VINALHAVEN — Former Vinalhaven Deputy Fire Chief Walter Howell Boland, 90, of Vinalhaven, passed away on July 21, 2016, at the Maine Veterans' Home following a long illness.

He was born Oct. 24,1925, in Big Creek, Miss., one of 13 children to Kelly S. and Susan B. Boland. He joined the Navy during World War II, serving until the end of the war.

He settled in Rockland, working as a cab driver, where he met and married Sabra Perry. He joined the Rockland Fire Department, rising to the rank of deputy chief. Following 20 years of marriage Walter and Sabra divorced.

After his retirement from the fire department he lived and worked on Vinalhaven, where he met and married the former Helen Poole. They split their time between Vinalhaven and Florida, enjoying square dancing, bike riding, and spending time with family and friends. They spent 25 years together before Helen succumbed to cancer.

Walter was also a long-time member of the Masons.

Walter was predeceased by his wife, Helen; his son, Kelly Boland; and his grandson, Micah Boland. He is survived by his brother, Ray; his children, Susan Wilcox, and Craig and David Boland; his stepchildren, John Buteau, Donna Carter and Allan Poole; 13 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Direct Cremation of Maine.