Obituary of Ronald Foggy Staples

BANGOR - Ronald K. "Foggy" Staples, 80, husband of Edith (Hutchinson), died Jan. 16, 2013, at a local nursing home. He was born Jan. 18, 1932, to Thelma (McLoud) and Morris Staples. Ronnie graduated in 1950 from Bangor High School, where he excelled in baseball and continued on to the minor league. From there he served in the U.S. Navy Corps during the Korean War as a gunner aboard ship. Being able to play the bugle he was assigned to play "Taps" for many military funerals. Today his rendition of "Taps" can still be heard at funerals as it was recorded by the military. After his discharge he started unloading pulpwood by hand for Eastern Fine Paper, Brewer, where he continued to work as a liaison for corporate officials. At one time he owned the shipping rights on the Penobscot River. After a stint selling insurance, he started siding homes in Bangor when aluminum siding became popular. He was a member of Bangor Elks Club, where he made many long lasting friends. Ronnie was well known for his strong handshake and quick humor. He never said a bad word about anybody. He was a devoted husband and caregiver to his wife during her illness and passing. He leaves behind his stepdaughter, Deanna (Hutchinson) Wetzer and her husband of Exeter; stepson, Francis Hutchinson of Connecticut; eight grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by stepson, Severin Hutchinson of Connecticut. At his request there will be no funeral service. A private committal will be held at a later date.