John H. Burnham, obituary
CAMDEN — John H. Burnham, 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Sussman House in Rockport.
Born on September 27, 1935, in Biddeford, Maine, he was the son of Harry J. and Ethel M. (Meyers) Burnham. John graduated from Thornton Academy in 1953 before proudly serving his country in the United States Marine Corps for three years. Following his honorable service, he attended the University of Maine at Orono, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. While at UMO, he was also a proud member of the Maine chapter of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
John enjoyed a long and successful career as a mechanical engineer with the Alcoa Aluminum Company. His work took him to various locations across the country until his retirement in 1993. In 2002, John sold his house in Southern Indiana which opened a new chapter of adventure as he began traveling full-time. He moved to Florida and spent years traveling back and forth between winters in Florida and summers in Maine, before finally returning to his beloved home state permanently in 2018.
A man of community and adventure, John was a Maine Mason and a longtime member and past president of the Indiana State Chapter of the Holiday Rambler RV Club. He loved the freedom of travel, exploring North America from coast to coast and throughout Canada. When he wasn't navigating the open road, John was happiest sailing on the open sea.
John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Carole; his daughter Joyce Burnham; and his granddaughter Aleisha Sonksen.
He is survived by his children Jim Burnham and his wife Marta of Pleasant Valley, Iowa, Jay Burnham and his wife Nancy of Auburn, Washington, and Kristin Dumblosky and her husband Steve of Munhall, Pennsylvania. He also leaves behind his nine cherished grandchildren: Chelsea, Andy, Matt, Maddy, Allison, Eric, Stephanie, Seth, and Sam; his great-grandchildren, Rory, Theo, and Luca; his stepdaughters, Alyssa Hooper and Tricia Keller; and many extended family members and close friends who meant the world to him.
At this time, no services will be held.
To share a story or memory with John’s family, please visit his Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.
