Arthur “Art” Winslow Ferland

CANTON – Arthur “Art” Winslow Ferland, “Papa”, 83, of Canton, passed away peacefully on Oct. 17, 2025, born in Rumford, Oct. 9, 1942. His life came full circle after a journey marked by dedication to family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Art was educated in the Mexico school system and began his career with Maine Central Railroad shortly after graduation. He worked as a clerk—a role that demanded long hours on foot manually checking boxcars and recording their contents. As technology evolved, so did Art; he adapted from pencil and paper to computers with grace and determination. After retiring from the railroad, he wasn’t ready to slow down just yet. He earned his license to drive 18-wheelers and spent another decade on the open road. These years brought new adventures as he traveled across the country with his wife, Janet, and their loyal family dog by his side.

Art had a lifelong love of vehicles—whether it was cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, or big rigs. He took great pride in keeping them spotless from roof to tires. His garage and driveway were often filled with the gleam of polished chrome and freshly washed paint. He was always organizing or cleaning something around the house or garage—his way of bringing order and care into every corner of his world.

Camping trips, motorcycle rides through scenic backroads, snowmobiling in winter landscapes—these were some of Art’s favorite pastimes. For over 10 years, he and Janet made annual journeys in their motorhome to Florida for the winter months, creating cherished memories along the way.

Art was known for his calm demeanor and steady presence. He had a gift for making light of difficult situations and offered advice that came from experience and wisdom. He never said “no,” always approached life with patience, and taught those around him through quiet example rather than loud instruction.

He was always a gentleman in the truest sense—always helping Janet with her jacket or opening her car door without fail. His kindness extended beyond gestures; it lived in how he treated others—with respect, warmth, and unwavering support.

Art is survived by his beloved wife, Janet (Millett) Ferland; daughter, Kelly (Ferland) Newton and spouse Michael Newton, son, Arthur “Artie” Ferland and Kristen Douglass; grandchildren Alex Ferland, Lauren Ferland and fiance Joel Jackson, Tyler Newton, and granddaughter, Tristen (Newton) Pingree and spouse Nicholas Pingree.

He is also survived by Also is survived by a sister Ann Rouleau and husband Bob of Rumford Maine and Florida, and brothers John Ferland and wife Kristina of Cumberland Foreside, Maine and Peter Ferland and wife Eileen of Melbourne, Fla., a sister-in-law Avey Delano and late husband Joe Delano originally from New Hampshire and now Avey in Ohio and brother-in-law Larry Millett and wife Laura of Berwick, Maine; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Arthur J. Ferland and Gwendolyn “Pinky” Ferland.

Art did not want a service but he will be held closely in his family and friends hearts.

Arthur Winslow Ferland will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend—a man who lived fully yet humbly. His legacy lives on in those who knew him best. May his memory bring comfort to all whose lives he touched.