Ernie Crouse

BUCKFIELD — Ernest Edward “Ernie” Crouse, 74, of Buckfield, formerly of Bridgton, died unexpectedly Friday, Nov. 28, 2014, at his home in Buckfield.
He was born on April 10, 1940, in Waterford, a son of Charlotte (Crouse) St. Clair and George Farrar. He attended Waterford schools.
In his younger years, he worked at Grover’s Mill in Waterford and the shoe shop in Norway. He later moved to Bridgton, and worked as a heavy equipment operator and snowplow driver for Dick and Dexter McDaniels. He also worked for many years between the Town of Bridgton, Maine D.O.T., Town of Harrison, and K&K Construction in Auburn. He was well-known for his ability in operating a grader.
He was a member of the Bridgton Fire Department for over 20 years and enjoyed hunting, fishing trips to Jackman with his family and friends, and especially the company of his two dogs, Rocky and Jackson.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Paxman; a daughter, Kathy; stepchildren Tony and Vickie and their families, and Kevin and Steven Paxman; and siblings, George, Robert, Lonny, Mary and their families. He was predeceased by his parents; and his previous wives, Lorraine and Rachel.
Family and friends are invited to call from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, at the Chandler Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 8 Elm St., Bridgton. Spring interment will be at the Forest Hills Cemetery in Bridgton. Gifts may be given in Ernie’s memory to the Bridgton Fire Department, 3 Chase St., Suite 1, Bridgton, ME 04009. Online condolences may be expressed at www.chandlerfunerals.com