Espling, Roger Jon, 74, of New Sweden, at New Sweden, on November 10, 2010. A private graveside service for the immediate family will be held at New Sweden Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Mockler Funeral Home, Caribou.
New Sweden — Roger Jon Espling, 74, died at his home, surrounded by his loving family on November 10, 2010. A lifelong New Sweden resident, Roger was born at home on December 19, 1935, to parents Uno and Hildur (Soderberg) Espling.
Roger attended the Capitol Hill School in New Sweden, was a 1953 graduate of Caribou High School, and served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961. He worked for many years as the Service Manager at Fox Buick/Pontiac in Caribou before working the remainder of his professional career as an Aroostook County Deputy Sheriff.
He was active in the community as a member and past Commander of the American Legion Post 136 in Stockholm, New Sweden Health Council (President), Caribou Multiple Sclerosis Society (Treasurer), Caribou Masonic Lodge #170 AF & AM, and the New Sweden Covenant Church. Roger had numerous interests, including cooking, photography, target shooting, fly tying, sharing his bass voice with the local Barbershop singing group, and watching the Boston Red Sox. Roger appreciated all that Northern Maine has to offer, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and one of the best views in the entire state from his home on Capitol Hill.
Roger is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 51 years, Helen (Browne) Espling; and their three children, Erik and his wife, Debora of Veazie and their son, Alik; Karl and his wife, Laurie of New Sweden and their daughters, Kristen and Kelsie; and Megan and her husband Dan Olson of New Sweden; two sisters, Glenice and her husband, Gaylen Kelley of Middleton, Mass., and Karen and her husband, John Erickson of St. Petersburg, Fla.; and nephews, Glen, Jon, Anders, Stefan, and Bjorn, and niece Lisa.
A private graveside service for the immediate family will be held at the New Sweden Cemetery, conducted by Rev. T. Daniel Clayborne. Those who wish to remember Roger in a special way are encouraged to support the New Sweden Covenant Church and the Jimmy Fund, and above all, promise to keep your family close to your heart. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.mocklerfuneralhome.com.
