PUTNAM, Albert P., 70, Nickerson Lake, Dec. 31, 2016. Services will be held on Sat., Jan. 7 at the Houlton Lodge of Elks at 3 p.m. Arrangements by Dunn Funeral Home, Houlton.
NEW LIMERICK — Albert Pearce Putnam, Jr., 70, died at his home on Nickerson Lake in New Limerick on December 31, 2016. Al was born in Houlton on November 9, 1946, a son of Albert Pearce and Mary Madigan Putnam. He followed his graduation from Houlton High School with a postgraduate year at Fryeburg Academy. He attended Ricker College.
Al was a quiet businessman and a builder. He developed Putnam Construction, a general contracting business, and he co-owned Almon H. Fogg. Al was an architect at heart and proudly built many residential and commercial buildings throughout the State. He had a good eye, could read people, and thought of every detail.
Al was active in town and civic affairs, serving on the boards of M.S.A.D. #70, New Limerick board of selectmen and Katahdin Trust Company. He was past president of the Houlton Chamber of Commerce. Al held lifetime memberships with the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association and the Miramichi Salmon Association.
Later in his life, he enjoyed organic farming. Al grew good potatoes and healthy chickens on Fiddlehead Farm. His reverence for the land was apparent in his care for the soil. He rose early, and only after the work was done, he loved to join the grandkids for a late afternoon swim.
He knew how to have fun. He hosted his friends on trips to Northeast Harbor, Beaver Brook, Hay Lake, Kimball Pond, Sugarloaf and beyond. He could find his way in the woods, play the banjo, and recite Robert Service poetry. He was a voracious reader of books, journals, and papers. Al was most relaxed starting another outbuilding on the farm, sorting beans or stacking wood. He took dry beans to his salmon guide on the Miramichi and delivered potatoes to the ranger at Warren Island State Park.
Al was a role model for many. Although he offered little direct advice, those around him fully understood his guiding role. He made sure the freezer was full and the kids received a good education. Books were part of Al’s education but he learned most of what he knew by working hard and living outdoors. He was the ideal guide. Al is respected for his quiet contributions, his absolute respect for those who came before him, and for his unwavering commitment to provide for the next generation.
Al is survived by his wife, Nancy York Putnam; four children and their spouses: Emily Putnam; Alison Howard and Luke; Martha Putnam and John Schwenk; Albert Putnam and Abigail; nine grandchildren: Catherine Smallwood; Joseph, Sarah and Elizabeth Howard; William and Orla Schwenk; Albert IV, Elizabeth and Henry Putnam; one greatgrandchild Christi Mae Welch; two siblings and their spouses: Fred Putnam and Catherine; Sarah Howland and Jeff.
The family invites friends to call and celebrate Al’s life Saturday, January 7, 2017, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Houlton Lodge of Elks, 86 Main Street in Houlton. A reception will follow the 3 p.m. memorial service. Spring interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery.
Al proudly supported the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association. Interested persons may continue his support by sending donations in his name to: MOFGA, PO Box 170, Unity, Maine 04988 or online at http://tinyurl.com/MOFGADONATION.
Arrangements in care of Dunn Funeral Home, 11 Park St., Houlton, ME. Condolences and guest book: dunnfuneral.com.
