Passages October 8, 2023:

L-R: Robert Austin, Robert Dunham, Norris Stansfield

By Rev,. Sue Murphy

Robert L. Austin Sr., 93, affectionately known as “Bad Bob Austin,” passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, at The Lodges Care Center in Springvale. Born on April 10, 1930, in Sanford, the only child of the late Louis and Katherine (Fields) Austin, Bob graduated from Sanford High School. He proudly served as a “Seabee” in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. During his lifetime, he acquired a multitude of skills, making him a true Jack of all trades. He had a deep love for dirt bikes and motorcycles, serving as a mentor to countless young men, introducing them to the thrill of racing. Affectionately known as “Bad Bob Austin,” he had a magnetic personality and was a true people person. He leaves his loving wife, Anne of Sanford; a daughter, Sandra Legere; a son, Robert “Chip” Austin Jr., both of Sanford; stepson James Andrews of North Carolina; grandchildren Erin, Nathan, Brooke and Kathleen. A gathering to celebrate Bob’s extraordinary life will be held at a later time to be announced. Read his full obituary at

https://blackfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/robert-austin.

Robert “Bob” Dunham passed away on Sept. 26,2023 at home. He was born in Sanford, the son of James and Margaret Wright Dunham. After serving in the Army in World War II, Bob returned to his hometown and married Betty in 1951; she would be by his side for 72 years. Bob was a talented man and worked as a Sanford fireman, millwright, plant engineer and facility supervisor, ending his long working career at Pratt & Whitney in 1988. Bob was an avid hunter who also enjoyed fishing, playing golf and bowling. Bob and Betty moved to Acton in 2002. Read his full obituary at https://memorials.bibbersautumngreen.com/robert-dunham.

Norris W. Stansfield, 79, passed away at Pinnacle of Sanford, Maine on Sept. 30, 2023. He was born in Sanford, the son of the late Norman I. Stansfield and Marie Camire Stansfield. He grew up in Sanford, graduating from Sanford High School in 1964. He was employed by Cyro for 40 years, Jerry’s Diner for 40 years and NAPA for five years. A Red Sox and Patriots fan, he enjoyed the company of his family and members of the community, who shared his love of hunting. Norris had a huge heart and was loved by so many. He will be dearly missed. Read his full obituary at https://memorials.bibbersautumngreen.com/norris-stansfield.