Jeffrey Sondergaard, 60, of Edgecomb, died at home Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013 surrounded by his loving family. 

Jeff was born on January 17, 1952 to Barbara Dixon and Victor Sondergaard. He graduated from Wiscasset High School in 1970 and then joined the Navy.

After traveling across the country and exercising his free spirit, Jeff returned home to Maine. He married Deborah Hadley in 1987, and their son, Derek, was born in 1990. He embraced his role as father and mentor. 

Jeff loved spending time with Derek, from endless hours of playing with Legos, to camping, boating and lobstering together. His commitment extended to his time serving as Derek's Webelos pack leader. 

Jeff's love and devotion to his family was apparent to everyone he came in contact with. Jeff was a friend to all.

When not at home, his favorite places to be were on the Sheepscot River and at Moosehead Lake. Living on the coast of Maine and experiencing its beauty was an integral part of Jeff's life.

Jeff worked at Maine Yankee for 28 years as a security guard, and most recently worked as a sexton at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Newcastle. He truly enjoyed the friendships he developed while working for the church.

Shortly after Jeff started working there, he was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. In October, 2010, he had a successful bone marrow transplant at Dana-Farber in Boston. The loving care and support of the church and the church family to Jeff, Deb and Derek during these last challenging years are deeply appreciated.

Jeff is survived by his soulmate and best friend, Deb; his son, Derek; and his dog, Rosie. He was predeceased by his mother Barbara Barnes and his brother Scott Barnes. 

He leaves behind his sister, Robin Rushlau and her husband Geoff of Dresden; his brothers, Jody and Rob Barnes, both of Whitefield; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at St. Patrick's Church in Newcastle on Saturday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m. A reception will follow at St. Patrick's Parish Center. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeff's memory to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or www.dana-farber.org/gift or to the Lincoln County Animal, Shelter, P.O. Box 7, Edgecomb ME 04556.

In the words of his transplant doctor, Dr. Alyea, whom Jeff got to know quite well, Jeff will be best remembered by all “as a wonderful man who faced his difficulties with grace and strength. He also never lost his sense of humor.”