William Deering

William Deering, Ph.D., of Bangor, an officer and a gentleman, born in Biddeford on March 29, 1926, to Lawrence Deering and Gertrude Perham of Waterboro. Being the first born son and grandson of a lumber family, he enjoyed riding around town on his horse delivering newspapers, his little sister, Sally, his female cousins, Ossippee Lake, and learning through a precious combination of love, freedom, and activity. Though his childhood was colored by The Great Depression, Bill was lucky to be living farm to table and attend school where he met his life's ever lasting love at an early age, Janice Swinerton.

At 17, Bill was proud and eager to enlist in the Navy during World War II. Through the V-12 program he was sent to Holly Cross and Tufts University. After the war, he continued his education at the University of Maine and earned his Doctoral degree in psychology from Boston University. He was a medic in the Army National Guard where he retired as Colonel. The Chief Psychologist and Director of Psychological Services at the Bangor State Hospital, leading the Program Directors for State and Federal Psychologists. He was the first psychologist in the State of Maine. Post state retirement, he continued private clinical practice for a few decades.

Bill never missed an opportunity to use his strength and resources to care for others. President of Maine State Retarded Children Association, President of James A. Taylor Hospital Board of Trustees, Founder of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. Active member of multiple charitable groups, including East Orrington Congregational Church and EOOC's Ladies Aid. Organizer of many of the local Veteran's Day and Memorial Day parades. Received a life-time Achievement award for 66 years of service to the Maine State Employees Association.

Bill is survived by his children Donna Diane, William John Billy Bo, Paegan Lynn and Candice. His greatest joy was being part of the lives of his grandchildren: Rogan and Brendan O'Donnell, Janice Deering, Brooks McGovern, Hans Wiken, Erica Barry, Geneve Kelly and Kristen Spalding and great-grandchildren: Kenjah, Gavin, Cheston, Kincaid, and Reily O'Donnell, Cecilia Cole, Westley Kelly, William and Maxwell McGovern.

Bill passed peacefully in his home on February 19. His family would like to thank all the wonderful people, particularly his good friend, Robert Rhulin, and his caretaker, Elaine Horne, and everyone that worked so hard to make it so Dad could stay in his home with his dog, Miss Daisy, and his cat. A celebration of his life with military honors, will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, February 29 at the East Orrington Congregational Church. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to EOCC, 38 Johnson Mill Rd, Orrington, ME 04474, or a charity of your choice. Interment at the Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco in May.