LINCOLNVILLE — Eugene Earl “Gene” Dyer, 81, died unexpectedly at his home on Aug. 15, 2015, along with his wife, Virginia, when their home was destroyed by fire.

Born in Lincolnville on Dec. 11, 1933, he was the son of Earl Frank and Josephine (Dean) Dyer. He attended school in Lincolnville and married his high school sweetheart, Virginia Pendleton, on Sept. 13, 1951.

Gene grew up in the coast of Lincolnville beach area. After marrying they moved to Searsmont. He owned his own carpentry and handyman business for many years. For 42 years he was primary caretaker for Camp Searsmont, where he performed all maintenance needs and his ability to be a "jack-of-all-trades" was a skill well used. He was "our" go-to-guy if any help was needed. He was the family hero.

He was a real salt of the earth "Maine-ah." His raw sense of humor was appreciated by most all who knew him. He had many great stories to tell that were entertaining and humorous. His hearty laugh was heard often and will be sadly missed. He managed to leave a lasting impression with many. Some would even say he was "tough as nails." Gene especially loved his family and lead by example. He enjoyed conversations with family and friends, outdoor life, hunting, gun collecting, designing and creating his own ammunition, and many moose hunting adventures with friends and family.

He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Hope Harford; and a sister, Lucille Barrows.

Surviving are his five children, Bruce Dyer and his wife, Nadine, of Lincolnville, Julie Harkins of Waldoboro, Joni Dyer, Sam Dyer, and Mike Dyer and his wife, Paula, all of Lincolnville; her grandchildren, Holly Thibodeau, Heidi Johnson, Jamie Fessenden, Courtney Farnum, Leif McClellan, Chevy McClellan, Rick McClellan, Karen Dyer, Brian Dyer, Benjamin Dyer, David Dyer and Elayni Harford; 18 great-grandchildren; and three great great-grandchildren.

In addition he will be greatly missed by his faithful companions, Roper and Sadie, who went everywhere with him. They are recovering from complications due to fire and smoke.

A memorial gathering will be held Sunday, Aug. 30 at 2 p.m. at the Point Lookout Pavilion in Northport. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Mountain View Cemetery in Camden.

If desired, memorial gifts may be made to the Dyer Family Memorial Fund, c/o Camden National Bank, P.O. Box 310, Camden, ME 04843 or to the Lincolnville Volunteer Fire Department, Attn: Ben Hazen, 490 Camden Road, Lincolnville, ME 04949.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service.