Hubert Christian Kueter

OAKLAND – Hubert Christian Kueter, 94, of Oakland, passed away peacefully on Aug. 1, 2025, surrounded by family and close friends.

Born in 1930 in Breslau, Germany, Hubert earned his Ph.D. in Germanic Languages and Literature from the University of Michigan. He taught German language and literature at Colby College from 1965 until his retirement in 1997.

In addition to his academic career, Hubert pursued a lifelong passion for fine cuisine. In 1975, he opened the Johann Sebastian B Restaurant in Oakland, Maine, where he served as owner, manager, and chef until 2003. His dedication to both teaching and the culinary arts left a lasting mark on the communities he served.

Hubert lived life with extraordinary energy and curiosity. He was a dedicated mushroom hunter, and his many outdoor pursuits over the years included ski instruction and coaching, whitewater and ocean kayaking, and windsurfing.

In 2007, he published My Tainted Blood, a semi-autobiographical account of his survival as a child in Nazi and post-war Germany, a powerful reflection on identity, resilience, and history.

Hubert is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy D. Brooks of Oakland; his sons, Jens C. Kueter of Massachusetts and Chris Kueter of Virginia; and Nancy’s children: Carolyn E. Brooks of Vermont, John (Jay) Brooks of New York, Catherine A. Brooks of Michigan, Thomas W. Brooks of Oakland, and Robert C. Brooks of Portland. He is also survived by four grandchildren, 11 stepgrandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

The family is deeply grateful for the care and companionship of Tom Brooks, who served as Hubert’s primary caregiver in his final years. Special thanks as well to Shelly Vear and Sandy Gilbert for their kindness, compassion, and indispensable support.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on September 21 at Lorimer Chapel, Colby College.

Hubert will be remembered for his intellect, adventurous spirit, culinary mastery, and the warmth he brought to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.