Kenneth J. Sullivan 87, Passed away peacefully in the warmth of his favorite place “his house” on the island he loved so well- Rackliff Island. On Friday the 13th of February 2015. With two of his best friends by his side- Dennis and Patty Rackliff along with “Noodles” his beloved cat.. He would not have wanted it any other way.
Ken was born on September 14th, 1927 in Boston, Massachusetts to parents James W. and Harriet (Carter) Sullivan. Educated in the Boston school systems and graduating from there. During his school years he dug clams and then he worked with his own boat in the Lobster and Tuna fishing industry in Gloucester, Mass. .Later he developed an interest in Telephones and started off in a career with N.E. Telephone Co where he met and married the love of his life, his wife Valerie of 45 years. Ken began his work with them as a lineman and worked in the repair department as well. One of Ken’s accomplishments with them was he started the union while at the telephone Company .
Ken and his loving wife Valerie were able to retire to Maine in the 1990’s where they found their piece of paradise on Rackliff Island. Ken grew up on the ocean and it was always his dream to live in a lighthouse which is why Ken proceeded to build his own “round house” where he could see the ocean at every turn with panoramic views. Ken and Valerie were known as animal lovers having adopted many a stray throughout the years.
In Ken’s younger years he so enjoyed Motorcycle riding with his wife Valerie as well as he loved to hunt and fish. One of Ken’s favorite past times was the love of the outdoors –especially cutting firewood with his friend David. Ken so looked forward to his visits from Dennis and Patty’s granddaughter-Sadie Davis who would make Ken angel food cupcakes that he called his “Sadiecakes”…
Ken wished to extend his sincerest thank you to his Hospice caregivers- Nurse Jackie, CNA’ s Crystal and Richard, Home visitors, Geoff and Frances along with chaplain Steve. without whose help he could not have maintained his life in his home during his illness.The friendship of many who gave so freely of their time and attention to Ken during his journey, along with special thanks to Dr. Paine, his nurse practitioner Katherine and his office staff. Ken was able to receive the care and assistance from the St. George Para medicine program, which gave him much comfort.
Ken was predeceased by his loving wife Valerie in January of 2011.
In lieu of flowers it was Ken’s wish that donations be made in he and his wife Valeries name to the Pope Memorial Humane Society ,P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841 or the St. George Ambulance Service, 3 School Street, St. George, Maine. 04860.
Per Ken’s wishes there will be no services .
Hall’s of Thomaston, 78 Main Street, Thomaston , Maine is caring for the family.