AUBURN — Walter Bernard “Pete” Sleeper of Woolwich, beloved husband of Helen (Dunn) Sleeper for 23 years, passed away peacefully on June 27, from a longtime illness at Clover Manor.

Pete was born March 27, 1927, in Mechanic Falls, to Ernestine (Coffin) Sleeper and the late Ralph Sleeper. He attended school in Mechanic Falls, until he was called to proudly serve his country as part of the U.S. Navy, serving in World War II.

Upon returning from the war, Pete went to work for BIW (General Dynamics) for 37 years, retiring in 1994. Pete took pride in his work on ships and was honored to spend time working in Hawaii for BIW. Due to serving his country, Pete’s education was interrupted. In 2003, he was a proud graduate of Poland Regional High School, receiving a long awaited diploma, with friends and family cheering him on for his accomplishments.

He married Helen (Dunn) Sleeper on Oct. 1, 1988. In Pete’s spare time, he enjoyed woodworking, helping others and going on day trips with his wife and mother, whether picnicking by the ocean or dining out, fond memories were made. Pete was a member of the Solar Star Masonic Lodge 14 and recently received a Grand Lodge of Maine veterans’ medal for 50 years of service.

Besides his wife, Helen of Poland, Pete is survived by his mother, Ernestine Sleeper of Mechanic Falls; a sister, Helen Boyd of Mechanic Falls; a brother, Ralph (Skip) Sleeper and wife, Mary, of Poland; a son, Mark Sleeper Sr. and wife, Sandra; a daughter, Jodi (Sleeper) Griffin and husband, Ron; a granddaughter, Melissa Sleeper; a grandson, Mark Sleeper Jr. and wife, Anna; a great-granddaughter, Nadalie Sleeper; his stepchildren, Debra and Lloyd Boyd Jr., Kristine and Ira Simmons, Reginald Dunn, Marcia and Arthur Gagne, Joyce Dunn and companion, John and Diane Dunn and companion, Marvin; as well as many nieces, nephews and stepgrandchildren.

Pete was predeceased by his father, Ralph Sleeper; a brother-in-law, Lloyd Boyd Sr.; and a stepson, Kerry Jon Dunn.

Pete will forever be remembered as a generous, selfless, loving man, who always put others first as a way of life, a kind soul who will be sadly missed. A special, heartfelt thanks goes to the caring staff at Clover Healthcare and Androsccogin Home Care and Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.

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