John Stefanski

John was born on March 17, 1928, the son of Stephen and Josephine (Adamina) Stefanski who emigrated from Poland, settling in Brewer.

He graduated from Brewer High School in 1945. He enlisted in the Navy and attained the rank of Seaman; First Class. His service to his country included being stationed on a mine sweep in the Pacific. He returned to the Brewer area and embarked on his thirty-eight year employment with New England Telephone. From his hire to retirement, he appreciated and excelled at the advanced technical work he was responsible for with the company. Many lifelong friendships developed during his tenure at the phone company.

John was first and foremost a man of strong convictions and opinions. He was a loving family man, a loyal friend, a life-long leaner, superior athlete and an avid sportsman. He was an exceptional athlete at Brewer High, first rate tennis player and his love of skiing began at Eaton Mountain. He and his family had passes at Sugarloaf, where he skied for over twenty years. Family vacations were spent camping at Acadia, and he also loved sailing his Sunfish on Lake Wessureunsett. There are numerous tales of his duck and deer hunting adventures at camp in Rangeley. This passion for nature and hunting led him to teach himself to carve duck decoys in the winter months. He was proud of his children’s numerous achievements, particularly Mike attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He wintered in Florida many years spending quality time with his favorite son in-law Bobby Joe and viewing innumerable sports events as Kristen and Kate grew into young adulthood. In recent years, he and fellow companion and adventurer Hazel Grove explored the innumerable wonders and beauty that draw visitors to his beloved state of Maine.

He married Patricia Ann McClay on June 23, 1951, who predeceased him. He is survived by three children, Anne Benedini and husband Robert of Dade City, FL, Jon Michael Stefanski of Hilo, HI, and James Stefanski and his wife Valerie Stefanski of Falmouth, ME; two granddaughters Kristen Benedini of Gainsville, FL, Kate Robinson of Zephyrhills, FL, and one great granddaughter Mariah Robinson.

He was predeceased by his parents, brothers, and many friends.

At John’s request there will be no funeral services.

Arrangements are under the care of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, Maine.