PORTLAND — Michael Gajdukow, 79, of Carthage, aka “The Mad Russian,” died Sunday morning, May 6, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, surrounded by loved ones.

He was born in Novi Sad, Yugoslavia, Aug. 28, 1938, a son of Vasily and Maria Gajdukow. Michael worked as a mason in building construction and was a member of the laborers’ union Local 207 of Augusta and was a past president of the union.

He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing. Michael had extensive knowledge and love of mushrooms and gardening.

He is survived by his loving and cherished companion, Judith “Judy” Frank, of Carthage; daughters Robin Fournier and her husband, David, of Wilton, Mary Beth Bourgault and her husband, Yvon, of Jay, Leslie Gajdukow and her companion, Celia Jellison, of Machias, and Katherine Gajdukow and her companion, Keith Melancon, of Farmington; grandchildren Ian Matthew Fournier, Shane Bourgault and his companion, Erica, Bianca Bourgault, Anthony Gajdukow and his wife, Victoria, and their daughter, Khaleesi, and Jacqueline Melancon; and a large, extended, blended family who loved him deeply.

He was predeceased by his wife, Jeanne, on Oct. 3, 2007; siblings John, Paul, Anna and Elaine; and a great-grandson, Peter James.

Condolences and tributes may be shared with his family on his memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.

Michael Gajdukow