Donald R. Larrabee Sr., 91

WINDHAM — Donald R. Larrabee Sr., 91, died on Saturday, March 26, 2016, at his home with his family by his side.

He was born in Solon on Aug. 15, 1924, the son of Ralph and Ida (Norton). As a young child, he moved around, growing up in Cumberland before his family moved to Gorham. He attended local schools until he got a job on a local farm, which was related to the war effort. After a few months, he enlisted in the United States Navy, and proudly served his country from 1943–1947. When he returned from Florida, where he was stationed, he started attending the University of Maine on the GI Bill, and eventually went on to receive his master’s degree in forestry from Duke University, where he also minored in civil engineering. In 1957, Donald married Julia Pecoraro. He was then offered a position that required him to move to Turkey, to build transmission lines across the Bosporus Strait.

Over the years, his career took him to different countries including a five-and-a-half-year stint in Iran, where he was the resident engineer for Haza and then D.N.R. before leaving in 1979 due to the Khomeini takeover. Upon their return, the couple settled back in Maine. His work took him to many different states, working for companies such as Charles T. Mains and Stone and Webster. When Donald was not working, he enjoyed anything outdoors, including birdwatching and his gardens, both flower and vegetable.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Julia; his son, Donald R. Larrabee Jr. of Windham; stepson, Agostino “Gus” P. Samson of Harrison; eight grandchildren and his great-granddaughter.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Clayton Larrabee, and sister Mariam Larrabee.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, April 4, 2016, at the Dolby Funeral Chapel, 434 River Road, Windham. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5, at the Chapel. Burial will follow at Arlington Cemetery, Windham. To express condolences and to participate in Donald’s online tribute, visit: www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com