Merle E. Raven
Merle E. Raven, 81
AUGUSTA -- Merle E. Raven, 81, died in hospice in Scarborough on Thursday, April 5, 2018 after having suffered a severe stroke at his home.
He was born in Knox on April 24, 1936, the sixteenth child of William Henry and Naomi Pearl (Carmichael) Raven's 17 children. Merle grew up in Thorndike and graduated from Freedom Academy.
Merle is survived by his wife Valerie. They had been married for over 59 years and she was the love of his life. He is also survived by his three children: Michelle DiPietrantonio and husband Peter of Westbrook; David Raven and wife Karen of Moscow, PA; Roxanne Marsh and husband Wade of Misawa Air Base, Japan; his eight grandchildren: Nicholas Raven of New York, NY; Kelly DiPietrantonio of Boston, MA; Michael Raven of Philadelphia, PA; Kaitlyn Raven of Moscow, PA; Evan DiPietrantonio of Culver City, CA; Tanisha, Taina, and Wade Marsh Jr. of Misawa Air Base, Japan; siblings: Judy Porter of Thorndike and Minnie Raven of Thorndike.
Merle was a dedicated and dependable employee. After he retired from Digital Equipment Company, he continued to work part time at Hannaford Supermarkets, just to keep busy and stay active. Merle was a very kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Everyone enjoyed Merle's sense of humor and quick wit and anyone who met him knew instantly what a nice and caring man he was. It was a great comfort to him to be surrounded by his family. He enjoyed hunting, camping, cooking, and gardening. He loved to read, do outdoor activities, and take his beloved dog on walks. And of course, he always enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox and Celtics!
He was predeceased by brothers Lawrence Raven, Earl Raven, Harold Raven, Seth Raven, Daniel Raven, William Raven and Carl Raven; and by sisters Lila Bryant, Edith Porter, Alfreda Moore, Ethel Pattee, Ferne Thompson, and Mabel Larrabee.
A private burial will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Online condolences may be expressed below.
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