On Sunday, Dec. 14, my daughter Emma and I attended a moving, albeit sorrowful, celebration of life for one of Harpswell’s finest: Christopher Glenn McIntire, who passed away on Nov. 24 at a mere 32 years of age, leaving a beloved wife and two little boys.
The beauty of that day was twofold.
First was the immense support and caring that the Harpswell community brought to the fore in a most thoughtful and sincere effort to support the McIntire family during this deeply sad time.
Second was the huge and heartfelt generosity of Chris, Billy, Maya, and Mimi Saxton, and all the other good folks who make The Dolphin Restaurant run. Without hesitation, they offered their wonderful — but normally shuttered tight for the year — three-generation place of business as a warm and welcoming venue to take in all those who wished to come and share their support for this dear, grieving family.
The Saxton family deserves our sincere appreciation for their warmth, kindness and willingness to take on this large effort in a most open and caring way.
I only lived in Harpswell for some 60 years, moving west across the bay in 2014. I attended many an event, both joyful and sorrowful, during my time in town. Never have I been witness to such a large and warm outpouring of love and support from this community, or perhaps any other.
And never have I seen a family and local business be so very kind and generous in offering what shelter and refuge they are able from such deeply and broadly felt sadness.
Thank you all.
My sincere condolences to Chris’ family.
David Etnier, Freeport
