Robert Harry DeYoung

Eastport - Robert Harry DeYoung, 91, Professor Emeritus Wilkes University (Economics), passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Wednesday, April 22, 2015. He was born in Newport, RI on May 8, 1923, son of the late George and Margaret (Davis) DeYoung.

Bob was the essence of spirit and peace. People of all ages emerged feeling better about themselves, having been nourished by his wisdom, gentleness and insights. Bob loved reading, gardening, hiking, sailing, the Arts and Humanities, all animals, insects and even creatures who terrified others (he had pet piranhas and an iguana on his desk at Wilkes University where he taught for 33 years). All of his pets were lovingly named (Peter White, the house spider; McTavish, the Iguana; Wesley Cat, the treasured deaf cat; Hello, the crow, who lives in the crow apartments in Addison; Pansy, the neighborhood skunk and Star, the Gull, who visited him daily here in Eastport. His most treasured times were with family and close friends discussing world issues, politics and history. An avid reader and scholar, Bob loved a healthy debate. He was an Army veteran (Lieutenant) of World War II.

Bob was predeceased by Annie Elizabeth Mackay, his cherished wife of 54 years; his parents George Raymond DeYoung and Margaret Davis DeYoung; and his brother George (Bill) DeYoung. Surviving are his beloved wife Holly Marie Gartmayer-DeYoung; daughters Ainslie Mackay DeYoung (Ronald Grapsy), Robin Ray DeYoung- Newman (Keith Newman), and Donna Davis DeYoung-Lucent (Michael Lucent); and several step-children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his memory to Eastport Health Care Scholarship Fund, 30 Boynton St., Eastport, ME 04631, Cancer Support Center of Maine, 147 Main St., Bucksport, ME 04416, or Tides Institute & Museum of Art, PO Box 161, Eastport, ME 04631. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Tides Institute & Museum of Art, 43 Water St., Eastport on Monday, April 27, 2015 at 2pm. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home, Calais & Eastport.

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