AUGUSTA – Murray “Mike” Thurston, who resides at the Maine Veterans’ home in South Paris, was recently honored for his lifetime achievements as part of the Remember ME Program.

Each year the statewide program honors selected Maine residents for the contributions they have made to their families, communities, state and country.

Thurston attended Dartmouth College, served in the Army during World War II, ran the family business, J.A. Thurston – a dowel manufacturing mill, the Thurston’s Dairy Farm and was a founder, and later president of Sunday River.

He was also a trustee of Gould Academy, volunteered with SCORE in Rumford and at Androscoggin Home Health, shopping for clients. He also served as a selectman in Bethel for six years and was appointed by Gov. Ken Curtis to serve on the board of the Maine Turnpike Authority.

Sen. Bruce Bryant welcomed the former state senator back to the State House and presented him with the current senate pin. Thurston served in the State Senate in the 99th Legislature (1959-1960).

While there, he served on the Legislature’s Engrossed Bills Committee and the Highways Committee.

Thurston’s mother, Florence Helen Thurston, served in the Maine House of Representatives in the 88th Legislature (1937-1938).

Today, Thurston enjoys family, watching the Patriots and listening to jazz.

Said Bryant, “This man was born, raised and has lived in Oxford County most of his life and has selflessly given of his time and talents over the years. He richly deserved this recognition.”