1927 – 2016

FARMINGTON — Donald C. Gossom, 89, passed peacefully in the early-morning hours of Monday, July 25, at Orchard Park Living and Rehabilitation Center, Farmington.

He was born April 6, 1927, in Portland, a son of Herbert and Lillian (Penney) Gossom. He attended South Portland schools and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked for Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Co. throughout the state of Maine prior to owning Don’s A.G. Food Store on Main Street in Farmington. He retired Dec. 31, 1991, after 30 years of being in business.

Don enjoyed his memberships in the Farmington Masonic Lodge No. 20, the Farmington American Legion Post No. 28, where he had served as a past commander, the Voiture No. 918, 40/8 of Augusta, and Meadow Lanes (USBC). He was also an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He will be remembered for often being heard, before seen, as he was an accomplished whistler.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Helen Lawrence Gossom of Farmington, whom he married Nov. 17, 1945, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Portland; four daughters, Donna Hargreaves and her husband, Greg, of New Vineyard, Nancy Barker and her companion, David Weeks, of Farmington, Robin Johnson and her husband, Scott, of West Bath and Kathy Gossom and her companion, Ed Perkins, of New Sharon; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and his beloved sheltie dog, Kaylie, and cat, Nellie.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Robert and Harry. Tributes and condolences may be shared on his memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com where his video tribute may also be viewed.


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