Stephen Lee Somes, of Somesville, Maine, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, after a long battle with declining health.

Born on October 13, 1949, in Bar Harbor, Maine, Stephen was the third son of John and Norma Somes. During his junior year at Brewer High School, he worked up the courage to ask his classmate, Sara McCluskey, to the Junior Exhibition. That night sparked a lifelong love, and they remained devoted partners for over 60 years.

After graduating from Brewer High School in 1968, Stephen proudly served as a U.S. Navy Corpsman for eight years. Following his honorable discharge, he pursued a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from the University of Maine while working nights to support his family. Though he built a career with MetLife Insurance, his true passions lay in preserving the history of Mount Desert Island, serving on the local historical society and library boards, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether puttering around in his Gator with Sara or swimming in Long Pond, Stephen found joy in Maine’s natural beauty.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sara, their children: Danielle Stoehr (Jonathan) of Bainbridge Island, WA; Andrew Somes (Lysa) of Gouldsboro, ME; and four cherished grandchildren: Madeleine, Jackson, Roxanne, and Abraham.

Among his children’s fondest memories was sailing down Somes Sound aboard their 22-foot boat, Tradition, as the sun set. Watching larger Hinckley yachts drift by, Stephen imparted a timeless lesson: “It doesn’t get any better than this, it just gets bigger.”

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare providers, Mount Desert Nursing Association, Christy Seeds, Pam Bourque and first responders who supported Stephen in his final years.
A private service will be held this summer in Somesville to honor his life and legacy.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com