Ernestine “Pel” C. Pelletier, 81, passed away April 8, 2019, at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center after a heroic battle with congestive heart disease. She was born in Old Town, August 13, 1937, the daughter of Ernest and Nellie (Dawes) Pelletier.
After graduating from Old Town High School in 1955, Pel enlisted in the Women’s Air Force in 1958 to travel and meet people, alongside her two older brothers, Robert and Ronald, who were already serving in the US Air Force. Due to her outstanding duty performance and commitment to service in 1970, Pel was named the Air Force Reserves’ first-ever female Air Reserve Technician that served full-time in previously all-male reserve units. Pel was a true pioneer in American military history.
In 1997, Master Sergeant Pelletier retired after 39 years of faithful and honorable service to her country while assigned to the Women’s Air Force active duty, Air Reserves, and civil service. Upon her return to Old Town in her retirement years, Pel was deeply devoted to her Lord and Savior as a loyal member of the Parish of the Resurrection, Holy Family Catholic Church. Pel was a strong supporter of veterans organizations, and actively involved with the American Legion and attended annual Women’s Air Force reunions at locations around the country. Finally, Pel enjoyed her special friendships and mutual support through the Old Town, Orono, and surrounding area, Senior Citizens Club.
In addition to her parents, Ernestine was predeceased by her two older brothers, Robert and Ronald, and her sister, Joyce. She is survived by her younger sister, Beverly Melanson, and 13 nieces and nephews. Special thanks to her many lifelong friends that reached out and called to make her smile in her final days. Finally, the family is forever grateful to the cardiac care unit at EMMC for over 5 weeks of professional and compassionate care. Private interment will be at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5