Stuart Haskell

In Loving Memory of Stuart P. Haskell Jr.

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Stuart P. Haskell Jr. 91, who left us on the morning of March 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Stu was born on September 11, 1933, to Charlotte Lowell Haskell and Stuart P. Haskell Sr. Stu spent much of his childhood in Maine, where he fondly recalled working in the Aroostook County potato fields for pennies alongside German POW's during WWII -a humble beginning that shaped his strong work ethic and appreciation for life's simple joys.

A dedicated student, Stu graduated from Houlton High School, Northfield Mt. Hermon Academy in Massachusetts, and the University of Maine in 1956. That day was especially meaningful to him, as he proudly earned his bachelor's degree in journalism, while his mother, Charlotte, achieved her master's degree-a shared milestone that brought him great pride.

Stu married the love of his life, Gloria Coffin, and together they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2011. Their bond was one of deep love and unwavering devotion, a foundation for the family they built together.

Stu was a passionate journalist and a dedicated advocate for college athletics, devoting his career to both sports and storytelling. He began as a sportswriter for the Bangor Daily News and the Belfast Republican Journal before transitioning into athletic administration. In 1957, he became the University of Maine's Sports Information Director, marking the start of a distinguished 30-plus-year career.

Stu held several key roles within the University of Maine's Athletic Department, including Business Manager, Assistant Athletic Director, and ultimately Director of Athletics from 1982 to 1987. He later became Commissioner of the North Atlantic Conference, which evolved into the America East Conference, serving in that role until 1997. Additionally, he contributed to collegiate hockey as Commissioner of Hockey East.

Beyond administration, Stu was a historian of UMaine athletics. After years of extensive research, he published The Maine Book in 2007, an encyclopedia of 16,000 teams, names and facts chronicling UMaine Sports from 1881-2007. His impact was recognized in 1988 when he was inducted into the University of Maine Sports Hall of Fame.

A leader with an unmatched legacy, Stu's contributions to collegiate athletics continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In retirement, Stu embraced the joys of family, gardening at his home, an avid member of the Old Town/Orono Kiwanis Club and golfing with his son-in-law, Chris, pastimes that brought him both peace and laughter.

Stuart is lovingly remembered by his three daughters:

• Caren Ford and husband Chris of Old Town, Maine

• Carol Wertz and husband Lloyd of Londonderry, NH

• Catherine Haskell of Waterville, Maine

His legacy continues through his grandchildren:

• Abbie Ireland of Old Town, Maine

• Hunter (Wertz) Butler and husband Jake of Londonderry, NH

• Logan Wertz of Lakeland, FL

• David Haskell and wife Josie of Vassalboro, Maine

And his cherished great-grandchildren:

• Connor Ireland, Emersyn and Weston Butler, Hailey and Lucas Haskell

He was predeceased by his wife, Gloria in 2011 and his son Christopher in 2022.

A very special thank you to Caren & Chris Ford and Abbie Ireland, whose love, care and dedication provided to our dad for the past 14 years. Deep gratitude also goes to Melanie Pomeroy and the Gentiva nursing team, whose incredible support over the last nine months provided comfort and care beyond measure.

As per Dad's wishes, his family will honor his life with a private celebration.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Old Town Animal Orphanage, an organization close to his heart.

https://www.animalorphanageoldtown.com/