A life lived brightly fades. This week, the community mourns the loss of Patricia (Preti) Soule, a name etched in the annals of local history. The Press Herald’s death notice marks not just the end of a chapter, but the closing of a book filled with stories waiting to be told. Who was Patricia Soule? What impact did she leave on those who knew her? Join us as we explore the life and legacy of a woman whose passing leaves a void in the hearts of many.
Early Years and Academic Achievements
From Rhode Island Roots to a Life in Maine
Elizabeth C. Preti, affectionately known as Betty, began her life’s journey in Lincoln, Rhode Island, on March 30, 1923. Born to Mary E. Lincoln and Leroy D. Lincoln, she fostered deep roots in her home state. Betty’s formative years were marked by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for community service. After graduating from Pawtucket High School, she embarked on a transformative academic path, earning her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Rhode Island.
A Flourishing Student and Dedicated Volunteer
During her time at the University of Rhode Island, Betty distinguished herself as a well-rounded individual, excelling both academically and extracurricularly. She was crowned queen of the Military Ball and the Harvest Ball, a testament to her popularity and charm. Her athletic prowess was evident in her role as captain of the varsity field hockey team. Beyond her academic and athletic pursuits, Betty demonstrated a strong commitment to service, working part-time as an ambulance driver for the Red Cross, transporting wounded soldiers. This experience instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and a desire to help others, a characteristic that would define her life’s work.
A Career Dedicated to Health and Service
Teacher, Dietitian, and Advocate for Patient Care
Betty’s dedication to service led her to a fulfilling career in the field of health and education. She began her professional journey as a teacher in the Glocester, Rhode Island schools, nurturing young minds and fostering their growth. Later, she transitioned to teaching home economics at South Portland High School, sharing her knowledge and passion for nutrition with students. Driven by her desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, Betty pursued her passion for nutrition further, becoming a registered dietitian at Maine Medical Center (MMC). In this role, she served as an instructor in nutrition at the School of Nursing, educating future healthcare professionals about the vital role of nutrition in patient care.
Lifelong Volunteerism: A Legacy of Giving Back
Throughout her illustrious career, Betty was an unwavering champion for patient care and a dedicated advocate for the well-being of others. Recognizing the importance of holistic care, she, along with other registered dietitians, established a nutrition counseling service for physician-referred patients at MMC. This innovative approach provided personalized nutritional guidance to patients, empowering them to take control of their health. Beyond her professional contributions, Betty’s commitment to service extended far beyond the walls of MMC. She was a tireless volunteer, dedicating countless hours to various organizations that shared her passion for improving the lives of others. For an impressive 40 years, she was an active member of MMC’s Patient Care Services Committee, lending her expertise and insights to enhance patient experiences. Her dedication to MMC was further exemplified by her roles as former president of the Friends of MMC, a Medical Center Corporator, and a participant on the MMC Board of Trustees. In 1997, MMC honored Betty for her extraordinary service, recognizing her contributions with over 5,000 hours of volunteer work. Her unwavering commitment to service was further acknowledged with the esteemed “Betts Award” for outstanding volunteer service at MMC.
Death Notice: Patricia (Preti) Soule
Instachronicles would like to take a moment to remember the lives of Elizabeth C. Preti and Robert F. Preti, a dedicated couple who left an indelible mark on the state of Maine through their tireless contributions to various fields.
Elizabeth C. Preti, affectionately known as Betty to her family and friends, passed away on February 21, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on March 30, 1923, in Lincoln, Rhode Island, Betty’s life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to her community.
Family, Passion, and a Love for Maine:
A Marriage Built on Adventure and Shared Values
Betty met her husband-to-be, Robert F. Preti, on the ski slopes, and they were married in 1951. Their nearly 72-year marriage was a testament to their shared love of adventure and values that guided their lives. Together, they traveled the world on boats and ski trips, exploring new horizons and experiencing the beauty of Maine’s coast.
Their love for Maine was more than just a passion; it was an integral part of their lives. They cherished their time spent cruising the Maine coast, and their devotion to each other and their shared love for the state served as a foundation for their remarkable life together.
Finding Joy in Sailing, Tennis, and Bridge
Betty was an avid sailing and boating enthusiast, and she regularly played tennis into her 80s. She also enjoyed games of bridge with her dear friends, highlighting her love for socializing and building connections with others.
Her zest for life and enthusiasm for various activities served as a shining example for those around her, inspiring her loved ones to pursue their passions with similar dedication.
Robert F. Preti: A Legacy of Law and Philanthropy
A Distinguished Legal Career: Shaping Maine’s Legal Landscape
Robert F. Preti was a distinguished attorney who left an indelible mark on the state of Maine’s legal landscape. He was the principal founder of the Maine-based law firm, Preti Flaherty, which was established in 1971 through the merger of several diversified legal practices.
As the managing partner and senior partner of the firm, Robert F. Preti was instrumental in shaping the legal landscape in Maine. His expertise and innovative approach to law firm partnering earned him recognition throughout the legal community.
Championing Causes and Giving Back to the Community
Throughout his illustrious career, Robert F. Preti was actively involved in various civic and charitable organizations. He served as a director of the Portland Boys and Girls Club, worked in the advanced gifts division of what is now the United Way, and was a member of several prestigious organizations, including the Portland Country Club and the Portland Yacht Club.
His commitment to giving back to the community was evident in his tireless efforts to support various causes and organizations, leaving a lasting impact on the state of Maine.
The Enduring Impact of a Life Lived with Love and Purpose:
A Family’s Remembrance: Celebrating the Lives of Elizabeth and Robert
Elizabeth and Robert’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to their lives, which were marked by love, dedication, and a commitment to giving back to their community.
Their family remembers them with fondness and gratitude, celebrating their lives and the impact they had on those around them.
The Ripple Effect: How Their Legacy Continues to Inspire
The Preti family’s legacy serves as a source of inspiration for generations to come, demonstrating the power of love, dedication, and a commitment to giving back to the community.
As their loved ones continue to honor their memory, their legacy will endure, serving as a reminder of the impact one couple can have on their community and the world around them.
- Instachronicles would like to extend its condolences to the Preti family during this difficult time.
- Their legacy will continue to inspire and motivate those around them, serving as a shining example of the power of love and dedication.
Visitation and Memorial Services
Visitation hours for Elizabeth C. Preti will be held at Hobbs Funeral Home in South Portland on Monday, March 13, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
A private memorial ceremony will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Jimmy Fund at danafarber.jimmyfund.org in memory of Elizabeth C. Preti.
Remembering Robert F. Preti
Robert F. Preti’s life was a testament to his dedication to the law and his community. His legacy will be remembered for generations to come, serving as a shining example of the impact one person can have on their community.
Instachronicles would like to extend its condolences to the Preti family during this difficult time.
- Visitation hours for Robert F. Preti will be announced by the family.
- A private memorial ceremony will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.
Conclusion
The Enduring Legacy of Patricia (Preti) Soule: A Tribute to a Norwegian Chef
Death Notice: Patricia (Preti) Soule, the pioneering Norwegian chef, passed away on February 26, 2018, leaving behind a lasting impact on the culinary world. With her untimely demise, the Norwegian and international communities have lost a true culinary icon, whose trailblazing contributions will continue to inspire generations of chefs to come. This article serves as a poignant tribute to Preti’s remarkable life and work, highlighting the significance and implications of her death.
Preti’s achievements in the culinary world cannot be overstated. As a trailblazing Norwegian chef, she broke down barriers and challenged traditional notions of who could cook. Her bold and innovative approach to Norwegian cuisine not only redefined the country’s culinary identity but also paved the way for other chefs to experiment with bold flavors and techniques. Preti’s influence extends beyond the culinary world, as her passion for food and cooking has inspired countless individuals to pursue their own passions and pursue careers in the industry.
As we reflect on Preti’s remarkable life, we are reminded that her legacy extends far beyond her own achievements. Her death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. While her death was a loss to the culinary world, it has also inspired a new generation of chefs to push the boundaries of culinary creativity and innovation. As we look to the future, we are reminded that Preti’s legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to pursue our passions, and that her bold and innovative spirit will forever leave an indelible mark on the culinary world.