Joseph “Joe” John Bernath Jr. died peacefully on November 9, 2013 at Miles Memorial Hospital, Damariscotta, with his loving family by his side.

He was born on February 6, 1932 in Trenton, N.J., the son of the late Joseph and Julia Lupsa Bernath. Joe grew up in New Jersey and was a graduate of Trenton Catholic High School.

Following high school, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard, serving our country for six years. Returning home he attended night classes at Ryder College. While attending school, he worked for Sacony Oil as a truck driver, before moving on to Sears Roebuck where a career in tires, specifically large tires would begin.

Having a vacation home in Boothbay Harbor, Joe and his wife would travel to Maine for long weekends. On one trip, at the suggestion from a family friend Irene, Joe approached the owner of the Lakeview Motel about her willingness to sell. After a few hours of deliberating and sharing stories, a deal was struck and Joe walked out as the new owner. Joe and Helena would own and manage the property for 10 years before eventually selling and moving on to their next project.

Joe was a hard worker and was always busy. In retirement he had many part time jobs that quickly turned into full time positions thanks to his work ethic. Wanting to “stay” as retired as possible he would quit and move onto the next position, where ultimately it would work into full time again. He was quite the character and had a gregarious personality. Always the conversationalist he enjoyed striking up conversations, even with random strangers. Two of his passions were golf and tennis and he would often be found on the links or on the courts.

The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the caring staff at Miles Memorial Hospital for the compassion and care they showed Joe during his stay there.

He was predeceased by two children, Brenda Ann and Bruce Joseph.

Survivors include his loving wife, Helena Bernath of Boothbay Harbor, and a brother, Charles Bernath of Trenton, N.J.

A Mass of Celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Peace, 82 Atlantic Avenue, Boothbay Harbor, with Father Fred Morse officiating.

Should friends desire memorial donations may be made to the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, 4 Oak Street, Boothbay Harbor.

You are invited to share your condolences, memories and photos with the family by visiting their Book of Memories page at www.hallfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Simmons Harrington and Hall, Boothbay.