NORWAY — Maude Alice Pike York, 91, of Oxford died Aug. 23, 2011 at Stephens Memorial Hospital.
She was born Jan. 13, 1920, in Norway, to Agnes French and George Pike. She was the ancestor of the great pioneer, John French, who was one of the first settlers of North Norway arriving in 1799. She graduated from Norway High School in 1939, as salutatorian of her class. While she was in high school, she was on the basketball team.
Maude spent many happy summers with her parents at Old Orchard Beach. She married Maurice Edward York in 1940, and they were married for 55 years. They moved to the Webber Brook Road in 1941, and spent their lives there.
Eight children were born at the homestead and Maude’s family was very dear to her. She was the happiest when her children and grandchildren were visiting with her. Maurice and Maude always had a huge garden and the children remember all the canning, baking and caring she did for her family.
Memories of filled cookies, doughnuts, molasses cookies, all the puddings and pies and let’s not forget the bean suppers on Saturday nights were always shared at family gatherings. Maude enjoyed her flower gardens and her pets, especially the cats.
Maude is survived by her seven children, Maurice Jr. of Oxford, Sharlene Stefani of Dixfield, Robert of Bethel, Raymond of Seaside, Ore., Priscilla Nickerson of Oxford, Carol of Oxford and Gloria Moore of Bowling Green, Ky.; 11 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; nieces, including Jean McKay of Casco, and nephew.
Maude was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Maurice York Sr.; and daughter, Ruth Alice Davis.
Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.chandlerfunerals.com
Graveside services were held on Wednesday, Aug. 31, at the Mason Township Village Cemetery. A celebration of her life was held following the service at Robert and June York’s home in Bethel. Donations may be made in her memory to Responsible Pet Care, 132 Waterford Road, Norway, ME 04268.
Arrangements are under the direction of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris.