Obituary of Francis Leroy Carlstrom

Millinocket and Bangor, ME - Francis Leroy (Ditz) Carlstrom, a well-loved and respected man of 86, passed away on December 3, 2022 with his wife and son by his side.

Dad was born in the family home on Lincoln Street in Millinocket, Maine. The middle child of seven children, he paid his own way early, shining shoes, shoveling snow, delivering milk, and, at 16, working school nights at Great Northern Paper. He was proud of his Swedish heritage and maintained a strong work ethic his entire life. 

Dad met his beautiful bride of 68 years, Arlene Cotton, at Stearns High School. They married in 1954 and raised four children in Millinocket and East Millinocket. Dad adored Mom and let her know it every day. In 1967, Dad joined Met Life, becoming a top salesman and branch manager. He recruited and led a great group of men who were top producers for many years. He was a caring landlord, skilled outdoorsman, friendly neighbor, and faithful friend. Always quick to volunteer to help others, Dad worked incredibly hard, but also danced when it was dancing time. He was kind, generous, thoughtful, affectionate, resourceful, honest, and fun-loving. In his later years, Dad would easily break into tears of gratitude. His faith became deeper and personal. He disciplined himself with daily devotions and prayers for all his family. 

Francis Leroy, Dad, Papa, Frank, Uncle Ditz, Mr. C. was always striving to be better and to help the people around him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. 

Francis Leroy “Ditz” Carlstrom is survived by his wife, Arlene; sister Mary McLaughlin; brothers Ansel and Gerald; daughters Terry Archer and husband Allen, Tana Crate, and Tori Britton and husband, Mark Wellman; son Andrew and wife Christine; grandchildren Ryan and Jeremy Portwine and wife Holly, Anthony Elkins, Laura George and husband Mike, Isaac Britton, and Marcella Britton; great-grandchildren Kimberly and Dwayne Portwine and Luke, Whitney, and Francis Levi Portwine; and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Marcella, brothers Charles and Robert, and sister Evelyn Lakeman.

A celebration of Dad’s life will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please give someone a big smile and hug today and tell them Francis Leroy sent you.