1951 – 2016

TOGUS — Neil R. Yannayon of Litchfield died Tuesday, March 8, at the Veterans’ Hospital, Togus.

He was born Aug. 16, 1951, in Portland, the son of William F. and Jennie Russo Yannayon Sr. Upon graduation from Portland High School, Neil entered the U.S. Navy. He was a communications specialists RM1 (SS) and served at NAVCOMSTA, Beavertail Point, R.I.; on the Vogelgesang (DD 862); SSBN George Washington Carver; SSN Swordfish; SSN Albuquerque and at NAS, Brunswick. It was in the navy that Neil became known as “Yummy.”

After being honorably discharged from the navy, Neil worked for many years at Bath Iron Works. He will be remembered by many as the local DJ “The Wanders.”

Neil love to celebrate his native heritage, spending weekends at local POW WOWS. He was known by many as the Candyman because he carried a pouch full of candy to share, especially bulleyes and tootsie pops. He was an avid motorcyclist. He loved Harleys but last year got his dream ride, an Indian.

Neil belonged to the Patriot Guard Riders and the Pine Tree Chapter – Indian Riders Group. He loved taking rides all over the United States. A favorite ride was the Tail of the Dragon through North Carolina and Tennessee. He liked going to the casinos. Neil loved to go dancing and roller-skating.

Neil is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Dianna and Justin Higgins of Litchfield, with whom he resided; his son, Robert Frechette Sr. of Lewiston; six grandchildren, Harley-Brittany of Lewiston, Shawntel and Justin Jr. of Litchfield, Robert Jr., Sabrina and Chris, all of Lewiston; and one great-grandson, David of Lewiston.