ELSIE P. VILES

AUGUSTA -- Elsie Pike Viles of Augusta passed away peacefully on March 9, 2013. She was 98.

Elsie was born July 20, 1914, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Dr. Charles A. and Sara Ingalls Pike. Her father was a dentist who died when Elsie was a child. Her mother then moved the family from Canada to Waterville and then to Augusta, to be closer to other family members.

Elsie attended Augusta schools, and after graduating from Cony High School she worked at the Kennebec Journal until her marriage in 1955 to William Payson Viles, a prominent Augusta businessman.

When her beloved husband Bill passed away in 1986, Elsie continued the family legacy of philanthropy through the Elsie and William Viles Foundation. She was a much-loved member of the Augusta community, which she considered to be her family, and former Gov. John Baldacci once proclaimed her to be the "first lady of Augusta."

Elsie was a generous benefactor to countless causes, including the Kennebec Valley Humane Society, MaineGeneral Medical Center, the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, Maine Public Broadcasting, Nature Conservancy, the Viles Arboretum, Cony High School, Camp KV for Kids, Kennebec Valley YMCA, South Parish Congregational Church, the Blaine House, Maine State Museum, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court and Lithgow Public Library.

In addition to the many accolades she received over the years for her philanthropic activities, Elsie was recognized as the Legacy Award winner among the Portland Press Herald's "2011 Great Women of Maine." She was indeed a great woman, and was not deterred by having difficulty with vision and hearing in her later years.

Elsie was known for her selfless generosity and perhaps equally her sense of fun.

She had many colorful parties during which she not only entertained but also educated her guests. Party-goers could be treated to a lecture on the history of hats, wild bird rehabilitation -- featuring wild birds -- and musical performances from noteworthy musicians, often including her friends. Elsie was also known for her three cherished Dachshunds, each named "Otto," that were always by her side.

Elsie was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Dr. George Pike; and her sister Cora Pike. She was also predeceased by her husband, William P. Viles, and his children, Sylvia Viles Lund, Marion Nichols Viles and John Viles; as well as by a great-grandson, Riley Lund.

She is survived by her niece and nephew, Rebecca and Charles Pike; her seven grandchildren, William N. Lund and his wife, Sara Holmbom Lund, A. Michael Lund, Rolf A. Lund and his wife, Linda Williams Lund, Peter T. Lund, Alfred V. Lund and his wife, Ruth Retzlaff Lund, Carol Lund and Sylvia Katherine Vicchiullo. She is also survived by her nephew Blaine Fogg, and his wife, Diane; her nephew, Sanford Fogg Jr., and his wife Deborah; and by 13 great-grandchildren.

Elsie's family is very grateful for the wonderful care she received from HealthReach Homecare & Hospice, Bridges Home Care, and for the love and support of her many close friends. The family also wishes to express its deep appreciation to Patsy West, Elsie's primary caretaker, adviser and friend, as well as to longtime caretakers Gaitene "GG" Carrier, and Elizabeth "Liz" Bailey.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society, 10 Pet Haven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330; or Viles Arboretum, 153 Hospital St., Augusta, ME 04330; or to a charity of one's choice.

At Elsie's specific request, the family will not hold a funeral. A memorial service celebrating her life will be scheduled in the springtime or early summer.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta. Memories, condolences, photos, and videos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at www.khrfuneralhomes.com.