PROSPECT HARBOR – Eugene “Gene” A. Faulkingham, 79, died peacefully at his home in Prospect Harbor on Nov. 12, 2016, after battling a long, debilitating illness. He was born on Aug. 4, 1937, in Milbridge, son of the late Eva Faulkingham of Prospect Harbor and John Faulkingham of Rockland. As a young boy on Monhegan Island, Gene helped his parents tend the lighthouse beacon and learned the ways of the sea. From there ever after, it was deeply instilled within him. For many years Gene was the shop foreman at Stinson Canning Co., where he oversaw the production of millions of aluminum cans and covers that supported five different sardine packing plants. After his departure from the sardine industry, he helped build boats and was employed with the Gouldsboro School Department for nearly 10 years, where he helped create a healthful learning environment for schoolchildren.
Gene was especially proud of his devotion and sacrifice while serving in the U.S. Navy. He was privileged to be assigned on two aircraft carriers, the USS Coral Sea (CV 43) and the USS Antietam (CV 36), and enjoyed many port experiences around the globe. After his return from duty, he planted deep roots and vowed not to leave his beloved state of Maine again.
Later in life he enjoyed the simple pleasures of working with wood and creating novelties that he sold roadside at his residence and around the world. He was known locally as the “Buoy Man,” where his brightly painted crafts could be found proudly displayed and eagerly welcomed by all.
Gene leaves behind his loving family: wife of 58 years, Betty Lou Tibbetts Faulkingham; daughter Kathy Faulkingham Bickford of Winter Harbor, son Mike Faulkingham of Missouri; brothers Lee Faulkingham of Birch Harbor and Rexford Faulkingham of Steuben; sister Cynthia Grindle of Florida, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He left an indelible impact on the members of the community and will be greatly missed by his family and many close friends.
Graveside services for family and friends will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Prospect Harbor Cemetery.
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