Robert Maynard Wilson

Robert "Bob" Wilson died peacefully in his sleep at the Newton Center in the early hours of November 29th . Bob, a lifelong resident of both Springvale and Shapleigh was born in Springvale on September 29th, 1922. He was the last surviving of four children born to Maynard Rowe and Ruth Brophy Wilson. Bob attended local schools, and after graduating from Sanford High School, attended the Rochester Institute of Technology where he studied photography, a passion he carried with him for the rest of his life. In 1944 he enlisted in the Army/Air Force where he trained as a pilot. Later in life he retired from the Air Force Reserves with the rank of Major. Returning to Springvale, Bob joined his father in the grain business and M.R. Wilson and Son was born. The Grain Store changed, taking on art supplies, custom framing, and printing, which led to the founding of Wilson's Printers, a well known Sanford business that turned out quality graphics locally and for customers as far away as Chicago, Ill. Many will remember his collaboration with Harland Eastman, publishing a series of historical photo books and calendars of Sanford, Springvale, Alfred and the surrounding towns. Bob ran this business until he eventually retired in 1996. Bob taught science and math at Berwick High School. He was a public servant, as both a Sanford Town Meeting member, and a Volunteer Fireman with both the Springvale and Shapleigh Fire Departments. As well as a Mason, Bob was a member of the Rotary, and annually worked on the Rotary stand at the Acton Fair selling barbeque chicken, in an effort to raise money for local charities. In 1980, Bob and his wife Madge built a home on the family farm in Shapleigh, on property that was originally settled by the Wilson family in the 1700's, where together they enjoyed the changing seasons, and the clear view of the stars. They also enjoyed trips to the symphony and art galleries. Not only did Bob appreciate art, he was a very talented artist himself - his work was very detailed, interesting and amusing. He and Madge also enjoyed hiking, biking, skiing, tennis and camping. They traveled extensively, always returning with renewed appreciation for the beauty that Maine offers. Bob had a passion for nature in its natural state, putting his efforts behind the 3 Rivers Land Trust. He was an avid baseball and football fan. The last game Bob attended was a Seadogs game in Portland with his four children. Their team lost the game but his children still carry the memory of that very special day. Bob is survived by his second wife Madge Baker of Shapleigh, children Richard of Portland, Stephen and his wife Margaret of Centreville, Virginia, Janet Beaumont and her husband Jerry of Phoenix, Maryland, and Catherine of Portland, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.The family would like to thank the staff of the Newton Center in Sanford and Sol Amor Hospice of Scarborough for the compassion and help they gave to him and to us, while he was in their care. Arrangements are private and under the direction of the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. Condolences may be expressed at the Condolences tab at left.