WINSLOW – Karl Dornish, Jr., an exceptionally kind, thoughtful and generous man, was born in Chicago on Sept. 18, 1932, and passed peacefully in his sleep with his dog, Iris, by his side on Thursday, 2023. Raised in Plainville, Conn. by Karl and Helen (Hammond) Dornish, his family would spend summers at “The Farm” in Orrington, Maine.

He graduated from Vermont Academy in 1950, his cherished Colby College in 1954, and the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College in 1956. While at Colby, he met the love of his life, Jane Millett Dornish. They were married in June of 1955, and began their life together in Hanover, N.H., shortly thereafter moving to Gorham and raising their three daughters there. Karl and Jane were married for 67 years and their love for each other only grew stronger over the years. To see them together was to witness deep love, devotion, quiet generosity, and respect in action.

He began his professional career as a production manager at SD Warren (Sappi) in Westbrook, Maine. He worked in Westbrook, Muskegon, Mich. and finished his career at Sappi in Skowhegan, Maine. He retired in the early 1990’s. While at the paper companies, his forte was labor relations, and he prided himself on knowing the name of each employee at the plant. He continued in the labor field as a retiree and served on the Maine State Labor Board for many years – one of many volunteer and board positions that he held throughout his life.

Karl was an avid supporter of Colby College and, together with Jane, frequently attended athletic events, concerts and the art museum. For the past several years, he served as Class President and was the chief fundraiser for the class of 1954. The College recognized his consistent dedication and support by honoring him with the Colby Brick Award, the Ernest C. Marriner Award and the C Club Person of the Year Award.

Ever the sportsman, Karl could often be found on the water, on a mountain, in the woods, or on a tennis court and had long-lasting friendships with many who shared these passions. He instilled his love for the outdoors in all of his children and grandchildren. Karl’s quiet and calm guidance is a legacy that his family will carry forward with them.

He is survived by his three girls, Deborah Dornish, formerly of Waterville, now residing in Lorton, Va., Katherine and husband Robert DuGrenier of West Townshend, Vt., and Martha and husband Paul Uribe of Lorton, Va. He is loved by his grandchildren Luc, Rachel and husband Stephen Ball, Jonathan and wife Maya, Regina, and Isabel; and great grandchildren, Jack and Oliver. He is also survived by sisters, Patricia Gesner of West Palm Beach, Fla. and Margaret Dornish of Carlsbad, Calif.

The family would like to thank his friends, neighbors, and faithful caretakers for all the affection and care that was provided to him in his last year of life.

A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Colby Alumni Center.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made to the Ellsworth W. Millett Financial Aid Fund at Colby College, which was established in honor of Jane’s father. Karl would also ask that you “do something nice for someone” and “push yourself, but always be yourself.”

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