PORTLAND – Stephen P. Lentz, 83, longtime resident of Deering Center, passed away on July 24, 2022, at the Barron Center in Portland. Steve, otherwise known as Pop, Dad, Bumpy, Mr. Lentz, Roy, and when not listening, Harry, was born on Aug. 24, 1938, in Woburn, Mass., a son of Lewis M. and Mabel C. Lentz. Steve moved to Portland in 1944 and lived in Portland the remainder of his life.

He graduated from Deering High School, class of 1957 and served in the National Guard from 1956-1965. He married Nancy L. Whitten on July 2, 1960, at Woodfords Congregational Church in Portland.

The only job Steve ever had was at Roy’s Shoe Shop in Deering Center. Steve began working with the Roy family in 1956. Kindness and compassion were natural gifts that Steve carried with him whether he was at home or at the shop fitting shoes. In 1981, Steve and Nancy purchased the business and moved their family into the home above the shop. Steve continued to work with his sons Dan and Mike until he retired in 2010. He will forever be the Shoe String King of Stevens Avenue. Customers will remember him sizing their new shoes and resoling their old favorites. His wife Nancy will remember the 65 wonderful years they shared together. His kids and grandkids will remember all of the adventures they shared.

He enjoyed hiking, sailing, camping, sledding and walks with his dog. Steve had a gift of making any activity an adventure. He is the original “Happy Camper”. The same adventures he had with his wife and kids, he had with his grandchildren too. Even a walk to Jet Video for an ice cream was an adventure with Bumpy. Along with the adventures, those who knew Steve will also remember his common phrases. “Are we there yet?” “I wanna hold your hand.” “You’re alright, ya know it?” “You’re the best puppy dog in this here house.” “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream.” I’m just joshin ya.” “Oh I don’t know.” “Was that me?” Steve wasn’t only a dad to the four children he brought into the world, but he was a father figure for children that needed a hike, a boat ride, a swim at Riverton pool, a good laugh or just an ice cream. Steve inspired kids to enjoy the outdoors by inviting them to take part in family adventures. Not every parent hikes up Tuckerman’s in the winter, just to slide down it!

Although his family will miss his presence, the memories will keep a smile on their faces for all time. His positive outlook created a joyful, fun-filled life that he shared with everyone he encountered. He would agree that he had THE life. THE life of ALL the lives ever lived. “He was a good man. When you have had the best for so long, you just feel blessed.” -Nancy Lentz.

If asked, Steve would undoubtedly say that his family was his biggest achievement. The three words that best summarize him are Kind, Genuine and Fun.

“Life is not about surviving the storm; it is about learning to dance in the rain: -Vivian Greene

He was a former member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, Cub Scouts and Webelo Den leader, and Westbrook Eagles.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Cathy M. Lentz Lavigne in 2018; siblings, David Lentz, Robert Lentz and Joan Lentz Cross; his beloved pets, Nippy, Sam, Jake and Annabelle.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Lentz who currently resides in Casco; children, Mike Lentz and his wife June of Westbrook, Dan Lentz and his wife Jen of Portland, Laurie Lentz Roy and her husband Chris of Hollis; grandchildren, Danielle Bates of Westbrook, Joseph Lavigne of Amarillo Texas, Lacy Pike of Limington, Darci Lentz of Steep Falls, Ryan Lentz of Westbrook, Nicole Lewis of Standish, Daley Harrington of Waterboro, Andrew Townsend of Jacksonville, Fla., Christopher Townsend of Spindale, N.C., Elizabeth Lentz of Portland; great-grandchildren, Shea Bates, Thornton Pike, Alderic Lavigne, Asa Bates; siblings, Philip and Gerald Lentz;

Steve will be buried at Brooklawn Memorial Park in Portland. To honor Steve’s wishes, a formal service will not be held. A Celebration of Life will be announced.

His family would like to thank the staff at the Barron Center for their compassionate care, and to the many friends and family who offered support.

Please visit http://www.jonesrichandbarnes.com to sign Steve’s online guest book.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association,

383 US Rt. One, #2C,

Scarborough ME, 04074

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