Arthur N. Gouin Jr.

Arthur N. Gouin Jr. passed away from us Friday, June 29 at the Mane Veterans' Home after a brief stay. He was born at home in Norway, November 1, 1928, the son of Arthur Sr. and Livy (McAllister) Gouin. Educated in Norway schools, from the Upper Primary to Norway High, where he graduated in 1946. He served his country as an Electrician's Mate in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1949, at Great Lakes, aboard the U.S. Malabar and other posts. Enrolling in college immediately after his Naval service he graduated from the University of Maine at Orono in 1953 and earned his Master's of Education in 1962.
After teaching at Bridgton Academy and Mechanic Falls High School, he became principal at MFHS for five years, continuing to teach one class and to coach. The summers of 1963 and 1964 he was Norway's Recreation Director.Arthur married the former Joyce Grover on June 23, 1956. They had 51 years of love and respect until her passing in 2007.

He was the first Executive Director of the Oxford County Economic Opportunity Council (now Community Concepts) and a principle organizer of Oxford County Mental Health Association (which became Tri-County Mental Health). He worked 12 years as University of Maine Extension Agent in Community Development.

After working two years in construction he bought L.F. Pike & Son in 1980, retiring in 2003.

His love of music led him to school performances, the Navy's Great Lakes Glee Club, his church choir, and to be a founding member of the Hillsmen Barbershop Chorus.

He was a 69-year member and Deacon Emeritus of the Second Congregational Church of Norway.

An active Mason, Arthur was raised in Oxford Lodge #18 AF & AM in November 1953, and was an affiliate member of Mt. Tir'em Lodge #136; Past High Priest – Oxford Royal Arch Chapter #29; Past Illustrious Master – Oxford Council #14 R & SM; Past Grand Standard Bearer – Grand Lodge of Maine; Member – Lewiston Commandery #6 Knights Templar; Maine Consistory – Valley of Portland; Oxford Chapter #168, OES; Maine Council, Order of High Priesthood; Maine Council, Order of Thrice Illustrious Masters.

He was a member of American Legion Post #82 of Norway, and a founder of the Veterans' Breakfast; Past President of Norway Merchant's/Business Association. Over the years he belonged to and served as officer in numerous professional organizations.

Arthur leaves behind his brother Donald H. of Norway; children Lesley and Gary Dean of Stoneham; grandchildren Andrew and Rachel Dean of Wiscasset, and Ryan and Liz Dean of Norway, and his absolute delights, Brynn Livy and Bradyn Levi, and many much loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his beloved Joyce and son Peter.

The family wishes to thank the women of Beacon Hospice and Maine Veterans' Home for their wonderful, loving care, devotion and support, especially Jessica and Tovah, by God's grace you became part of our family and will always be.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to the establishment of the Oxford Lodge Memorial Library, 9 Temple St., Norway, ME 04268, or to any of the programs that serve our hungry neighbors such as the Free Supper Program, Second Congregational Church, Main Street, Norway, ME 04268.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, July 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Oxford Hills and Weston Funeral Services, 1037 Main St., Rte. 26, Oxford, Maine. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 7 at 1 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church in Norway. Interment will be private. Arrangements under the direction of Oxford Hills and Weston Funeral Services. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.oxfordhillsfuneralservices.com