CORNVILLE – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Kathleen, at the age of 93, on August 21, 2023.

A loving mother, a devoted grandmother, and a cherished friend, she touched the lives of all who were fortunate to come into her life.

Kathleen was born on March 7, 1930, in Skowhegan, the daughter of Aime and Helena (Burke) Perrault. She attended schools in Skowhegan and graduated from Skowhegan High in 1948. She married Ronald Gamage in 1951. They resided at their picturesque farm in Cornville for 60 years, where they raised their seven children. She was an exceptional homemaker and maintained thriving vegetable and flower gardens.

Katie was predeceased by her devoted husband, Ronald; her parents; and her siblings, Marguerite Buteau, Agnes Burke, Joseph Perrault, and Joan Scheferman.

Our mom leaves behind her seven children, Tony of Houston, Texas, Ellen and her husband Gary Crocker of West Gardiner, Carol and her husband Allan Dunkerly of Portland, Bruce of Oro Valley, Ariz., Dean and his wife Erla of New Sharon, Susan and her husband Charlie Miller of Skowhegan, and John and his wife Tammy of Cornville. She leaves behind many beloved grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Katie also leaves behind her cherished friend of 90 years, Leonita Mathieu Lefebvre.

Kathleen dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting her children, instilling the values of faith, compassion, and resilience. Her warm smile and open heart welcomed everyone into her home, making it a place of laughter, comfort, and togetherness. She especially loved the holiday and family reunion get-togethers.

Beyond her role as a mother, Kathleen had many passions including her Catholic faith-sharing group, reading, quilting, knitting, crocheting, basket making and scrapbooking. She loved playing her favorite card game, “Hand & Foot,” with her card-shark friends. For 21 years, Kathleen served as a “Lunch Lady” for SAD 54, where she was often referred to as “Mom” by the students. Beginning in her 50s, Kathleen started cruising the world and enjoyed 15 voyages, exploring such places as the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, and Alaska. Her vibrant spirit and zest for life inspired those around her to live fully and appreciate every moment.

We remember Kathleen with gratitude for the countless memories she gifted us. Her love will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to shine through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Kathleen’s family wishes to thank all the dedicated staff at the Maine Veteran’s Home for their devotion, particularly the compassionate team on Eagles Landing Delta, who cared for her for the last year of her life.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 11 a.m. at Notre Dame de Lourdes Church, 273 Water St., Skowhegan.

If desired, donations may be made to the

Maine Veteran’s Home,

Augusta Campus,

35 Heroes Way,

Augusta, ME 04330

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