Robert Red "Red" C Witham Sr.

Robert served a tour of duty with the U.S. Marines in China. Once a Marine, always a Marine. He was also in the National Guard for five years. He graduated from SMVTI in 1952 and from SMCC in 2011 at the age of 83. He worked at Southworth Machine Shop for 27 years, GTE for 8 years and also worked at Nichols of Portland.

His work ethic was impeccable. Robert was a machinist by trade but was a jack of all trades. He had the uncanny ability to look at a problem and find a solution to fix it whether it be carpentry, plumbing or personal issue. He was always thinking of others. He always had a clean handkerchief tucked away for someone who might need it. He was extremely giving, lending a hand whenever needed. His laughter was contagious. Although many tried, no one could imitate it. Robert was an avid golfer and cribbage player, and was a member of the American Legion, Post 164, Falmouth.

Robert was pre-deceased by his parents; a brother, Charles L. Witham; a son, Joe Daniel Witham and a granddaughter.

He is survived by his wife, Janice E. Witham; children, Richard L. Witham of Gray, Leon C. Witham of Winsor, CT, Robert Chick, Donna Chick and Paul Chick, all of Kennebunkport; Wendy Stevens of Springfield, Robert C. Witham Jr., Bobbiestarrmarrie H.R. Deschambault, `Elite Bouchard and Annette Rodriguez, all of Portland; brother, George M. Witham of Townsend, MA. He is also survived by 2 nieces and nephews, 3 great-nephews , one great-niece, 24 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren.

He was known as Grandpa Loud to over 400 children who loved him for being the honest, real, gentle soul he was and for seeing them all as treasures.

“Robert Clark Witham, unique, compassionate, exceptional husband, father, grandfather… we are all better human beings because he enriched our lives simply by knowing him. I love you Daddy.”

The family would like to thank all the loving staff St. Joseph’s Rehabilitation in Portland for their compassionate care.

Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation from 2-4 and 7-9 pm on Wednesday, June 8, 2015 at Jones Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland, where a funeral service will be held at 11 am on Thursday. Burial at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta will be held at a later date.

Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign Robert’s online guest book