Frederick M. Conti ’44

WINDHAM – Frederick M. Conti, of Windham, died on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, following a brief illness, surrounded by his wife Viola and his loving family. Fred was born on January 25, 1921. He graduated from Portland High School where he was a varsity swimmer. He was a member of the second graduating class of Maine Maritime Academy and then served briefly in the U.S. Merchant Marines. Commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy, he served in the North Atlantic during WWII on the USS Bordelon, DDR881. His disabled ship, thought to be lost at sea, returned to port after 30 days. He returned to active duty during the Korea War.

He was employed by American Greetings Corporation and retired in 1986. As a young man he began his philanthropic and civic activities. He was a member of the Portland Lions Club, serving as district governor in 1962.

He was an avid golfer and a familiar face on the links at Poland Spring Country Club, where he was a lifetime member. He was the official starter of the Maine Open Golf tournament for 12 years and helped create the event.

In retirement, Fred and Vi wintered in West Palm Beach and summered on Sebago Lake sharing happy times with good neighbors on Crockett Road. Fred loved sailing on the lake, watching the sunset and enjoying a fine cigar.

He was a longtime communicant of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Windham where he joyfully greeted each parishioner with a smile and frequently with a hug while performing his duties as head usher at the Saturday 4 p.m. Mass. He was a member of the Council 10020 of the Knights of Columbus where he was a valued member of their fundraising activities. He was a fourth degree member of Assembly 3215. In 2006 Fred was awarded the distinguished Lester A. York Catholic Man of the Year Award. Fred volunteered at Maine Medical Center for 12 years where he received the Volunteer Service Award for 2010.

He relished the opportunity to contribute to the community. Fred touched everyone he met. People would look at his bright, cheery face and the bounce in his step, and felt hope. His demeanor, his genuineness, and his sincere caring was given all the time and to all who needed his special gift. The love and compassion he gave while volunteering was returned in the beautiful friendships created with staff and other volunteers.

He is survived by his devoted wife Viola of 43 years, James and Amy Conti, and grandson Brian. He also leaves his loyal nephews Fred, Leon, and Donald Webber, Tony and Phil Regios, and George Ross, niece Jeanie Biette, and their families. He was predeceased by sister Lena Webber and nephew Andrew Regios.

He left us with a legacy of love. If we follow his example, he will be with us forever.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Friday, Dec. 11, 2015, from 4-7 p.m. at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home,199 Woodford St., Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Route 302, Windham. Entombment with military honors will be held Monday, Dec. 14, 2015, at 1 p.m. at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco. For information and to leave a tribute in Fred’s memory, please visit: www.jonesrichandhutchins.com

If so desired, contributions may be made is his memory to

Maine Medical Center
Infusion Room c/o Development Office
22 Bramhall Street
Portland, Maine 04112