In Loving Memory of Colleen Margaret Morang, 73, a Courageous Spirit and Beloved Friend.

Born in Rockland, Maine, Colleen passed peacefully at Maine General Hospital in Augusta, on January 19 of this year.  

A lifelong resident of Maine, Colleen grew up in Owls Head, the daughter of Donald F. Morang and Virginia (Farrell) Morang. Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, she faced many obstacles throughout her life. Despite these challenges, she was a true fighter, drawing strength and determination from her health issues to overcome life's hurdles.  

She graduated from Rockland High School and attended Bliss College in Lewiston. After leaving college, Colleen was employed by Medical Bay Center. She later pursued a career at Owls Head Transportation Museum as an assistant to the director, playing a key role in establishing the museum's volunteer and fundraising programs during its early years. She also worked at the Pope Memorial Animal Shelter in Thomaston and as a clerk at the Owls Head town office. 

After retirement, Colleen continued to devote her time and love to her precious cats, family, and friends. She enjoyed playing card games, especially Yahtzee, with her dear friend Pamela Vasso, and spent many happy hours playing computer games.  

For the last three years, she resided at Mount St. Joseph Nursing Home in Waterville, Maine, where she met and fell in love with her dear friend Shell. She continued to cherish her connections with friends and staff, remaining engaged in her community.  

She was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her beloved partner, Shell of Waterville; her brothers Terry Morang of Rockland and Donald Morang and his husband Michael Martineau, also of Rockland; her sister, Kelly Sprowl and her husband Dale Sprowl of Ellsworth, Maine; and her nieces and nephews. 

"Though her departure leaves a void, Colleen’s strength, kindness, and unwavering spirit will forever inspire those who knew her. Her love for friends, family, and her beloved pets, along with her resilience in facing life's challenges, serve as a testament to her remarkable character. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will remain a guiding light in our hearts."  

We would like to end this tribute with a verse from one of Colleen’s favorite songs, Mr. Blue Sky by ELO:

"Mr. Blue, you did it right  

But soon comes Mr. Night creepin' over.  

Now his hand is on your shoulder.  

Never mind, I'll remember you this 

I'll remember you this way."

A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

Donations can be made in Colleen's name to Pope Memorial Humane Society, in Thomaston, Maine.