ROCKLAND — Donald E. Wiley, 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Breakwater Commons, surrounded by his loving wife, Gerry; his sister, Sue; and his sons, Christopher and James.

Born on May 1, 1950, in Rockland, at Knox County General Hospital, Don grew up in Owls Head, the son of John and Mildred Wiley. He attended local schools and graduated from Rockland District High School in 1968. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in January 1969, serving until 1974 aboard three ships: the USS Gainard, USS Yellowstone, and USS McCloy.

After his military service, Don returned to the Midcoast and began a long career with Central Maine Power, retiring as a First Class Lineman after 32 years of dedicated service.

On December 18, 1971, Don married Geraldine Grierson at the First Baptist Church in Rockland. They made their home in Thomaston, 1974, where they raised their two sons, Christopher and James. Don cherished coaching his boys in Farm League and Little League baseball alongside his lifelong friend, John Jacques. He also loved hunting with his father, uncles, and sons in Owls Head and Warren, where he passed down many life lessons. He was also an avid supporter of the New England sports teams – Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins.

Don was a passionate supporter of his sons’ athletic pursuits, especially at Georges Valley High School, where they won three State Class C Soccer Championships and were runners-up in Class C Baseball. These memories remained among his fondest and proudest.

One of Don and Gerry’s most memorable adventures was their trip to Alaska, where they explored Denali National Park, fished for salmon, and took a helicopter ride to a glacier—capturing breathtaking photos and unforgettable moments. They also enjoyed over a decade as snowbirds in Florida, making new friends and embracing new experiences. Don was deeply proud of his grandchildren and treasured visits with them in Maine, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Don was a storyteller, loved to go on Sunday drives while listening to country and oldies music. He also enjoyed spending time researching family genealogy where he was able to trace the Carver family back to England prior to their voyage to Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Mildred Wiley, formerly of Owls Head; his in-laws, Phil and Rose Grierson, formerly of Rockland; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins throughout the Midcoast and across the U.S.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Geraldine Wiley of Thomaston; his sons, Christopher Wiley and wife Dani of Charlotte, North Carolina, and James Wiley and partner Leigh Ann Dickie of Limerick, Pennsylvania; his grandchildren, Brady and Abby of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Caitlyn and Tyler of Limerick, Pennsylvania; his sister, Susan Riopel of Newington, Connecticut; and a large, loving extended family.

Don chose to have his life remembered privately. He will be cremated, and his ashes will be inurned at Ash Point Cemetery in Owls Head, alongside his grandparents.

To share a memory or condolence, please visit the Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Rockland.