WATERVILLE - Donald Caron, 79, died Monday, July 13, 2009, at MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta. He was born in Waterville on Sept. 3, 1929, the son of the late Joseph and Selena Caron. Donald graduated from Messalonskee High School. He married Maxine Pooler on Nov. 11, 1953, and shortly after enlisted in the Army, serving from 1954 until being honorably discharged in 1956. He was employed with the City of Waterville in the Public Works Department for 28 years, retiring in 1991. He enjoyed gardening, taking special pride in his vegetable gardens, one of which was recognized to be one of the best on the grounds of the Colby College campus. He also liked brook fishing with his son, Arthur, and his weekly card games with Timmy, Arthur, Bo, Richard and Mark. Most important to Donald, however, was the time he spent with his family and the tremendous love he shared for them and his very special grandson, Arthur II (the Baby). In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by a son, Donald Caron Jr.; two sisters, Juliette Caron and Antoinette Gurney; and two brothers, Lionel 'Johnny' Caron and George 'Chi-Chi' Caron. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Maxine L. Caron; a son, Arthur A. Caron and his wife, Missy 'Mitz,' and their son Arthur II; three sisters, Dorothy 'Dot' Lennon, Christine Sylvester and her husband, Merlon 'Major,' and Arlene Lessard and her husband, Junior; special sister-in-law, Theresa 'T.T.' and her husband, Eddie Scholz; special niece and nephew, Kim Carleton and Raymond Roy; special godchild, Linda Knowles; along with several nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the nurses and staff in the oncology department on the fourth floor at MaineGeneral Medical Center for the excellent care extended to them during the last days of Donald's illness. Donald's life will be celebrated at a committal service with full military honors at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 17, at the new Maine Veterans; Memorial Cemetery, Mount Vernon Road, Augusta. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1 Church St., Augusta. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.khrfuneralhomes.com.