FARMINGTON —- Cornelius Breen Jr., 88, of Carrabassett Valley, died Monday, March 22, 2010, at Franklin Memorial Hospital.

He was born Feb. 18, 1922, in Paterson, N.J., the son of Cornelius and Lena (Decker) Breen Sr. He was educated in New Jersey schools, graduating from East Side High School in Paterson, N.J. While in the Navy, stationed in San Diego, he went home on leave and asked a girl whom he had known his whole life to marry him. Neal married Hilda DeYoung in San Diego, Calif. in July 1945.

After serving his country during World War II, he moved back to New Jersey, where he went to work for Wrights Aeronautical. Shortly thereafter he moved on to New Jersey Bell Telephone Co. as an engineer. He retired at the age of 61 after working there for many years.

He was an active member in churches wherever he lived including Sixth Reformed, Paterson, N.J., and Ocean Grove Auditorium, N.J., but most recently at the Sugarloaf Area Christian Ministry in Maine. He also enjoyed playing golf and maintained his houses, puttering around and keeping busy. He especially enjoyed Sunday night dinners at Hugs.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Hilda; his daughter, Carrabassett Valley; his son, Robert N. Breen and his wife, Janice, of Ocean, N.J.; three grandchildren, Leah Tysse of Berkley of California, Gregory Breen and his wife, Deborah, of Corning, N.Y., and Karen Rodriguez and her husband, Edward, of Keyport, N.J.; two great-grandchildren, Cornelius and Edward Rodriquez; two sisters, Margaret Egedy of New Jersey, and Joan Bender of New Jersey; several nieces, nephews and cousins, including Paul Sheldon (a cousin who was raised in the home).

He was predeceased by his brother, William Breen.

A memorial service was held Sunday, March 28, 2010, at the Richard Bell Chapel at Sugarloaf, with the Rev. Pam Morse officiating.

Those who wish, may make contributions in Cornelius’ memory to the Sugarloaf Area Christian Ministry, Village West 18, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947.

Arrangements under the direction of Adams~McFarlane Funeral & Cremation Services in Farmington.

Those wishing may send online condolences to the family through the funeral home Web site www.adamsmcfarlane. com.