Harford Foster Jr.

PORTLAND – Harford Lamont “Snuffy” Foster, Jr., 85, passed away on June 27, 2024, in Portland. Born on Dec. 8, 1937, in Rockland, he was a respected figure in his commu­nity and a beloved family man.

Harford graduated from Rock­land High School and short­ly thereafter joined the United States Air Force, serving from 1955 to 1958. He completed his basic training in Texas and was stationed in France for the dura­tion of his service, dedicating his early years to his country with pride and honor. He told many stories of his duty and travel “over there” during the height of the Cold War.

Following his honorable dis­charge, Harford embarked on a significant career in air traffic control with the Federal Aviation Administration. He worked at various locations including Lex­ington, Ky.; Toledo, Ohio; and Detroit Metro Airport. He was a member of the Professional Air Controllers Organization (PATCO), and notably chose not to participate in the strike of 1981, a decision that reflected his strong personal values.

Harford was also an avid avi­ator, who cherished flying his Cessna 172. His passion for avia­tion was a significant aspect of his life, providing him joy and free­dom. His other passion was host­ing out of state grandkids coming to Maine to visit Gramps! Noth­ing like tenting in Maine during summer, and he was a gracious host who always hated to see us go home. Lastly, he truly appre­ciated the outdoors and worked hard to make sure his kids and grandkids were not “city slickers”: Our fond memories of “Snuffy” will flow as long as the Sheepscott River has water.

He leaves behind his children, Michael H. Foster, Jolie E. Lind­ner, and Jason G. Foster.

Hartford was preceded in death by his wife, Susan L. Foster, in November 2019; and also his sister, Mabel in 2016.

His dedication to his family and his integrity in both his professional and personal life will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.

Cremation arrangements were handled by Funeral Alternatives in Portland.

Harford’s life will be celebrated by his family, friends, and all those he touched throughout his remarkable jour­ney. His remains will go on one last road trip before returning to Maine in Summer 2025 for a final family ceremony (TBA). Please contact Michael H. Foster at mh­[email protected] to express any condolences, or to participate in ceremony with surviving family members upon his return to Maine.