Ralph E. Kierstead III

Pembroke – Ralph “Butch” Kierstead III, 73, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, July 18, 2021 at his home in Pembroke. Butch was born in Eastport on April 28, 1948, son of Ralph Kierstead Jr. and Hazel (Phillips) Kierstead.

Butch attended school in Portland and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served 8 years in the Navy as a Gunner with 2 tours in Vietnam. Following his service, Butch returned home to Maine and worked at the Mearl Corporation in Eastport, WHCA, maintenance for the Eastport Memorial Nursing Home, and other jobs until retiring. His love for being in the outdoors and mowing lawns led Butch and his sister Hazel to become caretakers of the Clarkside Cemetery in Pembroke for several years. He was a member of the American Legion Post No. 59 in Pembroke, served on the Pembroke Vol. Fire Dept., and enjoyed cutting wood and attending the annual Eastport Pirate Festival.

Butch was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Hazel. Surviving are his beloved companion, Patricia Ebbeson of Pembroke; two children, Dorothea Dechaine of Fort Fairfield, and Marc Kierstead of RI; two sisters, Linda Moffett and husband William of Robbinston, and Hazel Winchester and husband Lloyd “Pilly” of Pembroke; two brothers, Mark Kierstead and wife Kathy of NH, and Keith Kierstead and wife Kathy of Southwest Harbor; his grandchildren; many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly; his special little angels Everett and Adrianna; and his faithful canine companion Oz.

In keeping with Butch’s wishes, a private burial will take place at the Clarkside Cemetery in Pembroke. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home, Calais & Eastport.