Frederick E. Conron, of Quebec, Canada and Pemaquid Point, passed away on April 18 in Quebec. He was born in New York on Feb. 13, 1932.
Following his high school graduation, Frederick enlisted in the U.S. Army and later became a commissioned officer. Upon his return, he enrolled in Sienna College, N.Y., graduating summa cum laude, and was awarded a Fulbright scholarship. Frederick went to France to study at the University of Strasbourg and while there applied for and received a special dispensation to teach English from the French University of Education.
Returning to the United States, Frederick’s academic interests took him to the University of Nebraska for a master’s degree in French. He then received a doctorate in French literature from Laval University in Quebec, Canada.
Frederick’s teaching career started at the University of Iowa, then to Purdue University where he met his wife, Odette Portier, a guest lecturer. After a time at Austin College in Texas the Conrons eventually moved to Quebec, where Frederick was offered an administrative position with the Ministry of Education. Frederick spoke English, French, German and Spanish. He also had studied Latin.
Their cottage on the coast of Maine provided an ideal retreat from all the vexations of life. Frederick’s gardens were his pride and joy and he would spend hours catering to their needs. His interests were diverse and his curiosity never satisfied. Frederick pursued all things with energy and enthusiasm. He not only loved classical music and compositions, but also played them on both piano and organ.
Frederick is survived by his wife; step-daughters, Jeanine and Nicole; sister, Ann; and nieces, Lynette and Paulette.
Graveside services 2 p.m., Wed., Aug. 10 at St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery in Newcastle.
Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
