Robert S. Footer ’56

CALAIS – Robert Stephen Footer, 80, passed away Friday, July 31, 2015 at a Bangor hospital with his family by his side. Robert was born in Bath on July 15, 1935, son of the late Edward and Beatrice (McLellan) Footer.

He graduated from Morse High School, Class of 1953, and Maine Maritime Academy, Class of 1956. Robert was commissioned in the U.S. Navy where he served as an engineer until 1959, earning the rank of Lieutenant. Following his service he became a Merchant Marine and enjoyed traveling the world on oil tankers, cargo ships, and the passenger liner Constitution. In 1969 he started working for Georgia Pacific as an engineer until he heard the call of the ocean again and returned to sea as a Merchant Marine. In 1988, Robert went back to Georgia Pacific, retiring in 1996. He was an avid New England sports fan and enjoyed tending to his yard and gardens, home improvement projects, golfing, hunting, and especially woodworking in his “NEW OLDE BARN.”

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by two brothers, Edward and John; and a sister Mary Jane.

Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Barbara Footer; six sons, Michael Footer and wife Cathy of Robbinston, Ronald Footer of Mauston, WI, Jim Footer of Calais, Steve Footer of Orlando, FL, Rick Footer and wife Ashley of Weatherby Lake, MO, and Donald Footer and wife Catherine of Yorktown, VA; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a brother James Footer and wife Dorothy of Cape Cod, MA.

In keeping with Robert’s wishes, there will be no services. He is destined to be returned to the ocean, the place he cherished most. Donations in Robert’s memory may be made to American , 51 US Route 1, Scarborough, ME 04074, or , 1 Main St., #300, Topsham, ME 04086. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home, Calais & Eastport. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.maysfuneralhome.com