Edwin “Rod” Wilson, 74, passed away in his home on June 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Lewiston, Maine, on July 1, 1951, to Edwin Wilson and Lucille Bell (Wilson) LaFrance, Rod was raised in Sabattus and remained deeply connected to his Maine roots throughout his life.
At age 18, Rod was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served four years in the Vietnam War. Following his service, he earned his CDL license and spent many years as an over the road truck driver. He later became the owner of Surplus City and Pine Works furniture stores, where he showcased his skill as a talented furniture craftsman. After retiring, Rod continued to stay active through various part time roles in the transportation industry.
Rod met the love of his life, Catherine Wardwell, in 1997, and the two were married on July 1, 2015. Together they enjoyed watching their favorite Nascar drivers and Rod was also a lifelong Celtics fan going to their games. His greatest joys were his family and his music. He had a deep spiritual connection to his favorite Christian hymn, Amazing Grace, which reflected his faith and the way he lived his life. A gifted musician, Rod played in numerous bands over the years and enjoyed writing and composing his own music. As a man of God he lived each day guided by his faith and maintained a close relationship with Jesus. His family finds comfort in knowing he is reunited in Heaven with loved ones who passed before him, including his cherished dogs Ginger, Chewy, and Addy.
Rod is survived by his wife of ten years, Catherine; his daughters Tricia and her partner, Dusty Young, of Lewiston, and Christine Wilson of Gardiner; his stepson Andrew Hall and his partner, Chivaun Cochrane, of Livermore; his bonus daughter Sonia Richardson and her husband James and their daughter Brooklyn of Hartford; his sister Glenda Wilson and her daughter Stephanie Ring of Topsham, granddaughters Samantha Rand of Lewiston, Kaitlyn Krause of Auburn, and Evelyn Hall of Livermore; grandsons Michael Brown of Lewiston and Landon Hall of Livermore; step granddaughter Lylah Cowwet of Livermore; and four great grandchildren—Braxton Parent, who lovingly called him “Double G,” Wattson Parent, Marshall Rand, and Mason Rand. He was predeceased by his parents and his nephew, Ricky Ricker.
Rod will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his musical spirit, his craftsmanship, and the deep love he held for his family.
A Celebration of Rod’s Life will be held on Thursday, July 9th at 11:00 a.m. at the East Auburn Baptist Church, 560 Park Avenue, Auburn, Maine.