SACO — Peter Danton was the go-to guy for many people when they needed advice.
Danton’s storied career of public service includes seven terms in the State Senate, three of which he served as Assistant Minority Leader. He also served in two gubernatorial administrations, as Special Assistant for Gov. Joseph E. Brennan, and as chairman of the Liquor and Lottery Commission and a member of the Gambling Control Board during Gov. John E. Baldacci’s administration; he was also Deputy Secretary of State under Gov. Rodney S. Quinn.
Danton, 86, of Saco, died unexpectedly Monday after falling ill.
“I lost a dear, dear friend,” said Gerald Conley, a former state legislator and Senate Democratic Leader.
Conley said he and Danton were friends for 50 years, and their travels together included trips to the Virgin Islands, Greece, Ireland and Florida. Both in their 80s, they checked in with each other a few times a week by phone.
Conley described Danton as the most loyal and trustworthy person he knew, and someone he went to frequently for advice.
“He was super, just super,” he said. “He was a tremendous person.”
Former Gov. Baldacci said not only did Danton serve under him when he was governor, but the two served in the Senate together.
“Peter was one of those individuals who could talk to just about anybody,” said Baldacci.
He said Danton went into public service because he wanted to help other people, and was never looking for a medal or a pat on the back.
“He was a wonderful man and a good friend,” said Baldacci. “He was like an uncle to me.”
State Rep. Barry Hobbins said Danton took him under his wing and supported him in the early 1970s when Hobbins was in a five-way primary. Hobbins went on to win the primary and in 1971 became a state representative at the age of 21. Hobbins said Danton, who was very proud of his Greek heritage, got radio advertisements for Hobbins in Greek on a local Greek radio show.
Hobbins said Danton was a mentor to him and others.
Hobbins said Danton was very pro-education, and went back to college in his 50s to complete his Bachelor’s Degree.
“They don’t make Peter Dantons anymore,” said Hobbins. Hobbins said Danton went from a cold water flat to Chief of Staff. “His story is pretty incredible.”
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].
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