Michael William Joyce

ELLSWORTH – Michael William Joyce, 66, died at home on July 27, 2022. Michael was born July 15, 1956, in Portland to Robert M. and Barbara (O’Connor) Joyce. The oldest of seven, he grew up on Summit Street – a great neighborhood for children.

He graduated from Deering High School in 1974 and went on to earn a B.S. in Biology in 1978 from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada where he played soccer and worked at CJFX Radio.

Michael settled in the Bar Harbor area working first for Hinckley Yachts and then independently (which he was) as a finish carpenter. What he most loved though was being at sea doing yacht deliveries for clients to destinations as far away as Nova Scotia, Bermuda, and Florida, sometimes under harrowing circumstances.

Michael loved the outdoors whether it be sailing, mountain climbing, winter camping, or downhill skiing, particularly telemark skiing. His love of the outdoors was born through childhood adventures with his lifelong friend, John Grigsby, and John’s parents. He also played ice hockey and baseball as a lefthanded pitcher.

A voracious reader from an early age, a passion he carried throughout life, Michael was well known to librarians in Ellsworth, Blue Hill, and Castine and had a vast collection of books. He was passionate about the environment and politics, like his mother. He was a Democrat, but would read about and listen to all viewpoints, seeking first to understand the issues from all sides before a thoughtful discussion ensued.

A point of enormous pride and affection was Michael’s time at WERU Community Radio, Blue Hill. Following in his father’s broadcaster shoes, Michael volunteered as on-air talent at WERU from its inception in 1988 until the time of his death. He hosted his own weekly show, “Barefoot Blues”, named for his trademark bare feet anywhere and in any season, and co-hosted “Boattalk”. He loved music and boats and loved sharing his broad collection of tunes and boating tales and wisdom with listeners. Through the years, he developed many regular listeners and dear friends through WERU.

Michael lived life his way and gave to others even when he was in need. His huge heart was kind and generous as he dedicated himself to supporting friends and family in whatever help they needed. He loved to say he was “rich in friends.” That he was.

Michael was predeceased by his father, Robert M Joyce, on June 10, 2022; and his infant brother, Brian.

He is survived by his mother, Barbara DeCoste, of Portland; five sisters, Maureen Simard of Auburn, Mary Ellen Joyce and Kathleen Serunian (Peter) of Falmouth, Peggy Joyce of La Paz, Mexico, and Theresa (Nelson) Lee of Northborough, Mass., and a brother, Daniel Joyce (Penny) of Minneapolis, Minn. He also leaves behind 10 beloved nieces and nephews; and three great-nephews.

A celebration of life will take place in the fall in the Ellsworth/Blue Hill area.

Arrangements by Acadia Burial and Cremation Direct, 248 State St., Ellsworth. Condolences may be expressed at http://www.acadiacremation.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to

WERU Community Radio,

P.O Box 170,

East Orland, ME 04431-0170


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