APPLETON — Neil R. Robbins, age 90, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021, from a long time illness of COPD at the Sussman House in Rockport, Maine.

Neil was born in Appleton on March 11, 1930 to Robie and Frances (Kenney) Robbins. Neil attended the Appleton Village School.

He married Christine Philbrook on May 12, 1951. In the early years of their marriage, he built their home where they have resided their entire married life. As the grandchildren arrived, Neil was known as “Pa” and that carried on with others as well. 

Neil had many jobs in his lifetime. He was a welder for Bridge Construction in Windsor for over 30+ years. After leaving his welding career behind, he went into business for himself with his shiny red dump truck and tractor. He served as Road Commissioner for the town of Appleton for a period of years. He also worked for DOT and his last working years as a delivery driver for Union Farm Equipment. He was a meticulous wood worker and made furniture and many other craft items for his family and friends which can be found in many homes locally and beyond.

In his early years he enjoyed hunting with family and friends. But his true passion was fishing, both on the water and the ice. Weekends were usually spent in his Glastron boat fishing on a lake with his friend of many years, Edward Bean, as well as other family members and friends. In the winter, many weekends were enjoyed with his brothers and his son-in-law, Greg, on their snowmobiles touring the trails. Much later in life, he learned the game of golf.

Neil was a member of the Union Lodge of Masons #31, a member of the Scottish Rite, and the Kora Shrine Temple of Lewiston, Maine.

He is predeceased by his parents and siblings.

Neil is survived by his devoted wife, Christine of nearly 70 years; his daughter, Diane Moody and her husband Greg of Appleton; his grandson, Ryan Moody and his wife Amy of Waldoboro; his granddaughter, Marci Moody and her other half Shane Blakely of Appleton; his great grandchildren: Jason, Hannah Jo, Andrew and Caleb Moody, Jasmine and Brandon Brown; as well as two step great grandchildren, Lincoln and Marina Paul.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Maine Health Hospice and to the wonderful staff at the Sussman House for their compassionate care of Neil during his short stay.

Per Neil’s request there will be no services. Neil’s final resting place will be at Pine Grove Cemetery in Appleton at a later date.

If anyone wishes to make a contribution in his memory, donations can be made to the Owls Head Transportation Museum at 117 Museum St., Owls Head, ME 04854; and Sussman House c/o Pen Bay Waldo Healthcare Foundation, 22 White Street, Rockland, Maine 04841.

Hall’s of Waldoboro has care of the arrangements.