Ruth deBree Kaknes Stevens, 87, of Bowdoinham, passed away on October 9, 2017. Ruth was born on September 18, 1930, in Bowdoinham to Victor and Sadie (Fenimore) deBree. She was educated in South Freeport and Brunswick schools and graduated from Brunswick High School in 1948.

In 1954, she married Dr. Theodore Kaknes and raised four daughters. She was a devoted wife and mother, impeccable homemaker and avid gardener. Ruth loved watching the sun rise and set on her river in Bowdoinham. She was a role model of strength and independence for her daughters. Her husband, Ted, passed away in 1979. Ruth later married Francis Stevens in 1985.

Ruth was predeceased by her parents, husbands Dr. Theodore Kaknes and Francis Stevens; brothers David and Victor deBree and sister Nellie Finley. She leaves behind her children: Holly Sullivan and husband Charles Ehelebe, Cindy Kunkel and husband David, Candee Kaknes and partner Gus Ives, and Kristie Hinckley and husband Donald; grandchildren: Andrew, Olivia, Allison, Christopher, Madeline, William, Caroline and Theodore; greatgrandchildren: Camden and Taylor; sister Mildred Snowman; several nieces and nephews and her beloved rescue dog, Angel.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank Ruth’s Comfortkeepers Angela, Ayesya and Rebecca for making her last days so comfortable. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Almost Home Rescue — www.almosthomerescue.net/ memorial- donations/

Arrangements are under the care of Direct Cremation of Maine, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.co m.