Dear Editor:

When my parents made their final wishes, they wanted their cremated remains to be mixed and spread over their most favorite spot, Pemaquid Point. I don’t think they knew how difficult this would be.

Not only was it an emotional process, but also a practical one. There are rules. And laws. And I don’t live in Pemaquid, so where to start? 

I started with a cold call to Hall’s Funeral Home. How fortunate for me that Lynn Martin answered the phone. She was caring, sympathetic and ready to help. Not only could she help me mix the cremains, she also knew the right person to help us get the ashes to sea.

So on a sunny Saturday a few weeks ago we met Lynn at Hall’s. She came in just for us. She gently took the two containers I had been storing for 20 years and returned them to me mixed. She refused any payment stating, “You need closure. This is what we do.” I was overwhelmed with gratitude at her thoughtfulness.

We then drove on into Boothbay proper and met with Captain Bruce White of Hayval Charters, whom Lynn had recommended. He and Patty met us at the dock on a pristine boat. The waters were calm and we pushed off to Pemaquid, Bruce making casual banter and giving us a tour of the islands and waterways.

We neared Pemaquid, came in close to shore to see the lighthouse. I could easily see my parents sitting on the rocks, holding hands, and looking out to sea.

Bruce then headed us out far off shore, steered the boat into the wind, cut the engines, and patiently waited while we moved out onto the diving platform to scatter the ashes into the currents. The contents swirled and mixed and disappeared beneath the hull.

We headed back to port, all were quiet while I had a good cry, and then we gently reentered casual conversation.

I would like to thank Lynn, Bruce, and Patty for their incredible kindness, thoughtfulness and care. They exemplify what I think my parents loved about Maine — good solid caring people who help one another. A moment when strangers connect in kindness and then move on.

Peter R. Doliber

Boston, Massachusetts