Bernard A. Booker

SANFORD: Bernard A. Booker, Johnny to most who knew him, 85, of Sanford, died at home Tuesday, November 25. Johnny was born in Lisbon, Maine on October 29, 1922 to James William and Edna (Pooler) Booker. He lived most of his life in the North Berwick and Sanford area. Johnny served the 22nd Marines, 1st Provisional Brigade, C Company. He landed in Guam and received a Silver Star of Valor.Johnny marched to his own beat. He owned and operated Booker's Tree Service, tackling any project and was a master of improvisation. He served as the tree warden for the Town of North Berwick for many years. He planted numerous tress that are now a fixture of the town as they line some of the town roads.A poet once wrote that Johnny Booker was the quintessential Maine codger. Johnny was a friend to many and a story teller to all. He will be remembered for the ease at which he could "spin a yarn" and the laughter that all took from his anecdotes.Johnny ruled for 45 years as the patriarch of El Pond neighborhood, serving as de facto mayor.He is survived by his son, Timothy Booker and his wife, Linda of Keifer, OK; his daughter, Rebecca Booker-Weidner and her husband, Merrill of Los Angeles, CA; his brother Willy Booker of Kennebunk and Kenneth Booker of Waterboro.Semper Fi Johnny.There will be a Memorial Service for Johnny on Saturday, November 29th at 1:00pm at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale, Maine. Burial will be in the spring at the Hillside Cemetery in North Berwick, Maine.The family asks that in lieu of flowers, consideration be given to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 1 Bowdoin Mill Island, Topsham, Maine 04086.To leave the family a message of condolence please use the "condolences" tab to the left.