ROCKLAND — Donald E. Payson Jr., 68, passed away Monday, April 23, 2018 at The Sussman House in Rockport after an extended illness.

Born in Rockland, October 29, 1949, he was the son of Donald E. Sr. and Lucille R. Melvin Esancy Payson. Educated in local schools, he was a 1968 graduate of Rockland District High School.

Don enjoyed biking, fishing, hunting, drag-racing and anything that involved the outdoors. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality, good sense of humor and outstanding work ethic. He was employed at Bath Iron Works as an A Specialist Tig Welder, where he retired after 34 years.

Don was pre-deceased by his father, Donald E. Sr., his wife Andrea H. Osier Payson and his brother, Larry Esancy. He is survived by his mother, Lucille Payson; his son, Donald Payson III and girlfriend Krista Rideout; his daughter, Holly Payson; his sister Barbara and husband Rick Ladue; his sister Gloria and husband Jerry Sharp; sister-in-law Linda Esancy, as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many friends.

An informal gathering in celebration of Don's life will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Friday, April 27th, 2018 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home's, 104 Limerock, reception center, Rockland. To share a memory or story with Don's family, please visit their online Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.