1928 – 2015

RUMFORD — Donald W. Paiton Sr., 87, of Weld, and originally of Minot, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Rumford Community Hospital.

He was born in Lewiston on Nov. 11, 1928, a son of the late George and Clara (Peverly) Paiton. He grew up in the Auburn area and attended local schools there. He was a graduate of Edward Little High School, Class of 1947.

On Sept. 22, 1951, he married Barbara Everett in Winthrop and the two started a family together. During that time, for many years, Don was a co-owner and agent for A.Q. Miller Insurance Co. and finished his career with Norton Financial Services.

In the early 1940s, he and his brother, Dwight, co-founded the Goff Hill Wildcats, which contributed much to Auburn youth athletics. He was also the treasurer and a volunteer for the Minot Fire Dept. and a member of the Minot School Board.

He found great enjoyment in snowmobiling and hunting and will always be remembered as a very crafty handyman. His passion for working with concrete and pouring foundations for himself and others was immeasurable. Also, his storytelling methods and attention to detail were extremely impressive and entertaining.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Barbara of Minot; his four children, Catherine Knowles and her husband, Robert, of Bridgton, Donald Paiton Jr. and his wife, Janet, of Rio Rancho, N.M., Sharon Paiton-Romano and her husband, George, of Minot, and George Paiton and his girlfriend, Dana Morrell, of Minot. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his twin brother, Dwight; and a sister, Dorothy.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.