Dolores J. Messer

VASSALBORO – Dolores J. Messer, affectionately known as Dodo, left us on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, at the age of 70, at the Alfond Center for Health after a brief illness.

Born in Augusta Nov. 15, 1955, Dolores spent her entire life deeply rooted in her community. A loving mother, hardworking businesswoman, and passionate hobbyist, Dolores maintained an unwavering commitment to her family and her hometown.

Dolores was a force to be reckoned with in the business world. She operated Pine State Towing in Randolph for many years, demonstrating her tenacity and grit. Upon selling the business, she briefly retired before diving back into the industry with Best Priced Towing and Sonny Time Recycling in Chelsea. Her dedication to her work was only outmatched by her dedication to her family, which was the most important aspect of her life. Dolores was widowed, having lost her beloved spouse, Richard Jr., on Dec. 23, 2025.

In her leisure time, Dolores had a special fondness for the simple pleasures in life. She loved gardening and had a special affinity for cats and birds. She also enjoyed trips to the beach and the casino, adding a touch of excitement to her life. Dolores was a woman of commitment and passion, and she left an indelible impact on those lucky enough to have known her.

Dolores was preceded in death by her spouse, Richard Jr., her brother Lee Nelson and her parents, Alfred and Joyce Nelson.

She is survived by her two sons, Don Nelson and wife JoAnn Nelson, and Charles Messer and wife Martha Brown, all of Vassalboro; three stepsons Richard Messer, Jeremy Messer of Richmond, and Chucky Messer of Brunswick; many grandchildren Jacob Nelson, Ashley Nelson, Joleigh Messer, Treyton Messer, Dylan Brown, Kayla Messer, Damian Messer, and J.D. Messer; two sisters Mary Nelson of Pittston and Vicki Nelson of Waterville; brother Al Nelson of Randolph, and a sister-in-law, Grace Sidelinger of Randolph.

Dolores’ graveside service will take place along with her husbands on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2 p.m., at the Putnam Cemetery, Whitefield Road (Rt. 126), in Pittston.

We invite those who knew Dolores to share their memories and upload photos of her to the memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.