Robert Eugene (Hawk) Kaler, Sr., 60, of Bremen, passed away May 6 at his home with his loving family by his side.
The son of the late Andrew C. and Jessie (Genthner) Kaler, he was born in Damariscotta, Jan. 17, 1946.
Following his public education, he entered the U.S. Army, serving his country honorably for two tours of duty during the Vietnam War. He was an engineer and received a distinguished award in Special Forces as a sharpshooter.
Following his discharge, Robert returned to Maine, where he was self-employed for most of his life on the water as a fisherman. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed gardening and his animals, but the part of his life most precious to him was his wife, children and grandchildren. He truly enjoyed giving all of himself to his family.
Robert leaves his loving wife Joyce (Smith) Kaler of Bremen; children, Anne-Marie Smith of Damariscotta, Robert Kaler, Jr., of Bremen, Melissa Hill and husband Corey of Montana, Kimberly Kaler of Bremen, and April Cowan and husband Shawn, Sr., of New Harbor; six granddaughters, Breanna York, Danika Hill, Shanoah Hill, Martina Hill, Nadia Smith, and Zoe Cowan; two grandsons, Brenden Cowan and Logan Kaler; two brothers, Howard Kaler and wife Sarah of Bremen and Walter Kaler, III, of Bremen; three sisters, Carolyn Miller and husband Richard of Florida, Nancy Soule and husband Bruce of Waldoboro, and Jessie Wile and husband Mark of Friendship, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Robert was predeceased by his sister, Marjorie Poland and grandson, Shawn Cowan, Jr.
Friends are invited to be with the family 6-8 p.m., Wed., May 10 at Strong Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
Service to celebrate Robert’s life 1 p.m., Thurs., May 11, also at Strong Funeral Home with Rev. Susan Winter officiating.
He will be laid to rest, with military honors, at the Evergreen Cemetery in Bremen.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Strong Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
