NORTH FRYEBURG — Leslie “Les” Howard Farrin, 81, of North Fryeburg, passed away on Dec. 8, 2012, with family by his side.

Les was born in Athens on Dec. 15, 1930. He had an adventurous spirit and at the young age of 13 he slipped a note under his seventh grade teacher’s door announcing that he was quitting school. He supported himself through his teen years doing various jobs and often reminisced about working for his father and living at the Fernald’s Farm in Stow. One of the things he was proud of as a young man was operating a bulldozer and helping contain the 1947 Brownfield fire. He continued this work ethic and interest in his community throughout his life.

Les served in the Army Air Corp., 82nd Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, N.C., from 1952–1954. He made numerous parachute jumps and one of his prize possessions was a picture of the 82nd parachuting during a training exercise.

He lived in the North Fryeburg area for more than 40 years and was the owner/operator of several general contracting companies and lastly, Farrin Trucking. Then it was just himself, his truck, his dog Smokey, and the open road until he finally retired in 2004.

Les had a zest for life and had many passions. He raced mini-modified cars and snowmobiles, loved to fish, organize family reunions, and drive his dune buggy. He was also very passionate about local and national politics. He was a member of the Masons and always wore his ring proudly. He enjoyed attending and participating in the Fryeburg Fair and was a life member.

Les is survived by his three children, Joanne Farrin, Dawn Canales and Clayton Farrin; his three grandchildren; his four great-grandchildren; along with many nieces and nephews.

Les was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Farrin and Isabel York Farrin; as well as 11 siblings.

Visiting hours were held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren Street, Fryeburg. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Fryeburg Church of the New Jerusalem, with the Rev. Sage Currie officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Fryeburg. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.org

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org