Herbert J. Coombs, 78

PORTLAND - Herbert J. Coombs, 78, of Washington Avenue, quietly and peacefully passed away on May 8, 2004 at his residence following a brief illness.

He was born in Polkshaw, New Brunswick, Canada, a son of Thomas and Viola Coombs. Mr. Coombs grew up in Polkshaw, a place that always remained dear to his heart, and later moved to Portland as a young man.

He was a mechanic at Cushman's Bakery and later at J.J. Nissen in Portland where he retired after 31 years of employment.

He enjoyed summer trips to his hometown in Canada, and also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and keeping a watchful eye on the new growth of the flower garden the back yard.

He was predeceased by his wife, Concetta, in 2002, and a daughter, Rhonda Lombardo, in 1997.

He is survived by three sons, Gilbert Coombs of Portland, Glenn Coombs of Chebeague Island, Gerald Coombs of Biddeford; a daughter, Elissa Saunderson of Gorham; a son in-law, Joseph P. Lombardo, with whom he stayed close to throughout the years following Rhonda's death.

He is also survived by his siblings, Mabel, Ella, Edna, Lawrence, Walter; 11 grandchildren; and two great - grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held form 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday at Jones Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland, where a funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday. A committal service will take place at a later date at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland.

Jones, Rich & Hutchins

Funeral Home & Cremation Service

775-3763