STANDISH- Robert Morse (76) of Milford, Maine passed peacefully in his sleep in the evening of February 1st at his home in Standish. He was surrounded by family throughout the day just as he wished and in the evening by the four he loved the most, his beautiful wife Fern (74), and three sons: David (50) of Limington, Michael (48) of Standish, and Jeff (47) of Standish. He is pre-deceased by his father and mother Ernest and Lorraine Morse and one brother. He is survived by four brothers, ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
An avid athlete, Robert grew up in Gray where he lettered in multiple sports including four years in baseball and three in basketball. He also participated in rifle, swimming, cross country, and in a boys’ quintet. He spent his life faithfully providing for his family in many occupations including many years at American Can, in Juvenile Corrections, and at Sea World Florida in Security Management until his retirement. He loved to golf and watch basketball.
His love story, a splendid romance of 51 years, with Fern began on a blind date- a warm evening, 4th of July, dance at Serenity Hills in Naples. The two, smitten, were married in Lewiston and resided in Bath where Fern was teaching. In his final weeks when asked to talk about his love, he recounted, “She’s so skilled at everything she puts her mind to and cares so much about everyone else. Nothing I could say could explain the love she has shown me through these years.” Continuing about their love story he said, “Every marriage has its hills and valleys— and our hills have been much higher and more frequent than our valleys [low].”
About his boys, he doted, each one’s story and life different but celebrated just the same. I “remember the times of joy,” he said and recounted the details of life in Portland with his three sons. The help they have provided in these recent years was of special note.
One of the greatest words he left, when asked, “What are you proudest of?” was this: Fighting back tears and with slow words he said, “Not leaving. Staying.” The words, a reminder of the faithful love of the God he placed his trust in and the unending mercy and grace of Jesus whose arms are always open. The One who never leaves or forsakes us.
Robert said he hopes that his family remembers him for these things and for always working hard to keep his family united through the many chapters. It was clear that his treasures on this earth were Fern, David, Michael, Jeff, and the many grandchildren and great grandchildren he leaves behind.
In a final word, on a cold December evening talking with his grandson, a testament to the character and his kindness Robert said, “Don’t hold grudges. Life’s too short.” It was a final reiteration of the Gospel of Jesus that Robert trusted in. A story of a God who doesn’t hold grudges but freely offers his forgiveness, mercy, and grace to all who ask.
Robert Morse, held dearly in our hearts, will be laid to rest in the spring of 2018. Family and friends are encouraged to consider a donation to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in lieu of cards and flowers.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com