BIDDEFORD – Ernest Thebarge, known to all as “Ernie”, was born on April 6, 1927, in Anson, the son of Jerry and Leana (Caron) Thebarge. He passed away peacefully at St. Andres Health Care Center in Biddeford on Nov. 2, 2023, at the age of 96.

Ernie was a man of remarkable character, and anyone who had the privilege of meeting him could attest to his kind and caring nature. Throughout his life, he exemplified his faith as a devout Catholic, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and lending his voice to the church choir.

Over the years, Ernie called various places in Maine his home, including Old Town, Bangor, Houlton, Fort Fairfield, and he eventually retired to Cross Lake. As a young man, he served his country as a World War II veteran in the Army. He was a pitcher at the University of Maine graduating in 1954 and taught school after college at Madison High School. Ernie was a company manager at Commercial Union Insurance for 35 years and retired in 1989.

Ernie was not only a man of faith but also a man of many talents. He had a passion for music, playing the violin, singing, and even restoring violins. He was skilled in carpentry and took pride in crafting fly rods for his family. He also shared his love for the great outdoors, spending time hunting with his family and enjoying trips to the hunting camp and fishing excursions with the boys. His love for baseball, particularly his beloved Red Sox, was a constant in his life.

In his community, Ernie served as a Little League Coach in Houlton, touching the lives of countless young athletes. He was not only a man of faith and a loving husband but also a dedicated father to his six boys, Alan, Mark, Gary, Scott, John, and Paul. His family grew over the years to include 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and his love for them was unwavering.

Ernie was married to his beautiful wife, Lois, on Sept. 2, 1950, and they shared 63 years of love and companionship until her passing in 2013. Their love story was a testament to their unwavering commitment to one another.

Ernie was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lois; and two of his sons, Alan, and Scott.

He is survived by his four sons, Mark of Dayton, Gary and Jeanine of Biddeford, John and Laurie of Old Town, and Paul and Tammy of Buxton. He is also survived by his siblings, Edmand, Edwin, and Beanie Richardson.

Ernie Thebarge’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him, and he will be remembered as a man of deep faith, unwavering love, and boundless kindness. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Giberson Funeral Home, 40 Maple St., Madison. A funeral Mass to celebrate Ernie’s life will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. at St. Sebastian Church located at 161 Main St., Madison.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

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