ROCKLAND — Jeffrey W. ‘Chief’ Hanley, 63, died unexpectedly, Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Pen Bay Medical Center following a very brief and silent battle with cancer. Born December 14, 1960, in Camden, he was the son of Richard and Bette Brodis Hanley.

Educated locally, Chief attended Rockland District High School. Active in sports since childhood, he enjoyed notoriety as a Little League pitcher, throwing a ‘no-hitter’, hitting home runs and being on the All-Star Team. He continued his love of sports, playing pick-up games at Mic Mac Campground, and playing with his kids and grandchildren whenever he was able. Chief began his fishing career as a young man, sterning for many years for Eric Tweedie, finishing his career with Ray Sleeper. He spent over 40 years on the water.

When not busy working Chief loved to travel with his wife, Jill. Together they spent many years camping at Mic Mac and camping with their grandchildren at Lake St. George and Lily Bay. Cruising was one of Jeff’s favorite pastimes, and he looked forward to each cruise where he could buy his next flashy ‘cruise shirt’. He loved being outdoors, hunting and fishing and spending time with this family. He had a special place in his heart for animals, especially dogs. And not just any dogs, the ‘Big Dogs’ owning several St. Bernards and Mastiffs over the years.

Chief was a people person who loved a good laugh and a ‘hi-how are ya!?’ He will be sadly missed by all who loved him.

Predeceased by his father, Richard Hanley; and two grandsons, Caleb Grindle and Noah Harford; Jeff is survived by his mother and stepfather, Bette and Freeman Carter of Hope; his beloved wife, Jill Hanley, of Rockland; his step-children, Benjamin Connon of Glen Cove, Brad Grindle of Rockland, Darcy Estabrook and her husband Mic of Northport, Stacey Grindle of Rockland, Jackie Grindle and her companion Adam Howlett of South Thomaston; his sister, Jill M. Hanley and her companion Doug Colby of St. George; a nephew, Gabe Crawford of Florida; and six grandchildren, Eli Estabrook, Alex Estabrook, Owen Harford, Sid Harford, Grace Howlett and Vivian Howlett.

Family and friends are invited to visit Monday, February 12, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pope Memorial Humane Society, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841.

To share a memory or condolence with Chief’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.