Ina Mae Brainerd

AUBURN – Ina Mae Brainerd, 85, of Auburn, passed away on June 16, 2023 at Bolster Heights Residential Care facility with her son by her side, a place she considered her second home, surrounded by a team of caregivers that she worked with and mentored.

She was born on Nov. 28, 1937 in Phillips, to the late Ardine and Vertie Pease. Ina was a member of the 1956 graduating class of Edward Little High School.

On July 16, 1960 she married her high school sweetheart, the late Robert “Bob” Brainerd Sr. After a short stay in Arizona, they returned to 14 Taylor St. in Auburn for the remainder of their 47 years of marriage. Early in her life she was exposed to caring for others through her mother, who owned Pease Nursing Home. These experiences sparked a passion that led to a 54-year career at Central Maine Healthcare as a practical nurse, an administrator, and retiring as a social worker at Bolster Heights. After retirement, she continued to give back as a volunteer providing support to those in need. Throughout her career, Ina touched the lives of countless residents, and enjoyed mentoring new caregivers, many of which were there to spend time caring for her at the end of her life. Ina was an active member of the Pine Cone Chapter 26, Order of the Eastern Star.

Over 40 years were spent at Mac’s campground in Poland where many meaningful and lasting friendships were made. Ina rarely missed a potluck supper where her carrot cake and delicious pies were always requested. Ina was happiest when spending time with others no matter what the activity, she truly loved to be with people. Her favorite activities included spending time on the boat with family and friends, traveling to Florida to visit her grandkids where she also enjoyed countless sunsets, dancing and celebrating all holidays. If there was a card or board game, she was in, but never ask her to play Pictionary!

She was a wonderful, caring wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many.

She is survived by her son, Robert Brainerd Jr., and his wife Jayne of Lewiston, daughter, Belinda Castonguay and her husband Jeff of Venice Fla.; three grandchildren, Kendra Menard of Sunrise, Fla., Kelsey Riggio and her husband Nick of Rangely, Colo., and Jeffrey Castonguay Jr. of Windham. She is also survived by two sisters, Roberta Brooks of Trenton, Fla. and Melody Ham of Lewiston; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Bob; brother, Russell Pease of California and Maxine Truffaut of Maine.

The family would like to express their thanks to, Connie and the late Norm Bilodeau, lifelong neighbors and friends, Denise Provencal, Marie Ouellette, Maria Williams, Priscilla Locke and Donna Beaulieu, for their continuous support which allowed Ina to remain in her home for an additional six years.

Visitation will be held at The Fortin Group Funeral Home in Auburn on Wednesday June 21, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with an in house memorial service immediately following.

Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, 217 Turner St., Auburn, ME 04210, 207-783-8545

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Residential Council at Bolster Heights, 26 Bolster St., Auburn, ME 04210