William “Bill” Henry Gatcomb

WINTHROP – Bill Gatcomb, 91, passed away Nov. 14, 2023, at his home. He was born Aug. 27, 1932, in East Machias to Ross and Alma Gatcomb.

He grew up in East Machias where he raked blueberries and worked in the woods, he graduated from Washington Academy, shortly after he joined the U.S. Air Force attaining rank of Staff Sargent. He joined the Maine State Police and was in the 17th training troop. He retired in 1976 as a Corporal. After his retirement from the State Police, he worked briefly at Mace Lumber Yard and at Saunders Mfg. for 19 years.

For the past 65 years he has lived in the same home in Winthrop. While working he provided for his family by raising beef cattle, growing a big vegetable garden and lots of berries. He also shared his love of dogs with all his children.

He and mom enjoyed square dancing with Squire Town Squares where they made many lasting friendships. Later they also liked camping in their RV and belonged to Maine Wheels RV Club.

He was predeceased by his wife of 71 years Gwen, daughter Tonda and his siblings Morrill, Ross, Arthur (Joe), Lewis and Arlane.

He is survived by his son Bill Jr. (Susan Smarr), daughters Brenda (Joe Lucas) and Andrea, “adopted” daughter Bonnie Robichaud, grandchildren Amber, Jessika and Sara, nine great grandchildren and five grand dogs.

On Nov 27 at 1 p.m., there will be a short service in the chapel at the Central Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Ave., Augusta. This will include the Maine State Police Honor Guard and Kennebec Valley Veterans Honor Guard. A gathering of family and friends will be at his home following the service at 219 Metcalf Road in Winthrop.

We would like to express special thanks to Dakota RN with Beacon Hospice, Janet Beardsley, CNP with Winthrop Family Medicine and Bridget Tillson. Deep gratitude goes to Brenda and Joe for putting their lives on hold and staying in Maine for the past year taking care of dad.

Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin Street, Winthrop, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Maine Retired Trooper Organization, 7 Ocean View Rd., Kennebunk ME 04043-7226.