THOMASTON – Marcus Hunter Camber, 14, a young man whose strength and heart was awesome to witness; a young man whose great stature would sometimes mask the love and caring within his heart; a young man who in his quest to help anyone else in need, could not always find the words to ask for help himself; made the irreversible decision to end his life Jan. 5, 2017, without realizing there were so many people who would and could help.

Born in Rockport on Jan. 30, 2002, Marcus was the son of Tracy Whitaker Camber and Dennis E. Camber. While growing up in Rockland, he attended local schools and was presently a member of the freshman class of Oceanside High School. Marcus particularly appreciated the friendship and guidance he received from two teachers he looked up to, Mr. Hensel and Mr. Grade.

In earlier years, he played Pee-Wee Football and was involved in a Station Maine rowing program. Most recently Marcus joined the track team, participating as a shot-putter, and was looking forward to joining the football team.

Marcus’ greatest passions were being outdoors, hunting, fishing, building things and collecting knives. He was often seen wearing camouflage, a bright orange hunting hat and a hunting knife in his belt, riding his dirt-jump bike.

In pursuit of his love of dirt-jump biking, Marcus grew and matured through the tutelage of Andrew and Brian of Side Country Sports Bike Shop in Rockland. With understanding and finesse, they razzed Marcus in a way that connected them, as they instructed him in the care and operation of his dirt-jump bike. Once, when Marcus’ bike was stolen, that relationship caused Andrew and Brian to donate a new bike for Marcus.

A hands-on kid, Marcus had a natural mechanical ability. Never able to sit still and through his love of tools, he modified most everything he owned, as well as “things he didn't.”

“Pie Night” at the Rockland Fire Station, was an event Marcus always enjoyed and he appreciated the care and support of the entire Rockland Fire Service family.

In the summer of 2015, he enjoyed a trip to the North Woods with his dad, and was heard to say that one of the coolest things about the trip was to not have to shower for a whole week. Marcus’ life goal was to become a game warden.

He had a particular interest in the supernatural and enjoyed watching that TV show, as well as MacGyver and Trailer Park Boys.

Marcus had one true friend, whom he considered a brother, Branden Lee of Port Clyde, and a special bond with Uncle Dean developed through deer hunting together. Marcus bagged his first deer this past November, while hunting with his uncle.

Marcus was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Robert “Grandpa Bob” and Jaynee Whitaker. He is survived and loved by his mother, Tracy Whitaker Camber of Thomaston; his father, Dennis Camber and his wife, Jamie, of South Thomaston; his brother, Marshall H. Camber; his sister, Rebecca “Te-Te” Johnson; and Donna Godfrey, who Marcus named his “Active Gramma,” all of Thomaston; his paternal grandparents, Ramona Dorgan of Belfast and Harold Camber of Maine; his uncles and aunts, Marc and Heather Whitaker of Windham, Dean Camber of Union, and Shirlee and Charlie Hall of Belfast; two nieces, Arabella and Adelaide; his cat and special friend, Blazekins, who Marcus nicknamed “Boo”; as well as many extended family members and friends.

A gathering in support of Marcus’ family will be held Thursday, Jan. 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Rockland Lodge of Elks, 210 Rankin St. in Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, Marcus’ family suggests that you find some unique way to “Pay-It-Forward” in his memory or a donation to the Laken Harrington Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 212, Warren, ME 04864.

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