Edward L. Nadeau, 90, of Casco, passed away at his home on the morning of July 26. Born on April 29, 1920 in Skowhegan, he was the son of Edward and Laura “Clara” (Buteau) Nadeau.
After school he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and served during WWII. In the service he attained the rank of Buck Sergeant, working as an airplane and engine mechanic on B-17 Bombers and P-51 Fighters. After the war he returned to the United States where he met, and eventually married, Irene Poulin on July 1, 1946.
Eddie went to work for the Maine Fish and Game Department, overseeing fish hatcheries that would eventually stock rivers, lakes and streams throughout the state. His first hatchery was in Greenville in 1947 before moving to Embden in 1957 and eventually to Casco in 1959. He retired on May 15, 1980, after more than 33 years on the job.
After retirement, Eddie and Irene enjoyed spending summers at their Wilson Pond camp in Greenville, and winters in Dunnellon, Fla., before eventually returning to Casco full time.
He was a member of the Lions Club, was a director for Boy Scout Troop 108 in Casco, and was a founding member of the Crooked River Snowmobile Club in Casco. He loved being outdoors, spending time with his family, and until recently, he enjoyed daily cribbage games with his wife of over 64 years.
He is survived by his wife, Irene Nadeau of Casco; daughter, Claire Hancock and husband Douglas of Damariscotta; sons, Alan and wife Bing of Poland Springs, Donald and wife Kelly of Lancaster, Penn. and Larry and wife Nona of Otisfield; grandchildren, Dusty Hancock, Cara Slifka, Heath Nadeau, Nicholas Nadeau, Derek Nadeau, Jenna Nadeau and Nathan Nadeau; as well as great-grandchildren, Tatum Hancock, Sadie Hancock and Sidney Slifka.
Service July 30 at the chapel of the Maine Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Crooked River Snowmobile Club, P.O. Box 42, South Casco, ME 04077.
Condolences for the family may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.