FARMINGTON — Emerson R. Gould, 82, of Farmington passed away Friday, July 22, at Sandy River Center for Health Care in Farmington.

He was born Dec. 9, 1928, in North New Portland, the son of Raymond and Grace (Newell) Gould. Emerson attended school in North New Portland and then married Earnestine Hewey, having four children with her. She died in 1973.

For many years he worked as a self employed carpenter and painter. In 1965 Emerson went to work for International Paper Co. in Jay, retiring in 1996.

In May 1974, he married Arliss Balser. Emerson enjoyed dancing back in the day when dances were held as community events, sometimes going three nights on the weekends. He also enjoyed traveling and getting together with his large family. He was known to always be a gentleman and to enjoy life. Emerson was a former member of the Farmington Elks Lodge.

Emerson is survived by his wife of 37 years, Arliss; six daughters, Shirley Twidwell and husband, Bill, of Rumford, Diane Ryerson and husband, James, of Topsham, Eva French and husband, Albert, of Vassalboro, Lorraine Smith of Livermore, Catherine Siggens of Madison, and Julie Perkins and husband, George, of Benton; son, Royce Gould, of Portland; 17 grandchildren, Angela, Jamie, Melonie, Karen, Rebecca, Jeremy, Anita, Troy, Amy, Nicholas, Ashley, Michael, Joseph, Sean, Shawn, Cindy and Melissa; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; a sister, Albertine Smith, of Wilton; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Emerson was predeceased by two sons, Lewis Daniel Newcomb Jr. and Coleman Gould; a sister, Althea; and two brothers, Raymond and Dwight Gould.

Condolences may be sent for the family at www.adamsmcfarlane.com.