BATH — Bessie E. Oettinger, 86, died peacefully Feb. 20 due to complications from a stroke.

She was born on Jan. 24, 1924, in Benton, a daughter of Hazel and Lewis Mulhern. 

After attending school in Hinkley, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 19 and served in communications at North Station, Boston, during World War II.

During that time she met William L. Oettinger and married him on June 6, 1947.
 
Together they raised two daughters in Waterville.  For most of their 51-year marriage they lived on Central Avenue across the street from beloved friends, Carl and Josie Lindvall. 

She worked in the office of Dr. Chasse and then for Keyes Fiber Company for 26 years.

She will be remembered most for her love of friends and family, especially her grandchildren.  Her home was overflowing with pictures of them throughout the years. 

After visiting her daughter and granddaughter in Germany, she developed a love for M.I. Hummel, and treasured her collection.

She was predeceased by her husband William Oettinger in 1998; a brother, Lewis Mulhern, a sister Agnes Simpson, and a daughter, Barbara Hanson.

Surviving are her daughter Brenda Lacombe and her husband Roland of Brunswick; three grandchildren, Tracy Anderson of Waterville, Danielle King and her husband William of Woolwich, and Nathan Lacombe of Lewiston; seven great-grandchildren, Margaret, Shawn, Sarah, Amber, Abigail, Caleb, and Luke; a brother, Alton Mulhern of Auburn; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation to celebrate her life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27 at Brackett Funeral Home, 29 Federal St., Brunswick. 

A memorial can be viewed online at brackettfuneralhome.com.

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