LEWISTON – Kenneth Ross Bragdon, 81, of New Gloucester, courageously strived to see the birth of his granddaughter, but lost his final battle to cancer on April 28.

He was born in New Gloucester on Dec. 11, 1922, in his parents’ home.

He graduated from New Gloucester High School in 1940, and worked in local mills until he entered the United States Air Force and served proudly during World War II as a private first class. After his honorable discharge he worked at Pineland Hospital in New Gloucester for over 20 years until his retirement in 1980. He was a devoted supervisor who was admired and chrished by both the staff and clients he served.

He was a founding member of Lunn-Hunnewell AMVETS Post 6. He was the only remaining active member with over 52 years of dedicated service. He could be found weekly at the AMVETS Post attending functions up to one week before his death. He had several accomplishments including the Flags that are flown on holidays throughout New Gloucester and the Veterans monument that is located in Upper New Gloucester.

He was a member of Kora Temple Shriners, Cumberland Lodge 12 Masons, American Legion Post 86, New Gloucester Bible Church and Remember When Senior Citizens club.

He enjoyed his family, his dog, “Otis,” and most importantly to him, his grandson and pride and joy, Tyler Ross Bragdon. He also enjoyed his camp on Range Pond and attending functions and being with his fellow AMVETS members.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon of 28 years; his sons, Peter and wife Bridget of New Gloucester, and Kenneth and fiancee Natalie of Greene; his brother, Wallace and wife Doris of New Gloucester; sisters, Muriel Fortier and husband Charles of Old Orchard Beach and Margaret Kennedy and husband Merle of Lisbon; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Wallace E. and Eleanor (Mott) Bragdon; and his brothers, Harrison, Edward, Alden, Charles and Avery.