ORMOND BEACH, Fla. – Carolee (Sterling) Keech, lovingly known as Carolee, passed away on Aug. 26, 2023, at the age of 86, in Ormond Beach, Fla.

She was born on Dec. 31, 1936, in Waterville, to her proud parents Walter L. and Thelma Sterling. The best tax deduction her parents could have hoped for, she always loved that the whole world celebrated her birthday.

She grew up in Bingham and attended school there, graduating in 1954. She went on to school to be a lab technician, first working at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, Mass., where she met her first husband, and they raised their children in North Amherst, Mass. Some years after they divorced, she moved to Bay City, Mich. where she met the love of her life, Nick. They were married on Sept. 13, 1983 by her brother-in-law in Maine, with her sister and parents by their side.

Carolee had a zest for life and wore many hats throughout her journey. One of her greatest joys was tending bar, where she served drinks and cared for her friends and customers. She had a special knack for making people feel welcome and loved. Carolee also had a passion for riding her Harley, cooking delicious meals, and entertaining her numerous friends who visited her over the years. She loved the many dogs she had and will be happy to see them again at the Rainbow Bridge. In her retirement, she found joy in art, dedicating her time to drawing and painting, expressing her creativity. She also enjoyed crocheting, making many beanie hats for cancer patients and donating them to local hospitals.

Carolee is survived by her loving daughter, Nancy Lindauer of South Daytona, Fla., her son, Daniel Waskiewicz and his wife Paula of Belchertown, Mass., stepdaughter, Kimberly Gray and her husband Fred of Goebles, Mich., stepson, Nick Keech and his wife Gwinn of Palm Coast, Fla., daughter-in-law, Maureen Waskiewicz of Hadley, Mass.; her sister, Suzanne Perry and her husband Meddy of Lewiston; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces; cousins; and countless friends. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Carolee was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Nicholas Keech; her sons Steven and Peter, their father, Edmund Waskiewicz; her parents; and many aunts, uncles; and cousins. May she find eternal peace in the embrace of her loved ones who have gone before her.

Carolee will be remembered for her infectious laughter, compassionate nature, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her memory will continue to inspire and bring joy to those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Cremation has taken place and plans for a celebration of her life are undetermined.

Her family asks that you remember her by tipping a cold one, having a delicious meal, going for a putt on your Harley, or spending a warm, wonderful day at the beach. Live and love like she did and enjoy your life always.

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