Lewiston – Thomas “Tom” E. Phelps, 76, of Auburn, passed away after a brief illness on April 9, at St. Mary’s Regional Hospital with his loving family by his side.

Tom was born on Aug. 6, 1929, in Mexico, a son of the late Robert B. and Marion E. (Grannell) Phelps. He attended the Waterville school system and later graduated from Waterville High School, after graduation he went off to serve his country in the United States Navy where he served in the Korean War. He married Carol (Adams) Phelps on Oct. 5, 1963, in Concord, N.H. Together they moved back to Maine and he went to work for Electrolux Co. as a salesman and then also in this time he worked for Gracelawn Memorial Park and Smet Monument Co. until his retirement.

His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his nieces and nephews, and enjoyed attending their annual family reunions. He loved meeting the gang at Roy’s; there he had lots of friends and always enjoyed the daily conversations. He was an avid Boston sports fan; he enjoyed collecting postcards, statues and figurines of eagles, and old coins. He enjoyed taking rides around Lake Auburn and trips to the coast. He was a member of the Court Street Baptist Church in Auburn.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Phelps of 43 years; two sisters, Doris Harris and husband, David, of Waterville, Lois Tash and husband, Donald, of Dedham; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a sister, Marilyn Hawkins.