Raymond – It is with great sadness we announce the death of Melvin J. Roast, Jr, who passed away on November 2, 2018 at the Gosnell Hospice House, surrounded by his family. The world lost an amazing man on Friday. Mel touched so many with his wisdom, unconditional love, and friendship. He was the type of man who always made time for others, particularly drawn to young people inspiring them to achieve their highest potential. He thrived on his relationships and could engage conversation with anyone. All who knew him had a great respect for him, he was one of those guys you were always happy to see. He was also an avid New England sports fan! When it was becoming likely the Red Sox's would be in the 2018 World Series and even though his health was failing quickly, there was never a doubt he would miss the final game. He was in total disbelief when game 3 resulted 18 innings. I would quote him, but I am not sure it would pass newspaper editing. If you knew him, you can surely fill in the blanks. (smile) Mel was born on April 21, 1946 in Portland, Maine the son of Melvin J. Roast Sr. and Emily M. Baker. He graduated from Portland High School in 1965 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966-1968. Upon returning from the Navy, he began working at Northern Utilities in Portland ending his 34-year career as Manager of Operations in 2002. Mel very much enjoyed his career with the gas company. In retirement, you may have seen him zipping around town, his vanity license plate read "Gasman". Mel is survived by his wife of 39 years Marie Roast, dog Molly, children John Thistle of Portland, Kelly Thistle and her partner Alan Taylor of Standish, Tracey Herring and her husband Peter of Gorham, Wendy Nelson and her husband David of Portland, Jason Roast and his wife Leeann of Gorham, Elysha Trefry of New Hampshire, his grandchildren Jessica Thistle, Jake Thistle, Joe Herring, Brittini Richards, Heath Chase, Kyle Nelson, Morgan Roast and Riley Grant, 5 great grandchildren, a brother Richard Roast and countless friends. He is predeceased by his parents, brother Donald Landeck and brother Larry Roast. There will be a graveside committal service on Friday, November 9th at Old Calvary Cemetery 1461 Broadway, South Portland, at 1:00 pm. There will be a celebration of Mel's life on Saturday, November 10th at Grace Bible Church, 74 Deering Road, Gorham Maine with visiting hours beginning at 1:00 pm until the memorial service at 2:00 pm followed by refreshments in the church community room. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, P.O. Box 336 Westbrook, Maine 04098 or Grace Bible Church of Gorham, P.O. Box 698, Gorham, Maine 04038 in memory of Melvin J. Roast, Jr. To express a condolence or to participate in Mel's online tribute please visit www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com GO Patriots!!!!!