1930 – 2013

LEWISTON — James E. Rand, 82, of Auburn, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, at Central Maine Medical Center with his family at his side.

He was born Dec. 16, 1930, a son of the late Carleton and Alfreda (Bowie) Rand. He attended local schools, graduating from Lewiston High School in the class of 1950. He furthered his education by receiving his B.S. in Business Administration from Boston University in 1954. During this time, he served his country in the U.S. Army, receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1954.

James started work as a computer programmer in Arlington, Mass. He married the love of his life, Janis Rand, in Arlington on June 9, 1962. In 1966, they relocated their young family back to Maine. In 1968, he and his wife started their own business, Valetone Cleaners, where he went to work every day, up to a week before his death.

He was a very active member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Lewiston. He was a proud member of the choir and practiced the piano at home every night, preparing the hymns that would be played at church that weekend. His love of music extended to playing a variety of instruments, including the organ, violin, trombone and harmonica. He enjoyed poetry, looking at the stars with his telescope, camping with his family and spending time at his fishpond behind his house, often with his children, watching the frogs, water bugs and just relaxing with the sounds of nature.

James is survived by his wife of almost 51 years, Janis Rand of Auburn; two children, Nancy Linz and husband, Tony, of Mukwonago, Wis., Thomas Rand and wife, Nicole, of Auburn; 10 grandchildren, Benjamin, Pfc. Jacob, Samantha, Bethany, Amber, Kelsey and Autumn Rand, Alexandra and Anna Linz, and Troy Johnson; his brother, David Rand; sister-in-law, Hazel Rand; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Rev. Robert Rand; his sister, Elizabeth Merrill and her husband, Charles.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Rand family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.