgotten and a part of you will live on in each of us forever.

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