James Orion Kerschner

OAKLAND – After a period of declining health, James Orion Kerschner passed away on July 9, 2023 at MaineGeneral Medical Center. His wife and sons were by his side.

Born Sept. 19, 1946, in Rockland, Jim was the son of Robert and Ida (Olson) Kerschner. He was the grandson of Sam and Mary Olson of Cushing. He had a special relationship with his grandparents.

After living in Rockland for several years, the family, which included his brother Bob, moved to Barre, Vt. In Barre, Vt. his love of sports emerged. Jim spent countless hours on the baseball field or in the gym. This passion for sports continued to Oakland (Williams High School), Kents Hill, and the University of New Hampshire. He was an integral part of several championship teams, however, his proudest moments were coaching his sons.

In 1968, Jim married Lynne (Rideout) Kerschner. He was quickly embraced by his new family. Known for his generosity, he hosted countless celebrations and team parties. The annual family Christmas party was a highlight each year.

Jim received his MBA from UMaine and started working in accounting in Boston, Mass., then Portland and Boothbay Harbor. In 1976 Jim returned to Oakland to work in the family business, which included chip mills, trucking, and land development. Later, he taught and coached at Messalonskee High School. For 13 years he was an assistant basketball coach with Coach Dick Meader at the University of Maine at Farmington. He loved working with the students and athletes.

Retiring in 2004 allowed time to travel. This included many trips to Scotland and Ireland with special lifelong friends. He also enjoyed river cruises and trips to Western Canada and the Atlantic provinces. Jim was a longtime member of Waterville Country Club. He had a passion for golf and anything golf related. In 2012, a home in North Fort Myers, Fla., on a golf course, became his primary vacation spot. During the summer months he returned to Messalonskee Lake.

Jim was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Robert.

He is survived by his wife, Lynne; and their two sons, Craig (Stacie) of Havelock, N.C., and David (Eliza) of Old Town; grandchildren Sierra, Caden, and a new granddaughter expected in September; sister-in-law, Pam Rideout Evans and brother-in-law, Scott Beckerman; many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and numerous lifelong friends. A lover of animals, he was predeceased by many beloved dogs and is survived by his golden retriever, Sandy.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to

Friends of Messalonskee Lake,

P.O. Box 532,

Oakland, ME 04963