Obituary: Eugene “Gene” Ellsworth Howe
Eugene “Gene” Ellsworth Howe, 83, Remembered for a Life of Service and Music
Topsham, Maine – Eugene “Gene” Ellsworth Howe, an 83‑year‑old longtime resident of Topsham, died on April 28, 2026, after a brief illness. Gene was born on March 11, 1943, in Porter to parents Madelyn Kelley and Edwin Howe.
Gene’s first love was music. He filled his home with records that ranged from Ray Charles to The Everly Brothers, but he especially adored Elvis Presley. “I could often be found working around my house with the King of Rock and Roll crooning in the background,” a family member recalled.
At 21, while attending a dance in Portland, Gene met Lois Conley, whom he would later marry. The couple wed on August 1, 1964, and enjoyed a 61‑year partnership that many described as a testament to lasting love.
After graduating from Portland High School, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1961. He began his naval career as a radarman aboard P‑3 aircraft and rose through the ranks to become an E‑8 Senior Chief Petty Officer stationed at Brunswick Naval Air Station. He served honorably until his discharge in 1984.
Following his military career, Gene spent two decades as an electrician at Bath Iron Works. He was remembered for his sense of humor, steady work ethic, and the friendships he cultivated on the job.
Gene is survived by his wife Lois; children Michele and Stephen; grandchildren Meagan, Taylor, Georgia, and Sawyer; great‑grandchild Skyler; brother Danny; sister Leta; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Billy and Harlan, and sister Linda.
A memorial service for Gene will be held at the Augusta Veterans Memorial Cemetery later this summer. The funeral will include Military Honors to recognize his decades of service to the nation.
