THOMASTON — Ellery F. “Mac” McCluskey Jr., 77, died peacefully at home May 23, 2014, following a period of declining health.

Born in Fayette on April 20, 1937, he was the son of Ellery Sr. and Nina Townsend McCluskey. Moving to Rockland as a young boy, he was educated locally, graduating from Rockland High School in 1956.

Following graduation Mac enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving proudly for four years. After being honorably discharged he returned to Rockland, where he later enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and attained the rank of chief petty officer. Mac served for more than 22 years. He was proud to have earned the title “Golden Shell Back,” as he had crossed the equator more than once. He was stationed in many places, including Alaska and Tierra del Fuego.

Upon retiring from the Coast Guard, Mac remained busy and worked for more than 12 years in the Facilities Management department at Pen Bay Medical Center. During his time there, he made many friends. His family said there wasn't a doctor or nurse on staff who didn't know Mac by name as they passed in the halls.

On Aug. 14, 2009, Mac married his best friend, Mary Demmons Burns. Although only married for five years, Mary and Mac had spent more than 23 years together prior to their marriage.

Always proud of his service, Mac was a member for 40 years and past commander of the Winslow-Holbrook-Merritt American Legion Post No. 1. Along with his wife, he spent many hours serving in the color guard, and could be seen every year honoring fellow veterans during the local Memorial Day ceremony. He was a proud member of the Rockland Lodge of Elks No. 1008 for 42 years, and was a past Elk of the Year. He was also a past member of the Am-Vets.

Mac's family remembers him as a handy-man who could fix anything. They said he was a skilled painter, and would do anything to help someone in need. He will be greatly missed.

Predeceased by his brother, Leland McCluskey; and a step-daughter, Pamela Gryspeerd in 2010; Mac is survived by his wife, Mary McCluskey of Thomaston; his sister, Patricia Williams of Rockland; his sister-in-law, Delores McCluskey of Waldoboro; one aunt and one uncle; a step-son, Richard Wellington and his spouse, Chris, of Warren; a step-daughter, Jeannette Palmer and her husband, Robert, of Waldoboro; many step-grandchildren, including Kimberly Palmer, who predeceased him in 2006; his step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service with a reception will be held Thursday, June 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Rockland Lodge of Elks, 210 Rankin St. A graveside service with military honors will follow immediately, at 3 p.m., at Achorn Cemetery in Rockland. The Rev. Wayne Sawyer will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either Winslow-Holbrook-Merritt American Legion Post No. 1 Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 582, Rockland, ME 04841 or to the Rockland Lodge of Elks No.1008 Scholarship fund.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.