Eugene “Gene” Ellsworth Howe

TOPSHAM – Eugene “Gene” Ellsworth Howe, 83, of Topsham, passed away on April 28, 2026, after a brief illness. Gene was born on March 11, 1943 in Porter, the son of Madelyn Kelley and Edwin Howe.

Gene was only 21 years old when he met the love of his life: Lois Conley. The two met at a dance in Portland, Maine and later married on Aug. 1, 1964. Their 61 years of marriage are a testament to the strength and beauty of their loving relationship.

Gene attended Portland High School before joining the Navy in 1961. He loved everything about his years in the Navy where he started as a radarman on P-3’s and ended his career as an E-8 Senior Chief Petty Officer out of Brunswick Naval Air Station. He served until honorably discharged in1984.

After his time serving his country, Gene worked as an electrician at Bath Iron Works for 20 years. He is remembered for his humor, friendship, and work ethic.

Gene is remembered as a lover of music. He collected hundreds of records, spanning from Ray Charles to The Everly Brothers, but none trumped his love of Elvis. Gene could often be found working around his house with the King of Rock and Roll crooning in the background.

Remaining to cherish Gene’s memory are his wife, Lois; children, Michele and Stephen Howe; grandchildren, Meagan, Taylor, Georgia and Sawyer; great-grandchildren, Skyler; brother, Danny, sister, Leta; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Gene in death are parents, Edwin and Madelyn; brothers Billy and Harlan, sister, Linda.

Gene’s immediate family will gather at the Augusta Veterans Memorial Cemetery to honor his memory later this summer. Military Honors will be conducted.