Dr. Morton Wheeler, 98, passed away Sept. 26 in Damariscotta.
Born in 1915 in Plymouth, N.H. to Dr. John and Celia (Morton) Wheeler, he attended local schools, Tabor Academy in Massachusetts, and graduated from the University of Vermont. He then completed his professional training at Harvard Dental School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy where he served with distinction aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Bogue in the Atlantic Theater and at Norfolk, Va.
After working in Portsmouth, N.H., Morton moved to Salisbury, Mass. and opened his dental practice in Newburyport, Mass. where he worked for more than 40 years until his retirement in 1988. He enjoyed his work tremendously, especially all the wonderful people he met daily.
Active in civic affairs, Morton was a member of the Newburyport Rotary Club, served on the Salisbury School Committee, was a founding member of the Salisbury Conservation Commission, acted as Salisbury Health Officer, and was elected Town Moderator for many years.
“Doc” was a man of many talents and interests. As a young man in Plymouth, N.H., he worked summers at the Clarkland farm for George Clark. This farming background led to the many lovely flower and vegetable gardens at his Salisbury home. At home, on (and in!) the water, he had several small sailboats and canoes which he used on the Merrimac River. Several canoe trips down the Allagash River with a group of friends were especially enjoyed and remembered.
Other interests included studying the Civil War, and tinkering with his impressive collection of antique clocks. But Doc was truly happiest being outside and physically active. He downhill skied until his mid-80s, before switching to cross-country. He could be seen on his bicycle pedaling to work, and going for an ice cream well into his 90s.
Morton was predeceased by his wife, Lydia Rogers Wheeler; and brothers, John and Phinneas.
He is survived by his daughters, Judy Holliday, husband John of Waldoboro, and their children Scott of Boston and Jenny of Vermont; Ann Bishop, husband John of Jefferson, and their daughters Molly and Alice of Jefferson; Molly Loik, husband James of Kingston, N.H., and their sons Jason of Rhode Island, David and Thomas of New Hampshire; as well as seven great-grandchildren.
A reception in Morton’s honor will be held in Newburyport, Mass. Burial will be in Plymouth, N.H.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
