JOHN STEWART THURSTON
BANGOR & CARIBOU - John Stewart Thurston, 88, formerly of Caribou, died September 25, 2009 at his home at Sunbury Village in Bangor. He was born November 4, 1920 in Corinna, a son of John and Ethel (Barker) Thurston. Stew graduated from Corinna Union Academy, Colby College, Phil Beta Kappa, and the University of Maine. He was a dedicated educator for 37 years at Caribou High School, the first 15 as a sophomore English teacher and the last 22 as assistant principal until his retirement in 1986. He also coached freshman basketball and varsity baseball for many years. While residing in Caribou, Stew was a member of the Gray Memorial Methodist Church. His retirement brought him many happy hours fishing the lakes of Aroostook County, walking his dog Shelley, and having coffee with "the boys". Stew was a Navy veteran having served as a signalman during World War II.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Greta of Bangor; daughter Patricia and husband Dr. Charles Scagliotti of Allentown, Pennsylvania, son Michael and wife Heidi Thurston of Old Town; grandchildren Katrina and husband Steve Rainford of Allentown, PA, Gregory and wife Lauren Scagliotti of Catonsville, Maryland, Christopher Scagliotti of Allentown, PA, Dr. Kristy Thurston of West Hartford, CT, Michael Thurston, Jr. of Old Town; and a great grandson, Boden Rainford of Allentown, PA. Stew's family would like to extend sincere thanks to the wonderful employees of St. Joseph Hospice for their kind attention and care.

A special thank you to the "everyday angels" of Sunbury Village. You are truly angels and have become part of the Thurston extended family. Thanks to your compassion and care we always knew Dad was in loving hands. Our appreciation is never ending.

There will be no visiting hours. Funeral services will be held 1 PM Tuesday, September 29th, at the Corinna United Methodist Church with the Rev. Grace Mazhandu officiating. Burial will be in the family lot, Corinna Village Cemetery. Arrangements by Crosby & Neal Chapel, 68 Exeter Road, Corinna. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph's Hospice, c/o St. Joseph Healthcare Foundation, P. O. Box 1638, Bangor, ME 04402. Those who wish may leave written tributes at www.CrosbyNeal.com.