RUMFORD — Francis M. Severance Jr., 81, formerly of New Milford, Conn., died Wednesday, April 13, at the Rumford Community Home, where he was residing in Rumford.

He was born in Lewiston, Aug. 11, 1929, the son of Francis M. and Alice (Whitmore) Severance, and had attended schools in Ellsworth.

Francis served with the Army Air Force from 1946 to 1948 including being stationed at Hickam Air Field, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Francis worked for many years as a body and fender man in many auto body shops. He also enjoyed cutting and selling firewood. He loved to fly and over the years had owned and flown many planes. He was a member of the AOPA (Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association).

He was married in Brewster, N.Y., Sept. 3, 1965, to the former Joyce Yarrish, who died in September 1986.

Survivors include daughter, Kathleen Sauvageau of New Milford, Conn.; sons, Thomas of Turner, Joseph of Connecticut, and Francis Severance III of Skowhegan; many grandchildren; and a brother, Roland Severance of California.

Friends are invited to sign the family guest book and share their thoughts, condolences and memories online at www.meaderandson.com.