Jordan-Fernald Funeral Home

12/17/2025

Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor

Karen E. Coombs, 82, died peacefully December 2, 2025, at a Bar Harbor retirement facility. She was born December 1, 1943, in Wi******er, MA, the daughter of Wendell L. and Leta E. (Joy)Esterberg.

Karen graduated from Ellsworth High School, class of 1961 and settled in Northeast Harbor in the winters and Trenton in the summers (lovingly known as Bayside). Karen was married to the love of her life Ernest S. Coombs for 52 years and retired from the Jackson Laboratory.

Karen is survived by her sister Gail Royal of Southwest Harbor; children Michael (Lynette) Gordon of Cape Elizabeth, Tracy Gordon (Hank Vachon) of Hudson, NH, Bill (Minh) Gordon of Gray, Steven E. Coombs (Randi Closson) of Trenton, Cindy (Ed) Luiz of Jewett City, CT, Robert (Donna) Coombs of Griswold, CT, Sandra (Fish) Fish of Lisbon, CT, David (Kim) Coombs of Kingsport, TN, Lynn(Ray) Flegert of Lebanon, CT; 15 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and extended family. She was pre-deceased by her husband Ernest S. Coombs and sister Joy Esterberg.

A memorial Service will be held 1:00pm, Sat. January 10, 2026, at Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St., Mt. Desert.

Reception to follow at 2:30pm at Side Street Cafe, 49 Rodick St., Bar Harbor.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.

11/04/2025

Trenton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael P. Gilmartin, affectionately known as Gilly, who died at his home in Trenton, Maine, just shy of his 77th birthday. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Michael's spirit has found rest, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and adventure.

Born in New Rochelle, New York, Michael was the cherished son of Robert J. and Carol (Burnham) Gilmartin. He graduated from Wilton High School in 1967, where he was affectionately dubbed the "most loveable" student—a title that would follow him throughout his life. After spending two years at Monmouth College in Illinois, he dedicated himself to the craft of building residential homes, leaving his mark on communities up and down the East Coast.

In 1974, Michael met the love of his life, Starr Cutler, during her summers on Mount Desert Island. Their shared passion for the outdoors and adventure led them to explore breathtaking destinations from South America to South Africa. In August 1977, Michael and Starr married in Bar Harbor, solidifying a partnership that would span over five decades.

In pursuit of their love for nature, Michael and Starr returned to Maine with their young children, where he built their family home in Trenton. Michael's career in the residential building industry flourished, but his talents expanded to include commercial establishments in construction of the Gull Building in Bar Harbor. Later he would remodel homes of his friends, build his daughter’s home in Maine and after retirement took up building furniture for others to enjoy. His commitment to his community was evident through his volunteer work at the local school, his focus on protecting the local environment and his efforts to bring solar energy to the town. Michael's warm and engaging personality allowed him to forge friendships with many, as he had a remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone he met.

Michael's zest for life was infectious, and his enduring love for his family was evident in everything he did. He is survived by his beloved wife, Starr, with whom he shared 51 wonderful years; his two children, Justin Gilmartin and his wife, Sophia, of Newbury, MA, and Megan Gilmartin of Leeds, Maine; and his three brothers, Robert Gilmartin of Suwanee, GA, Kerry Gilmartin of Hampden, CT, and Kevin Gilmartin of Newport, NC.

Though Michael did not live to meet his first grandchild, expected in November, his spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be remembered for his boundless love, his adventurous spirit, and his unwavering kindness.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share stories and honor the remarkable man he was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made Frenchman’s Bay Conservancy https://frenchmanbay.org/ or Somes Meynell Sanctuary Somes Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary | Wildlife Conservation and Education in the Somes Pond-Long Pond Watershed and Beyond in Michael's memory.

Rest in peace, dear Michael. Your love and laughter will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

10/27/2025

Bar Harbor and Milo, Maine

Donald passed away Sunday, October 19, at home with family and staff by his side.

Donald was born March 9, 1959 in Milo, Maine, the son of Ivan DL Brown and Vivian (Skoog) Brown. Donald was a proud member of Downeast Horizons community for over 20 years.

He is survived by his sister, Sylvia (John) Cunningham of Hulls Cove; brother, Paul (Denise) Brown of Glens Falls, NY; sister-in-law, Terry Brown of Milo; extended family Scott and Kristin Hallowell of Calais; their sons Justin (Lindsay) of FL and Nicholas (Jill) of Westbrook; nieces Kimberly and Nicole; and many friends and relatives. Donald was predeceased by his parents; brother, Leon; and sister, Ellen.

A celebration of Donald's life will be held from 11am-2pm, Nov.1, 2025, at MDI Center of Downeast Horizons, 1200 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609.

A graveside service will be announced in the spring of 2026.

Donations may be made in Donald's memory to Downeast Horizons, 77 Union St. Ellsworth, ME 04605.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

10/20/2025

Seal Harbor

Kathleen “Kathy” Marie Branch, 68, died unexpectedly on October 16, 2025, at MDI Hospital, Bar Harbor after a short battle with cancer. She was born on May 18, 1957, in Bar Harbor the daughter of Valerie Marie (Frye) and Lowell Richard Chase, Sr.

She graduated from Mt. Desert Island High School in 1975. A few short years later she married Bertram “Bert” E. Branch, II. They were married for 47 years and enjoyed traveling especially in the Caribbean to St. Martin Island. Last year spending 13 weeks there. Bert and Kathy enjoyed boating. For them a nice day on the water moored near Sutton’s Island with Kathy relaxing and enjoying a crossword puzzle, having a nap and then lunch together was the perfect day.

Kathy worked in several different fields. She started out at Fred C. Lyman Insurance Agency, Bar Harbor as an agent for commercial sales for 20 years. She then spent 13 years as an office manager for Greenrock Company, Seal Harbor. The last job that Kathy had was as a pharmacy technician at West End Drug Store and Hannaford both in Bar Harbor. Kathy served on numerous boards and committees in town and enjoyed her time being a member of the Mount Desert Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution where she served in the capacity as a secretary and treasurer.

Along with Kathy’s husband Bert she is survived by a brother Lowell Chase and wife Terri; nephew Stephen Chase and wife Kelsey; niece Kristen Ricker and husband Darren; grandnephew Marcus Chase, all of Bangor; Aunt Ruth Chase Mitchell of Marietta, GA and many cousins and friends.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held 1-4pm, November 1, 2025, at Seal Harbor Community Center. Those who desire may make contributions in Kathy’s memory to the Seal Harbor Cemetery, Assoc., P.O. Box 74, Seal Harbor or the Seal Harbor VIS, PO Box 171, Seal Harbor, ME 04675.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

09/04/2025

Hancock

Tonya Joanne Colwell, 58, died unexpectedly on September 2, 2025, at her home. She was born January 28, 1967, in Ellsworth, the daughter of Charles H. and Paula L. (Shaw) Colwell.

Tonya graduated from Sumner High School in 1985 and later from the University of Maine in 1991. She was a dedicated employee for 33 years at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital. After her retirement she found the perfect retirement job at Sweet Cheeks Bakery in Ellsworth.

Tonya was an avid reader and loved a good mystery. She believed in the gift of life-and even in passing, she gave to others through tissue donation, a final act of grace that reflected the way she lived. Her home always included her cherished rescued cats-a testament to her boundless compassion for animals and quiet strength. Though she is no longer with us, Tonya’s light continues to shine in every memory, every paw print, and every heart of those she touched.

She is survived by her parents Charles and Paula Colwell of Prospect Harbor; brother Bowen Colwell of Cherryfield; niece Camdyn Colwell of Harrington; and her very best friend, April Daigle of Hancock. She was predeceased by her nephew, Bowen Colwell, Jr.; grandparents, David and June Shaw, Gilbert and Maria Colwell; and Galen and Margaret Crowley, who she thought of as her bonus grandparents.

Private family service will be held at a later date.

Those who desire may make contributions in Tonya’s memory to the SPCA of Hancock County, 141 Bar Harbor Road, Trenton, 04605 or the Schoodic Animal Hospital, 2345 US Highway 1, Sullivan, ME 04664.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

08/28/2025

Ellsworth

Rita Mae Jordan, 86, died August 26, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. She was born on September 8, 1938, in Bangor, the daughter of Walter L. and Margaret L. (Bunker) Giles.

Rita was a homemaker for most of her life. After losing her children’s father she did all that she could to provide for their five children. She made sure her children went to Sunday school at the United Baptist Church in Ellsworth so that the church could assist her in providing a good base for their lives. After the children were raised, she worked as a companion in homecare. She helped many families and enjoyed giving of herself and her time. Rita was also a member of the Ladies V.F.W. Auxiliary for many decades.

Rita was an avid Bingo and Pokeno player. She enjoyed her family and attended all the various functions they had. Anytime someone asked her to go for a ride she would jump at the chance. She loved looking for deer and seeing what was happening in her community.

Rita is survived by 4 daughters; Debra Wallace (Thomas) of Franklin, Evelyn Lindsey (Danny) and Mary Havener (Donny) all of Ellsworth; and Charleen Wallace (Richard) of Dedham; a son James Wallace (Vickie) of Holden; 15 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren; 21 great-great grandchildren and 5 great-great children are expected soon; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her first husband James F. Wallace, Sr. and her second husband Donald H. Jordan; 3 siblings Albert, Marion and Shirley.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to all of the Hospice nurses who provided wonderful care to her and support to her family.

Friends are invited to call 4-6pm, Wed. Sept. 3, 2025, at Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St., Ellsworth where funeral services will be held at 11am, Thurs, Sept. 4, 2025. Interment will be held at Woodbine Cemetery, Ellsworth.

Those who desire may make contributions in Rita’s memory to Hospice Volunteers of Hancock County, 14 Mackenzie Ave. Ellsworth, 04605.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

08/11/2025

Nicholas C. Sawyer
December 30, 1984 – August 5, 2025

Ellsworth, Maine – Nicholas C. Sawyer, 40, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025. A beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Nick leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, dry wit and deep devotion to his family.

Nick was born on December 30, 1984, in Burlington, VT, the son of Thomas J. and Vasilike (Katsiaficas) Sawyer. He spent the first five years of his life there before his family returned to their hometown, where Nick went on to attend Ellsworth Schools, graduating in 2003. He continued his education at Stonehill College, graduating in 2007 after earning a bachelor’s degree in finance. He achieved a successful career as a Senior Account Executive with WB Mason, where he worked for 16 years and was known for his dedication, professionalism, and easy rapport with clients and colleagues alike.

Nick had a passion for life that was contagious. He loved sports, especially football, his New England Patriots and organizing Fantasy Football Leagues which was serious business! He was always up for a good game, a great meal, or the next travel adventure, preferably somewhere warm. Whether relaxing on a sunny beach or firing up the coals at the annual Greek BBQ on Oak Point, Nick lived life fully, with laughter and enthusiasm.

He was never happier than when surrounded by family. Nick was a devoted son to his mother, Kiki, and father, TJ, and a beloved brother to Anna and her husband Cory, and to Thomas and his wife Jennifer. Nick is survived by his parents, siblings as well as his step-father, Raymond Silsby and his daughters Sarah and Rebecca, grandmother, Lily Katsiaficas and many aunts, uncles and cousins. But perhaps Nick’s greatest joy came from his role as an uncle. His nieces and nephew—Lydia, Alexandra, Emma, Chase, and Julia—were the loves of his life and the center of his world. Nothing made Nick prouder or happier than being “Uncle Nick,” a title he wore with unmatched pride and affection. Nick was predeceased by his grandfathers, Charles Katsiaficas and Elwood Sawyer, grandmothers, Ann Sawyer and Dorothy Sawyer and other beloved family members.
Nick also shared an unbreakable bond with his dog Mia, who brought him 13 years of loyal companionship. True to his nature, Nick spoiled her endlessly including a filet mignon dinner for every birthday.

A service of remembrance will be held at 11am Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the First Congregational Church, 2 Church Street, Ellsworth, ME.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made in Nick’s memory to the Bangor Humane Society at 693 Mt. Hope Ave, Bangor, ME 04401.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

08/08/2025

Hancock

Joanne E. Munce, age 69, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 5, 1956, in Biddeford, Maine, the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Fleming) Munce. Joanne grew up in Bar Harbor and later settled in Hancock.

Joanne attended MDI High School and became well-known in the Bar Harbor area as the owner and operator of Rockhurst Motel, a business she ran with dedication until her retirement in 2009.

Joanne's true joy in life came from her family. She enjoyed attending concerts with her daughter, traveling with her family, and cherishing time spent with her grandchildren. Whether it was cheering them on at school functions or sporting events, or watching her granddaughters dance on stage, Joanne’s pride and love for her family were always evident.

Joanne is survived by daughter Christine Bagley and her husband Shawn of Hancock; son Shannon Odom and wife Nichole of Brewer; four grandchildren; Jacob and Kaylee Bagley, Khloe and Alayna Odom; brother Robert Munce and wife Rulene of Rhode Island; a niece, nephews, cousins, and her lifelong friend, Richard (Buddy) Adams and his wife Rena of Bangor. She was predeceased by her parents and her beloved grandchildren Isabelle and Carter Odom.

A graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m., Wed., August 13, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, 449 Ohio St., Bangor.

Joanne’s warm heart, love for her family, and vibrant spirit will be missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

08/07/2025

SOUTHWEST HARBOR AND MOUNT DESERT

Thomas Jewett Fernald, 79, died unexpectedly on August 5, 2025, doing what he loved, working outside on one of many landscaping projects on his planned endeavors list. He was born in Bar Harbor, Maine on February 12, 1946, to Robert G. and Norma J. (Crosby) Fernald.

He was a lifelong “native” of Mount Desert Island and loved skiing, boating, and traveling with his wife, Carroll. He was educated in MDI schools and graduated from the New England Institute of Mortuary Science in Boston. He was a partner in Jordan-Fernald and A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc and a practicing funeral director for 45 years. Tom belonged to the Maine Funeral Directors Association and the National Funeral Directors Association for many years. Tom was a lifelong member of the Somesville Union Meeting House, a member of the Somesville Volunteer Fire Department, The Somesville Village Improvement Society, MDI Lions Club, Anah Shrine, Mount Desert Masonic Lodge #120 and the Royal Order of the Jesters. He served on the Marine Management Committee of Mount Desert and The Somesville Landing Corporation for many years and took pride in his contribution to them. Tom was also a past trustee of Maine Coast Memorial Hospital for several terms. He had a willing spirit and always helped others in so many ways through his volunteer work.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Carroll, son Jay (Casey) Fernald, daughter Stephanie (Jack) Goodrich, stepchildren Andrew Boyd, Martha (Matt) Masiello and Susan (Andy) Allen, ten grandchildren Zach and Josh Buzzell, Alex, Anna and Ava Fernald, Jack, Dylan and Cole Masiello and Lily and Violet Allen. He was known to his grands as Grampy Tuna. He was predeceased by his parents, brother and nephew.

Friends may call on August 14, 2025, from 3-6 pm at Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St., Somesville. Services will be at 11:00 am, August 15, 2025, at St. Mary’s by the Sea, Northeast Harbor followed by a reception on the back lawn behind the Somesville funeral home. Private burial for immediate family only.

If friends desire, the family suggests contributions to The Somesville VIS, P.O. Box 53, Mt. Desert, 04660. and the Westside Food Pantry, P.O. Box 767, Southwest Harbor, 04679.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

07/31/2025

07/28/2025

Bar Harbor

Gregory Allen Spring, 78, died at his home on July 25, 2025. He was born in New York City on November 24, 1946, the son of Thomas Spring and Marrie Perry. Greg lived in New York and New Jersey for many years. He retired to Bar Habor, Maine in 2009.

Greg spent his professional life in the television industry, retiring after 20 years as a Senior Vice President of Broadcast Operations at Madison Square Garden Network. His career in television included events such as sports, musicals, concerts, and documentaries. He received an Emmy Award for his role in the coverage of the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Artistic in nature, Greg channeled his energy into photography. His work was displayed at art shows and galleries around Maine. He and his wife were enthusiastic world travelers and lived in Europe for part of their retirement. Greg's travels further nurtured his passion for photography. The photographs that he took of faraway places became an important part of his legacy.

He is survived by his wife, Grace Nagiecka, and his son, Thomas Karol Spring. Greg and Grace celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in June of 2025.

At Greg's request, no service will be held at this time. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, donations can be made to the Maine Seacoast Mission. Donate at SeacoastMission.org/donate or P.O. Box 600, Northeast Harbor, ME 04662.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

07/28/2025

Bar Harbor

Charles H. Bartlett, 88 died July 26, 2025, at his home with his family. He was born May 14, 1937, in Bar Harbor the son of Henry and Georgia (Richards) Bartlett.

He grew up in Town Hill and graduated in 1955 from Bar Harbor High School. He entered the U.S. Air Force and served until 1959 having been stationed for 3 years in Germany.

Charles met his wife Brenda (Reed) upon returning from his military service while working at the Parkadia Service Station. He enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball when his sons were young. He spent 33 years working for the Towns of Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Public Works Depts., serving 7 years as the Town of Bar Harbor Public Works Director.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years Brenda; 3 sons, Duane and wife Robin of Trenton, Chris and wife Tracy of Burlington, NC and Matt and wife Lori of Bar Harbor; 12 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren.

Graveside Services will be held at 11am, Sept. 6, 2025, at Mountain View Cemetery, Bar Harbor.

Those who desire may make contributions in memory of Charles to Kids Corner, 81 Mount Desert Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com