Guest Book Entries

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Guest Book for
Austin M. Jones

February 14, 2009

To Austin, my brother,

Knowing you, through visits, letters and phone conversations has enriched my life. From our childhood days until your departure I have always loved you for your goodness, loving disposition and honorable lifestyle.

Love forever from your sister,
Nikki


February 11, 2009

Grandpa,

I wrote a short comment when I first viewed your obituary, but want to express myself a little better.

You were always the man I admired most in my life; your presence demanded respect, yet you quietly made us feel safe and so loved.

I would always brag to my friends, "My grandpa is the smartest man in the world. He knows all the answers in Trivial Pursuit." I admired your intelligence and think of you each time I play a trivia game or watch Jeopardy.

Your snappy comments and comebacks would make me crack up at the dinner table. I remember Grandma saying once, "These string beans are delicious, if I do say so myself." You came back with, "why should you say so yourself?", and for some reason it made me laugh so hard.

I am so thankful Andy and I were able to spend summers with you and Grandma when we were little...I remember the loon festivals, the starry nights on the deck, camping on your land, and 4am fishing trips. I remember watching you leave for square dancing, and remember making you a loon cake on your anniversary, so eager to please you.

I will never forget you, and I know you will be in my thoughts daily. We will take care of Grandma and her girls. You have led us well.

Love you and miss you so much,

Robin


February 10, 2009

Dear Jones family,

Although I never had the pleasure and honor of meeting Mr. Jones, I feel I know much of him through my many conversations with Pam. Quite honestly, I am not sure if I ever had a personal discussion with her where his activities and involvement did not come up. His many life accomplishments and activities are significant and impressive. Maybe most impressive were his parenting abilities highlighted through his children. Pam, your friends and colleagues on many continents share in your loss and we hope your memories of your father will comfort you through this difficult time. You are always in our thoughts.

Gary Long (Traverse City, MI)


February 8, 2009

Dear Norma and family,

We were saddened when Sonya told us the news about Austin. I was quite impressed with his accomplishments in life. He was such a great person and will be missed by all. My only regret is that we could not have spent more time together. Take care. With Love, David & Carol

David & Carol Weed (Elizabeth, WV)


February 2, 2009

Wally:

We went through an arduous training in 1950 of 22 weeks the highlight was 12 weeks at Fort Benning including airborne. We were a small group but hung in and passed successfully. We had our first tour on Saipan with wives and were able bond and develop a relationship. Later in life after retiremnet renewed this friendship and visited once a year in Maine. I was always impressed by your civic duties and interest in the natural beauties of Maine in particulay the Chestnut tree. Had a lovely visit last summer(08) at your place and myself and Colette were shocked by the news of your early demise. You were a good friend and companian. Will miss and think of you often.

Charles LORD (OAKTON)


February 1, 2009

We were very sorry to read of Austin's recent passing. My condolences to Norma and the girls. It's been a number of years since I saw you but I will always have fond memories. You should be very proud of Austin and the way he lived life and set an example for others. Take care and God bless.

Sonya (Weed) Berry & Family (Fayette, ME)


January 27, 2009

Grandpa was a most ideal family patriarch: strong, wise, loving and attentive. It was completely apparent that he loved his family. The family he so adeptly nurtured & raised returned this love. I am truly grateful that I was able to meet this great man. I will never forget him and keep his memory close to my heart.

Mary L (Milford, NH)


January 27, 2009

Grandpa we all miss the strong, wise, unselfish man you are. You have inspired us with your hard work ethic and taught us to love and respect nature. I will always remember the late night fishing, the last sunset boat rides on the lake, the fast rides on water skis, and dumping me when we went tubing. You allowed everyone to fully enjoy your own slice of heaven in Maine. Everyone loses when America loses a patriot, but we are all better off having the gift of you in our lives. Thank you for the last 25 years, you will always have a prominent place in our hearts.

Alex Garces (Milford, NH)


January 27, 2009

Austin -Today, an eagle flew over your house, loons were making plans to return to Seven Tree Pond, Canada Geese criss-crossed the sky, the bird feeders were busy, and tonight Cayotes will call out. KC still makes sure those pesky turkeys and deer visiting your orchard know who's the boss! Inside your home it's warm and safe. Many who pass your place will always observe and exclaim "what a beautiful place they have". This place, they will learn, is where a leader helped shape Union's future. You personified what living in Union is all about, and all it should be for future generations to come. Soon, the sweet warm wind that helps open new leaves on your Chestnuts will continue to flap The Flag that forever stands proudly in your front yard. You and I met one last time, and your kind words will remain with me always to help guide me forever. You were everything and more that my children could expect from a Grandfather. We will be spending a lot of time with Grandma. I miss you and love you.

Steve Garces (Merrimack, NH)


January 25, 2009

Grampa, you would have loved the inauguration. Barack and his family were so beautiful and proud and the weather in D.C was perfect. The greatest part was watching Bush leave in his helicopter to return to Texas. Everyone misses you so much, not just your family and friends, but also the trees and the loons and the Appalachian Mountains too. Love forever, your Marina

Mariana Garces (Merrimack, NH)


January 25, 2009

Love you, miss you, wish I could've seen you sooner.

Kristian Garces


January 23, 2009

Norma & family: Bunny called this a.m. and told me of Austin's passing. I'm thankful he's no longer suffering; I'll always remember the many times we spent around your table and enjoyed the hospitality of you both! May you be comforted by knowing so many will miss him!

Love, Jeanne

Jeanne Murch (Cocoa, FL)


January 22, 2009

Dear Norma and family,I first met Austin (and you) at an annual meeting of the Maine Chestnut Foundation annual meeting in 2000 at Poland Springs. Over the years our friendship grew and I learned what an outstanding person he was. I remember how you were always there at his side at our various functions - helping him out. He had an active mind and was so dependable and I held him in high esteem. He gave encouragement to his fellow "chestnutters" and his enthusiasm and knowledge encouraged us in our quest to return the American chestnut to the woods of Maine. He will be missed greatly, but he will be remembered with respect and appreciation.

Glen Rea (Bangor, ME)


January 20, 2009

Pam; my thoughts go out to you and your family. May your memories sustain you thru the coming days... In sympathy and friendship, Jill L

Jill Litchfield (Durham, ME)


January 20, 2009

I miss you, Grandpa :(

Robin Schuh (Oceanside, CA)


January 20, 2009

Dear Jones family,

I am so sorry for your loss. Austin was a wonderful man and I enjoyed picking blue berries last summer and walking around yuor beautiful home. May God bless and comfort you.
Michelle Lord

Michelle Lord (Oakton, VA)