Roland N. Petersen
NEWPORT – Roland N. Petersen, 83, died January 31, 2012 at a Pittsfield hospital. He was born November 19, 1928 in Wilmington, Mass., a son of Peter and Hazel (Jensen) Petersen. Roland moved to Newport with his family at a young age, after his father purchased the local blacksmith shop. His family was very proud of their Danish heritage. Roland graduated from Newport High School, Class of 1946, and served a tour of duty in the Army of Occupation in Germany. He married the former Alma Pratt on September 3, 1951.

He was a pasteurizer at Hood’s Dairy for over 30 years. He was over a 50 year member of Meridian Splendor Masonic Lodge, Nokomis Chapter Order of The Eastern Star, and attended the Newport United Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Anah Shrine, and the Newport Historical Society. He was a boy scout and cub scout leader in Newport for many years. Roland was a longtime vice president of the Sebasticook Valley Snowmobile Club. He and Alma enjoyed traveling extensively, having been to all 50 states, Canadian provinces, and numerous other countries.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alma Petersen of Newport; 2 sons, Chris Petersen and Cheryl Thies of Pittsfield, Keith and wife Lisa Petersen of East Newport; and 8 grandchildren, Meagan and husband Andy Masella, Katie, Rozlyn, Jade, Patrick and his wife Amanda Petersen, Cody, Morgan and Brady Thies; 2 great grandchildren, Cadence Hamilton-McGrady, and Jaidon Petersen; 2 nephews, Mike and wife Donna Cray, and Dean and wife Darlene Cray; and many cousins. Roland was predeceased by his sister, Sylvia and husband George Cray.

A memorial service will be held 11 AM Saturday, February 4th, at the People’s United Methodist Church, 131 Main Street, Newport, with the Rev. Ellen Bridge officiating. Spring burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Newport. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, Newport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the People’s United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 182, Newport, ME 04953. Those who wish may leave written condolences at www.CrosbyNeal.com

NEWPORT – A graveside committal service for Roland N. Petersen, who died January 31, 2012, will be held 1 PM Saturday, May 12th, at Riverside Cemetery, Newport, with the Rev. Ellen Bridge officiating. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, Newport.