BELFAST — Penson Nelson Bartlett, Sr., of Belfast passed away on July 15, 2024 after a courageous battle with his kidney disease and cancer surrounded by his loving family.

Penson was born in Belfast, Maine on January 18, 1944 into a loving family, the son of a dairy farmer James Bartlett and school teacher Frances Hall.

Penson grew up in Searsmont where he helped out on the family farm.

He attended elementary school in Searsmont and graduated from Walker High School in Liberty in 1962.

After graduating high school, he worked in the woods for his brother, Roger and then attended the National School of Heavy Equipment Operation in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1962.

Penson was drafted into the United States Army in 1966. He was a member of Btry A 2d Bn 7th Arty, and he was an Artillery Forward Observer and received a National Defense Service Medal for Sharpshooting. The farm boy was a good shot! Penson was honorably discharged after bravely serving his country and returned home to his loving wife, Joyce Bragdon.

Penson and Joyce were married on May 1,1965 and spent 59 years of marriage happily dedicated to one another and their family. They built their home in Searsmont across the street from his parents' dairy farm where Penson would often come home from work and then go over and help his father. Penson and Joyce spent many summers camping with friends and enjoyed their long motorcycle rides. They both enjoyed going to the 10-4 for the Saturday night dance with many friends. Prior to entering the service Penson worked for Sprowl Bros. Inc and was a truck driver. He once got the truck hung up under an overpass in Boston and when the police ordered him to move, he offered to let them drive in colorful words. He eventually was able to go on his way.

After the Army he worked for Fred (Brub) Lucas and then went on to start his own heavy equipment business. He quickly became well known for his skills and eye for detail. The heavy equipment community labeled him one of the best, he was a true legacy. Penson would often take some time to give the little kids a ride on the dozer, which he truly enjoyed. He would spent countless hours working until everything was perfect, just ask any of his workers that had to stay at a job site until late at night. He took pride in his work and it showed. He appreciated and valued all of his workers over the years, they were like family and he cared about all of them. After retirement he worked for his good buddy, Dave St. Clair and his family. He treated everyone the same, whether they were well established or having some struggles in life.

Penson truly enjoyed gambling, whether it was taking a trip to the casino with his wife and many good friends, poker nights with his buddies or flipping for $5 at every store in Waldo County.

Penson loved his children, he was a provider and supporter. He was often the rescuer of broken down cars late at night full of friends. He was always there to give advice and help out anyway he could. He was a great father who was always there when needed. He loved them and they knew it and loved him back. As a grandfather, he was known as Pa and always lit up and smiled when he would see them. Pa was always there for all of them and was so proud of each of his grandchildren and adored them. He would talk about each of them and their accomplishments often. Pa enjoyed all the ball games, the visits, sleep overs, trips and talks. His great grandchildren would bring a smile to his face when they would sit on his lap or when he would watch them play. 

Penson’s heart was so big, he would give to anyone who needed help. There were many times he helped people because he felt it was the right thing to do and never needed a thank you or expected anything in return. One thing that can’t be overlooked was his sense of humor. He was always quick with a wisecrack, smart remark, and no one was above being given a nickname or being teased. He loved to laugh and make people laugh. All of these attributes add up to Penson who was a one of a kind character in the best way possible.

Penson is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughter, Annette Lucky and her husband Steve from Buxton; son, Penson Bartlett, Jr and his wife Kerri from Belfast; grandchildren; Tyler and Jason Bartlett, Brittney Crowther and her husband Collin; great grandchildren, Oliver and Charlie Rose; twin sister, Penelope Young, and many other loving family members.

Predeceased by his parents, James and Frances Bartlett; brother, Roger Bartlett; and many other loved family members.

There will be a private graveside service for immediate family on Monday, July 22, 2024, at Greenwood Cemetery in Montville.

All are invited to remember Penson at a Celebration of Life on Monday, July 22, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., at the Waldo County Shrine Club in Belfast. 

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at ripostafh.com.