HARRISON – Eugene A. Leino, 75, a lifelong resident of Harrison died at peace at his home with his dedicated wife by his side, following a long struggle of failing health as the result of a tractor accident in 1995.

He was born in Harrison May 23, 1929, the son of John and Hilda Kangas Leino. He attended local schools, and went on to proudly serve his country during the Korean conflict. He carried many memories from this time, keeping a special friendship with Melvin Wallace who served with him.

On Oct. 31, 1953, he married Avis Pulkkinen and they made their home and raised their family just up the hill in Harrison from where he was raised.

He made his living by doing what he loved – working in the woods in the winter, and building houses when the weather allowed. He also worked nights throughout the times, when work and money were hard to come by. But everyday he was a farmer. He was always farming his land or that of his many friends around town, until his injury. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, taking Sunday drives, and spending time with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife, Avis, of Harrison; five children, Donald Leino and his wife, the former Joan Rowe, of Jackson, Ione Dow and her husband, Walter, of Norway, Paul Leino and his partner, Paula Packard, of Waterford and Norway, Gail Bennett and her husband, Bob, of North Norway, and Paula Leino and her husband, Dave Leino, of Harrison; four grandchildren, Shane Leino and his wife, Tammy, Anita Leino and her companion, Ian McFadden “Junior” Foster, and Cole Bennett; four great-grandchildren, Harley Sue, Jordan, Jefferey and Samantha; his brothers and sisters, Lempi Yates Heath, Bruno Leino and his wife, Ruth, Henry Leino and his wife, Miriam, Lila Butterfield and her husband, Leslie, Arthur Leino, Harold Leino and his wife, Helen, Ella Makey and her husband, John, Martha Leino and Walter Leino, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; a newborn infant; a half-sister, Helmi; two half-brothers, Arne and Matti; and a brother, Laurie.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at Androscoggin Home Health and Hospice, and Auburn Kidney Center.


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