David E. Howes

David E. Howes

September 26, 1929 – April 24, 2024

David E. Howes, 94, of Franklin, ME, died April 24, 2024, at his home on Frenchman’s Bay. David was born September 26, 1929, a 12th generation Cape Codder and raised in Chatham, MA, the eldest son of David E. Howes and Julia (Rubyck) Howes. A 1951 graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, David spent his life on the water. After duty with the US Navy, he began a career of many years shipping for United Fruit Company. In the mid 1960s he built his forever home on Frenchman’s Bay in Franklin, ME, eventually becoming a fulltime Mainer. After retirement from United Fruit, he worked on various local fishing boats, before joining the Maine State Ferry Service, captaining the Swan’s Island Ferry for many years.

David was previously married to Esther Landry and Joyce Kelley. David’s beloved, longtime partner, Ruth Torrey, was his constant companion for almost 30 years until her passing in December 2023. Ruth’s daughter, Lorraine Stockbridge, and Jake Hannah, a dear friend, both provided David with loving support so that he could continue living independently and “off the grid” in the home he built, still cutting his own cordwood until recently.

Predeceased by his brother, Donald R. Howes of Chatham, MA and Franklin, ME. David is survived by his son David Howes of Saint Augustine, FL, and by many adoring nieces and nephews and their extended families.

A lifelong member of the Fraternal Order of Masons, a Service of Remembrance for family and friends will be held at 2PM on Sunday May 19th, 2024, at David’s Franklin home.