Eleanor “Deedee” Kaman, 84, of Boothbay, died at her home Monday, July 30, 2012, with her daughter at her bedside.

Born in Akron, Ohio April 17, 1928, Deedee graduated from Old Trail School, then attended Cleveland Art School. Her art career was put on hold while she managed her household and was a full- time mother.

In Akron, Deedee was on the Women's Board of the Family Service Society, the Board of Trustees of the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center, the Board of Directors of the Junior League of Akron, and the Board of Directors of the YWCA. She was an active member of the Akron General Hospital Women's Board and the Children's Home Women's Board.

Eventually she was able to resume her art studies and became an accomplished watercolorist. In 1964 she opened and operated the Ghent Art Gallery in Ghent, Ohio. She managed artist relations, display, monthly one-artist shows, and professional framing services.

After being widowed twice, Deedee married John Kaman and moved from Ohio to Falls Church, Virginia. While there, she became a member of the Holmes Run Neighborhood Association. Also, she began working with sterling silver, creating many stunning jewelry pieces. Her prize winning art work has been shown in an array of galleries and juried shows in Ohio, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Deedee and John happily moved to Boothbay in 1985. She was among the first attendees at an organizational meeting of the Boothbay Civic Association. She served on the Board of Directors and was a dedicated member of the BCA. She was also the Chairman of the annual BCA Art show held in Flora Jones' barn. Deedee was an enthusiastic volunteer on various fundraising committees until health issues limited her activity. She was also a longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

She is survived by her daughter, Katharine C. Evans; her brother, David A. Smith of Aiken, S.C.; and her beloved "Sam Cat". She was predeceased by her precious granddaughter, Alison Julia Gold.

Deedee's wish of having her body donated to the University of New England in Biddeford will be carried out, followed by cremation. No services will be held.

Donations may be made in Deedee's memory to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, 27 Atlantic Hwy, Edgecomb ME 04556.