Joshua Theo Hartley Obituary (1981 - 2006)

BENTON -- Joshua Theo Hartley, 24, of Hanscom Road, died very unexpectedly monday, April 17, 2006. He was born July 26, 1981, in Millinocket, the son of Loren Hartley III and Carla Thornton. Josh lived most of his life in Millinocket, moving to Waterville after graduating from Stearns High School. He was a kind, compassionate, loving and active young man. All who knew him liked him. Wherever he went, he made friends. Josh had such a great sense of humor and a zest for life that everyone took to him. Some were very intimidated by Josh's size; after all, he was a big boy, towering above most of his friends and relatives, but when it came right down to it, he was just a big ole' teddy bear. Josh had a very special bond with Gram and Gramps Thornton, having lived with them for a few years. He also had a special relationship with his cousin Dan, growing up together more like brothers than cousins. Josh had a loving relationship with his sister, Christian, always the protective older brother. He was very close to his mother, as well as many aunts and uncles. Josh had made a lasting impression on all his family and friends with his comical antics and love. Josh had many interests. He played the Bass and enjoyed all kinds of music, especially rap. He loved snowmobiling in Millinocket, singing, dancing, riding his motorcycle and camping. He loved socializing and he loved to laugh. Josh enjoyed joking around and was the comedian of the family. He was affectionately known to some as ''Cookie.'' Perhaps his greatest legacy was his son, Cambridge and his daughter, Chloe. Josh loved holding his babies and letting them fall asleep on his chest. Josh was very proud to be a daddy; he enjoyed reading with his children and holding them close. Exploring the world through their eyes, he had an undeniable love for his children; it was evident in his smile and when he talked of them. Josh will be sadly missed and fondly remembered each and every day. Survivors include his mother, Carla Thornton and her fiance, Rocky Harlow of Livermore Falls; son, Cambridge Hartley and Cambridge's mother, Crissy Marson of Waterville; daughter, Chloe Hartley and girlfriend Jessica Michaud of Benton; sister, Christian Charette of Lincoln; maternal grandparents, Milan and Shirley Thornton of Millinocket and Russell and Nadine Bazzie of Stantonburg, N.C.; paternal grandparents, Carol and Kenneth Wedge and Loren Hartley Jr., all of Millinocket; godparents, Ralph and Bonnie Soucier of Millinocket; many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. He was predeceased by his father, Loren Hartley III and brother, Justin Hartley. Memorial contributions may be made in Joshua's memory to his children and his mother at Thornton, P.O. Box 194, East Livermore, ME 04228. Visiting hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, April 21, with a funeral service following at 4 p.m. at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. Burial will be at a later date.