Axel "John" Smedberg

BENTON -- Axel "John" Smedberg of Benton, born May 18, 1947, in Moxie, died unexpectedly at his home Tuesday evening, Nov. 28, 2006.

John was the son of Noella (St. Hillaire) and George Herbert Smedberg Sr.

He was a graduate of Lawrence High School where he played on the high school football team. He attended Presque Isle Technical College for two years, where he received his machinist degree. He served in the armed forces during the Vietnam War in Danang, Vietnam.

John was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed outdoor sporting and camping. He took pride in his craftsmanship with the many carpentry projects he completed including his garage that he just finished constructing.

John was predeceased by his parents; and a half-brother, George Smedberg Jr.

He is survived by his companion of 31 years, Darlene A. Hersom; two sons, Trevor John Hersom, of the home, and Robert Hersom and partner, Keri, of Winslow; four daughters, Melissa Smedberg of Florida, C. Lynn Hersom and companion, Donnie Tozier, of Benton, Carol Pickett and her husband, Robert, of Durham, N.C., and Cindy Vickers and her fiancŽe, Richard Prosper, also of Benton; nine grandchildren, Joshuah, Spencer, Heather, Daniel, Jannah, Jami, Chase, Adam, and Eva; four sisters, Georgetta Frances of Nova Scotia, Anna Littlefield of Indiana, Eva May Krause and her husband, Richard, of Fairfield, and Barbara Quirion and her husband, Jimmy, of New Hampshire; four brothers, Robert Smedberg and his wife, Hazel, of Kentucky, Herbert Smedberg of Indiana, Harry Smedberg and his wife, Lisa, of Fairfield, and Ellis Smedberg and his companion, Kim Thibodeau, of Anson; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge two special friends, long time hunting and fishing companions John Holt of Fairfield, and John McLean of Vassalboro.

Memorial visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a memorial service to begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield. Burial will he held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.lawrybrothers.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help defray funeral expenses to Darlene Hersom, 222 Hanscom Road, Benton, ME 04901.

Arrangements are with Lawry Brothers Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 107 Main St., Fairfield, ME; (800) 660-2111.