BUCKSPORT and ORONO — Michael James Atherton, 34 of Bucksport and Orono, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 10, 2025.  

Michael fought a long battle of illnesses for 28 years after his diagnosis of brain cancer at the age of 6. Due to his medical needs, he moved into Treats Falls Nursing Facility in 2013. Despite the hurdles life threw at him, he was the happiest, funniest, most loving young man. Everyone who knew him loved him wholeheartedly. He religiously followed New England sports teams and especially loved the Red Sox and Patriots.

He is survived by his mother, Michelle Atherton and partner John Cyr of Old Town; siblings Jocelyn and Kaylee Tozier and Cameron Atherton; grandparents Vickie and Paul Atherton of Blue Hill, Uncle Elmer Deans and wife Amanda Curtis; great aunt “Tia” Lorna Bernosky, Aunt Jennie Damon; step-dad Dale Tozier and extended Tozier Family; many cousins and biological father, Daniel Atherton, Janet Ames of Bucksport; his ed tech from 1st grade to graduation and his favorite person in the whole world until his passing.

He is predeceased by his grandparents Laurelyn and Douglas Deans; and his best friend, Nye. 

A very special thank you to everyone at Treats Falls House who loved and treated him as if he were their own.   

A memorial service will be held Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, ME 04915, followed by a celebration of his life, October 22, 2025, from 4 - 8 p.m., at the Old Town Elks Lodge, 37 Fourth St., Old Town, Maine 04468.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ripostafh.com.