FARMINGTON — Elmer E. Lake, 86, of Fayette, died early Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 at Franklin Memorial Hospital.

He was born Dec. 23, 1925, in East Wilton, the son of Bernal E. Lake and Helen (Bryant) Lake. In 1932, after the death of his father, the family moved to Livermore Falls. He attended school in Livermore Falls.

Elmer worked for International Paper at the Otis Mill until he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving during World War II, and was discharged in 1946. When Elmer returned home, he worked on his grandfather’s farm and returned to work in the Coating Prep Department at the Otis Mill in Jay.

In 1952, he married Louise Paradis; together they raised seven children while farming on Moose Hill Road.

Elmer retired in 1988 after 42 years. Elmer and Louise retired to “Tranquility Hill” on Fayette Ridge.

He enjoyed farming, gardening, playing cards, and in his younger years hunting. Elmer was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. His family meant everything to him, and his life revolved around them.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Louise Lake of Fayette; five sons, Bernal Lake of Livermore Falls, Reginald Lake of Jay, Greg Lake of Livermore Falls, Rodney Lake of Livermore Falls and Jeffery Lake of Naples; two daughters, Lorinda Sargent of Colchester, Vt. and Benita Berry of Fayette; 14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister, Maxine Bailey; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father and mother; sisters, Phyllis Dolloff and Minola Bubier; and brothers, Kenneth and Norman Lake.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.finleyfuneralhome.com

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, at St. Rose of Lima Church, 1 Church Street, Livermore Falls. Interment will be in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery, 445 Park Street, Livermore Falls.

If desired, contributions may be made to Maine’s Paper and Heritage Museum, P.O. Box 293, Jay, ME 04239.