1942 – 2013

LEWISTON — Roberta E. “Bobbie” Veilleux passed away on Feb. 6 in Lewiston, after a period of declining health.

The daughter of Everett B. Kaherl and Elizabeth L. (Garland) Kaherl, Bobbie was born Aug. 23, 1942. After residing in Winthrop for several years and attending Winthrop schools, the family moved to North Vassalboro, where she attended Lowell Grammar and later, Winslow High School.

Bobbie lived many years with bipolar disorder, and only came into her own in the late 1980s, when was diagnosed and was given the tools to deal with her problem. In 1989, she started school at CMVTI in Auburn, and was proud of the fact that she was able to gain a certificate in Food Services from that institution. Cooking and adding to her collection of cookbooks was something that she took a great deal of pleasure from. Harvest time would often find her gathering vegetables, and springtime was the time for dandelions and fiddleheads for canning. She enjoyed working in the food service industry until her failing health forced her retirement. Her time as a food service worker, preparing meals for the residents of Bolster Heights, was the best for her.

Bobbie developed a love of birds, particularly cockatiels, later in life, and enjoyed their “singing” in her apartment, and later, at Russell Park Manor, where they still share their voices with the residents.

The Faith Auburn Baptist Church became home to Bobbie, and the ladies in the congregation continued their friendship to the end of her life.

She is survived by her two sons, Scott and Richard Veilleux, both of Lewiston; and grandsons, Richard and Michael Veilleux. She is also survived by sisters, Rebecca Greene, of Waterville, Beverly Pelletier, of Canaan; and brothers, Everett Kaherl, of Lisbon, and Bruce Kaherl, of Sabattus. Two of her half-sisters, with whom she shared childhood memories, Irvine Mushrow and Theresa Pearson, also survive her.

Bobbie was predeceased by her parents; and Emma Stanley, Nelson Kaherl, Irene Pearson, Marlene Motley and John Kaherl, all half-siblings.

Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralalternatives.net.