ST. GEORGE — In the early morning of July 6, 2019, Valerie Joan Harjula, beloved wife, grandmother, aunt and friend, succumbed after a valiant battle with cancer.

Born on June 14, 1945 in Damariscotta she was the daughter of Ramon and Lorraine “Tootie” Armstrong Hilt. With the exception of a few years, Valerie lived in the community of St. George in her family home.
Educated in local schools, Valerie graduated with honors from the St. George High School in 1963 as part of that School’s last graduating class.

After graduation she worked briefly for Buzz and Janice Taft in their store in South Thomaston. It was here that she met her future husband, David, and the two were married in 1965. Valerie worked for a period of time
at Sylvania in Waldoboro and later as Postmaster Relief at the Wiley’s Corner Post Office and the Spruce Head Post Office.

In her years as a devoted stay-at-home mom she enjoyed Tole Painting and sewing, but she was probably best known throughout the community for her cooking and baking. Her coffee rings were legendary. Anything she made was delicious. However, she was always very humble about her food and would say ‘it’s ok’.

Valerie was long time member of the St. George Grange and enjoyed baking for their Craft Fairs and weekend suppers. Her trademark dessert for the suppers was a custard pie that was always one of the items to disappear quickly.

She was not one to ask for anything but was always willing to lend a helping hand and would have given away her last penny if it could help someone. She deeply loved her family and friends and will be very much missed by all.

Predeceased by her parents, her stepfather, Frank Grant, and stepsons, Scott and Randy Harjula and Dale Haag; Valerie is survived by her husband of 54 years, David Harjula; a brother Wayne Hilt of St. George; her children, Michael and his wife Lynda of Gorham, Kimberlee Peterson and her husband Kyle of Rockport; a stepson Daryn Harjula of Cushing, and several grandchildren and step-grandchildren.

A special thanks to all family and friends who provided friendship and help during her treatments and home hospice. Without this great network of people, it could not have been done.

Visiting hours will be held Thursday, July 11, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland where a celebration of her life will be held Friday, July 12, at 1 p.m. A reception will follow at the St. George Grange Hall, 32 Wiley’s Corner Road, St. George.

In lieu of flowers, Valerie requested donations be made to the St. George Grange. While flowers are gratefully accepted, Valerie’s family request you honor her memory with the addition of a hanging basket to your home.

To share a memory or condolence with Valerie’s family, visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.