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Joseph Woodhead Obituary
1934 - 2010
PORTLAND --Mr. Joseph Woodhead, 76, longtime and well-known Lisbon High School Teacher and coach and Bates College coach, of East Grand Avenue in Old Orchard, passed away unexpectedly Monday morning, Oct. 18, 2010, upon arrival at Maine Medical Center.
He was born in Lewiston on May 1,1934, to Joseph A. and Mary F. (Joy) Woodhead. Joe was educated in Lewiston schools and graduated from Lewiston High School in 1953 where he was an outstanding athlete. A three-time letterman in both football and baseball, he was captain of the football team his senior year and was also chosen as an All-American lineman by the National High School Coaches Association.
Following high school, Mr. Woodhead enlisted in the military and served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany for two years until his Honorable Discharge. After his service in the Army, he continued his education at Springfield College for three years, leaving his mark on both the football and track and field programs. He was an All-New England Honorable Mention in football and set the freshman college record for the Track and Field Hammer Throw in 1957.
He then transferred to The University of Maine at Orono Where he met his future wife, Mary Ellen Tripp whom he married on Aug. 11, 1962. They brought up their two boys in Lisbon Falls and enjoyed their summers at their camp on Woodbury Pond In Litchfield. In 1979 he moved his family to Lewiston where he was proud of his country home on 13 acres. When he moved to Old Orchard in his later years he built a screened in porch on the back of his house facing the marsh. One of his favorite pastimes was feeding and watching the birds with his 'Kitty' beside him.
In the fall of 1961 he was hired as a teacher by the Lisbon School system and for the next 33 years, he taught at Lisbon High School and served as the varsity football coach until 1986 where he won state championships in 1961, 1968, 1971 and 1978. He amassed a record of 146 wins, 67 losses and two ties and suffered only two losing seasons in those 26 years placing him among Maine's Top-10 winningest high school football coaches. In 1986 he continued teaching four more years at Lisbon High School and took his coaching talents to Bates College
Joseph Woodhead
The Fortin Group
Auburn 207-783-8548
Lewiston 207-784-4584
and served as an assistant football coach for four years. That same year, in 1986, after nearly 30 years, at age 52, he began his long and successful tenure as the Bates College Hammer and Weight Throwing Events Coach for the Men's' Track and Field team. In 1998 he was hired as the Women's Throwing Events Coach as well and was still currently both the Men's' and Women's' coach, due to start another season next month.
In his 26 year coaching career at Bates, he coached 44 athletes who went on to become Division III All-Americans and six athletes who won Division III National Championships. Among many other awards, he was inducted into the Auburn, Lewiston Hall of Fame in April of 2000.
He was a loving, devoted and hard-working husband, father and grandfather as well as a well-known, well-respected and successful athlete and coach who will be dearly missed by family and many longtime friends, colleagues and fellow athletes.
He leaves his wife of 48 years, Mary Ellen of Old Orchard Beach; two sons, Michael and wife Elisabeth and their daughters, Emma and Grace of Shenzhen-Shekou, China, and Andrew and wife Angela and their daughters, Kelsey and Brittany of Sidney; two sisters, Irene Parks of Newport Richie, Fla., and Beverly Schwab of Anacortes, Wash.; a sister-in-law, Julie Boothby of Old Orchard Beach; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Harry and Robert.
A memorial service to celebrate Coach Woodhead's life and career will take place in the chapel at Bates College on Monday at 2 p.m., with the Rev. William Blaine-Wallace presiding. Private interment will take place in the family lot at Mt. Auburn Cemetery at the convenience of the family. You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with Coach Woodhead's family by visiting their guestbook at www.thefortingroupauburn.com. A service of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Service, Auburn, 783-8545.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Woodhead
Jim Jellison
October 27, 2010
The athletes and coaches at Fitchburg State University send our condolences for Coach Woodheads family. Our athletes and coaches really enjoyed their time around the cages of New England and especially at Fitchburg listening to and learning from the comments of Coach Woodhead
Charlie Morton
October 26, 2010
As a fatherless athlete growing up in Lisbon I looked to the many great role models that our coaches and town leaders represented. Lisbon football is forever indebted Joe Woodhead. I remember him pointing with his index and pinky finger saying, "Charlie, this is your team now" then proceeding to whistle with those same two fingers to round up the troops. I loved Joe Woodhead and everything he respresented. From all of us on the 1979 MVC Championship team, I say RIP Coach. You meant so much to so many.
Charles Morton
October 26, 2010
When you remember after almost 40 years the exact moment you met someone, you know that person had a profound impact on your life. To this day I hear your voice when I need it most. Thanks Coach hardly seems enough to someone who's influence has lasted a lifetime. RIP my friend.
Spanky class of 70
October 26, 2010
Mary Ellen
I am so saddened. I can't imagine the void created in your heart with Joe's passing. Time will never heal the loss of his robust compainionship as your solemate, but comfort will come from having known and experienced his love. We all miss Joe!
Dana Mulholland
October 25, 2010
Dear Mary Ellen,
Roland and I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family at the sudden loss of your life's partner. Joe was so many things to so many people. The wonderful legacy that he leaves behind will be forever remembered by all his family, friends, students and athletes whom he has touched throughout his lifetime. In 1976, Roland and I, with our one year old son Neal, moved to Lisbon. Amongst the first people we met there was Joe Woodhead, whom was a proponent of Roland as both a Physical Education Teacher and Coach. During Roland's tenure with the Lisbon Recreation Department, Joe was always supportive of Roland's effort on behalf of the Town of Lisbon. I remember our son, Neal, saying how much he enjoyed having Coach Woodhead as his Physical Education Teacher at Lisbon High School from 1990-1994. Our lives have been enriched with the blessing of having known Joe during our lifetimes. Joe is certainly someone to emulate not only as a teacher or coach, but as a humanitarian. We hope your memories and life's experiences will give you and your family comfort in the days to come.
Sincerely,
Carol and Roland Trottier, Poland, ME
Frank Myska
October 25, 2010
I will miss you coach. It was an honor to play for you. You not only taught us football, you also taught us the lessons needed to succeed in life.
R.I.P. Coach
Dr. Frank Myska, class of '70
David Cote
October 25, 2010
Coach...I will never forget your toughness and discepline in P.E.at Lisbon High in 1970 but always admired your fairness and caring of each individual's mentoring...God is waiting for you at the goal line Coach....your Super Bowl victory bigger than life.....My prayers go out to your family, friends, students and all who knew you...Thank you Coach.....
Sara Ellen Godek
October 24, 2010
Coach, you have given so much to every life you have touched, and will be missed. I am honored to have been coached by you the past three years, senior year will definitely be different without you.
My prays go out to Coach's family and his "sweetheart" Mary Ellen.
October 23, 2010
"Coach" life and sport. Thank you.
Charlie Tebbets LHS'70
October 23, 2010
My thoughts go out to the Woodhead family at this difficult time. Coach was an inspiration to many throughout his years, not only on the fields but off. I love walking through the halls at Lisbon and getting a high five from him every time!! Rest in Peace Coach, you will be missed.
Jen Grondin LHS, 93
October 23, 2010
MARY ELLEN AND FAMILY
WE WERE SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR HUSBAND & DAD AND OFFER OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO ALL OF YOU. MAY GOD SHINE HIS LIGHT OVER YOU.
CHARLENE PARADIS AND FORMER FRIENDS FROM CURVES SELMA, ARLENE, MURIEL & SANDY.
Harvey White
October 23, 2010
I always believed we were better prepared, in better shape, more physical, and had the best coach in each game we played. My prayers go out to your family.Thanks coach , you will be missed.
Fr. Spencer Potter
October 22, 2010
Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant Joseph. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive him into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.
Laurette Fortin
October 22, 2010
May you rest in peace Coach.
Class of 1970
Kate Aughenbaugh
October 22, 2010
I have so many good memories of spending time with Joe and family on our porches in Maine. Joe made the meanest clamato that I've ever had and there was never a dull moment when he was around. My deepest condolences to Mary Ellen and family. I feel lucky that my family had such a great neighbor and friend.
SCOTT RIOUX
October 22, 2010
COACH WOODHEAD WAS ONE OF A KIND,,WE HE SPOKE EVERYONE LISTENED,,,,HE HAD THE UP MOST RESPECT FROM EVERYONE AROUND,,,,I HAD THE MOST RESPECT FOR HIM GROWING UP ,,,AND SAD TO SAY I DIDN'T HAVE RESPECT FOR MANY PEOPLE,,,,,,SCOTT RIOUX CLASS OF '84
David Fowler
October 22, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
October 22, 2010
Rest in peace kind soul.
Nina Grabbe Shishkoff
Connie Lagasse Russell LHS Class '70
October 22, 2010
If everyone could follow his lead....what a better place the world would be. RIP Coach.
David Ingerson
October 22, 2010
To the family of Coach Woodhead, So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Coach was a big part of my life in high school and he will be sadly missed by all. Mrs Woodhead if you remember you were also a big part of my life in elementary school, again I am so sorry.
dick lucas
October 22, 2010
coach woodhead made a great mark in my life as i played football for him at lisbon high from 69-71. he was a great role model and will be sadly missed. Love you coach
October 22, 2010
Coach,
Through the years after I’d left Lisbon High your coaching and inspiration were part of my life. When issues confronted me I’d put out that “forearm shimmee” and work through them. Coaching, mentoring, teaching and just being there were the guidance that helped me through my military career and after. Thank you Coach.
To the Woodhead family,
My sincere, heartfelt condolences for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. Coach was a guiding light that set the path for many young men and women. When I was on leave from wherever in the world I was stationed, I’d stop by the high school and Coach would still provide his words of wisdom. As I sit here typing this, his smile brings a smile to my face but also the sadness knowing his guidance won’t be shared with other men and women. Thank you for sharing him with us.
George Labbay
LHS Class of ‘77
Germany
Darin Moulton
October 21, 2010
He was an amazing individual who cared so much about his students. I'm thankful to have had him as a teacher. I always looked forward to talking with him about life. I know the Moulton Family will never forget you.
October 21, 2010
Mrs. Woodhead, I am sorry to hear of Coach's passing. I graduated from Lisbon High in 1965 and to this day think back on my 4 years with Coach as being the best years of my life. Joe was not just our football and track coach, he was our doctor, our counselor and always a great motivator. He cared for his "guys". We all loved and respected Coach-even when he was yelling at us. I will never forget him. You and your children are in my thoughts.
Steve Karkos, Reading, MA
October 21, 2010
Joe Woodhead was an inspiration and model that all coaches should follow. I met him when I was still in high school. He called my house when I was a senior; he was the only college coach to do so and going to Bates was a very good decision for me, and he was a huge part of that decision. His loyalty, passion, and kindness, together with that twinkle in his eye, made a lasting impression that moves me even today. Only when I grew older did I realize how much time you invested in each of us, Coach. Mrs. Woodhead, your husband was a great man. Thank you having us over your house for spaghetti dinners! Mike, your Dad was the best (even if my first hammer glove was one of your old ones!). I'm proud to say that I'm a teacher and a coach, and I hope I can carry on even a small piece of his legacy. I'm glad I walked this Earth with him. He would always say, "Best you got!" Well, Coach Woodhead, you certainly gave us the best you had and, I for one an extremely grateful. I only wish my kids could have met you. Maybe you and Peter G. can take a couple of throws together like the old days; just don't drag the ball! I hope your hammers never come down!! Please look over all of us in the coming days and beyond.
Fondly,
Joe Welch '94
Nettie Bean
October 21, 2010
No one can say enough about this great man. A friend, mentor to so many. I will always remember Coach Woodhead with a smile in my heart. He was a great friend to our family and will never be forgotten. He always had a hug for those in need. Gone are the days of great educators, who cared and loved their students and were not afraid to show it.
My condolences to Mrs. Woodhead, Mike & Andy and their families.
Nettie Aspinall Bean
Paul Koroski
October 21, 2010
I am saddened to hear of Coach Woodheads passing. Good people will always be remembered as a blessing. Coach will always have a place in my heart. Thanks for your kindness and everthing you taught me "coach".
Patrick Ebel
October 21, 2010
I have many great memories of Coach Joe and the Bates throwers at the NCAA Championships. Joe and I would just sit and talk about training, hammer throw technique and life in general. He was always encouraging, generous, friendly and outgoing and it will be very sad not seeing the "General" at the national champioships and be able to share ideas and talk. I know he has touched many lives of the great student-athletes at Bates College and beyond and will be missed greatly. Prayers to all those that grieve.
Gregory Mann
October 21, 2010
I was on the track team at Lisbon High from 1967-1971. Coach was there for me as he was for all of the athletes and students at Lisbon High. He made you want to better, not just for him but for yourself. I was never the STAR on the team, but I made points for the team every time I competed.
I think it woul only be fitting if the HEARSE carrying his body could make one final lap around the track. This way the "COACH" could cross "THE FINISH LINE" one more time.
Fondly remembered by Gregory Mann Lisbon High Class of 1971.
Justin Freeman
October 21, 2010
Coach Woodhead's obituary doesn't mention that one of his athletes went on to the Olympics. And that is for the best, as he wouldn't want that honor on a technicality (I am a skier, not a thrower). But I am proud to have been coached by Joe Woodhead, even if it was only for a couple weeks when on a lark I took up hammer during my senior year at Bates. When Coach realized that I was serious about training he worked as hard as I did to make me the best thrower I could be. And when championship season arrived, he was very diplomatic about his need to start focusing on his more talented and experienced throwers. Those few weeks were enough for me to learn that he didn't coach so many champions because he had any interest in glory for himself or anyone else. Rather, he loved to teach, and loved to inspire his athletes to dedicate themselves to their training.
Nicole Bullock
October 21, 2010
To the family of Coach Joe,
I have had the pleasure of officiating track meets and other organized meets with Coach Joe being present for the past 11 years. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. Without a doubt he had a major impact on the track and field world as well as the athletes he worked with. He always greeted me with a smile and hug. Track meets will not be the same without him. He was one of a kind. Everyone is in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Emily Bonham
October 21, 2010
Dear Mary Ellen and family,
I am saddened about this recent news, however I have such positive memories of my happy hour experiences with Joe (among other great memories too). He appreciated my type of drinks - coconut rum and other such sweet delicacies. :)
My deepest condolences to you all. Joe will be greatly missed.
Love, Emily Aughenbaugh Bonham
Randy Ridley
October 21, 2010
This is a loss to so many people. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Woodhead and his two sons Mike and Andy.
I have many memories of Coach from a little kid growing up a couple of houses down the road on Hewey St and playing with Mike and Andy.
He was my football coach and my father's football coach at Lisbon High School. His legacy spans generations and he will be sorely missed.
You were a mentor to me and my father. Thanks for everything you have done.
Geraldine Woodhead
October 21, 2010
Mary Ellen and Family,
We are saddened with the news of Uncle Joe's passing. We always loved him, as well you and your family. We cherish the memories of years ago. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time. God bless you all.
Geri Woodhead, Sister in law, and children Lisa St. Claire, Joye Russo, Bob Jr Woodhead and David Woodhead.
Geri Woodhead - Sister in Law.
Mandee Adams
October 21, 2010
Coach Woodhead was a long time friend of the family, and was present at my Grandfather's funeral last year where he hugged me. No words were spoken. He wasn't always at a loss for words though. I can remember his sarcastic humor all the way back to high school where he was my Phys. Ed teacher. He had a presence that made you think twice before following through on any deviant act, and a sense of humor large enough to handle it. You always wanted to make him proud because you felt his complete investment in your success. He was generous with words of wisdom and a colorful vocabulary. Coach earned the respect of everyone who came in contact with him in all areas of his life, and he will be immensely missed by all those same people.
Terry Ridley
October 21, 2010
Being a graduate of Lisbon High School and former neighbor and friend. I am so saddened by the loss of this great Man. He was very well liked in the community, his neighbors, friends, students, colleagues. My now deceased husband was also very proud to have known this person as a teacher, coach, mentor and neighbor. I just want to tell Mary Ellen, Mike and Andrew how very sorry I am for their loss, they will miss him I know but just remember he loved you all very much. You are in my prayers.
Sherry (Lerette) St.Amant
October 21, 2010
You'll be missed by all, Coach! My deepest sympathies to the entire Woodhead family.
October 21, 2010
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved husband, father and grandfather. We wish you much peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Much Love,
Jim and Michele Gilbert
Doug Covell
October 21, 2010
Dear Mary Ellen. I will always remember the fun times I have spent with you & Joe throughout the years at your camp, on the Dyer Road and recently at each other's home. I'm sad to hear of Joe's passing. He was a very generous, thoughtful man. Our thoughts & prayers are with you & family. Love to you all
Mimi & Doug
john gallant
October 21, 2010
you'll be sadly missed coach.
October 21, 2010
what a legacy....prayers to all who grieve
Nel Roy
October 21, 2010
I am saddened to hear of Coach Woodhead's passing. As a young coach, he gave me so many helpful tips, not only in throwing techniques, but in coaching young people which always served me well. He was always a kind and gentle soul who deeply cared for all of his throwers, not only as athletes, but as people with so much potential on the field and in life. I will always have a place in my heart that holds fond memories of him and pray that God gives me the strength of character Coach Woodhead had. I also want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Coach. He will be sadly missed.
Dawn Pelkey Pray
October 21, 2010
Coach was always a bright spot in a rough day. He never failed to make you feel like you were important. High School was such a difficult time for so many and he had a way of lifting you up and making you feel special. Thank you Coach for you kind words and warm smile! You definately made a difference in my life.
October 21, 2010
We praise God for the life and service of our veteran. May he rest in peace in the arms of our Lord as a grateful nation mourns.
Michele N. Sandridge, Chaplain
American Legion Auxiliary
Department of Ohio
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