KENNEBUNK — James E. McKenney, 94, died Feb. 15, 2015 at his home in Kennebunk.

James was born Feb. 28, 1920 in Sanford. He was the son of William and Mary LaFlamme McKenney.

As a child at five years of age, he contracted polio, but had no lasting physical effects from the disease. He moved to Kennebunk Lower Village in 1932. He graduated from Kennebunk High School in 1932.

He hitchhiked around many states throughout the United States and resided in California for several months.

He enlisted in the United States Navy before Pearl Harbor. He saw anti-submarine action in the North Atlantic. He participated in five major invasions (battles) in North Africa, Sicily, Solerno, Anzio and south France. He was discharged in 1945 from the United States Navy.

Shortly after, he joined the United States Merchants. While serving in the Merchant Marines, he was able to visit most countries facing the North and South Atlantic.

He married Ruth Pearson in 1950 in Reno and resided in California until 1978, then moved to Kennebunk. He and Ruth built the first passive solar house in Maine, in which he resided until his death.

Upon his death, he has donated his remains to the University of New England for research. After the completion of this research, his remains will be in the Evergreen Cemetery.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Ruth.

He is survived by: his brother, George F. McKenney of California; daughter, Carol Sue Bartsch of Colorado; three granddaughters, Karen Bartsch Estes, Donna Bartsch Locke, and Diane Bartsch Warren; a niece, Marisa Richmond; and a grandniece and grandnephew.

A celebration of life will be held at his home at 8 McKenney Lane, Kennebunk on May 16.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to the CARE organization in Jim’s memory.