Merton Aspinwall, who preferred the informal names Mert or Chuck, has died at the age of 73. He spent the last years of his life in Maine after moving there in 2008 and is to be remembered at a public memorial in Damariscotta next month.
Life, work and community ties
Born on 27 October 1952 in the Boston area, Aspinwall was the eldest child of Nora and Jim Aspinwall. Following his relocation to Maine, he became embedded in local support networks and community sport. For many years he was involved with Alcoholics Anonymous in Damariscotta and, professionally, worked for the YMCA in Maine until he retired in 2021.
He enjoyed baseball throughout his life and played for community teams in both Massachusetts and Maine. Those who saw him in parks and on pitches will remember his quiet presence and longstanding connection to grassroots sport.
Family and funeral arrangements
Aspinwall died on 10 July 2026 at Cape Memory Care in Cape Elizabeth. He was predeceased by a daughter, Erin Rae.
- Wife: Debbie Pettiglio Aspinwall
- Daughter: Melanie Stanley (and husband Ryan)
- Grandchildren: Andrea Rae, Raelynn and Xavier
- Great-granddaughter: Scarlett
- Sisters: Wendy Gowen and Bonnie Francis
A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday 11 August at 1pm at Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta. The funeral directors are inviting family and friends to attend; further messages of condolence can be left via the funeral home website at stronghancock.com.
Local impact and context
Community groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and local sports teams rely on long-term members and volunteers; Aspinwall's involvement over many years will be remembered by peers in Damariscotta and by those who knew him from his earlier life in the Boston area. His employment at the YMCA places him among many who work in community-facing roles, supporting local programmes and facilities.
If you plan to attend the service, allow extra time for parking around Main Street in Damariscotta, and consider contacting the funeral home through the details above for guidance on accessibility or bulk attendance.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | 27 Oct 1952 |
| Date of death | 10 Jul 2026 |
| Memorial service | 11 Aug 2026, 1pm at Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, Damariscotta |
Those wishing to send flowers or messages should check the funeral home website for current guidance. The family have arranged the service through Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, which is managing arrangements in Damariscotta.
