Passages
- March 14th 2025
- Passages/Obituaries
Compiled by Rev. Susan Murphy
G. Wallace “Wally” Ackroyd, 97, a former Sanford community leader, passed away peacefully on Feb. 12, 2025, in Kennebunk. Wally was born in Sanford on June 8, 1927, and dedicated his life to his family, community, and profession, leaving a legacy of leadership and service. A proud veteran, Wally served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following his service, he built a distinguished career in banking and business, serving as president of Sanford Trust Company, president and director of Northeast Bank of Sanford, and president of Lavalley Lumber. His expertise and leadership extended beyond his immediate roles, as he also served as president and director of the Maine Bankers Association and as a director of the Maine Retail Lumber Association. His contributions helped shape the economic and financial landscape of Sanford and beyond. Wally was also a tireless advocate for his community. He served as director and president of the Sanford Community Health Association, president and trustee of the Goodall Library, treasurer of the Sanford Sewerage District, director and president of the Sanford Chamber of Commerce, and trustee and president of the Goodall Hospital board. His civic involvement reflected his deep commitment to improving the lives of those around him. Above all, Wally was a devoted family man. He shared 69 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jeannine. Wally leaves behind a loving family including his son Jim and wife Lyn of Naples FL, his son Dave and wife Jo of McKinleyville, CA, and his son Greg and wife Laurie of Sanford. He was also a cherished grandfather to eight grandchildren and a beloved great-grandfather to 10 great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering commitment to both his family and community. A private family service will be held in his honor. https://conroytullywalker.com/obits/george-g-wallace-wally-ackroyd/?utm_content=button
Walter Bland, 74, passed away at his residence on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. He was born on May 13, 1950, in Sanford, the son of Donald and Patricia Bland. He grew up in Sanford, attending local schools. In 1980 he and his brother founded Ray’s Upholstery, a business he successfully ran for many years. Dedicated to his craft, he took great pride in his work until his health no longer allowed him to continue. Walter found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly fishing and boating in Boothbay Harbor. A private and independent man, he cherished his solitude. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Robert Mayo Bland. Walter is survived by his two sons, Michael Bland and his wife, Angela, of Acton, and Christopher Bland and his wife Sharon of New Hampshire; his grandchildren Jack, Tyler and Tanner Bland, and his brother, Raymond Bland of Texas. Services will be held at a later date.
Nancy Coutts, 84, passed away peacefully in her home on Feb. 11, 2025. She was born on Aug. 11, 1940, in Portland to Earle and Doris Gorrie, who were both teachers. She grew up in Sanford and graduated from Sanford High School, where she was a member of the basketball team and a flutist in the marching band. After graduation, Nancy attended the Chamberlain School of Design in Boston, where she pursued her passion for interior design and fashion. Upon obtaining her degree, she worked as a buyer in Boston. She met her future husband, Stewart (Stew) Coutts, when they worked summers at the hotel in Kennebunk. They were married on Nov. 25, 1961. As a young couple, they moved frequently for Stew’s work, and during those years, they welcomed three children: Greg, Beth, and Cyndi. They finally returned to the East Coast, settling in Connecticut to raise their family. Nancy would later return to Maine once her children spread their wings and left the area. Nancy loved art, music, and literature. She was a talented soprano who sang in many settings, including the White Hills Chorale. She loved reading, writing, and creating poetry. An avid painter and sketch artist, she started painting again in earnest as her children became more independent. She continued to create beautiful paintings and sketches for the rest of her life. She was a juried member, past president, and president emeritus of the Art Guild of the Kennebunks. She was honored with many awards throughout her career. Nancy gave of her time and talent to many organizations. She was past co-chairman of the Maine Women in the Arts, president of the Art Association of Sanford and Springvale, president of the Fleet Gallery, director of the Union Gallery in York, as well as a board member of the Sanford YMCA. Nancy had a quick wit and found humor in all things. Her warmth and kindness were palpable, with a twinkle in her beautiful blue eyes and a laugh that would make you smile and put you at ease. Nancy is preceded in death by her husband Stew. She is survived by her son Greg (Stacey), daughters Beth and Cyndi, and three grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. https://conroytullywalker.com/obits/nancy-g-coutts/?utm_content=button
Louis A Lemay, 82, of Sanford departed this world peacefully on March 4, 2025, at his son’s home, embraced by the love of his family. He was born on Oct. 9, 1942, in Sanford, the cherished son of Wilfred and Florence (Guillemette) Lemay. From humble beginnings, he cultivated a life rich in hard work, devotion, and quiet wisdom. A man of unwavering integrity and humor, Louis dedicated himself to his craft and his community. He began his career as a skilled construction craftsman, leaving his mark on the landscape of Sanford through the many homes he built. His commitment to service extended beyond his trade; he selflessly served as a volunteer firefighter and later dedicated 24 years to CYRO Industries. Alongside these roles, he also worked for the US Postal Service, where his diligence and steadfast nature shone until his well-earned retirement. Beyond his profession, Louis was a true outdoorsman, finding solace and adventure in nature’s embrace. Hunting, fishing, boating, and camping were not merely pastimes but a way of life that connected him to the rhythm of the seasons. His greatest joy was found in the presence of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life was a poignant reminder that while perfection is elusive, the effort to love deeply and selflessly is what matters most, even when unspoken. His spirit, kindness, and unwavering dedication will be forever cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his companion Susan Balomenos of Clearwater, FL; his children, Bradley Lemay, Robert (Kristy) Lemay of Sanford, Todd (Letitia) Lemay of Queen Creek, AZ, Michael (Katie) Lemay of Sanford, Michelle Guyette of Caribou; two sisters, Margella Provencher of Springvale and Celine (Ralph) Lariviere of Biddeford; his brothers; Bernard (Karen) Lemay and David (Donna) Lemay; and an impressive number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The Lemay family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Southern Maine for the exceptional compassion, care, and comfort they provided to Louis during this challenging time. A celebration of life will take place in the near future. https://conroytullywalker.com/obits/louis-a-lemay/
Nancy Ann Lincourt, a loving wife, mother and lifelong resident of Sanford, passed away
on March 8, 2025, shortly after her 81st birthday. Nancy was born in 1944, the youngest child of Ronald A. Vezeau and Irene C. Vezeau. The family lived on Bennett Court in Sanford. Nancy graduated from Sanford High School in 1962. Nancy married her beloved husband, Dr. Robert B. Lincourt, on June 18, 1966. The raised four children and were married almost 59 years. They lived in Buffalo, New York while Bob attended dental school. They welcomed their first child, Steven, born in October 1967 at Goodall Hospital in Sanford (during the World Series, which the Red Sox lost in a heartbreaker). Susan and Sandra, identical twins, were born in 1970 in Great Lakes, Illinois, where Bob was completing his Naval tour of duty. After moving back to Sanford, the family eventually settled into their home on Redcoat Lane. They
soon welcomed their youngest daughter Stacey in 1975. Nancy loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed weekend trips to the White Mountains, where her father and brother both built chalets along the Saco River in Bartlett, NH. She also spent time with family at Mousam Lake, and annual summer vacations at Wells Beach. Nancy was a hard worker. She managed the business affairs of Bob’s dental practice in Sanford for nearly four decades. She dedicated all of her free time caring for her husband, four children, and parents. She was very close to her parents, especially her mother Irene, who she considered her best friend. Nancy enjoyed sewing (a talent she inherited from her seamstress mother) and made several Halloween costumes for her children. She loved to joke and laugh and was often the life of the party. Her family and friends will miss her forever. Nancy was predeceased by her son, Steven Lincourt, her parents Ronald and Irene Vezeau, and her older brother, Robert R. Vezeau. Nancy is survived by her husband, Bob; her daughter Sandra Butler and husband, Steven of Sanford; her daughter Susan Shain and husband Jeff of Sanford; her daughter Stacey Morin and her husband Brad of Sanford; daughter in law Ester Lincourt of Florida; grandchildren Zachary Shain and wife, Brittany Card; Alex Shain and wife, Lauren; Ethan Shain; Dominic Lincourt; Benjamin Lincourt; Renee Morin and Andrew Morin; and one great-granddaughter, Emma Sue Shain. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Church in Sanford followed by a gathering of families and friends (details to be announced at the service).
Mary Ann K. Van der Woude, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at St. Andre’s Health Care Center in Biddeford. She was born in Clifton, NJ, on May 24, 1937, to James and Marie (Hoeyman) O’Leary. She was raised in Paterson, NJ, and graduated from East Side High School in 1955. Mary Ann’s life was characterized by kindness, generosity, and a deep devotion to her family and faith. A woman who truly embraced the spirit of giving, she dedicated much of her time to volunteering at various local organizations, including the Sanford Food Pantry, where she made a lasting impact on those around her. A devout Catholic, Mary Ann was an active member of St. Therese of Lisieux Parish and the Ladies of St. Anne. Known for her outgoing and social nature, Mary Ann had a heart full of love for her friends and family. She was always the first to root for the underdog and had an uncanny ability to make others feel valued and supported. Her love for family and friends was reflected in the many gatherings she hosted, where her culinary skills and warm hospitality were always on display. Mary Ann had a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, especially her beagles, Daisy Mae, Bingo, Bitsy, and Lady Jane, as well as her lab, Pepper. Mary Ann was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Raymond Van der Woude in 2018. Her legacy of love and compassion will live on through her daughters, Carole Ann Chadwick and her husband Kenneth, and Patricia Ann Van der Woude. She is also survived by three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A visitation was held March 7 at Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on March 8, at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church. Interment will take place in the spring at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Sanford.
Michael Paul Verow, 69, of Springvale, entered eternal life with Jesus Christ on March 2, 2025. He was born to Dorothy R. Verow (Trunk) and Earle A. Verow on Dec. 1, 1955, in Chicago. Many enjoyable years of his youth were spent living in the West Indies and then later in Carle Place and Westbury on Long Island, NY. He had a deep love for animals which he impressed upon his daughter, Lauren. Michael was also a gifted artist. Throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his Catholic faith. He was deeply inspired by the teachings of both St. Padre Pio and St. Francis of Assisi, whose faith, compassion, and love for others guided his every step. Michael had proudly served as a eucharistic minister at his church. His faith was a source of encouragement to others, reminding all the peace that comes from trusting in God’s plan. Michael worked over three decades as a radiological control technician supporting the Department of Navy’s mission to repair and modernize nuclear submarines. He worked at both Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard during his career. President George H.W. Bush officially recognized his personal contributions to the national defense, of which he was especially proud. Michael retired from the shipyard in 2020. He then enjoyed riding his motorcycle and spending time with family. Michael is survived by his two children, Lauren E. Verow and Thomas P. Verow, their mother Robin L. Verow, and son-in-law Shain D. Verow. He leaves behind siblings Joseph Verow, Mary Okan, Teresa McCann, Margaret Goldstein, Clare Hart, Anthony Verow, Catherine Quintana, Rosemary Freitag, and Andrew Verow; a special aunt Florence Trunk; four grandchildren; and 17 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, March 12, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 236 Eldridge Rd, Wells.
