Obituary of John Coffin

John (Jack) Aldridge Coffin, 83, died unexpectedly on February 16, 2018 at his home on Islesboro. He was born September 29, 1934 in Lewiston, lived his early years in Auburn, and graduated from the University of Maine, Orono, where he received an engineering/physics degree in 1956. In 1958, he married Judith Pendleton of Islesboro and they lived for many years in New York state and Vermont. Jack worked for IBM in engineering and received several patents for, as he said, little things that went into little computers that IBM sold to NASA at the beginning of the space race. In 1971, they returned to Judy's home port of Islesboro where they built their home, developed many warm friendships and became valued members of the island community. On Islesboro, Jack partnered with his brother-in-law Donnie Pendleton and built the general store Pendleton & Coffin, which now houses the town offices. Later, Jack used his engineering skills, with his friend and business partner Bill Warren, to renovate many a summer cottage and build a few new ones. He enjoyed occasional cottage caretaking jobs as well as teaching email skills to some older ladies who needed the new technology to communicate with their grandchildren. Jack wished to be remembered as a longtime member and trumpet player of the Charlie Pendleton Band, a loose and lively swing ensemble in high demand for many years at summer parties and dances on the island. He was also capable, generous and outspoken with a taste for adventure and fun. Recently, with good friends, he visited the Grand Canyon and the next year took a boat trip down the Danube. This past summer he spent a week in Iceland with his grand niece! Jack was predeceased in 2015 by his wife, Judy, and in 2009 by his brother, the eminent Judge Frank M. Coffin. He is deeply missed and held dear in many hearts. He is survived by loving nephews, nieces, cousins, dear friends on Islesboro and beyond, and his beloved Cairn Terrier, Liddy. The family extends its deep appreciation to Sharon McCorison of Islesboro, who for many years provided loyal friendship and was a trusted helpmate to Jack and Judy, and to the caring and supportive staff at Boardman Cottage. Graveside services will be held this summer at a date to be announced. No flowers please, but donations to The Boardman Cottage, 131 Main Road, Islesboro or the Islesboro Health Center Trust, 150 Main Road, would be most appreciated.