Today we remember a friend, a colleague and an important Katahdin area community member, Peter Qualey, who passed away recently. Peter was on the BOARD OF SUPERVISORS for the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District for many years. Its mission: “to assist and educate the public to promote stewardship of soil and water resources to landowners”.
Peter was on the Board for The Upper Valley Economic Corp since its inception in 1999 and then became the Chairman. UVEC was formed in 1999 to address concerns with the future of a local employer. The Council was created to represent a number of communities, which would be directly affected by the closure of this business.
Peter was involved with the Katahdin Woods & Waters Scenic Byway from its first formation in 2008 and became the Vice President of the Board.
Peter was a Community minded man who worked hard to bring development to the Katahdin Region. Peter was involved with various projects that Katahdin Tourism Partnership (KTP) Board completed along the Byway.
The projects include; Big Pine Turnout, River Pond Project, Millinocket Heritage Park, Millinocket Lake Project, and the Project that had kiosks/signs installed in Patten and Sherman downtown area.
In Memory of
Peter Qualey
Obituary for Peter Qualey
SHERMAN – Peter Qualey was a gentle giant with a twinkle in his eye and a quick wit. Quietly watching and listening, Peter paid close attention to everyone around him, always there with a smile and a helping hand. He gave and loved unconditionally. He would thoughtfully check in and let you know that he was there. A quick pat on the shoulder, a grin and nod, or a little squeeze was all you needed from him to let you know he cared. His genuine whole-hearted soul is already missed. We are incredibly grateful to have had him in our lives. Born on December 17, 1948, the son of Francis and Margaret Qualey, he grew up in Benedicta,Maine with his siblings; Mary Jalbert, (brother-in-law Ray Jalbert), Andrew, Therese and CathyQualey. He later settled in Sherman with his wife Reni and their children; Gwen Genest, (son-in-law Chris Genest), Erica Qualey, (son-in-law Jason Bigonia). Francis and Georgia Qualey. Known as Papa to his grandchildren Mackenzie, Isabella, Helena and Liesl, they were the lightin his life. He was greatly loved by many nieces, nephews and cousins who he enjoyed spending time with.Peter felt deeply rooted to his home community and worked with countless organizations and committees. He served on several boards throughout his life to revitalize and bring new opportunities to his area in Northern Maine. Closest to his heart was the Upper Valley Economic Council. If anyone would like to donate in his memory please consider a donation to their UVECFood Pantry in Sherman. Send in care of Jeff Packard at 36 School St Suite#4, Sherman, ME04776.Due to the social distancing order, a private family service will be held.
