SOUTH THOMASTON — Clifford Earl Hilchey Sr, 71, passed away on August 8, 2024, at the Sussman House after a brief terminal illness.

Hilchey, 71, was born in Rockland, Maine on March 12, 1953 to Laura Hilchey (Sedgwick) and Gerald Hilchey. He attended Rockland District High School and went on to earn his degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Maine at Orono. Soon after earning his degree he married and had three children and settled in St. George, working at the Dragon Cement Plant for many years before then moving to New Hampshire.

He was a Master Electrician and continued to do contract jobs on new builds throughout his life. In New Hampshire, he worked as a mechanical engineer for Osram Sylvania and spent 5 years in Germany, leading a big project at the Osram plant in Berlin. After returning to the US he remarried and helped raise two stepchildren. He eventually retired from Osram and returned to the Midcoast area, where he continued to pursue his love of learning and helping his family.

He is predeceased by his beloved daughter Kristan Hilchey; his parents, Gerald and Laura Hilchey; and brothers Jerry Hilchey and Alton Hilchey.

He is survived by his son, Clifford Hilchey Jr., and daughter, Amy Dodge (husband Doug); his granddaughter, Devan Long; his sister, Rhonda Nordstrom (husband Bob), and brother Craig Hilchey; many nieces and nephews: Garrett Hilchey, Sarah Hilchey, Audra Geisler, Danielle Andrade, Bayleigh Thorbjornson, Andrea Williams, Gerald Hilchey, and Ted Hilchey; step children Bastian de Byl and Ina Love; best friend Dave Roberts, and many close, dear friends who were like family.

A devoted and beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and husband, it was his overarching drive in life to take care of his family. He succeeded at this beyond measure. He loved a good challenge and was most content when deep into a project, big or small. It was in seeing his fulfillment through work that instilled a deep work ethic in all his children, a gift which served them better than any material goods ever could. He loved to problem solve, learn new skills, and use his talents to help his family and friends bring their ideas and dreams into reality or just make their lives easier. His simple joys included black coffee, ice cream, and endless hours watching You Tube videos about a wide variety of topics and adventures.

In his retirement he spent much of his time supporting his family, taking his eldest daughter to chemotherapy appointments, spending time with his middle daughter during her husband’s medical issues, enjoying simple daily living and good talks with his son, and keeping close tabs on his grand-daughter’s adventures and wellbeing.

He operated with such an understated intelligence and brilliance that you might never notice him until he spoke, and then it would be in your best interest to pay attention. He always had some kernel of wisdom or knowledge to share.....that might carry you miles upon miles in your life.

“The most deep thinking, simple man that you could meet” – Laura Hilchey

A Celebration of Life was held for close family on August 18 at his sister’s home.

A larger gathering will be held Sunday, September 2, from 1-4 pm, at the St. George Grange; all family, friends, and acquaintances are welcome.

The date of service is Sunday, September 1.

In lieu of flowers please donate to P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter in Camden, Maine.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Burpee Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.

To share a memory or story with Clifford’s family, please visit their online Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com