MICHAEL JAMES ATHERTON, 34 of Bucksport and Orono, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 10, 2025.  

Michael fought a long battle of illnesses for 28 years after his diagnosis of brain cancer at the age of 6.  Due to his medical needs, he moved into Treats Falls Nursing Facility in 2013.  Despite the hurdles life threw at him, he was the happiest, funniest, most loving young man.  Everyone who knew him loved him wholeheartedly.  He religiously followed New England sports teams and especially loved the Red Sox and Patriots.

He is survived by his mother, Michelle Atherton and partner John Cyr of Old Town; siblings Jocelyn and Kaylee Tozier and Cameron Atherton; grandparents Vickie and Paul Atherton of Blue Hill, Uncle Elmer Deans and wife Amanda Curtis; great aunt “Tia” Lorna Bernosky, Aunt Jennie Damon, step-dad Dale Tozier and extended Tozier Family, many cousins and biological father Daniel Atherton, Janet Ames of Bucksport; his ed tech from 1st grade to graduation and his favorite person in the whole world until his passing. 

He is predeceased by his grandparents Laurelyn and Douglas Deans and his best friend Nye. 

A very special thank you to everyone at Treats Falls House who loved and treated him as if he were their own.   

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Riposta Funeral Home 182 Waldo Ave. Belfast, Me. 04915 followed by a celebration of his life from 4-8 pm on October 22, 2025 at the Old Town Elks Lodge 37 Fourth St., Old Town, Me. 04468

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ripostafh.com