LEWISTON — Constance Rich Young, 77, passed away at Marshwood Center on Aug. 9, with her loving family by her side. Previously, under the care of her daughters, she resided in the home her late husband built in East Poland.

Connie was born in Lewiston, Nov. 11, 1934, the daughter of Gerald M. and Imogene Loubier Rich. She graduated from Edward Little High School in 1952 and from CMG School of Nursing in 1955. She married Arthur Bernard Young on Sept. 11, 1954. Art passed away on Aug. 10, 2009, one month before their 55th wedding anniversary.

Connie worked for many years as an RN at Central Maine General Hospital. She also worked as a visiting nurse at Androscoggin Home Health, for Poland Spring Job Corp. and for Dr. Haas, before returning to Central Maine Medical Center where she finished out her career as a Utilization Review Care Coordinator. She retired in 1996. Connie loved the profession she chose, as was evidenced by her deep compassion, sincerity, her tender touch and beautiful smile.

She enjoyed many forms of freshwater fishing on various Maine lakes and ponds. She particularly enjoyed trips that involved camping and boating. Special moments included fishing with her husband and daughters at Grace Pond, Pierce Pond, and her favorite spot at King and Bartlett.

Throughout their marriage, she and Art enjoyed playing bridge, spades and hearts with their many friends. Her other hobbies included snowmobiling, gardening, digging for bottles with her daughters, bowling, and watching the songbirds by her kitchen window. She loved collecting various treasures, especially Longaberger baskets, Ty Beanie Babies, and Avon. She was also a member of the Minot Methodist Church and the CMMC Alumni Association.

Connie spent many enjoyable hours watching her girls, in their youth, compete in softball, baseball, and baton twirling. More recently, she has enjoyed watching her grandchildren at sports games and recitals. She lit up when she was visited by her great-granddaughter.

She loved animals, bringing home strays on several occasions to provide them a loving home. Her dog, Kasper, gave her great joy and comfort.

Throughout her life she enjoyed trips to Disney World with her girls, Las Vegas with her sister and friends and to Tucson to go fishing with her brother. She was fond of small trips to Foxwoods, fairs, and flea markets. She also loved shopping and going out to breakfast.

She was known as Nana to her grandkids. She will be remembered for the many happy holidays, especially Christmas, where she would provide her daughters and grandchildren with an unforgettable abundance of gifts, a tradition that is now carried on by her daughters. She enjoyed special celebrations and everyday moments she spent with her family, and was renowned for her smile and infectious laugh.

She is survived by five daughters, Elaine Breau of Lewiston, Jill Olson of Poland, Linda Young-Cormier and Donna Young, both of Auburn and Heidi Matthews and her husband, Jeff of Tucson, Ariz.; eight grandchildren, Christopher Breau, and his wife, Nicole, Joshua Gagne, Nathan Olson, Cory and Nicholas Cormier, Katy and Matthew Rabasco and Brandon Matthews; one great-granddaughter, Lydia; one sister, Beverly Haynes and her husband, John of Auburn; one brother, Gerald Rich Jr. and his wife, Diane of Tucson, Ariz.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Arthur; her parents, Jerry and Jean Rich; and her dog, Kasper.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to her wonderful caregivers at Marshwood and her good friends Frenchy and Ray.

Online condolences and photo gallery may be shared at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.