Howard A. Cederlund, WWII Veteran and Esteemed Community Member, Passes Away at 97

It is with great sadness that the community of Wiscasset mourns the passing of Howard Alden Cederlund, aged 97, who died on August 22, 2024.

Born on March 30, 1927, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Howard was the son of Astrid Tornwall and Fritz Cederlund. He took pride in his Swedish heritage, visiting Sweden three times and enjoying traditional foods such as pickled herring and cardamom coffee bread.

Howard’s passion for music began in his youth as he sang as a boy soprano in the Swedish Baptist Church. He also played the harmonica, accordion, and piano, highlighting the important role that music played throughout his life.

At the age of 17, Howard left high school to serve in the Navy during World War II. He earned his high school diploma after his military service, where he served as a gunner’s mate aboard the USS Menard. He participated in significant events, including the Battle of Okinawa, and was present when the Menard became the first ship to occupy Nagasaki after the atomic bombing, an experience that would have lifelong health implications due to cancer.

After the war, Howard married Laura B. Hastings in 1946 and together they raised two children in Upton, Massachusetts, where they purchased a farm. Howard enjoyed a long career at Draper Corp. in Hopedale, Massachusetts, advancing to management in the computer department and contributing to innovations in inventory control using early computer technology.

Outside of work, Howard was active in his community, serving as a selectman in Upton and owning a nursery business. He was known for his annual deer hunting trips to western Maine, which he cherished greatly.

Following the closure of Draper Corp., Howard ventured into running a sawmill in Wiscasset. This career change allowed him to retire early and pursue his hobbies, which included carving wooden birds and photography.

Howard and Laura spent many years traveling across the country in campers and motorhomes, enjoying winters in Tucson, Arizona, until Laura’s passing in 2011. In later years, Howard married Anne Dolan, a pianist, and the couple shared a love for music and travel until her death in 2017.

A Master Mason for 72 years, Howard was involved with multiple organizations including the American Legion and the Family Motorcoach Association. He was actively involved in sharing his life story, including a significant interview in 2022 for local television, which contributed to the Honor Flight Maine program.

Howard is survived by his son, Gregg A. Cederlund, and daughter, Judi Main, among other family members. He was honored to have a graveside service scheduled for October 5, 2024, at Greenlawn Cemetery, with a gathering following at his daughter’s home.

In recognition of his life and legacy, donations may be made to Honor Flight Maine, further contributing to the remembrance of his admirable service and commitment to community.