Obituary of Carol F. Howard

Carol F. Howard, 81, known by all as “Mamie”, died unexpectedly October 19th, 2010 at Waldo County General Hospital in Belfast. Carol was born December 23, 1928 in Duluth, MN, the only child of Rudolph and Sadie (Hendrickson) Paulson. She was very proud of her Finnish and Norwegian Heritage, having been third generation of immigrants from Finland. Carol moved to Maine as a teenager, graduating from Crosby High School in 1947. She considered Maine her real home, and was pleased to receive an “official Mainer” birth certificate in 2000 and a promise from her family to never call her an “import”. Carol was employed as an office worker for many years at Penobscot Poultry Co., retiring at the age of 62. She treasured her home near family in the Poors Mills area for over 30 years. Mamie is survived by four of her five children; Donna G. Howard and fiance’ Jerry Crabtree of Searsport, Rebekka (Freeman) Merrithew and husband Jack of Searsport and Swanville, Susan M. Castro and husband Manny of Honolulu, HI, and her only son, Bruce D. Howard of Swanville. Survivors also include six grandsons, Gary Nickels, Robert Nickels, Travis Nickels and his wife Heather, Bruce Wood and wife Michelle, Neal Wood Jr. and wife Kimberly, Scott Wood and wife Tonya. Great-grandchildren include Kristen Nickels, Cade Nickels, Matthew Wood, Kornealius Wood and sisters, Kristi and Kelsey Jackson; “daughter” Cynthia Patten Lewis and husband John; several nieces and nephews. “Mamie” also leaves behind her extended Poors Mills family whom she loved very much. She was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Sandra F. Wood and sons-in-law, Robert S. Nickels and Carl M. Freeman. Mamie lived her life for her family and was an amazing grandmother. She often had all six grandsons, as children, stay overnight at one time. She has left us with so many treasured memories. As Mamie requested, there will be no formal services. Her wishes are to have family and friends get together and tell funny Mamie stories of which there are many. This celebration of her life will be held next summer. Arrangements are under the care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue, Belfast. Condolences may be expressed to Donna Howard, 7 Lake Shore Lane, Searsport, ME 04974 or via e-mail at crab.lj88@207me.com. to be shared with the family.