Sharon Kennedy Bukulmez. Kinsley Marie Grubb. Sawyer Lee Grubb. Peter Godfrey. Laura W. Thomas, Eugene A. Strout. Richard “Dick” Gray.
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“People We’ve Lost” is a feature of the Bar Harbor Story where we share obituaries of people that the island area has 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.
Memorial Service for Kinsley, Sawyer, and Sharon.
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND—The Grubb families have asked that people please join their families in remembrance of Kinsley, Sawyer, and Sharon on October 25, 2026 at the Mount Desert Island High School gymnasium from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. All are welcome.
The memorial celebration will also be live streamed and recorded. Join them virtually here:
According to the family, “We will have a brief program followed by light refreshments and open sharing time. This is a family friendly space. Come as you are, clean Carhartts and colorful clothes welcomed! We look forward to sharing time together.”
Sharon Kennedy Bukulmez
Sharon Kennedy Bukulmez is the strongest woman I know. Born May 27, 1965, in Olean, N.Y., to Colleen Kennedy (Irish) and Salih Bukulmez (Turkish), my mother’s life was guided by caregiving, humanitarian travel, community building, and creating. She attended Purdue University and UNC Wilmington and proceeded to work as a medical technologist at John Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md. She served as a medical worker in the U.S. Peace Corps in Liberia, and in Zambia through St. Joseph’s Hospital. She married Steve Grubb in 1991, and they travelled together to Mandeville, Jamaica, where she worked in a school for pregnant students and young mothers. She gave birth to her first son, Peter, while teaching and living in Jamaica. As a young mother, Sharon achieved a master’s degree in Community Health from Towson University and lived in Carney, Md., where they welcomed their other two children, Maureen and Joseph. In 2000, the family moved to a new community in Bass Harbor, Maine.
Mom was an active teacher in the local homeschool community and believed deeply in the independence and autonomy of her children, helping each of us find our own path with education. She would take the homeschool kids (and anyone else who wanted to join) on daily outings between our structured lessons. We rollerbladed on closed campground roads, ice skated on Chris’s pond, rode bikes on carriage trails, and paddled the many beautiful waters across MDI. We explored every season and all weather.
In 2009, Mom began work at the MDI Hospital where she was a lab technician and built a strong community with her coworkers in the lab. She often shared joyfully about the new skills a coworker had learned, new food they had introduced her to, and the games she would instigate. Many of Mom’s coworkers became her close friends — she was so proud of the work and growth her team put in, both in the lab and in the community. In 2016 and 2018, with friends from the Bar Harbor Congregational Church and her son Joseph, Sharon participated in educational trips to Quanaminthe, Haiti. There she shared her love of science with students at the Institution Univers.
After her divorce in 2017, she bought a home in Pretty Marsh with the intent to provide affordable housing to more young people on the island. Not only did Mom provide a launching point for young islanders but she also learned to do most of her own plumbing and remodeling. On countless occasions her ambitious home projects brought us all many laughs and, eventually, some very successful new skillsets. She loved vibrant colors and would paint doors, accents, and whole walls in beautiful bright colors on a whim. Her reaction to grief was often creation. Mom found deep, meaningful friendship in the ladies she crafted and created with. She’d often share photos to our family group chat of her and The Ladies off on adventures to Sugarloaf, kayaking, and enjoying Acadia, as well as making beautiful crafts and memories. She was alive with joy and inspiration when she spoke of her time with her friends.
Sharon shared a special bond with her grandchildren, Kinsley and Sawyer, who called her Nana. She gave them the same adventurous spirit, creative energy, and unfaltering care that she gave her own children and many dear friends. She made them Tubby Toast, hosted pajama dance parties, taught them to ride bikes, play cards, and splash in the beautiful lakes on MDI. Of Mom’s many accomplishments, she was proudest of her children and grandchildren. Being one of Sharon’s children will always be the honor of my lifetime. Of Mom’s many gifts to me, I think most often of her ability to give. She was a remarkably generous woman: with her time, her resources, her heart, and her skills. She was my first call, and she was a legendary hospital ally (arriving for her children, your children, and you if you needed support navigating medical situations).
As we move forward together from the loss of this vibrant woman, I hope you pick up a 5-Crowns deck and spend time catching up with friends and family. I hope you get out and enjoy the park in a way that fuels your heart. I hope you find ways in your life to sustain the act of lifting up others so you can keep lifting for a lifetime. She passed away at age 61 and was predeceased by her mother Colleen, her father Sal, and her dear Aunt Maureen. Sharon is survived by her children: Peter (Rebecca) Grubb, Maureen Grubb (Levi Negley), and Joseph Grubb; her sisters Shayla Hannon and Lisa Lolis and their children, her aunts Janet Schwengber and Dolores DiAngelo, and former husband and co-grandparent “Gampy” Stephen Grubb. When you see a loon, an ambitious home project, or a fun knitting pattern, think of Sharon Kennedy Bukulmez — who remains the strongest woman I know.
A memorial for Sharon, Kinsley and Sawyer will be held on Oct. 25, 2026 at the Mount Desert Island High School gymnasium from 2-4 p.m. Come as you are, all are welcome. The event will also be live streamed and recorded.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Kinsley Marie Grubb and Sawyer Lee Grubb
Kinsley Marie Grubb, age 5, was born on June 10, 2021, in Bangor, Maine. Kinsley loved art and playing games. She had a curious mind and enjoyed learning and spending time with her friends at Mount Desert Elementary School, where she was a kindergarten student. Her bright spirit, sweet smile, and the joy she brought to those around her will forever be treasured by all who knew and loved her.
Sawyer Lee Grubb, age 3, was born on Feb. 6, 2023, in Bangor, Maine. Sawyer had a wonderful sense of curiosity and loved catching bugs and conducting little experiments around the house. He delighted in discovering new things and enjoyed playing with his friends at the Love of A Mother Child Care Center in Southwest Harbor, Maine. His adventurous spirit and the happiness he brought to those around him will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who loved him.
Kinsley and Sawyer passed away together on Sept. 19, 2026, in Roque Bluffs, Maine, leaving behind a family and community forever changed by their loss.
They are deeply loved and will be missed beyond words by their parents, Rebecca and Peter Grubb, who reside in Mount Desert, Maine, as well as by their extended family, friends, and all those whose lives they touched. Though their time on Earth was far too short, the love they gave and the memories they created will live on forever.
There are no words to measure the emptiness left by their absence or the longing to hold them close once more. Their laughter, their little adventures, their smiles, and the countless everyday moments that made them so special will be cherished always. They will remain forever a part of their family, woven into its stories, held close in its hearts, and loved with a love that will never fade.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Peter Godfrey
Northeast Harbor
After 101 years of exquisite conversations, neighborhood Easter egg hunts, and joyous laughter, Mr. Peter Godfrey passed away peacefully at his residence at Beaumont in Bryn Mawr, Penn., on Oct. 12, 2026. Mr. Peter, as he was known by his young friends, spent 100 years splitting his time between Pennsylvania and Northeast Harbor, where he remained active in local affairs, relished his time on the water, and delighted in being surrounded by extended family and friends.
Born on April 4, 1925, in Bryn Mawr, Penn., to Marian Angell and William Simpson Godfrey, Peter graduated from St. Mark’s School in 1943 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving in Japan in 1945. After being honorably discharged as Lieutenant (Jg) he attended Harvard University, graduating with the Class of 1948, where he was active in the Hasty Pudding Club and a founding member of the Krokodiloes acapella group. Following graduation, Peter joined Smith Kline & French as a copywriter and was instrumental in the formation of Menley & James Laboratories in 1960. He went on to serve as President of SmithKline Consumer Products and President of Menley & James Laboratories before retiring in 1983.
A true gentleman, Peter opened his life and home — whether at his cherished Faunamede in Villanova or his beloved summer home at Stony Point in Northeast Harbor, Maine — to family and countless friends. He embraced life’s simplest joys: raising his family, sailing The Rose in the crisp winds of Northeast Harbor, picnics on The Margaret II and entertaining alongside his beloved bride, Maggie, whom he married in 1952. Together, they shared 51 adventurous and loving years before Maggie’s passing in 2003. Their home in Villanova and summer retreat in Northeast Harbor were gathering places for family and countless friends, reflecting their shared love of entertaining, good conversation, and the company of others. Mr. Peter had a deep passion for the arts, classical music, and painting. In his later years, he could often be found waving to passing boats from the porch in Maine, reading The New York Times by the fire, or making his rounds uptown to check in on his local favorites.
Peter is survived by his two children, Peter Jr. and Gay Godfrey, and his four granddaughters, Emma and Olivia Godfrey and Nora and Rose King. He also leaves behind his beloved companion and travel partner, Joan Mackie. After the passing of Maggie, he was fortunate to find another great love in Joanie. She brought him years of love, laughter, companionship, and adventure. He adored her and often said she was his “world.” In addition to his family, he leaves behind Nora “Nonnie” Higgins and Madeline “Maddie” Jarmon, who were part of the family in every way that mattered. He often said that he would not have made it this far without them, and their love, loyalty, and friendship which meant more to him than words could express.
Peter was a caring and engaged member of his communities, always looking for ways to make the good even better. He often said that the key to a long life was to laugh every day — a philosophy he embodied through his warmth, gracious hospitality, and genuine interest in others. After 101 years filled with laughter, friendship, and love, Peter leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the many lives he touched. He will be remembered fondly and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As he always said, “It is okay to wake up laughing.”
A service celebrating Peter’s life will be held on Nov. 21, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church in the Great Valley.
Laura W. Thomas
Bar Harbor
Laura W. Thomas, 73, passed away October 12, 2026 at Mount Desert Island Hospital. She was born on June 9, 1953, the third child born of Earle E. Thomas and F. Patricia (Frost) Thomas.
She graduated from MDI High School in 1971 and immediately entered the world of finance/banking. She worked at the Bar Harbor Savings and Loan Association for 31 years, progressing from Teller to Vice President and Treasurer. She then went on to The Jackson Laboratory as Sr. Payroll Specialist for 16 years, retiring in 2019.
Many locals may remember her creative window displays at the Savings and Loan featuring Cabbage Patch dolls.
Laura was a collector of many types of memorabilia including the Peanuts gang, Cat’s Meow pieces and everything Wizard of Oz. She enjoyed socializing on FaceBook, playing mini-golf, watching HGTV and her favorite soaps, Young & Restless and Bold & Beautiful and eating out, especially breakfast at Jeannie’s with siblings and cousins.
Laura is survived by sisters Susan Blaisdell and Cindy Flye of Bar Harbor, Judy Lawson of Ellsworth and Dencie (Michael) McEnroe of Mount Desert, brother Donald ‘Jesse’ (Brenda) Thomas of Ellsworth, several cousins, and former brother-in-law, Richard Blaisdell of Town Hill.
She was a favorite Aunt to nephews, Jeremy Blaisdell, David and Chad Thomas, Erik and Aaron Flye and Cole McEnroe, and nieces Jessica Flye and Jozette McEnroe. She is also sorely missed by her children with fur coats, Max and Miranda.
A graveside service will be held 11 am, November 14, 2026, at Ledgelawn Cemetery, Bar Harbor, followed by a reception at St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Laura’s memory may be sent to Island Connections, the SPCA of Hancock County or a charity of one’s choosing.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for her care to Angie DelVecchio at Cadillac Family Health, the doctors and nurses in the MDI Hospital Emergency Dept., Oncology Dept. and those on the 3rd Floor, as well as the medical staff at Lafayette Family Cancer Institute in Brewer.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Eugene A. Strout
Bar Harbor
Eugene A. Strout, 72, passed away peacefully at home following a battle with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma on October 18, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born July 15, 1954, in Bar Harbor the son of Ira and Charlotte (Patterson) Strout.
Eugene proudly served in the United States Coast Guard for six years, traveling to many locations, including Hawaii, Alaska, and California. After leaving the Coast Guard, he began a 30-year career with the Town of Bar Harbor Highway Department. Following his retirement, he worked as a courier for MDI Hospital and Health Centers. Eugene worked hard throughout his life to improve and serve his community and provide for his family.
He loved gardening, especially growing pumpkins for his grandchildren and friends. He also enjoyed fishing, working on small engines, and collecting coins. Above all, family was most important to him. He loved his wife, Roberta, and his children very much, but his grandsons brought an extra twinkle to his eye that could not be measured.
Eugene is survived by his wife of 50 years, Roberta; children Brandie Anderson, Derek Strout and his partner, Kristen Dunphey, and Brittany Strout; grandsons, Avery Anderson, Tyler Strout, Oliver Strout, and Niall Strout; sister, Trudy; brothers, Clayton and sister-in-law, Denise, Arnold and partner, Heidi Riggs, and Clifford; and special brother-in-law, Bryan King Sr.; sisters-in-law and their families, including Eleanor Dewey and Larry Fickett, Marcia and Mike Gordon, Ronda Alley and Jon Carter, and Mary Lou and Bob Conary, along with many special nieces and nephews. Eugene also leaves behind his dear friend, Rena Wrobel, with whom he shared a special bond and who understood him completely. Eugene was predeceased by son-in-law, Frank Anderson Jr., whom he loved as dearly as one of his own; brother, Dennis; and sisters, Donna, Gloria, Nancy, Marcia, and Beverly.
At Eugene’s request there will be no formal services, however friends are invited to call from 11am-1pm on Sat. October 24, 2026 at Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St. Mt. Desert. A private burial will be at Ledgelawn Cemetery, Bar Harbor.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Richard “Dick” Gray
Brunswick and Ellsworth
Retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Richard “Dick” Gray passed away at home on Oct. 6, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Dick was born in Deblois, Maine Oct. 25, 1936, the eldest of Jennie and Clyde Gray’s five sons. He attended Calais High School and married Delia “Dee” right after returning from Navy Boot Camp. They were married 70 years.
Dick was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Ronald Gray.
He is survived by his wife, Delia; and his children, daughter, Cindy and husband Leon Dudley of Vassalboro, his son, Michael and wife Beverly Gray of Topsham, daughter, Jo Anne and husband Bruce Dempsey of Wayland, Mich., and daughter, Dianne Gray of Brunswick. He is survived by 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three of his brothers, Robert, Royce “Jack” and Randy Gray.
Dick went into the Navy directly from high school, he spent 32 years in service to his country with tours around the world. Dick served in the U.S. Navy as a P-2 aircrewman and a P-3 Flight Engineer in VP squadrons 21, 45, 30, and 10, amassing over 20,000 flight hours. He then served as the maintenance master chief at VP-26. He retired in 1976 and spent five years as the service manager at Dow Motors in Ellsworth. He was then voluntarily recalled to active duty and spent 12 years as a command master chief at VP-23, NAS Sigonella, VP-11, NAS Brunswick, and VQ-2 in Rota Spain before retiring again from the Navy in 1992.
After retiring Dick served on the Ellsworth School Board for 20 years, was president of the Maine State School Board, worked as service manager at Darlings in Ellsworth and Northeast Ambulance.
Dick was the patriarch of the family, always with a helping hand, a quick wit and ready smile. He started his mechanical career taking apart everything he could reach as a child, including the kitchen appliances. He was an incredible husband, son, big brother, uncle, cousin, Father and Pop-Pop.
The family would like to thank CHANS Hospice staff for their exceptional care at the end of Dick’s life.
There will be no service. Memories and condolences can be shared at http://www.brackettfh.com.
“Fair winds and following seas, shipmate, we have the watch, you stand relieved.”
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum in Richard’s name.
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