January 1, 1938 – January 13, 2023
Falmouth- John Hartley Sterling, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 13, 2023 in Scarborough. He was the first baby born on January 1, 1938, to Hartley and Ruth (Turgeon) Sterling of Westbrook, Maine.
John graduated from Deering High School in 1956 and served in the Merchant Marines before meeting Sandra Thurston on a blind date in 1957. They were married October 17, 1958 and had four children. John worked as a self-employed lobsterman prior to starting Falmouth Foundations with his brother-in-law, Fred Chase.
In 1973, John built his beloved camp on Caribou Lake where he spent as much time as possible with family and friends hunting, fishing and riding the roads. Many of the grandchildren spent years going to camp with Grampa and Grammy. He knew the “Golden Road” like the back of his hand, including every side road and every fishing hole. During the most recent years, John started painting and went on to finish 50+ beautiful paintings.
He was very proud of his paintings, which can be found in many family member’s homes.
John was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Jacqueline (Jackie) Neuts
John is survived by his wife, Sandra Sterling; daughter, Leslie Jordan and husband Steve; son, Steven Sterling; son, Dana Sterling and wife Kate; son, Wayne Sterling; brother, Peter Sterling and wife Sandra; brother-in-law, Kerry Neuts; grandchildren Kristina Sterling, Travis Jordan, Kayla Sterling, Nicholas Sterling, Julia Davis (Jordan), Connor Jordan, Tyler Jordan, Kyle Sterling, Elisabeth (Lizzie) Sterling; great grandchildren Elian, Adriana, Stevie, Jovani, Lola, Landon John, Baron, Jordan, Eric.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life service for John on Sunday, January 22, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland.
A reception will follow at Red Barn, 199 Elderberry Drive, South Portland, ME 04106
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.jonesrichandbarnes.com for the Sterling family.
