East Baldwin – Linwood (Lin) G. Milliken, 97, of East Baldwin passed away peacefully at Maine Medical Center on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Lin was born in Naples, Maine, on August 23, 1928, the fourth and youngest child of Ernest L. and Marjorie (Godfrey) Milliken. He grew up in Edes Falls (Naples) where he went to school. Later, he attended Portland schools. He always joked that he was never less than third in school as long as there were only three students in his class.
He married Signa (Shaw) Milliken in 1949. He worked various jobs and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952. During his time in the service, he and what would become a family of four (2 sons, Neil and Ernest, and 2 daughters, Joan and Gail) were stationed at many American air bases including Maine, Massachusetts, Texas, Arizona, Hawaii, Virginia, France, Japan and Okinawa.
Lin remained in the U.S. Air Force for 20 plus years where he achieved the rank of master sergeant. Throughout his career he worked as a member of the crews that maintained the engines for turboprop driven aircraft. In 1959, he was part of the support team for President Eisenhower’s December trip to India and Pakistan. While stationed in Okinawa (1967-1968), he was assigned twice to serve in Vietnam during the war. He had many other temporary duty assignments that included Greenland, the Philippines and the Belgian Congo.
After retiring from the U.S. Air Force in 1972, he became a correctional officer at the correctional institute in Windham. He retired as a correctional officer in 1982.
Lin enjoyed fishing and hunting as well as visiting his camp in Wilson Mills. He was a big Red Sox and Patriots fan.
During his 97 years, as one might imagine, his experiences were numerous, too many to be able to list all. He was very independent, always of sound mind, living by himself in his later years after his wife Signa passed in 2012. Anyone who had a conversation with Lin would always hear a good “war” story.
Lin’s family very much appreciates all the support and help provided by his wonderful neighbor, Ken and Jane Fox. We would also like to thank all the Maine Medical Center care providers who were so kind and supportive during this difficult time.
Lin was predeceased by his wife Signa and oldest son Neil. He is survived by daughter Joan Chisholm, son-in-law Roger Chisholm, daughter Gail O’Connell, son-in-law James O’Connell, son Ernest Milliken and beloved grandsons Michael and Daniel O’Connell.
Lin will be greatly missed by his family.
Lin requested that there not be any formal funeral service.
Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home website, www.mainefuneral.com
Arrangements have been entrusted to Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home, Cornish, www.mainefuneral.com
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