Paul Bucklin

DURHAM — Paul Ethan Bucklin, 30, of Durham, passed away Saturday, July 11, 2015, at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

He was born Dec. 1, 1984, in Brunswick. He graduated from Brunswick High School and attended the University of Southern Maine in Portland.

Paul was loving and kindhearted, and cared for the wounded above himself. He spent several years volunteering and working full-time at the Coastal Humane Society, where animals seemed to approach Paul barring inhibition. His infatuation with nature spread beyond the animal world and into the backyards and gardens of those who knew him. Paul used his artistic eye to create beautiful outdoor spaces and was known for his meticulous work and attention to detail. Paul understood the power of a garden and appreciated the wildness of a garden’s growth; it was not uncommon to receive a bouquet of wildflowers during a time of need from Paul.

Paul’s love of nature extended into his social life, as well. He loved being outdoors, playing disc golf in the woods, or camping on Mt. Katahdin. A favorite participation of his was charity “polar bear” dips at Reid State Park to raise money for the shelter and bring in the New Year. When not in the woods, in a true Maine spirit, Paul spent much of his free time sailing and camping with friends on the Midcoast islands. He was also a leader and teammate in the game of Ultimate Frisbee, where he was well-known for his wonderful spirit and outgoing nature.

It should be known that, due to his illness, Paul battled with episodes of severe depression throughout his adult life. Friends and family should take consolation knowing that Paul has now found peace. As a wonderful friend, family member, teammate, and scholar Paul left a tremendous impact on those around him. Paul was a man with a huge heart who was loved dearly and will be missed by all.

Surviving Paul are his father Gary Bucklin and his wife Mary of Raymond; his mother Cheryl McMahon of Durham and stepfather Harvey; brothers Seth Bucklin of Durham and Kyle Bucklin of Troy, N.Y.; grandparents Ralph and Marilyn McMahon of Casco; grandmother Marguerite Bucklin of Durham; step-siblings Jason Dutremble of Scarborough, Jessica Fournier of Conway, N.H., and Katie Caron of Brunswick; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and dear friend Kendra Lowe.

There will be a celebration of Paul’s life for friends and family on Saturday, July 18, at 2 p.m. at Pathway Vineyard, 94 Pleasant Street, in Brunswick.

The family requests that all donations be made to: Durham Fire & Rescue, 615 Hallowell Rd., Durham, ME 04222.