LEWISTON — Franklin T. Gish, of Lewiston, formerly of Limestone, died Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Marguerite d’Youville Pavilion with his loving family by his side. Frank was born in Winner, S.D., on Nov. 5, 1938, the son of Leonard & Rose Snow Gish. He attended Colome local schools and graduated from Colome High School with the Class of 1956. On Sept. 16, 1967, he married the love of his life, Charlene Poitras, in Grand Falls, N.B. Frank enlisted in the United States Air Force where he made a lifetime career and traveled the country with his wife and son, Daniel. He proudly served throughout the United States, including time in Guam, Korea, Spain, Hawaii, California, and returning to where he met the love of his life at Loring AFB for his final station. He served in different positions including, of which he was most proud, as an aircraft mechanic for Air Force One under the presidencies of Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon for six years. Other roles included commander of aircraft maintenance at Loring AFB and head of Squadron Nuclear Safety, also at Loring AFB. He retired as master sergeant after 28 years from the United States Air Force in 1985.

After his retirement from the U.S. Air Force, Frank worked for Boeing and Lockheed, Loring AFB Supply Squadron (civilian), and DFAS Limestone (Accounting Center for the U.S. Military). He also became the first in his family to obtain a Bachelor of Science in industrial technology from USM and an accounting degree from Husson College.

Among Frank’s interests were working around his yard, barbecuing for family and friends, fixing old cars, coaching and volunteering for local recreation boards, and being involved in his son Dan’s youth sports teams. His greatest pleasure in life, however, was the time he spent with his wife, son, grandchildren and close family and friends. He loved making jokes and seeing people around him laugh. He especially loved singing and dancing with his wife, Charlene.

He is survived by his wife, Charlene, of Lewiston; his son, Daniel and wife, Cindy Gish of Lewiston; his grandson, Hunter Gish and granddaughter, Lilly Gish, both of Lewiston. He also leaves behind two sisters, June (Dale) Screvens of Hastings, Neb., and Doreen Tennett of Grand Island, Neb.; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. Frank is predeceased by his mother and father; and siblings, Philip Gish, Leo Gish, William Ace Gish, Lindy Gish, Gerald Gish and Roland Gish; and in-laws, William and Yvonne Poitras.

You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Franklin’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.

Franklin T. Gish

Franklin T. Gish