Irvin J. Gottsch

WINDHAM – Irvin J. Gottsch, 91, of Windham, passed away peacefully with family by his side on March 9, 2023 at Maine Medical Center.

Irvin was born in Bennington, Neb. on April 13, 1931, to parents Henry Julius Gottsch and Josephine Marie Dornacker.

He attended schools in Bennington, Neb. and was a graduate of Bennington High School class of 1949, where he played baseball and basketball. After graduating, Irvin enlisted and served in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he walked as Shore Patrol of the Coast Guard in Portland.

He married his wife, Yvonne Shaw on June 24, 1952 and they began their life together. They shared 63 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Irvin was a truck driver for McAuley Transportation, Boston Maine Transportation and retired from Consolidated Freightways as a Teamster. After retirement he drove for JTL Oil and Stone Paving.

He was a member of Good Sam’s Club, Shriners of Lewiston, Presumpscott Lodge of Masons, American Legion of Westbrook Maine and Gorham Rod and Gun Club.

Irving enjoyed camping with his wife Yvonne and their friends. They would sit around the fire telling stories and loved listening to Lucille and Bob sing. They would travel in their RV and what continued to be one of their favorite yearly trips was camping at the Fryberg Fair. He enjoyed horseshoes, cribbage, playing cards, going dancing, and watching the Red Sox. Irving loved his German Shepard, Von and his little Peekapoo, Precious.

Irvin was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Josie; his wife, Yvonne; and a brother, Gene Arthur.

Irvin leaves behind his sister-in-law, Mina Proulx; nieces and nephews; friends; and his dog, Precious.

A funeral service will be held at Dolby, Blais & Segee, 434 River Rd., Windham, on April 16 at 1 p.m. To express condolences please visit http://www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com