NORWAY — John Douglas Kimble, 68, passed away in his sleep at camp on Sand Pond in Norway, a place he held dear in his heart. It was at camp that he had his fondest memories from childhood to raising his children. He spent his summers leisurely paddling around the lake in his canoe, talking with neighbors and enjoying the occasional company of his friends and family, sharing a beer and watching the sunset from the dock. He would often read two or three books in a week. He was a man with very little material desire, a deep love for his family, and a willingness to help others.

He was born in Bath and raised in Rumford, the eldest son of John Robert Kimble and E. Barbara Mattor Kimble. He attended The University of Maine in Orono, majoring in civil engineering, leaving to join the Army during the Vietnam War.

Upon returning from Vietnam he completed his degree and then worked in the surveying field in various capacities, most recently working for Sebago Technics of Westbrook for the past thirteen years, where he was well-liked and highly-respected.

John was an avid believer in the Maine lifestyle. He enjoyed hard work, taking care of projects and tackling business as needed. He was a man with many talents. He easily made friends, with his Maine sense of humor and his stoic character. He was a proud father and grandfather.

John will be dearly missed by his two sons, Nathan Wesley and family of Portland, and John Michael and family of Newry. He also leaves behind three brothers, their families and one sister: Daniel Earl of Fayette, William Robert of Haynes City, Fla., Andrew Charles of Somersworth, N.H. and Ellen Frances of Glen, N.H., an uncle Arthur Mattor of Danbury, Conn., former wife Sue Mahan of Portland, and many cousins, nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com

A celebration of his life will be held at the Walker Memorial Hall on Highland Road in Bridgton, Maine (past the Highland Lake Country Club on the right) on Sunday, June 26th from 2 to 4 p.m. A private ceremony will be held at the family camp afterward. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Lakes Association of Norway, Maine or the United Way. Arrangements are under the direction of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main St., South Paris.