VINALHALVEN — Lawrence “Geeze” Richard Philbrook, 84, died on November 17, 2018 at his home in Vinalhaven.  

Born on October 1, 1934, on Vinalhaven, he was the son of Charles Walter and Ruth (Chandler) Philbrook, and was a graduate of Vinalhaven High School.  Geeze served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan.

Returning to Vinalhaven after his military discharge, Geeze went lobstering with his brother Harold, before going to work at a local garage. On February 16,1963, he married Leanette Guptill.

Geeze worked faithfully for over 50 years including four generations of the Lamont/Lieber family as their property manager and caretaker.   He enjoyed being outgoing, socializing with people, and had the ability to tell a good joke.  

A member of the VFW and volunteer for the Vinalhaven Fire Department, Geeze will be remembered for his great sense of humor.  His motto was be open, be honest, and always be direct.

Surviving is his wife of 55 years, Leanette Guptill, three children, Iris Tory Pratt and her husband, Dennis; Luke Philbrook; Shelley Ames and her husband, Darren; two grandchildren, Ansel Andrews and Iris Andrews; brother-in-law, Lewis Grant; and sister-in-law, Hazel Philbrook; many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his brothers, Frank Philbrook, and his wife, Thelma; Harold Philbrook and his wife, Barbara; Carl Philbrook; sisters, Mildred Raynes and her husband, Lester, Maddie Hildings, and her husband, Ken; Arlene Johnson and her husband, Bruce; and Harold Philbrook and his wife, Barbara; Doris Grant.

A spring graveside service will be announced. If desired, memorial gifts may be made to the Vinalhaven Fire Department of the Island Medical Center.  

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.