Harry C. Staples

Shapleigh, MaineHarry C. Staples, Jr., of Nason Road, Shapleigh died Thursday morning April 4, 2002.He was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on August 6, 1930. He was the son of Harry C. Staples, Sr., and Carrie M. (Bunton) Staples. He was educated in both Bridgeport and Sanford, Maine schools.After graduation he joined The Air Force and was a veteran of The Korean War. Harry was an air crew member and served aboard B-29 and B-36 bombers in The United States and England.When he left the Air Force he made his home on Long Island New York where he worked for Grumman AeroSpace. Harry was in the Quality Control department during the Apollo 11 moon landing. Here he worked as Chief of Quality on the lunar module moon landing craft. While working for Grumman, Harry was also a member of the Civil Air Patrol. There he held the rank of first lieutenant in charge of cadet training.He moved back to Shapleigh in 1972 where he carried the United States mail to area Post Offices in York County. He later retired from mail in 1994 after 22 years of service.Harry served as a member of the Shapleigh Board of Appeals for several years and worked directly with town government. He was a member of The Shapleigh First Baptist Church and he was a Deacon for several years. His beliefs as a Christian helped him guide the spiritual growth of the Church while he served as Deacon.When he was not busy serving his country and community, Harry enjoyed raising vegetables and watching the wildlife around his home. An avid videographer and photographer, he loved taking pictures of animals and birds, which he shared with his family and friends.Harry is survived by his wife of 47 years, Lista Crediford Staples; a son Clinton, a daughter Melissa Staples Conner, a son-in-law Robert Conner two granddaughters Michaela Conner and Alexandra Conner, all of Shapleigh, and a brother Howard Staples of Texas.Harry is a man greatly beloved by his family, Church and community. His Christian faith in Jesus Christ brings comfort to us all.Relatives and friends may call from 2:00 PM-4:00 PM & 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM on Sunday at Heald Funeral Home 580 Main Street, Springvale. A funeral will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday at The Shapleigh First Baptist Church. If desired, donations may be made in his memory to The Shapleigh First Baptist Church P.O. Box 284, Shapleigh, ME. 04076.