The tradition of Eight Bells pays respect to deceased mariners and signifies that a sailor’s “watch” is over.
passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on March 25, 2026. Grover grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Augusta, and attended Cony High School, where he met the love of his life, Pauline Stewart. While at MMA he was a founding member of the football team, and the chief engineer on the Pentagoet. After graduation, Grover started his brief career at sea and ultimately ended up shoreside as a pressure vessel and boiler inspector for Factory Mutual. In the late 1970s Grover undertook the project of constructing a round, stone and timber framed house on a hill overlooking the Green Mountains in southern Vermont. That house was the site of countless family gatherings over the years, and an integral part of the education on engineering and construction for children and grandchildren alike. The crown jewel of the construction (at least from the viewpoint of a ships engineer) was the lump wood boiler that was designed and constructed by Grover with the help of his electrical engineer brother Bob. Retirement brought adventures in South America, Europe, and all across the United States, as well as a return to Castine in 2004 to see their oldest grandson graduate from MMA, 57 years after Grover.
Commander USN (Retired), of Topsham, Bowdoinham, and Harpswell, Maine, passed away November 12, 2025. Evrard graduated from Brunswick High School in 1952 and from MMA in 1955 at the top of his class in marine engineering. Upon graduation, Evrard shipped out with the merchant marine before receiving his commission in the U.S. Navy where he completed flight school and became a Naval aviator. He excelled as a pilot and became a flight instructor and carrier pilot among his many assignments in the service. Evrard served on more than 6 different aircraft carriers during the 1950s and 1960s, ultimately being elevated to the Admiral’s Staff of the Sixth Fleet based in Mayport, FL, where he ended his active-duty career after 12 years of service. He moved back to Maine to work as an engineer with Bath Iron Works (BIW), retiring after 25 years. During this second career he worked as a guarantee engineer and was recognized for his contribution to several critical shipbuilding programs, including the FFG, DDG and Aegis programs. He was instrumental in helping to integrate computer assisted design into the engineering department at “the yard”. While working at BIW, Evrard complimented his years of active-duty military service with nine additional years in the Navy Reserve from which he retired as a Commander. He continued to fly out one weekend a month and was a leader in the Portland chapter of the Navy’s Sea Cadet program.
passed away December 23, 2025. He was a resident of Huntington Beach, California.
died February 19, 2026, in Scarborough, Maine. Harriman spent most of his childhood in Auburn, Maine, and graduated from Edward Little High School, where he was an active member of the nordic, alpine, and jumping ski teams. Harriman earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from MMA in 1956 and honorably served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1959. Following his military service, he earned a BA in Business Administration from Boston University. He began his fifty-five-year career as a stockbroker at Putnam Coffin and Burr in Portland, Maine, and continued as an investment advisor at Advest Inc, retiring as Senior Investment Advisor from UBS in Portland in 2015. He contributed his time and leadership to many charities. Harriman was avid outdoorsman and a passionate salmon fisherman, arranging trips that yielded over 400 catches from the Florida Keys to the St. Paul River in Canada. He was an avid contributor to the Downeast Salmon Foundation, working to help restore salmon populations in Maine. Harriman cherished his camp on Moshier Island, where he enjoyed camping and boating, and teaching his children and grandchildren to appreciate the beauty of Casco Bay. Harriman was widely known for his sense of humor, his generosity, and his congenial spirit.
passed away on February 7, 2026. He was born in Brunswick, Maine, and graduated from Brunswick High School in 1954 and from MMA in 1957. Munsey worked for Travelers Insurance for over 25 years as an engineer, moving frequently. Despite the many relocations, Munsey always made sure wherever they lived truly felt like home. Munsey loved to travel and go camping, especially returning to Maine to enjoy their famous lobster rolls. They went on several cruises, and Munsey especially loved his Airstream and camping at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores. His yard was always immaculate, earning Yard of the Month several times in Millcreek. He could fix almost anything and loved dogs, especially his last dog, Cookie. His favorite trip each year was traveling back to Maine to visit friends and classmates from MMA.
died peacefully on March 3, 2026, in Tucson, Ariz. He graduated from Morse High School and MMA. He worked at Fairchild Semiconductor Industries in Portland and kept busy operating a small farm. In 1971 he moved to Tucson, working in many positions promoting Tucson. He missed his Maine roots and moved back to try his hand at operating a general store. In 1983, he was offered the position of General Manager of Tucson National Golf Resort. Eager to live in other places, he traveled restoring resorts, all the while
honing his golf skills, often playing 18 holes of golf as a part of his workday. Darling didn’t really understand the concept of no. He wanted to try it all; from rural Maine farming raising cattle, pigs, and chickens, growing alfalfa, and tapping maple trees, to learning to fly his own plane and then living for a year on a boat in Miami. He had a never-ending positive outlook, and the glass was always half full. He loved his family, golfing, the history channel, pistachio ice cream, and believed that aliens existed. He had the gift of gab, and always wanted to know your story and he didn’t forget it. He rarely missed a Morse High School reunion and loved being part of the Maine Maritime Academy alumni.
passed away on February 12, 2026, in Portland, Ore., the result of a fall. After graduation from MMA, Fulton moved to San Diego to work for National Steel and Shipbuilding as a draftsman, then estimator. In 1967 he moved with his family to Idaho Falls, Idaho, to attend Westinghouse Electric Nuclear Power School. After graduation, Fulton moved back to San Diego to join his brother, Patrick (MMA ‘59) at Owen’s Corning, working as subcontractors for insulation of ships under construction at NASSCO. After OC’s takeover by Performance Contracting Incorporated, Fulton was Manager of Repair. He was a member of Propeller Club and Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. MMA always had a special place in his heart.
of St. Augustine, Fla., and formerly of Bath, Maine, passed away February 6, 2026. A Maine Maritime Academy graduate, McAllister served in the Merchant Marines and as Chief Senior Surveyor for the American Bureau of Shipping.
of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025. Pollock graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1958 and MMA in 1962. Pollock proudly served as a U.S. Merchant Marine, beginning a lifelong career at sea. Pollock worked on many different ships and made his way up to captain. One of the defining chapters of Pollock’s maritime career occurred during the Vietnam War, when he served as 3rd Mate on the SS Pioneer Contender. As thousands of South Vietnamese civilians fled the advancing North Vietnamese forces, Pollock and his U.S. Merchant Marine crew responded without hesitation. The ship’s crew rescued approximately 17,000 refugees, far exceeding the ship’s intended capacity, but the crew made room for every soul in need. For his bravery and service during this humanitarian mission, Pollock was personally recognized by the president of the U.S. Lines. Pollock later worked ashore for U.S. Lines as a Safety Superintendent and as General Manager of Worldwide Electronic Corporation. Pollock was an enthusiastic member of the National Model Railroad Association for 54 years. He found joy in watching trains pass through Guttenberg and observing the barges, tugboats, tows, and cruise ships traveling the Mississippi River. Pollock was a devoted Freemason and held several leadership roles within the Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Wisconsin, including District Lecturer, Area Administrator, and Grand Officer of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Wisconsin. His lifelong dedication reflected his commitment to service, education, and brotherhood.
of Scio, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A 1960 graduate of Admiral Farragut Academy, he continued his education at MMA, graduating in 1964. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy for over eight years, rising to the rank of Lt. Cmdr. His time in service included active duty during the Vietnam War. He was a Vietnam River Rat on the LST515, his first operation being Operation Steel Pike. After his tour of duty in Vietnam, he continued his commitment by serving in the Naval Reserves. His military career was marked by dedication, courage, and honor. Fahrbach built a long career with Terry Corporation in Windsor, Conn. He continued his career in Wellsville, serving as head of the Naval Department at Dresser Rand. Fahrbach spent many years racing his H Production Bugeye Sprite with the SCCA, winning multiple trophies and making friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was also part of the Austin Healey Club of America, where he was well known for his primrose yellow Austin Healey 3000. Known for his wacky sense of humor, he loved to jitterbug and embark on fun-filled cruises with friends.
died after a long illness on November 20th, 2025. Born in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Oughton graduated from Cumberland High School in Cumberland, R.I. He graduated from MMA and served as Second Mate and navigator for U.S. Lines, delivering supplies to Vietnam. He received his master’s degree in physics & chemistry from Union College and taught Physics at Gloversville High School for 27 years. Over four summers, he built a log cabin home in Ephratah, N.Y. Upon retirement, Oughton purchased a 31 ft. Southern Cross sailboat and sailed off the coast of North Carolina. Oughton had a great interest in the history of the Mohawk Valley. He belonged to the Mabee Farm and Herkimer Home historical societies and did demonstrations of hand hewing logs and cooking beef jerky during their open house days.
of Rockwall, Texas, passed away on March 19, 2026. Smith will be remembered as a kind, generous, and precious soul—the kind of man who never met a dog that didn’t like him and never found a subject he wasn’t curious about. He had a lifelong love of learning and found joy in space, animals, comedy, Native American culture, photography, coins, antiques, books, and more. Smith was born in Andover, New York and spent his childhood trapping and hunting around local ponds and playing baseball, soccer, and wrestling. He attended MMA, graduating in 1964. He spent 10 years sailing around the world as a steam engineer in the Merchant Marines. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1982 and from the Coast Guard in 1986. After returning home, Smith settled back in Andover, where he started his real estate business, opened Tom’s ’Tique Shop, and ran a Christmas tree farm. All that while beginning a 28-year career with Dresser-Rand, retiring in 1996. He was the first president of the Andover Lions Club and helped start the annual Maple Festival. Smith stayed active hunting, camping in his RV, making real estate deals, and being deeply involved in his children’s lives. In 2003, Smith and his wife made a bold move—selling nearly everything to relocate to Fairbanks, Alaska, where they spent six years exploring what he loved to call “the Final Frontier.” They later moved to Rockwall, Texas, to be closer to family.
passed away on November 9, 2025. He was born in Brooklyn, NY. A 1964 graduate of MMA, Wuestefeld was a ship’s captain for the Army Corps of Engineers and retired after 35 years of service. He was active with the volunteer rescue squad, a CERT member, and a Coast Guard Auxiliary leader and instructor. An avid train hobbyist, Wuestefeld enjoyed his time as a member of the Colonial Heritage Train Club. He was also a member of the Colonial Heritage Infrastructure Committee, and a past member of the woodworking club. Wuestefeld loved spending time with his family, working in his garden, and spending time on the water. He also loved to travel, especially to historical places.
of Myrtle Beach, S.C., passed away on March 11, 2026, at his residence. He was born in Providence, R.I. Shepard was a graduate of Hope High School in Providence, Rhode Island and MMA. He became a Master of Steam and Motor Vessels of any gross tons upon oceans. He also became a First-Class Pilot with Northeast Marine Pilots in Rhode Island, covering New York through the Cape Cod Canal and many ports between. He enjoyed his retirement traveling all over the United States with his wife in their RV. They made two passes through the United States together seeing many different places in each state.
passed away on May 9, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply, countless stories, and a legacy built on hard work, humor, stubbornness, and a life fully lived. He graduated from Old Orchard Beach High School and went on to MMA, an accomplishment he was especially proud of, following in the footsteps of his uncle Peter Scontras and cousin Robert Somerville. Somerville served in the Merchant Marines during part of the Vietnam War and later worked aboard cruise ships, manning the engines. He got his MBA at Northeastern University. In 1979, he joined Thermo Electron, where he became Director of Risk Management and made a lasting impact over a 35-year career. He helped establish Thermo Fisher’s captive insurance companies in Bermuda, served on the Board of Directors of Medmarc Insurance Company, and later consulted for Aon.
of Mystic Conn., passed peacefully on October 24, 2025, with his family by his side. Harris received his BS in Marine Engineering from MMA (with Honors) in 1967. Upon graduation, Harris was commissioned in the U.S. Naval Reserve with the obligation of sailing in the U.S. Merchant Marine. In the Merchant Marine, Harris sailed on various U.S. flag vessels, most notably aboard the SS Transglobe – the most decorated American merchant ship of the Vietnam War. Following his sailing career, which he completed as Chief Engineer, he entered Babson College, where he received his MBA in 1972, graduating with distinction. Soon after graduation, Harris began his shipbuilding career as a senior systems engineer for Electric Boat in the TRIDENT Nuclear Submarine Project. On January 1, 2006, Harris was appointed President of General Dynamics NASSCO and Vice President of the General Dynamics Corporation. In 2013 Harris was additionally given the responsibility as President of Bath Iron Works, while also serving as President of General Dynamics NASSCO. Harris was a high-school and university football standout, as well as an avid shooter, card player, amateur historian, scouting leader, craftsman, and unrepentant trickster. Harris was extremely active in charity work, donating extensive time, money, and other resources to scouting, the United Way, the American Red Cross and the American Heart association, the American Lupus foundation, and many other worthy causes.
passed away on February 10, 2026. Born in Portland, Maine, McCormack was a graduate of Deering High School in 1966 and MMA in 1971. McCormack built a distinguished career as a merchant marine, earning the respect of all who worked alongside him. He served as Chief Engineer on many ships for Maritrans, including the tugboat Constitution out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was known for his mechanical expertise, steady leadership, and unwavering confidence. McCormack did things his way – guided by experience, instinct, and a deep belief in self-reliance – and that independence defined both his career and his character. After retiring from American Maritime Officers as Chief Engineer, he continued working as an independent contractor, traveling across the U.S. to lead dry dock projects and engine repairs. Retirement, for McCormack, simply meant finding new ways to stay busy. He trusted his hands, his knowledge, and his judgment, and he never hesitated to follow his own path. McCormack had a lifelong love for anything with a motor. Corvettes, boats, Harley-Davidsons, snowmobiles, cars and trucks – if it had an engine, it had his attention. Some of his greatest joys were cross-country motorcycle and snowmobile trips with friends, hunting, tractor pulls, camping and a cold beer. He embraced freedom in all its forms.Above all, McCormack will be remembered as a man who charted his own course, both at sea and in life. His skill, determination, and fiercely independent spirit will live on in the family who loved him. He will be deeply missed.
passed away peacefully after a brave battle with cancer on January 11, 2026. Seekins graduated from Searsport District High School in 1969 and from MMA in 1973. He dedicated 35 years to teaching Building Construction at Waldo County Technical Center, shaping the lives and skills of countless students. In addition to teaching, he was a skilled carpenter who worked as a subcontractor, often building homes alongside his brother. Seekins loved the ocean and working on boats. He especially cherished kayaking and sailing. Many happy
days were also spent boating around Penobscot Bay. Seekins will live on through the knowledge, kindness, and love he shared with his students, family, and friends.
passed away unexpectedly on October 22, 2025, while doing what he loved most – boating on a cloudless, sunny day. Though his passing was sudden, his family finds comfort knowing he left this world surrounded by the peace of the open water and the nature he so deeply cherished. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, he graduated from MMA in 1974, where he developed a lifelong passion for the sea. He spent 13 years traveling the world as a Chief Engineer in the Merchant Marines with Sun Oil Company, a Lt. Commander in the Navy Reserve, and a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Wrigglesworth’s career was marked by adventure and exploration, both on the water and in life. Wrigglesworth’s zest for life was contagious. He found joy in the simple things: the stillness of the water, the warmth of the sun, and the sound of laughter shared with loved ones, especially his grandchildren. His sense of humor was legendary, and his ability to make those around him feel welcome and valued was a hallmark of his character. Whether telling stories, cracking jokes, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment on the water, Wrigglesworth’s presence brought light and warmth to everyone he encountered. Those who knew Wrigglesworth will remember his generous heart, quick wit, and easy-going spirit. Whether he was fixing something, telling a story, or planning his next outing, he did it all with energy, enthusiasm, and a smile.
passed away on January 31, 2026. Boschert graduated from MMA with a degree in Marine Engineering. Always fond of the sea, he worked in the US Merchant Marine his entire career. Serving our country in the United States Navy Reserve from 1972-81, Boschert’s patriotism and pride in American ideals was inspiring. Firefighting ran in his blood. Boschert served in both the Ridgefield and Westwood, N.J. volunteer fire departments for 35 years. He earned both commendations and heroic stories. Boschert’s passion for firefighting carried into his professional career as a N.J. state fire inspector. He was a softball coach for many years and was a swim official for both the Highland Lakes swim team and the Bergen Barracudas. An avid Giants fan, he enjoyed going to Giants games even if he knew the likely outcome of a game for the last ten seasons. Boschert had a love for his tools, gadgets, and any excuse to tinker, always putting his marine engineer talents on display. If you ever sat in his Jeep, you would be amazed at how many things he could power on an auxiliary outlet. He loved to cook and eat as much as he loved being at his cabin in Highland Lakes where he found great joy in fishing with his grandkids and sailing on the Big Lake. He was renowned for his love of singing and conversation.
beloved father, legendary captain, and lifelong waterman, passed away surrounded by family. A proud graduate of MMA, Earley built his life around the sea he loved so deeply. Early in his career he served with distinction as Chief Engineer aboard the USNS Denebola, a role that reflected both his technical mastery and his steady, dependable nature. Known to many along the Jersey Shore, Earley made his home at Manasquan Inlet, where he owned and captained the “EarleyBird,” one of the area’s most recognizable and well-respected sport-fishing boats. Whether chasing tuna offshore, navigating the inlet before sunrise, or swapping stories at the dock, Earley embodied the spirit of a true captain-unfaltering, skilled, generous, and utterly at home on the water. Earley’s passion for fishing was matched only by his desire to share it. Over the years he taught countless people how to fish – family, friends, and strangers – all of whom quickly became part of his extended crew. His patience, humor, and deep knowledge of the ocean left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to spend time at his helm. He was always generous with providing his catches to those who loved fish, and those who needed it. Earley will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his unwavering love for the ocean, and the countless sunrises, stories, and memories shared aboard the “EarleyBird.” His legacy lives on in all the lives he touched, and every line ever cast toward the horizon.
passed away unexpectedly at his home in West Gardiner, Maine, on January 19, 2026. White was born in Skowhegan, Maine, and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1974 and MMA in 1979. After shipping for a few years, White went to work at Maine Yankee Nuclear Power Plant until it closed. White then traveled to several power plants as a procedure writer. White was a man of few words, but his expressions said it all. White loved to travel and enjoy life.
passed away January 4, 2026, surrounded by his family. Collinsworth’s generosity and kindness knew no bounds. He was known around the world by many for his big heart and willingness to give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. Through his many acts of selfless love, he would go on to become the man his family and friends admired and adored, hoping and aspiring to follow in his footsteps. Collinsworth grew up in East Millinocket, Maine, graduating from Schenck High School in 1976. He graduated from MMA in 1980 and began what would become an incredibly successful career as a merchant mariner. Collinsworth adored his family and was very proud of all their accomplishments. After graduation, Collinsworth began his career on the Virgo vessel which rescued Vietnamese boat refugees near death at sea, saving over 60 lives. His later career would include becoming a Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserves, working for Horizon Lines in numerous supervisory positions, and attaining the rank of Chief Engineer. In retirement, he spent his “spare time” subbing at Maritime Controls and overseeing projects for the MMA training vessel. While marine engineering was Collinsworth’s vocation, his passion was making music as an accomplished lead guitarist in several rock bands, performing all around the state of Maine, and continuing throughout a prolific career that culminated in the “Amethyst Reunion Concert.” Of the many musicians with whom he performed, most became lifelong and cherished friends.
passed away February 10, 2026, at his home. McPherson was a 1977 graduate of Greenville High School and a 1981 graduate of MMA. He worked all his life as a Merchant Marine until his retirement in 2024.
a highly respected Master Mariner and Commanding Officer in the United States Navy’s Military Sealift Command, passed away March 13, 2026, at his home in Palm City, Florida. Rycenga was born and raised in Grand Haven, Michigan. He attended Spring Lake High School and graduated from East Lansing High School, where he was a standout basketball player who competed against future NBA legend Magic Johnson. He graduated from MMA in 1981 with a BS in Marine Transportation and began his three-decade service to the Nation with Military Sealift Command, ultimately rising to the rank of Master in 1997. Over his career, he commanded several of the Navy’s combat logistics vessels, including fleet oilers and ammunition ships, and commanded USS SUPPLY during its deployment following the September 11, 2001 attacks, and later commanded USNS LEWIS AND CLARK, the first of the Navy’s most advanced combat logistics force vessels. He received two Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals (Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom), the Global War on Terrorism Civilian Service Medal, and Cold War service recognition. Rycenga was known as a calm and steady Commanding Officer who led by example and mentored many officers who later rose to command.
died March 29, 2026, in Minnesota. Ulrich was raised near Biscay, Minn., and was an honor graduate of the 1948 class of Hutchinson High School. He earned an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md. He graduated with credit and was commissioned an Ensign, USN. He attended Ohio State University, earning an MS in Geodetic Science. He also completed nuclear power training and was assigned to the USS Enterprise testing and training facility for extended duty prior to nuclear ship service. Ulrich served on active duty as a Surface Warfare Officer for over 27 years, retiring as a Captain, USN in 1981. After Ulrich retired from Naval service, he was employed as a field engineer by General Electric Company. He then accepted a position on the faculty of MMA where he taught for fourteen years. He was recalled to active Naval duty in 1985 to serve as Convoy Commodore during a readiness training exercise for the Ready Reserve Force deployed to their base at Diego Garcia. Ulrich was a life member and past master of Temple Lodge #59 AF&AM of Hutchinson. He was also a life member of Rising Star Lodge #4 of Penobscot, Maine and the San Diego, California Scottish Rite, as well as life membership in the Hutchinson DAV, Hutchinson American Legion Post #96 and VFW Post 106. He was a member of the Meeker County Navy Club, the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association, the Castine Town Band, and the Castine Brass Quintet.
passed away on March 21, 2026. McKechnie was raised in Hampden and graduated from Hampden Academy in 2008. McKechnie proudly served in the United States Army from 2012 to 2016. While there, McKechnie achieved one of the most demanding accomplishments of his military career — earning the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB). The EFMB is one of the Army’s most rigorous and selective medical qualifications, requiring soldiers to pass an intensive, multi-day evaluation of both physical endurance and advanced medical proficiency, with fewer than 12 percent of candidates passing. McKechnie earned this distinction on his first attempt—an achievement that speaks to both his skill and determination, and one that only a small number of soldiers accomplish. After beginning stationed in Korea, McKechnie continued his service at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland. There, he supported high-level medical operations, including the Pope’s visit in 2015 and the State of the Union in 2016. Following his graduation from MMA, McKechnie began his career at the MMA waterfront as a Small Craft Master. He primarily served as Captain of the Friendship, and also as relief Captain of the MV Captain Susan Clark and the tug Pentagoet. He was licensed as a 100-ton master. On the water, McKechnie was in his element—calm at the helm, wind in his face, a huge smile, moving with an ease and confidence that made it clear this was where he belonged.
Most Eight Bells entries are obtained from online news sources and edited for length. A complete listing of Eight Bells can be found at https://mainemaritime.edu/alumni/category/eight-bells/.
If you learn of the passing of an MMA classmate, associate, friend or family member, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations so that we may include the information in our Eight Bells listings. Send obituaries or their digital links to alumni@mma.edu.
