John Alexander McCurdy passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at the age of 89 in Calais, Maine, with his wife of 21 years, Mary Denise, by his side.

It is hard to put 89 years of someone's life into words, especially when that life was as full and vibrant as John's.

Over the past several months, we had been working together to capture the stories of his life, and I am incredibly grateful we had that time. What became clear through those conversations was that John truly lived a life worth telling.

His adventures began early. Through the YMCA, he discovered a remarkable talent for trampoline and diving, which took him from the circus circuit to the University of Iowa trampoline team and even performances at Atlantic City's famous Steel Pier. Eventually, his journey led him to the skies, where he flew for the Air Force before going on to a career as a Delta Air Lines pilot.

That adventurous spirit never left him. He loved traveling, exploring new places, trying new experiences, and returning home with another story to tell. One of his favorite sayings was, "Do what you want and have fun doing it." Looking back, it's clear he lived exactly that way.

But John's life wasn't defined only by the extraordinary moments. It was also the simple things that made him who he was.

He played the bones and washboard in a band, loved his harmonicas, and never turned down Polar Treat, pasta, ice cream, or plenty of chocolate sauce. Comfort was always home, but Maine held a special place in his heart and became his beloved home away from home.

Most importantly, John was family. He was a devoted husband to Mary Denise, father to Robin, Michelle, Shelley, Hannah, and Annecy, and grandfather to McCall, Wyatt, Shea, Roen, and Mary. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, and his first wife, Melinda.

John leaves behind countless stories. Some were remarkable, some were hilarious, and some probably grew a little better each time he told them. Those stories, and the memories that come with them, are gifts we get to keep.

A memorial service will be held in Comfort at a later date, and details will be shared when available.

There is so much more that could be said about a life that spanned 89 years. But maybe the simplest tribute is also the most fitting:

We love you, John. Thank you for the stories, the laughter, the adventures, the love, and the example of a life fully lived.

What a life you lived.