1920 – 2004

LEWISTON – Ethelyn Stetson Thurston, 83, passed away on Feb. 23, after a long, courageous battle with diabetes and heart disease.

Born on June 23, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Ida (Foster) Stetson Sr. of Rumford. She graduated from Stephen’s High School in 1938. On June 26, 1941, she married Marlin Thurston at the Virgin Memorial Chapel in Rumford.

They have been tested by life, and have survived it because of an unfaltering love that has lasted for 62 years, as much in love yesterday as they were at the beginning. This marriage has been an inspiration to all who have witnessed their devotion to each other. They worked side by side for many years on the family dairy farm, while raising their family of three children.

Mrs. Thurston led a very active life aside from the family business and her family obligations. She was one of the early organizers of the Peru Extension, as well as the organizer and leader of the local 4-H club. As a member of the Peru Grange, she held the offices of Past Lecturer and Master.

She and her husband were members of the Mollyockett Mixers Square Dancers, and enjoyed square dancing for many years. Among the many interests she held were quilting, rug making, knitting, crocheting, sewing, and doing crafts. Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was everything to her.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Marlin Thurston of Peru; three children, Wayne Thurston and his wife Adelia of Peru, Marlin Thurston Jr. (Larry) and his wife Nancy of Augusta, Louise Kangas and her husband Richard of Bryant Pond; eight grandchildren, Martin Thurston and wife June, Rhoden Thurston, Stephanie Lagasse and husband Tony, Randall Kangas and wife Becky, Sharon Manjourides and husband Keith, Cheryl Thurston Ellis and husband Randall, Clifton Thurston and James Thurston; four great-grandchildren, Shelby Kangas, Abigail and William Thurston Ellis, and Devon Lagasse; and her sister, Winifred Littlefield of Auburn.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers, Ralph Stetson Jr. and Donald Stetson; and great-grandson, Kameron Manjourides