Russell E. Peters Sr. Obituary (1932 - 2013)

Russell Edward Peters Sr. of Madison passed away surrounded by his family’s love on April 27, 2013, much to the sadness of his family and friends. He was born on March 12, 1932 in Madison, Maine, the son of Roland Peters and Arlene Fontaine Peters Toner. Russell married Phyllis Mae Corson of Skowhegan in 1950. He loved family, children in particular, and his own family grew to include five children, nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren with another on the way and nine great, great grandchildren. He loved them all dearly and they him. A hard worker his entire life, Russ traveled the state while working for Somerset Food-O-Mat. For a short time he owned Russ’ Garage on Main Street in Madison. He retired from SAD #59, working for them as bus driver and custodian for many years. Many students over the years sought out his wit and advice. Russ was an avid golfer who could putt and chip with the best. He spent many happy hours at Lakewood golfing with friends and family. He was famous for his lamb barbecues, loved seafood of all kinds and sure did enjoy a good whiskey. His children are most grateful for the morals and work ethic he instilled in them, his unwavering support and for the wonderful care he gave our mother during her own extended illness before her passing. He missed her terribly and is at last re-joined with the love of his life. Russell joined Euclid Masonic Lodge in December 1960 and progressed through all the degrees eventually becoming a Past Master. He then went on to join the Shriners of which he was a member for many years. Besides his parents and step-father Earle B. Toner, Russell was predeceased by his wife Phyllis, an infant daughter Sheryl, brother William C. Peters and sister Beverly Paul. He is survived by his four children who will miss him every day – Janet Dawes and husband Michael of China, Patricia Hayden and husband Dennis of South China, Russell Peters II of Matthews, North Carolina and Ruth Peacock and husband Ian of Monmouth. He was an incredible Grampie to Catheann and Jon Cochran, Jennifer and Mark Deering, William Dawes, Aaron and Laurie Hayden, Melissa and Ryan Babbidge, Russell III and Aleksandra Peters, Amanda and Scott Peacock and to his great and great-great grandchildren. He always had a smile and a handful of M&Ms for them all. He is also survived by a brother Ralph Peters and his wife Priscilla, half-sister Linda Kelley, half-brother Earle Toner Jr., sister-in-law Charlene Page, step mother Peggy Townsend and their families as well as several nieces and nephews. The children extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Rivas and his staff for the wonderful care provided during Dad’s long struggle with heart disease, the staff at Bingham Family Health Center and his friends at Taylor’s Drug Store where he stopped in daily for his newspaper and to the many friends and extended family who have and continue to offer support. In his last week, the staff at Augusta Rehab took great care of all of us for which we are also grateful. We would also like to specifically thank Kim Pooler for her support to the entire family. At Russell’s request, there will be no visiting hours. A graveside service with Masonic Rite will be held at Southside Cemetery in Skowhegan on Friday, May 3, 2013 at 2:00 PM, after which family and friends are invited to share their memories at the Peters home in Madison. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to make a memorial donation in Russell’s name to your charity of choice. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home.