TOPSHAM — Joe A. Kinnard, 56, died from complications of pancreatic cancer on July 29, surrounded at home by his family.

Kinnard was born July 1, 1958, in Laredo, Texas. He attended school in New Mexico, Indiana, Alabama and Missouri, as well as in Germany. As a young man, he loved to read and was a member of the Civil Air Patrol.

After graduating high school, Kinnard joined the U.S. Navy in 1977. During his naval career, he served as a member of several P3 Orion air squadrons at Brunswick Naval Air Station, including VP26, VP8 and VP11. He retired from the Navy after 20 years of service, and then worked as a military contractor. Despite his busy career, he found time to earn a bachelor’s degree at Central Maine Community College in Auburn, and began work towards a master’s degree.

Kinnard married his wife, Mary, in 1982. He was known for his love of family and for his ability to smile even at life’s toughest moments. He also loved the beach, family parties, reading and watching sci-fi movies.

He was a member of American Legion Post 202 in Topsham.

Kinnard is survived by his wife; mother, Maria (Bea) Canen; father, Robert Canen, son, Edward Melville and his wife, Megan Melville, daughter, Boni Melville and partner, Michael McDonald, and many other family members and friends.

A celebration of Kinnard’s life will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, from 1-4 p.m., at the Bath Area Senior Center, 45 Floral St., Bath.

Condolences may be sent to 24 Munroe Lane, Topsham, ME 04086. Donations in Kinnard’s memory may be sent to CHANS Home Health Care, 60 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, ME 04011.

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