CAMDEN — Trueman Walker Moore, 20, physically left this world far too soon on March 8, 2016, however his light, love, laughter and memory will forever live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

True was brave and adventurous. He loved running farther, jumping higher, skiing faster. At 16, he went skydiving. Deciding not to be a college guy after high school, he grabbed life by the horns and opted instead for what his parents fondly referred to as attending the "University of Life." His first foray in this "University" was heading off alone to New Zealand for a five+ month adventure. He soon was surrounded by an international cadre of good "mates"—friends made first at the winery where he "Wwoofed," and later while working at Foxglove Bar & Kitchen in the city of Wellington. Learning how to "be" in that beautiful country, hanging out with people from France, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Africa, and seeing Prince William and Princess Kate while walking to work, etc., suited him to a "T." Stopping in Tahiti on the way back to the states wasn't too shabby either.

Returning home, he plunged back into his work at the renowned Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie's Restaurant. Always available to lend a hand to whatever of the Inn's operations he was asked to take on, Trueman took great pride in meeting or exceeding the exacting standards of excellence set by owners Raymond and Oscar. It surprised no one that returning guests — local or otherwise — sought Trueman out during their stay; it surprised us not that Raymond, Oscar and Cate took him under their tutelage and care, grooming him for greatness, possibly beyond Camden's borders.

His work at the Inn afforded him his next adventure 15 months after his first. This time, with friend Tristan, he ventured to the South Island of New Zealand, then over to Australia for a walkabout. Renting a "combi" van, he and Tristan made their way from Cairns, 2, 000 miles south to Sydney. Along the way, they camped, made friends and got their open-water scuba certification at the Great Barrier Reef. He did some snake handling (probably at a local pub.) He went bungee jumping. Of his first bungee jump, he wrote, "If anyone ever asks you to jump off a bridge, do it. You will never feel more alive." He made many friends there who have stayed in touch and remember him fondly.

Trueman was a kind, generous, passionate and compassionate, empathic guy. He believed in acknowledging everybody in some way, especially those who might be seen as on the fringes. He was always ready to reach out and be a friend to any who needed one. He understood that the small gift of a smile, a hello, a compliment or affirmation could make the difference between a crummy day and a better day in someone's life.

He was also funny. He loved to crack jokes with his dad, and was not adverse to having fun at his dad's expense. One day, noticing his dad's shirt was a little too "island" for life in Camden, True turned and—without missing a beat—said "Dad, Jimmy Buffet called. He wants his shirt back."

He loved his sister, Lila, dearly, but also enjoyed giving her a hard time. Yet would defend her to the death should someone (other than himself) give her a hard time. To his mom, Denise, he gave hugs and kisses on a daily basis, often saying "I love you Mommy" as he did.

A fiercely devoted and loyal friend to his many "bros" (guys and girls alike), he was surrounded by people he loved and who loved him. His hugs were warm, his smile crooked and always at the ready, he was a bright light wherever he went. He will forever and ever carry his friendship with "Wef,” Evan, Alex, Ry-dude, Ian, Colin, Weston, Alice, Hayley, Maddie, Lexi, Addie, Caroline L, Bella, Gabby, Greg, Andy S., Connor G., Kendra, all his soccer and lacrosse bros and many more in his kind, generous, ginger heart.

It's some consolation that so many friends and strangers have reached out from all over the world. He has received thousands of messages. People used to say, "I want to be him." Now they simply want to remember him. Trueman is remembered also by his loving family, his mother, Denise, his sister, Lila and his father, Andy.

Those who wish to say goodbye to his physical presence will be welcome at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home (110 Limerock Street in Rockland) on Sunday, March 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Also on Sunday, March 13, the Camden Harbour Inn is generously opening their doors and hosting a celebration of Trueman from 4 to 7 p.m. Those attending are asked to please be respectful of the Inn's guidelines and, as space is limited, to park on side streets or downtown.

Lastly, a celebration of life will be scheduled later this spring for those unable to be with his family and friends this weekend.