Roland A. Larson

Roland A. Larson, 76, of Gray passed peacefully on March 30th.

Roland was born June 29, 1946, second so of Erick F. and Mary R. Larson. Roland attended Portland and Gray Maine schools, the majority of his childhood and adulthood living in Gray.

Roland was always an animal lover, frequently bringing home orphaned livestock to add to the family's growing farm. His love of the wild carried on throughout his life with a small farm of his own as an adult, and many family pets. Roland and his family created quite the homestead for themselves with a variety of farm animals, a large garden, and the ability to provide eggs, some vegetables, and hay to local community members.

Roland served in the US Army from 1965 - 1971, then explored a variety of occupations before finally settling as the Food Service Coordinator at Pineland Center, then a residential facility for those with developmental disabilities. Following his many years at Pineland, Roland built his own heating oil delivery company, eventually selling to and retiring with Dead River Company.

A member of Saint Gregory's and the Bible Believing Baptist churches of gray, Roland lived a life rooted in community, faith, and kindness. Supporting family, friends, and strangers alike, Roland believed in the human connection and the importance of doing for others and living selflessly. 

Roland is now reunited with his wife of 43 years, Carole M. Larson, as well as his mother and father, and brother, Erick. He is survived by his two step sons, Matthew and Michael LaBranche, his two daughters, Ericka Cotsis and Sara Larson, and a brood of loving grandchildren. 

Donations in memory of Roland can be made to one of his most supported charities: The Salvation Army of Northern New England - https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org

American Cancer Society - https://cancer.org/ https://cancer.org/

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland - https://arlgp.org/ 

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