OBITUARIES | June 14, 2026 – BIDDEFORD GAZETTE

James ‘Red’ Tarte

July 20, 1930 – June 2, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | James “Red” J. Tarte, 95, of Saco, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of June 2, 2026.

James was born in Easton, Mass., on July 20, 1930, a son of Joseph Gregory Tarte and Mary Ellen (Cavanaugh) Tarte. He grew up alongside his two brothers and sister.

James met and married his wife, Carmella, in 1951. They began their life together in Mansfield, raising their two daughters there. Later in life, Carmella and James moved to Mattapoisett and enjoyed living near the ocean. James became an avid sailor spending time on the ocean. The couple later settled in Saco, Maine. They spent 73 years happily married until Carmella’s passing in 2024.

James was predeceased by his wife: Carmella (Garland) Tarte, his daughter: Jamie Jackson, his brothers: Albert Tarte and wife Hisako, and Richard Tarte, his sister: Ilene Perdue and husband Arthur, and a grandchild.

James is survived by his daughter: Lesley McGrath and husband Paul, his son-in-law: Michael Jackson, and many grandchildren.

In accordance with James’ wishes, there will be no public services.

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Tina Gagne

May 28, 1964 – May 25, 2026

HOPE MEMORIAL CHAPEL | It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Gagne, who passed away on May 25, 2026, at the age of 61 in Mishawaka, Indiana.

She attended Biddeford schools and graduated in 1983. Tina dedicated much of her working life to caring for others through nursing and later pursued her entrepreneurial spirit as a business owner.

Tina was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend whose warmth and adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures and treasured the time she spent with those she loved most.

Tina had a long love of horses, farm animals, music, and travel. Whether she was exploring a new place to shop, enjoying her favorite songs to dance to, or spending time with family and friends, she embraced life with a free spirit and a generous heart.

She is survived by her sons, Bryan and Michael; her beloved granddaughter, Merida; her partner, Byron; her brothers, Mark, Timothy, Rodney, and James; her sister, Mona; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Tina’s memory will live on through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, laughter, and love.

.Though she may be gone from our sight, Tina will forever remain in our hearts.

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Richard ‘Dick’ Ryan

Jan. 30, 1947 – June 5, 2026

HOPE MEMORIAL CHAPEL — Richard (Dick) Ryan II passed away Friday, June 5,2026 at home, in Biddeford, after a long battle with COPD.

Dick graduated from St. Louis High school, in Biddeford, in 1966. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served for four years, with one year overseas, during the Vietnam War, and then became a member of the Air National Guard.

Dick was employed by Central Maine Power and retired after 36 years. Throughout his life he had many hobbies and was always good at anything he set his mind to. Dick was a good and caring man and would lend a helping hand to anyone that needed him.

Surviving him is his wife Lisa Cyr Ryan, whom he married in 2005. Dick’s son Chris Ryan, (with Deanna Berry), of South Carolina.

Stepchildren James King and Marie King, as well as his step grandchildren Jared, Alexia, Corey and Kayleigh King, Stacia McKay, Gunner Walsh as well as two great step grandchildren.

Dick was predeceased by his parents Richard Ryan and Blanche Pruneau Ryan, his sister Donna Mackenzie and her son Thomas Mackenzie, his stepson John T. King and his step grandson Justin Bergeron.

Per Dick’s request, there will be no services. READ MORE

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Gail Alice (Binette) Stephens

Oct. 18, 1950 – June 6, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | Gail Alice (Binette) Stephens, 75, of Old Orchard Beach, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Gail was born in Biddeford, Maine, at the old Webber Hospital on October 18, 1950, a daughter of Lionel and Edith (Townsend) Binette. She was raised in Biddeford alongside her nine siblings.

Gail graduated from Biddeford High School in 1969. She later attended the University of Southern Maine pursuing an Associate Degree in Business Administration.

She was employed at Michael’s Craft and Supplies store for many years. This position allowed her creativity to shine. She also owned and operated Gaslight Creations. She designed her own floral arrangements and artistic creations for the world to see.

Gail met her husband, John Stephens, and married on August 7, 1978, in Bel Air, Maryland. They spent almost 48 wonderful years together raising their family and enjoying the time they had with each other.

She was a devout Christian who attended Anchor Baptist Church in Biddeford and Bible Baptist Church in Saco before her health prevented her from continuing her attendance. However, she faithfully continued her worship from home.

In her free time, Gail greatly enjoyed crafting, Bible study, and browsing the QVC, HSN and Amazon websites. However, her favorite activity was hosting her family at her home. She would go all out when she knew people were coming to her home and it showed in how she decorated and cared for those who came into her home. She truly loved being able to spend time with those she held closest.

Gail was predeceased by her parents, her brothers: Earl “Jimmy” Jameson and wife Lucille, Albert Elwell Jr., and Hervey Elwell, her sisters: Dolores Clark, Patricia Griffin and husband Victor, Ellen Elwell and husband Joe, Carole Morin, and Meredith Binette.

Gail is survived by her husband: John Stephens, her daughter: Kimberly Delk and husband Bobby, her sons: Morgan Morang and wife Deanna, and Garrett Stephens and wife Kimberly, her brother: Lionel “Leo” Binette, her grandchildren: Brooke Babin and husband Seth, Ryan Delk, Courtney Simmonds and husband Orlando, Kyle Allen, Gavin Morang, Trevor Allen, Bryce Morang, Sierra Stephens, and Tyler Stephens, and her greatgrandchildren: Emily Babin, Liam Babin, Amelia Morang, and Ava Morang.

Visiting Hours will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, June 15, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, Saco. A Funeral Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, at Saco Bay Community Church, Saco. READ MORE

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Kenneth Wesley Lane

Nov. 16, 1941 – June 8, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | Kenneth Wesley Lane, 84, of Scarborough, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.

Ken was born in Biddeford, Maine on November 16, 1941, a son of Raymond Elbridge Lane and Lorraine Elizabeth (Bourgault) Lane. Ken grew up in Saco, and was educated in the Saco school system. He graduated in 1960 from Thornton Academy, where he was class president for all four years of high school, and captain of the football team during his senior year. Ken went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maine in Orono, and while there was elected president of Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) fraternity.

While at the University of Maine in Orono he participated in ROTC (Army) and in 1965 after college, Ken volunteered for service. He was commissioned in the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Vietnam War. Ken was a member of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). His unit was a part of the famous Garryowen Brigade.

Ken served honorably and with distinction earning two Bronze Star Medals with Valor during search and destroy missions. Upon his honorable discharge as a 1st Lieutenant, Ken returned back to school, receiving his Master’s Degree from the University of Maine in Orono in Biology.

Ken married Agapy “Aggie” Brickates on June 17, 1973. This month they would have been married 53 years.

Outlining his extensive work history, Ken was a biology teacher at Marshwood High School in Berwick, Maine, he worked as a pharmaceutical rep., as traveling secretary for Alpha Tau Omega where he travelled around the country, and he worked in administration for the University of Southern Maine, Gorham campus. Most notable was his 45-year career selling residential real estate primarily in York County, but also in Cumberland County.

Ken belonged to the order of AHEPA, as well as the local Elks Lodge.

Ken’s hobbies and interests were extensive. He was an avid skier, but also enjoyed the beach, boating and traveling to warmer climates with Aggie, as well as his family and friends. Ken was known for his love of country & western music, singing along to famous artists like Willie Nelson, David Allen Coe, Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard, and he also enjoyed gaming, from playing cards to his occasional scratch-off ticket to see how good his luck was. He was very lucky.

Ken appreciated a good meal at one of his favorite restaurants where friends were present and conversation was lively. He loved his snacks and sweet treats and appreciated a good bourbon.

Ken loved animals of all kinds and kept his bird feeders fully stocked. Ken also had a way with words always rhyming and coming up with clever notes and sayings.

Most of all, Ken cherished the time he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by many.

He is survived by his wife, Aggie; by his daughter, Niki and her husband, Sean Neagle; by his two grandchildren, Alexe and Duke; by his brothers Kermit and David, and his wife Rae; as well as by many nieces and nephews.

Visiting Hours will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James Street, Saco. A Funeral Service will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 15 at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Saco. Burial will follow at St. Demetrios Cemetery in Biddeford. READ MORE

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Helen S. Skinsacos

March 8, 1931 – June 8, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | Helen S. Skinsacos, 95, of Saco, Maine, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, June 8, 2026, at Seal Rock Healthcare in Saco.

She was born in Providence, Rhode Island, on March 8, 1931, the daughter of James and Bessie Skouras.

Helen graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in Providence, RI. After high school, she became a dance instructor with the Arthur Murray Dance Center, specializing in the Tango. She credited her dance background with helping her remain active and agile throughout her life. Helen also had a flair for fashion.

Her early years were spent helping at her father’s family restaurant, City Cafe/What Cheer Lunch, in Providence. The family later moved to Old Orchard Beach, where they opened another restaurant. Helen and her husband, Peter, later owned and operated the Flagship Motel in Old Orchard Beach.

More recently, well into her 80s, she was employed by the Waves Oceanfront Resort. She cherished the relationships she built with her coworkers, many of whom became lifelong friends. She spoke fondly of these friendships until the time of her passing and will be greatly missed.

Never one to sit still, Helen enjoyed participating at the St. Demetrios Church bazaar in Saco, where she worked at the White Elephant Table.

She also supported the Northern Star, as her husband was a member of the Elks.

Helen was a wonderful cook and baker. Those fortunate enough to receive a plate of her Greek pastries especially enjoyed her baklava. She guarded her baklava recipe closely and kept it a secret to the very end.

Helen was also an avid New England Patriot fan knowing the name of each player.

She especially enjoyed playing card games with her grandson, Dimitri, over the years. She would proudly tell others that he could “beat her.” Helen also welcomed all of her grandchildren to use the pool at the Waves during designated hours, always with strict instructions to behave and follow the rules.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Peter Skinsacos, and her sister, Mary Pappas.

She is survived by her son, Plato Skinsacos and his wife, Stacey; her grandchildren, Dimitri Skinsacos and his wife, Victoria, Jeffrey Sevigny and his wife, Brittany, Scott Sevigny and his wife, Danielle, and Kristen Hussey and her husband, Matthew; and her great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Roman, Ellie, Bernice, Benjamin, Emberly, Jameson, Wyatt, Emmett, Garrett, Bennett and Brett. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. OG Yia Yia you will be missed!

Visiting hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James Street, Saco. A private graveside service will follow. READ MORE

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