FRYEBURG – Gerald “Gay” Kiesman Sr., proud member of the Greatest Generation, passed on to eternal rest on Jan. 10, 2022 at the age of 95. Gay was born in Fryeburg, May 6, 1926, son of Lester and Eldora (Richardson) Kiesman, one of five children, including siblings Dorothy, Laurence, Leonard, and Fred.

After graduating from Fryeburg Academy, he enlisted in the army during WWII, even though, because of his older brother’s commitment to service, he could have waived service. He served as part of General MacArthur’s Philippine Liberation group which liberated the islands from the Japanese.

Gay returned to Fryeburg and married Shirley Osgood, who unfortunately passed soon after. He later married Ada Allard and they began their life together, raising three sons. Paul, of Conway, N.H., Roger (Liz), of Lakeland, Fla., and Gerald Jr. (Carol) of Waterville. He also leaves behind several beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gay was actively involved in service to community, whether it be town, county, state or nation. He helped found the town Rescue service, served on the fire department for 72 years, was active as a town police officer, and ran a rifle club for local youths.

After his 44 year career at Osgood Brothers in Fryeburg, he retired only to join the Maine Forestry Service. He worked for the forestry well into his eighties.

Gay and Ada ran a successful ceramics business in their retirement and enjoyed all the interactions that provided

Gay was blessed with an incredible stable of true and loyal friends. The family wishes to express special thanks to Gregg Hesslein, Chief Andy from the Fryeburg fire department, Ashley, his caregiver, and countless others who made his life so rewarding.

At Gay’s request, there will be no formal services at this time. A spring interment will be planned.

Donations in his memory may be made to the:

Fryeburg Fire Department

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