Past Talkeetna resident dies in Maine

Joseph “Jay” F. DePeter, Jr., 47, died suddenly Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at his home in Biddeford, Maine.  Born April 27, 1961 in Portland he is the son of Joseph F. DePeter, Sr. and Sally Hanson McMennamin.

Jay graduated from Westbrook High School and then served in the United States Air Force stationed in Germany and Japan.  He graduated from Husson College, Summa Cum Laude with a BS and went on to graduate from Seattle University, School of Law.  Jay received his LLM from the University of Washington and was a member of the Washington State Bar.

Jay enjoyed journaling, writing short stories and outdoor survival guides.  He volunteered at various non-profit organizations throughout his life, always having a soft spot for the underdog. His true love was for the outdoors.  An avid sportsman, Jay spent much of his time fishing, hunting and mountain climbing.  Having lived in Talkeetna, Alaska from 2004-2008, he considered it home and its residents family.  He was loved and will be missed by his family and friends.

Besides his mother Sally of Portland, his father Joseph Sr. and his significant other Nancy Mathieu of Biddeford, he is survived by his brother Thomas R. DePeter and his wife Renee of Westbrook; two nieces Marie and Emilia DePeter and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 9-10 a.m. at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland with a funeral service to follow at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jay’s favorite charity in Alaska, the “Free Box” through his brother, payable to Thomas DePeter, c/o Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland, ME  04103.

Local Talkeetna residents may give donations directly to the Free Box.  They will collect names and send all cards to Jay’s brother.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the DePeter family by visiting Jay’s guest book at www.mem.com