FARMINGTON — Elmer A. Bickford, 85, a resident of Orchard Park Living Center, passed away Saturday, March 3, at Franklin Memorial Hospital.

He was born April 24, 1926, in Starks, son of Alvin and Dora Butterfield Bickford. He was a 1942 graduate of Livermore Falls High School. In 1944, he enlisted as a Merchant Marine, having served in World War II as a gunner on a Liberty Ship, until 1946. He worked for IP in Jay as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 1986.

On June 9, 1947, he married Lorenda Maillet of Livermore Falls at St. Rose of Lima Church in Jay. They enjoyed 50 wonderful years together. His greatest pleasure in life was his family, always there helping, listening, laughing or just whatever was needed at the moment. He especially treasured his only granddaughter, Hillary. She was Bumpa’s little girl!

In 2010, he was a resident of Pinewood Assisted Living Center. While a resident there, he met Marvel Belcha, a wonderful and loving woman. On Nov. 6, 2010, they made a lifetime commitment together with a beautiful ceremony held at Pinewood. Although their time together was short, the love they shared was such a delight to all who knew them.

He is survived by his companion, Marvel of Farmington; his son, Steve and daughter-in-law, Vicki, of Orrs Island; granddaughter, Hillary and her companion, Seth Jacobs, of Topsham; brother, Ernest Bickford of Jay; sister, Sherry Phillips of Wilton; Marvel’s daughters, Susun Terese of Farmington and Paula Callahan of Thomaston; and son, Alan Marshall of North Carolina.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lorenda in 1997; and sister, Elenor Souther.

Copy the Story Link