Frederick Sidney Orne, 59, died unexpectedly at his home in Savannah, Georgia, on Aug. 26, 2015.

Born April 23, 1956 in Amityville, New York, Fred and his family of five brothers and one sister were accustomed to the long car rides between their residence in Long Island and summer home in West Boothbay Harbor, with their parents Joan and Charles Orne. From a young age, Fred was popular among all his peers, able to make friends in any situation and as a very active member of Delta Tau Delta, Fred was widely recognized by all and became especially close friends with his fraternity brothers, Kenny Shaw and Tom Ellsworth. Soon after college, Fred moved to southern Maine where he met Michelle Pauquette whom he then married and had a child with, Michael Orne.

Fred was a man of many skills, able to fix anything from the front steps to his son’s car and was often referred to by some as “MacGyver.” Fred not only shared his love and helpful spirit with his peers, but he also whole-heartedly offered help to anyone in any situation to the best of his ability. With a strong sense of adventure, good will, determination, and love for life’s offerings, there was nothing he couldn’t achieve. He was valued by many and respected by more, repeatedly demonstrating the Orne motto, “Nil Desperandum” (Never Despairing). Fred was always able to find the light in dark situations and never let others seek despair either. His love and passion for aviation, boating, and his family took precedence over all especially when it came to spending time with his son.

A few months before his passing, he decided to move to Savannah, Georgia where he was able to spend time with his brothers David and Charles Orne. His last few months, he and his brothers rekindled a youthful and vibrant relationship—sharing laughs and memories with one another over dinner, on the boat fishing, or grabbing coffee. Fred’s great sense of humor, smile, warm presence, optimism, and love for all will be more than missed forever and always.

Services will be held Saturday, September 12, 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 673 Stevens Avenue, in Portland.