1927 – 2013

CHELSEA — Gerald Elwin Bartlett, 85, of Monmouth, died Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Togus Spring Hospice for Veterans in Chelsea.

He was born in Keene, N.H., on Nov. 8, 1927, the son of George Mayes Bartlett and Marion Pearl Bassett Bartlett. He joined the U.S. Navy the day after he turned 17, serving during the last years of World War II. He was proud of his 20 years of service. Gerald married the love of his life, Mary Louise Lewis, on July 19, 1952. They celebrated 61 years together with family a few days after entering hospice.

Besides his career in the Navy, Gerald worked for Navy Recreational Services as manager of the Hobby Shop at Brunswick Navel Air Station for 10 years. He also worked at Noyes Hardware in Brunswick, Bath Industrial Sales and Maranacook Feed and Fencing in Winthrop.

In retirement, he enjoyed woodworking and reading. He loved his family and was always available to help them and attend outings. Following a serious car accident in 2010, Gerald and Mary moved to Montello Heights in Lewiston.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Mary; a son, David and his wife, MaryAnn, of Monmouth; a daughter, Diane Rector and her husband, Richard, of Brunswick; and a son, Darrell and his wife, Theanna, of West Gardiner. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Debra, who passed away in 1999.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.finleyfuneralhome.com.