JEFFERSON — James “Skip” William Middleton, 71, of Jefferson, Maine, passed peacefully, with his loving family at his side on July 10, 2018.

Skip was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Skip served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Green Beret Ranger Special Forces, attached to a demolition crew. It was there that he was mortally wounded but given a second life after a most trying period of recovery.

Skip spent his time dancing with his wife, encouraging the creation of music, art, and academic endeavors, reminiscing about his father, spending time and later working at Chuck Wagon Restaurant, loving and supporting his family, collecting coins and sport cards, playing with and nurturing his pets, working to improve his many acres of land that he playfully called “The Compound,” and hearing of his grandson’s baseball achievements. He was a lover of life. His presence touched all who met him.

He was predeceased by his father, James Edward Middleton; and mother, Barbara Fitzgerald of Brunswick, Maine.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 47 years, Charlene; his two children, Shenandoah and Mariah “Moo-Moo”; and son-in-law, who became his son by choice and love, John. His granddaughters, Meggie, Cree, Audrey; grandson, Jimmie; his white German shepherd, Blizzard; as well as his big sister, Sharon Fitzgerald of Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jefferson Village Schools Sports Association Baseball Program, c/o Mariah Middleton Rackliff, 908 South Clary Road, Jefferson, Maine 04348.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543.

Condolences and messages for his family may be expressed by visiting: www.StrongHancock.com.