PORTLAND – David J. Faulkner, 74, of Portland passed away peacefully on Feb. 16, 2022 after a long battle with a neurological disease.

David is survived by his loving wife, Elodie, who he adored and cherished more than words can express. He is also survived by his sons Julian and Mark; six grandchildren, Ryan, Brynn, Hailey, Miya, Maisie and Peri, daughters-in-law Meg and Liz; many relatives throughout the country.

David was born in Portland on May 28, 1947 to Claude and Lillian Faulkner. He graduated from Biddeford High School with the second highest ranking in the class behind his best friend Carrie Snyder. David went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Beloit College in Wisconsin. After college he joined AmeriCorps VISTA program in Georgia and Alabama where he met his wife Elodie. They shared a beautiful and inspiring 50-year marriage that was filled with so many wonderful memories created together. They began their adventure around the country, from California to Lewiston, where he worked for DHHS. They even moved out to Duluth, Minn. for two years while David obtained a master’s degree from university of Minnesota. Eventually settling down on Bradley Street in Portland and raised their boys with much love and support.

David was the executive director of Day One, an agency working with at risk youth suffering with mental health and substance abuse issues. For over 32 years David developed the agency into one of the leading nonprofit agencies in the state and the lives that he has impacted throughout his career in human services is immeasurable.

David had an infectious laugh with a positive and gentle personality. His loyalty and support to his family, friends and colleagues will always be remembered and cherished. He is an example of what many people aspire to be.

A service celebrating David’s life will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday March 5 at A.T. Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Ave., with a time of sharing and remembering from 1 p.m. until time of service.

To share memories of David, or to leave the family an online condolence, please visitwww.athutchins.com.

In lieu of flowers contributions in David’s memory may be made to the

Preble Street Resource Center,

5 Portland St.,

Portland, ME 04101.