LEWISTON – Ronald Charles Burgess, 83, of Leeds, died on April 3, at St. Mary’s Hospital, with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Pittston on March 24, 1926, the son of Christof and Iva (Crockett) Burgess, formerly of Dresden.

He graduated from Bridge Academy in Dresden in 1944. He then went on to serve his country proudly in the U.S. Army during World War II as a mechanic in Germany, holding the rank of sergeant.

He enjoyed woodworking, ultimately making a career of building homes and public buildings, making children’s toys, traveling and went to Florida on many trips. He especially enjoyed collecting Matchbox toys. He was particularly proud to create a grandfather clock for each of his children. Although he did not enjoy watching television, he loved watching Walt Disney cartoons and stories.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; children, Pamela Whitaker and husband, Brad, of Winslow, Ronna Bernier and husband, David, of Richmond, Rachel McAllister and husband, Tom, of Buxton, Mark Burgess and wife, Ruth, of Greene, Risa Paquet and husband, Louie, of Oxford and Rita Burgess of Apex, N.C.; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is loved and will be missed by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his sisters, Christine Kimball and Belva Bickford; and a son, Royce Clifton Burgess.