John Lanese

CUMBERLAND – With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Lanese, a devoted father, grandfather, husband, and friend, whose presence filled every room with strength, humor, and unmistakable character.

Born on April 29, 1942, John grew up in Portland, near India Street. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, stationed aboard the USS Pillsbury (DER-133). After his military service, John built a long and respected career at the Leen Company known as a skilled mechanic who had an unmatched ability to fix just about anything.

He had a deep love for the simple, meaningful things in life. He loved spending time with his wife, doing all of their daily errands together. He also loved being in his garage, tinkering away on the latest projects. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and boating. He loved cars, especially his El Camino, and was a loyal fan of NASCAR. He appreciated good Italian food, had a fascination with outer space and history, and was known for putting ketchup on just about everything. Red socks were a trade mark.

He was known for his rough-around-the-edges demeanor, but beneath it was a soft heart, paired with an unfiltered humor that kept everyone on their toes. Above all, John loved his family.

John was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Anna Clemente Lanese, his ‘second’ parents, Tony and Elaine Ingerowski; his first wife, Dianne Shaw; his older brother, Peter Lanese, and several brothers and sisters-in-law, including Howie and Nancy Shaw, who were also dear friends.

He is survived by his much loved wife, Mary Ann Lanese; his daughter, Terry (Peter) Therrien and grandson Colby; his son, Steven Lanese of Alaska (Air Force veteran-22 years); his stepdaughters Jennifer (Jim) Vogel and granddaughter Genevieve; Tara (Chad) Reed and granddaughters Gabrielle and Ana Welton, and Christina Linskey. He is lovingly remembered by his surviving siblings Barbara Remington, Mary Lou Jordan, Debbie (Roger) Ohman, Gary (Jane) Lanese, Patty (Gordon) Whittemore, and Paula (Pete) Lanese; along with many extended family members, neighbors and friends. He will also be missed by his loyal canine companion, Saint, who enjoyed visiting him and other residents and staff of the Maine Veterans’ Home in recent months.

John leaves behind a legacy of hard work, loyalty, humor, and quiet strength. He was the kind of man who didn’t need many words-his actions spoke for him. He showed love through what he built, what he fixed, and how he showed up for the people in his life.

In honor of John’s life and his love for the Maine coast, his family will be placing a memorial bench at Willard Beach, a place where his memory can live on in the sound of the ocean and the quiet moments he always appreciated.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.