SOUTH PORTLAND — Thomas Bakker, 71, died at home with family by his side on Oct. 6 after a brief illness.
Born June 3, 1940, the son of Vassel and Marion Bakker of Whitinsville, Mass., he graduated from Northbridge High School. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force, and greatly enjoyed being stationed in Anchorage, Alaska, and Tacoma, Wash.
In 1961 he married Joan Winslow of South Portland, and settled in South Portland in 1965, where he had a successful career as a home builder and remodeler. Known for his attention to detail and care not to waste materials, he called himself “the frugal Dutchman.”
Over the years he bought and remodeled two apartment buildings, which he owned and maintained.
He fully embraced his life as a Mainer and member of the South Portland community, serving on the South Portland Zoning and Planning boards.
He took a great interest in the city, joining the South Portland Historical Society, and supporting his children’s musical activities as president of the South Portland High School Music Boosters, where he remained an active member long after his children graduated.
In addition he also enjoyed having an urban farm, where he kept as many as 14 sheep at a time.
A longstanding member of the Lions Club, he served in almost every capacity from Lion Tamer to past District Governor for District 41-L. He worked tirelessly in all aspects of charitable projects, including spearheading a campaign to raise over $100,000 for an essential generator for Camp Sunshine.
He was an active member of the Second Parish Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Portland, where he had served as a deacon, and was a member of the Trustees.
A sister, Caroline Simmons, predeceased him.
Surviving are his wife Joan Bakker; in-laws, Albert and Nancy Faber, Geraldine Kortekamp, Edward and Sharon Bakker, and Alfred and Lois Bakker; children Scott and Theresa Bakker, Terri Bakker and Debbie Verdult, Laura Napoleone and John Crocker; and grandchildren Patrick Bakker, Larissa Bakker, Amanda Haykus and Katherine Haykus.
Memorial services were held earlier this week.
Arrangements are by Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland.
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