CAPE ELIZABETH — William A. “Whitey” Adams Sr., 92, who lived a long and full life, passed away on Friday, July 16, at Village Crossings in Cape Elizabeth.

 He was born on March 19, 1918, in Rumford, where he lived and worked all but the last few months of his life. In 1936, he graduated from Stephens High School in Rumford.

 “Whitey,” as he was known by all who knew and admired him, was the son of William and Barbara Adams. He was orphaned as a young child and learned at an early age the opportunities that could result from hard work, a positive attitude and a love of life.

 As a young boy he enthusiastically served the people on his paper route while at the same time caddying at Oakdale Country Club and achieving excellent grades in school. He mastered from his caddying experience to become a teaching golf professional at Oakdale Country Club, where he was a club champion, club president and served on the board of directors.

 In 1938, he married Evangeline McInnis, and together they raised a family of four children. With his new family and responsibilities, “Whitey” began working at the Oxford Paper Co., in Rumford, and spent over 40 years of his life at the mill serving as a foreman in the woodroom when he retired in 1983.

 His wife Evangeline died in 1980, and in 1983, he married Geraldine MacDougall and gained a wonderful extended family. Geraldine died in 2001.

 He was a Communicant of Sts. Athanasius and John’s Church and a member of the Oxford Paper Co., 25 and 40 Year Club. He was an avid fly fisherman (but never embraced catch and release), gardener and also enjoyed many visits to Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.

 Whitey was a quintessential member of “The Greatest Generation.”

 He was an amazing people person, unselfish and thoughtful with a genuine interest in others.

 Even in his final weeks he kept current with all the news, weather and especially, the Red Sox. Always a gentleman, Whitey was loved by all he met and was a wonderful role model to his beloved, blended family. He was the perfect example of how to age gracefully.

 He is survived by three daughters, Jane Amero of South Portland, Elaine Beals and husband, Paul, of Westbrook, Ct., and Judy Bowen and husband, Brook, of Fresno, Calif; a son, William Adams Jr. of Augusta; 11 grandchildren, Scott and Brett Amero, Melanie Amero Grossbard, Sherri Beals Poi, Alicia Beals Starr, Bridget Beals Grim, Brady Bowen, Beth Bowen McCozzi, Amy Adams Arthur, William Adams III and Erika Adams; 14 great-grandchildren; stepchildren, Brenda Sassi of Rumford, Wayne MacDougall and wife, Jo-Ann, of Rumford, Maureen Mayo and husband, Neil, of Auburn and Sharon Law of Rumford; 10 stepgrandchildren, Kerry MacDougall Lynn, Kathy MacDougall Oldkowski, Kate Sassi, Jennifer Sassi Keegan, Corey, Matt, Scott and Kevin New, Amy Law Goodwin and Patrick Law; 13 stepgreat-grandchildren.

 The family wishes to thank the staff at Village Crossings and Beacon Hospice for the exceptional care they provided.

Those who wish may sign the guest book and share memories online at www.meaderandson.com.