Margaret Ellen Strout, 82, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones on July 18, 2022. Born June 17, 1940 to James and Gladys (Crocker) Green of Bangor, she was predeceased by her parents, her husband Carlton Strout Sr., and son Carlton Strout Jr. She is survived by her loving sons Ron (Becky) and Paul Strout, sisters Pauline Curless and Lois VonBorstel, daughter in-law Judy Strout, and daughter Gayle Strout Mashaw (Don).
One of fifteen children, Margaret grew up in Bangor and married the love of her life, Carlton, in 1957. They enjoyed 51 years together, raising their children and running a successful family excavation business, before his passing in 2008.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend, Margaret always went above and beyond to take care of others. She served as a CNA at Bangor City Hospital and cared for many family and friends over the years. A spiritual woman, she truly embodied 1 Peter 4:10: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”
Margaret radiated energy and optimism; everyone gravitated to her. The ultimate hostess, she cherished hosting countless family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Her house was always full of people, laughter, and coffee. With a quick wit and an infectious laugh, she loved to hold court in her kitchen and insisted on cooking for everyone that stopped by.
She relished spending time with her children and their families. Her pride and joy were her ten grandchildren: Tiffany, Kristopher, Kristan, Natasha, Brittany, Whitney, Jesse, Garrett, Emily, and Katie, and her nine great grandchildren.
Nana and Great Nana, as she was affectionately known, was young at heart and always the entertainer. She loved to play make believe, tell stories, sing songs, and dress up. She delighted in celebrating her grandkids accomplishments and was convinced they all looked just like her. With Nana, “Let’s take a trip uptown” was code for let’s go shopping which always excited the grandkids and made Carlton Sr. (Grumpy) roll his eyes. She had the ability to make even the simplest tasks fun and turn errands into a grand adventure. She enjoyed staying connected to everyone with phone calls, greeting cards, and text messages, often signing off, “Lots of love, take care, and be happy.” Lots of love to you too Nana, you will be deeply missed by many.
A special thanks to Lois, Judy, Tina, and Donna for all their loving care and support of Margaret.
Family and friends are invited to gather for funeral services on Monday, July 25th at 11 a.m. at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center Street, Bangor. A private interment for immediate family will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor.
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