Obituary

Dennis C. Gaecklein

Mon, 03/14/2016 - 1:00pm

Dennis C. Gaecklein, 52, died peacefully on March 4, 2016, with his loving family by his side, surrounded by love.

Dennis was born on March 19, 1963 in Boothbay Harbor to Charles Hasson and Nancy (Hasson) Gaecklein. He and his sister were later adopted by David Gaecklein, and raised by David and Nancy in Boothbay Harbor. He attended local schools and graduated from the Boothbay Region High School, Class of 1982.

After graduation, Dennis worked in the family business, Don Sewall & Company, with his father and uncle. He went on to work for the town of Boothbay, and became a mason, working for Dave McFarland.

Dennis loved music and reading, and riding his bicycle. He loved being outside in nature, whether at the ocean or walking in the woods. He found great solace there in nature. Dennis loved having a cat and was an animal lover, in general.

Dennis was bright, funny, made a lot of friends there and was very proud of his last year of sobriety. During his time in Lewiston, Dennis was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous and made many long-time and cherished friendships. His family is very grateful for all the help and support AA gave Dennis over the last five years.

Dennis is survived by his parents, David and Nancy Gaecklein of Boothbay Harbor; his son, Adam McGrath of Brunswick; his sister, Susan Ulvila and nephews, Lucas and Josh, all of Washington State; his sister, Rachel Gaecklein and her partner Paulo of Brunswick; and his niece, Hannah Cooper of Brunswick. He is also survived by his uncle, Kenneth Gaecklein and his wife Sharon of Edgecomb; his uncle, Steve Bryer and his wife Roberta of Boothbay; and his uncle, Robert Bryer of Hawaii. Dennis is survived by many cousins, as well.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dennis’ name to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, 27 Atlantic Highway, Edgecomb, ME 04556.

A private family celebration of Dennis’ life will be held later in the summer 2016.

The family would like to thank Dr. Roger Austin and all of the wonderful people at Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice House of Lewiston for their unfailing care and compassion during Dennis’ final months.

Hall’s of Boothbay has care of the arrangements. To extend online condolences, light a candle for Dennis, or to share a story or pictures, visit his Book of Memories at www.hallfuneralhomes.com.