Ruth P. LaGasse, 71, of Waldoboro, passed away on the evening of April 22 at a local long-term care facility, where she had resided for several years. The daughter of Bennett & Ella May (Jones) Bickford, she was born July 23, 1934, in Waterville. Ruth resided in Oakland for most of her youth, graduating from high school in the Class of 1952. Remaining in Oakland, she married Omer LaGasse and for many years worked at Diamond International in Waterville. In 1984, she and her husband relocated to their home in Pemaquid. Ruth was a life-long "people person." This contributed to her love of the many years she helped at Sherwood Forest Campground. She also loved crafting of all types. Her husband, Mr. LaGasse, predeceased her in 2003; she is also predeceased by her half brothers, Roland, Rodney and Myron Ellis. Ruth will be missed by her two children, Terry LaGasse and his partner Maggie of Pemaquid, and Debra Ort and her husband Kenneth of Greenbush; stepchildren, Wayne LaGasse of Winthrop and Louise Lettre of Augusta; sister, Myrtle Bickford; and two grandchildren, Nicole and Kara of Greenbush. Service to honor Ruth 11a.m., Sat., April 29 at the Chapel of the Strong Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta. If desired, donations may be made in her memory to the New Harbor United Methodist Church.
