Eleanor H. Raynes. Robert Paradis Chaplin. Zachary Blaine McKechnie. Julie Walentine Rodrigue. Marilyn J. Simmel. Cathy Freeman-Hodgkins. Don P. Reiman, Jr. Marjorie E. Pinkham. Kerry P. Bates Black.
Apr 19, 2026
Note: “People We’ve Lost” is a feature of the Bar Harbor Story where we share obituaries of people that the island lost in the previous 1-2 weeks.
We’re doing this because we think everyone deserves to be remembered as widely as possible and not behind paywalls or at a cost of $500 for people mourning. We’re free.
If you have an obituary for a loved one or friend that you can’t afford to place in other spaces, please let us know, and we’ll share it here for you. We will also share obituaries that have been in other places, too. Just let us know.
By request we’ve started sharing obituaries from throughout Hancock County. This is a bit of a bigger lift for us, but we’ll try to keep doing it if it’s something that you all want. We all are so connected here.
Our story about Barry Gutradt/Walter Churchill is here. Our recent story about Bob Chaplin is here.
Eleanor H. Raynes
Bar Harbor
Eleanor Raynes, 104, lifelong resident of Bar Harbor, passed away at her home Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Eleanor was born on October 8, 1921 to William Melville Hamor and Betsey (Higgins) Hamor, later Peach. She was raised by Betsey and her beloved stepfather, Malcolm Peach. She graduated from Bar Harbor High School in 1939.
In 1942 she married Robert Raynes, who was in Bar Harbor working with the Civilian Conservation Corps. They fell in love after they met at a basketball game at the YMCA. They had a wonderful life raising their two daughters Patricia and Catherine and were married for 51 years before his death in 1993. Over the years she worked as a telephone operator, a clerk at Ward’s Clothing Store in Bar Harbor, and a room supervisor at the Jackson Laboratory.
She was a lifelong member of St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church. She loved the many hours she spent volunteering throughout the community, including at St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church, Maine Seacoast Mission, Island Connections, the MDI Hospital Auxiliary, the Bar Harbor Historical Society, and the MDI YWCA. With her circle of close friends, she was an avid basketball fan of the MDI Trojans, traveling all over the state to cheer them on.
She loved the time she spent at her beloved camp on Little Webb Pond, enjoying the company of family and friends and the Little Webb Community. People loved hearing her stories about what it was like growing up in Bar Harbor 104 years ago. In 2018 she was awarded the Boston Cane, presented by the Bar Harbor Historical Society, for being the oldest Bar Harbor native.
Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Cathy Walton and her husband Brent of Bar Harbor; her grandchildren Jenifer Jackson (Denny) Trevett of South Burlington, VT, Nicholas (Julie) Walton, and Kristin Walton (Patrick) Murphy of Bar Harbor; great grandchildren Morgan and Kyle Trevett, Erin and MacKenzie Murphy; and great great grandson, Anthony Lyttleton, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert, daughter, Patricia Jackson, son-in-law, Edward Jackson, brothers, Lyle, Herbert, and Richard Hamor, and Arden Peach.
Her family would like to thank the phenomenal caring staff of Beacon Hospice who have provided excellent care and support for the last 18 months.
In lieu of flowers those who desire may make contributions in Eleanor’s memory to St Saviour’s Episcopal Church, 41 Mt. Desert Street, Bar Harbor, 04609.
A Celebration of Eleanor’s life will be held 11am, May 2, 2026 at St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church, 41 Mt. Desert, St., Bar Harbor with The Rev. Canon Cricket Cooper presiding.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com
Robert Paradis Chaplin
Bar Harbor
Robert Paradis Chaplin – known to many as Mr. C, Dad C, Bob C, Grampy C, Crash C, and Bobby – passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2026, with his daughter Susannah at his side from acute myeloid leukemia. Born on March 21, 1939, in Bath, Maine, to Wilfred R. and Gertrude Hudson Chaplin, Bob was a man of many interests and talents, a life-long learner, a proactive and solutions-oriented team player, and a dedicated educator.
Bob attended Bath Schools, graduating from Morse High School in 1957 with a degree in Machine Shop, followed by a year of college-prep also at Morse. As a Boy Scout, he attained the Gold Palm Eagle Scout (with 40 merit badges), earned the God and Country Award, and was elected to the Order of the Arrow, the honor society of Scouting America.
After high school Bob was a machine shop apprentice at Bath Ironworks, attended Maine Maritime Academy, and in 1965 received his Bachelor’s Degree with honors from the University of Maine at Machias (formerly Washington State Teachers’ College) where he was Class President and a member of Kappa Delta Pi. From the University of Maine at Orono, Bob received Master’s Degrees in both Environmental Science and Environmental Education. He received two honorary scholarships for science education and a one-year Ford Foundation fellowship for Environmental Science. Three internships in genetics at The Jackson Laboratory resulted in his selection as a long-standing board member of The Center for Human Genetics.
Bob began his educational career first as Principal of Machiasport Elementary School, and then as Principal of Pemetic Elementary School. Missing the daily contact with students, Bob became a science teacher at Connors Emerson School in Bar Harbor in 1970. Known fondly as “Mr. C,” Bob inspired generations of 6th graders with his enthusiastic teaching, outdoor classroom, weather station, and his infamous annual class trips to Quebec city, always exploring new ideas and teaching methods throughout his 40-year tenure until his retirement in 2010.
Mr. C. didn’t “just teach science.” He was also the Assistant Director of the Acadia Youth Conservation Corps with Acadia National Park, one of nine national parks to pilot this program and the first to encourage both boys and girls to participate cooperatively. He also served as the lifeguard for both Echo Lake Beach and Sand Beach. He helped organize the Mount Desert Island Sharks Swim Team and the MDI School Department cross-country teams, and was instrumental in developing the Eastern Maine Cross-Country Running League. When the State of Maine surrendered its sponsorship of the State Science Fair, The Jackson Laboratory assumed that role and selected Bob to reorganize the Science Fair, eventually sending the first Maine Science Fair students to the National Championships in California. For ten years, Bob was a teaching leader for the People-to-People Student Ambassadors Program, which offered students educational and service opportunities through international travel experiences. Through that program, Bob accompanied several groups on their trips to foreign countries to teach them about world politics and problems, and how to solve them. For years he was a regular volunteer greeter for the MOFGA Common Ground Fair, and participated frequently in the Blue Hill Fair agriculture contest, often winning ribbons for his dahlias and vegetables.
Retirement did not stop Bob from being involved. He was an Ed Tech for the Special Ed departments at Ellsworth Elementary/Middle and Mount Desert Island Elementary Schools. During the summer seasons, as a member of the Island Explorer team, Bob took great delight in teaching visitors about Acadia National Park. The Town of Bar Harbor benefitted from Bob’s serving on the Warrant Committee for several terms. He was also an active member of the Bar Harbor Congregational Church.
Bob enjoyed life to the very fullest as he enjoyed hiking, kayaking, cross country skiing, swimming, interior decorating, reading, performing music, learning new things, observing the weather, and pursuing many other interests and activities. Bob was predeceased by sons, Cary and Courtney. He is survived by daughter Susannah Chaplin Isaacs, daughter-in-law Kate Chaplin, and seven grandchildren: Maclean, Quinn, Gilbert, and Porter Isaacs, and Louise, Susannah, and Whitaker Chaplin.
He will be missed by those whose lives he touched in his gentle way and especially by those privileged to call him friend. Bob was most grateful to all who helped and guided him through his final illness, especially the Mount Desert Island Hospital Oncology Department and Island Connections. Continuing his dedication to teaching, Bob requested that any memorial contributions be directed to improving Special Education.
Checks can be mailed to:
MDIRSS AOS 91 Special Services Att’n: Nancy Thurlow
PO Box 60
Mt. Desert, ME 04660
A community memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the Bar Harbor Congregational Church, 29 Mt Desert St, Bar Harbor.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Zachary Blaine McKechnie
Hancock County Region
Zachary Blaine McKechnie had a way of lifting the people around him—full of life, often humming a catchy tune, already thinking ahead to the next project, the next adventure, or the next person he wanted to connect with. He passed away on March 21, 2026, as the result of a motor vehicle accident, just one day before his 36th birthday.
Born on March 22, 1990, in Belfast, Maine, Zach was raised in Hampden and graduated from Hampden Academy in Hampden, Maine, in 2008.
Zach proudly served in the United States Army from 2012 to 2016. He reported to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for basic combat training before continuing to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where he trained as a 68W combat medic.
His service took him to Camp Carroll in South Korea, where he was stationed for a year. While there, Zach achieved one of the most demanding accomplishments of his military career—earning the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB). The EFMB is one of the Army’s most rigorous and selective medical qualifications, requiring soldiers to pass an intensive, multi-day evaluation of both physical endurance and advanced medical proficiency, with fewer than 12 percent of candidates passing. Zach earned this distinction on his first attempt—an achievement that speaks to both his skill and determination, and one that only a small number of soldiers accomplish.
While stationed in Korea, Zach formed lifelong bonds with fellow servicemembers, including Jessica Rashkovsky. These friendships were built on trust, shared experience, and a deep understanding of one another. Zach and Jessica shared a particularly strong connection, often referring to themselves as twin flames.
Following his time in Korea, Zach continued his service at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland. There, he supported high-level medical operations, including the Pope’s visit in 2015 and the State of the Union in 2016. His time at Walter Reed further demonstrated his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to caring for others. During this time, he formed a brother-like friendship with fellow servicemember Brandon Ruedi. Their bond extended beyond their service, and Zach shared many special memories with Brandon and his family, who became an important part of his life.
Zach’s military service was deeply meaningful to him and was greatly influenced by his grandfather, Harold “Mac” McKechnie, a member of the Greatest Generation who served in the U.S. Army during World War II, including landing on Omaha Beach during D-Day. Zach interviewed his grandfather about those experiences—stories that might otherwise have been lost and that are now treasured by the family because of him.
After his military service, Zach set his sights on the path he knew was meant for him. He attended Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine, where he found his purpose on the waterfront and graduated in 2024.
Following his graduation, Captain Zachary McKechnie began his career at the MMA waterfront as a Small Craft Master. He primarily served as Captain of the Friendship, and also as relief Captain of the MV Captain Susan Clark and the tug Pentagoet. He was licensed as a 100-ton master. His role included the operation and maintenance of U.S. Coast Guard inspected vessels. He was a talented boat handler and a skilled technician who genuinely enjoyed instructing students, taking pride in sharing his experience and knowledge. Zach had a deep dedication to Maine Maritime Academy and its mission, something he passed on to his students. He became a mentor to many and was a strong supporter of the MMA Yacht Club, helping students plan and participate in weekend trips. His enthusiasm and cheerful nature made him an exceptional shipmate, and he will be missed by the entire MMA community.
Zach built a deep bond with the waterfront crew—guys who understood him immediately and shared his work ethic, humor, and love for life on the water. He valued those friendships deeply, and they became an important part of his life both on and off the water.
On the water, Zach was in his element—calm at the helm, wind in his face, a huge smile, moving with an ease and confidence that made it clear this was where he belonged.
As the eldest son and a devoted, loyal brother, he was a constant presence in his family’s life—always looking out for the people he loved. His mother, Shannon, his father, Bill, and his brother, Josh, heard from him almost daily as he shared funny stories and his latest adventures on the water. No matter where he was on the ocean, Zach was thoughtful in ways that mattered most, like making sure his mother received a beautiful bouquet of flowers each Mother’s Day or calling his Grandpa Mac on Veteran’s Day.
Zach brought energy, humor, and a sense of adventure, just like his dad. Zach was always keeping his dad on his toes with his stories and wild antics. He had a natural ability to fit in anywhere, be himself without hesitation, strike up conversations with anyone, and make friends wherever he went. He was the one people leaned on without hesitation.
He helped his brother, Josh, troubleshoot anything mechanical, and the two were incredibly close—talking every day and constantly updating one another on life, their latest adventure, a funny movie they had seen, or their shared love for Geaghan’s Reserve wings. Their bond was impossible to miss, marked by constant laughter and shared humor. Zach loved getting Josh worked up just to laugh and remind him that life didn’t have to be so serious. He loved sharing recipes with his sister-in-law, Alexis, always eager to try her newest dessert recipe and always happy to bring home the extras. He had the McKechnie family trait for storytelling—always ready with a story, never running out of things to say, always keeping people laughing, and always lifting the mood around him.
Zach shared a special bond with his Sevey cousins—Megan, Bethany, Howard, Melissa, and Heather—as well as all of his beloved McKechnie cousins—Lisa, Kelly, Andrew, Brody, McKenna, Michael, Matthew, Scotty, Wyatt, and Levi—who will miss his vibrant nature and gift for storytelling that brought laughter and energy to every gathering. They describe him as the brightest light—someone who brought warmth, humor, and joy wherever he went. Many of those memories were made together at the McKechnie family restaurant, Dockside in Belfast, Maine, where time spent with family was filled with laughter, stories, and connection.
Zach was relentlessly positive, with a way of lifting the people around him no matter the situation. He was a pure soul. He made people feel seen, welcomed, and like they belonged when he was around. He never met a stranger. He was a true friend—always finding time to meet up with the people he loved and reminding others to set aside the distractions of life and truly connect, because that’s what mattered most to him. He was a listener, a problem-solver, and a steady presence people trusted.
Zach was never someone who stood still. He had a love for anything with a motor and enjoyed motocross and working on engines. He was drawn to machines and to the challenge of figuring things out, taking pride in being able to fix, build, and improve anything in front of him. If something was broken, Zach was already on his way to fix it—often showing up with his Milwaukee tools in hand before anyone even had to ask.
Zach found joy in the moments that brought people together—dancing in the kitchen while cooking, watching movies with family, building Legos, and collecting memorabilia as a dedicated Star Wars fan. He was also known for his ever-changing hairstyles and his signature, questionable fashion choices—often pairing shorts with work boots without a second thought.
Zach is survived by his mother, Shannon Sevey (“Ma”) and partner Greg; his father, William McKechnie (“Pops”) and partner Shelly; his younger brother, Joshua McKechnie and wife Alexis; his companion and best friend, Jessica Rashkovsky; his grandmother, Rae McKechnie; his grandfather, Howard L. Sevey Sr.; his uncles, Howard Sevey Jr. and Stewart Sevey; his aunt Carol; his uncle John Gage; his aunt Sandra and uncle Larry; as well as many additional family members and friends; his beloved puppy nephew “Mad Max”, and his cats, Hercules, Petey Pauly, Shadow, and Gray. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Bam, a rescue Zach patiently cared for and nurtured from a shy, uncertain dog into a loved and social member of the family.
Zach was predeceased by his grandparents, Harold “Mac” McKechnie and Avis J. Gass McKechnie, and Margaret E. Sevey; his aunt, Kelly McKechnie Gage; and his Saint Bernard, Beaumont.
Zach’s life cannot be measured simply by what he did, but instead by how he made people feel. He showed up. He helped. He listened. He made people laugh. And he made life better for those around him, every single day.
A celebration of life will be held this summer, with details to be shared at a later time. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Captain Zachary B. McKechnie Memorial Scholarship Fund, established to support future Maine Maritime Academy students, may be made using the link below.
Julie Walentine Rodrigue
Ellsworth
West Palm Beach, FL, Florida – Julie Walentine Rodrigue, 57, passed away on April 8, 2026, surrounded by her husband, Ryan; Will Williams (aka her “twin”), Troy Cutler, her stepbrother; and her mom, Diane Bogart. She was born in Ellsworth, Maine, to Bill and Diane Walentine.
Julie lived a life defined by dedication to her work, deep love of family and friends, and a warmth that drew people to her wherever she went. On May 31, 2016, Julie married Ryan and together they built a life spanning 15 years, filled with love, laughter and an unwavering partnership. Throughout Julie’s brief illness, Ryan remained by Julie’s side with unwavering love and devotion, a reflection of the unbreakable bond they shared.
Julie shared a deeply special bond with her mom, Diane, who resides in Greenville, SC. They spoke every day and ended every conversation saying, “love you to the moon and back.” Coincidentally, her loved ones watched the Artemis II moonshot “to the moon and back” during Julie’s final days. Julie cherished the time with her mom, getting “mani-pedis” and meeting friends for dinner. In Julie’s final days, Diane spent every day with Julie, sharing memories and singing to her. Julie enjoyed an indescribable lifelong friendship with Will Williams, who was always there for her. Together they had a passion for exploring Jupiter Island, Florida, along with daily waterfront dining excursions, boating and anything that involved horses. Julie’s stepbrother, Troy, was a tremendous support to Ryan and the family throughout Julie’s illness. His experience as an RN was invaluable, as well as his constant companionship with Ryan. Julie also fostered a loving and supportive relationship with Ryan’s daughter, Jazmin, who loved and admired Julie from a very young age. They shared a special bond as Jazmin would often refer to Julie as her “second mom.” Many years later, Julie took great pride in Jazmin’s daughter, Izabella, who fondly referred to Julie as “gigi.”
As a child, Julie accompanied her father from state to state to the various fish hatcheries where he worked as a national fisheries biologist. She also spent many years at her grandparents’ horse farm in Bowdoinham, Maine, where she developed a love of horses. Julie remained deeply devoted to her dad, caring for him faithfully over the years and ensuring that he was never alone. A highlight of their time together included watching Red Sox spring training in Florida.
After graduating from the University of Maine, Julie built a long and respected career in the court system. She began working at the state court in Bangor before joining the federal court. Throughout her 33 years of dedicated service, she became known as fair, approachable and able to connect with anyone.
Julie was especially known for her ability to work with all levels of staff and the public. Her favorite days in court were the swearing in of new citizens who labored to become Americans. She was loved by her dear friends, Brenda, Michele, Jenn and Eric. She retired in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and wisdom as the deputy in charge. Julie found happiness in life’s simple pleasures and the people she loved most. She adored her “fur babies” – most recently Ava, Maizey and Lola; who were truly her “children.” She opened her heart and home to many foster dogs throughout the years.
One of Julie’s greatest joys was visiting Florida, a place she called “my happy place.” She eventually owned that dream by purchasing a home, where she spent treasured time relaxing, adventuring with Ryan and Will, and enjoying the sunshine she loved so much. Julie will be remembered as funny, kind and genuine – a person who could strike up a conversation with anyone and made a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her life’s mottos were “life is good” and “be kind.”
There will be a celebration of life for Julie in Maine. Venue and date will be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to With Love For The Animals Inc or TributeToJulie.com.
Marilyn J. Simmel
Ellsworth
Marilyn J. Simmel passed away on March 11, 2026, after a brief illness. She was 93 years old.
Marilyn was born on February 10, 1933, at Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital in Los Angeles, California. When she was two years old, her father died of tuberculosis, which was a stigmatized disease at the time. The trauma of this loss would stay with her throughout her life and instill within her a sense of social justice for others who had been similarly marginalized by society.
Marilyn grew up in Los Angeles, enjoying many happy adventures there. She then married in her late teens, with a relocation to Berkeley, CA, followed by a move to Washington State, where she gave birth to her first child, Gregg. They returned to Los Angeles a few years later, where she gave birth to her eldest daughter, Cassandra. The young family then moved to Ohio where she gave birth to her youngest daughter, Matilda, while also earning her BA and MA degrees in Anthropology from Miami University.
Though she moved back to the Bay Area of California in the mid-1980s, she happily spent the last couple of decades of her life living on the east coast. She lived for several years in West Philadelphia with her youngest daughter, Matilda, enjoying the activist spirit of the neighborhood as well as the Quaker community at the Swarthmore Friends meeting house. She took particular delight in her grandmother role. For the final, several years of her life, she lived near her son Gregg in Ellsworth, Maine, embracing the quiet beauty of the region and relishing many happy outings and gatherings with Gregg and family, as well as with Cassandra and family during their visits there.
Marilyn will be remembered for her kind and gentle nature, her pacifism, her distinctive handwriting, and for her intellectual interests and pursuits. She loved her three children very much and was unfailingly supportive of their decisions, always encouraging them to choose their own path through life. In addition to her three children, she is survived by Gregg’s partner, Ann; Cassandra’s husband, Tony; grandchildren, Franklin and Henley; and extended family members, Jessamyn (Marv) and Althea.
In adherence with Marilyn’s wishes, she was cremated and will have her ashes scattered across the Santa Monica mountains, where her father’s ashes were also scattered just over 90 years prior. In lieu of donations, the family asks that you consider partaking in some of Marilyn’s favorite activities, in her memory: spend time with family and friends, read a book, drink a cup of coffee or mug of hot chocolate, eat a salad or avocado toast, drink a glass of sherry, pet a dog or cat, garden, birdwatch, fight the patriarchy, or find a serene place of your own to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Cathy Freeman-Hodgkins
Hancock County
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Cathy Hodgkins, who left this world after a courageous three-year battle with cancer on April 5, 2026. She passed peacefully, now free from pain and at rest. Cathy was a hardworking and devoted mother and grandmother whose life was centered around love for her family. She is survived by her two children, Christy Fitch and Steven Hodgkins, and her beloved granddaughter, Lilith Fitch, who brought her endless joy.
She will be remembered for her kindness to everyone she met and her warm, caring spirit. Cathy had a deep love for the ocean and animals, and she found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She especially loved music and movies and was often found singing, sharing her joy with those around her. Though her passing leaves a profound void, her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace, free from suffering, and surrounded by love.
Don P. Reiman Jr.
Sedgwick
Don P. Reiman, Jr., 70 died March 26, 2026 at his home in Sedgwick. He was born February 4, 1956 in Tarrytown, New York, the son of Don P., Sr., and Gwen (Childs) Reiman.
Don was a retired boat builder based in Sedgwick. While no longer active in commercial boatbuilding, he was focused on woodworking, specifically creating cutting boards.
His family will add additional information about Don’s life in the future.
When information is available in reference to services it will be announced.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com
Marjorie E. Pinkham
Dedham
Marjorie E (Sprague) Pinkham, 95, went to be with her family in heaven on April 11, 2026. She was born Sept. 23, 1930 in Machias, the daughter of Arnold and Ruth (Kenney) Sprague.
Marjorie was a graduate of Machias High School, class of 1948. She was employed by New England Telephone, as a telephone operator for 13 years. After the office closed, she took a position as secretary to the Registrar at the University of Maine, Machias, retiring in 1990 after 25 years of service.
Marjorie was an active member of the Machias Valley Baptist Church, and the Bucks Harbor Baptist Church for many years until she moved to Ellsworth in 2008. In Ellsworth she attended the Emmanuel Baptist Church.
Mom had a desire to bring the history of Starboard Cove and Washington County to life. She published 5 books of interesting articles taken from old Machias Newspapers from 1853-1900.The most important part of Marjorie’s life was her desire to study the Bible and what Gods will was for her life. She was a Sunday School, and Youth group teacher, and spoke often about the children she taught. She loved teaching and loved the children.
Marjorie is survived by her son Rodney Pinkham and Candyce Wilbur of Dedham; grandson Scott Pinkham and wife Barbara of Dedham, and two great granddaughters Constance Alexandrea “Alex” and Caledonia “Callie”. To them Marjorie was known as “GiGi” and they added much joy to her life; step- granddaughter Shanon Card and family of Ellsworth; brother John Sprague and family of Marshfield and sister Carolyn Henderson and family of Starboard.
She may have gone from our site, but she will never be gone from our hearts and memories. Her love was the foundation of our family; she will be forever missed.
A special thank you to the Hospice Team of Northern Lights Hospital, they made mom feel special and cared for in her final days.
A graveside service will be held at 11am, Sat. May 16, 2026, Hillside Cemetery, Ridge Rd., Bucks Harbor, Machiasport.
Those who desire may make contributions in Marjorie’s memory to the Child Evangelism Fellowship of Eastern Maine, 34 Harbor View Drive, Sullivan, ME, 04664.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com
Kerry P. Bates Black
Bucksport
Kerry P. Bates Black, 70, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 4th. Kerry was born on August 17, 1955, in Castine, ME.
Kerry is survived by his two children, daughter Kristi Bates-Mitchell and her husband Chris Mitchell, son Tyler Bates and his fiancé Vanessa Smith, and son-in-law by heart, Michael DeShong. Grandchildren, Julien & Jared Mitchell, Eve Smith and granddaughter by heart, Madilynn DeShong. Three sisters, Cathy Fowler, Vicky Black and Kelly Bates Curtis; nieces & nephews, Cammie, Shawn, Todd, Ryan, Cammie, Cassandra, Dustin, Katie & Matthew; Uncles, Paul Carter (& family), Kendall Carter (& family), Murray Bates (& family) and Donald Bates (& family).
Kerry was predeceased by his father & mother, Paul & Judy Bates and sister Dawna Bates; mother & father Althea (Carter) & William Black; daughter by heart, Danielle DeShong and brother-in-law Mike Fowler .
Kerry graduated from George Stevens Academy in Blue Hill, class of 1973. He held many jobs over the years, most recently at Hannaford in Blue Hill. He was a proud member of the Lamoine Fire Department for 15 + years.
There will be no service, only a private gathering of family for committal in the spring.
Any donations may be made to a fire department of your choice, in his memory.
Martha Fellows
Bucksport
*September 23, 1946 – April 2, 2026*
Martha Fellows, 79, passed away on April 2, 2026. She was the daughter of Frank Gilmore Fellows and Marianne Russell Fellows of Bucksport, Maine.
Martha was a Vietnam-era Navy veteran whose life reflected both service and resilience. After graduating high school, she attended college before choosing to join the United States Navy. During her years of service, she married a fellow active-duty service member and, in 1969, welcomed her first son, Jon. After a brief transition to civilian life, the family settled first in her hometown of Bucksport, Maine, and later in Marshalltown, Iowa, where her second son, Will, was born in 1973.
When her husband returned to military service, Martha dedicated herself to supporting her family, moving with them to various duty stations across the country. In 1983, she and her sons returned to Maine, where she built a stable and loving home. Though her marriage later ended, Martha remained a devoted and steadfast mother.
Determined to continue growing, Martha pursued higher education and graduated summa cum laude from Bridgewater State College. She later established herself as a respected counselor in private practice, where she offered guidance, compassion, and strength to those she served.
The thing that Martha was most known for was starting food, water, silly string and nerf gun fights. She was famous for choosing times that were inappropriate, ill-timed and so very much fun.
Martha was many things in her life—a friend, a sister, a mother, an aunt, a grandmother, and a great-grandmother. Above all, she was deeply loved by her family and all who knew her. Her strength, independence, and quiet kindness will be remembered always.
She leaves behind a legacy of fun, love, perseverance, and dedication to family.
*Service details may be announced at a later time.*
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