Cmdr. Joseph H. Vachon ’56

Joseph H. Vachon Jr. of Stetson, Maine, died peacefully on February 19, 2025, at the age of 91. He was born in Biddeford, Maine, and raised in Saco.

He was a graduate of Thornton Academy, Maine Central Institute, and Maine Maritime Academy. His athleticism and his love for football supported winning teams at all three schools. Upon graduation from Maine Maritime Academy with a degree in engineering, he was commissioned in the United States Navy, where he served honorably, ultimately retiring with the rank of commander.

He also worked as an executive for Texaco for 20 years. His entrepreneurial spirit supported later careers owning and operating vacation rental cottages and lobster fishing. For many years, he operated a lobster boat out of Camp Ellis, Maine, and served as vice president of the Maine Lobsterman’s Association. He retired to Stetson in 1990. His passion for the outdoors reflected itself in continuous hunting and fishing trips, gardening, and cultivating an extensive fruit orchard. He selflessly shared his love of the outdoors with his four children who cherish the memories of many outdoor adventures.

He remarried after the death of his first wife, Donna, and is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, and his four children: Joe, Nick, Cherie, and Matt, and their families.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Joe’s memory to the Atlantic Salmon Federation.