Bar Harbor
Powell Oliver “Ollie” Wenger, 77, of Bar Harbor, Maine passed away peacefully on Saturday, Mar 12, 2022, at his home surrounded by family and friends. Born in Virginia, Ollie moved to New Jersey in 1969 after graduating from Virginia Tech, and then to Delaware when he accepted a position with DuPont where he worked as a mechanical engineer. In 1988, Ollie relocated his family to Connecticut when he was promoted to Assistant Plant Manager. After an early retirement in 1992, he and his first wife Cheri moved to Maine to assist with the operation of Windward Cottages. He took full ownership of the property in 1996 and spent the next 25 years making sure his customers had a great experience whenever they visited Maine. Through most of these years, his second wife, Kelli, enjoyed working alongside him.
Ollie was hardworking, quiet, and gentle. He enjoyed visiting with customers, many of whom were regulars for many years. They expressed that, while they loved coming to Bar Harbor, the reason they came back year after year was because of Ollie. He was always willing to go the extra mile to make their stay something special. Woodworking was also a favorite pastime which he shared with anyone who was interested. His attention to detail and methodical processes ensured that whatever he built was something that would last many years. Ollie thoroughly enjoyed being on the water, especially lobstering. He would often introduce his customers to this quintessential Maine industry with a ride to catch mackerel on the way out and an opportunity to fill a lobster trap or two before letting them help drive the boat back. He responded readily to anyone in need, both to people he knew and to complete strangers. The way Ollie chose to live his life will be his lasting legacy.
He is survived by two sons Bradley and his wife Sophie La Salle, and son William: stepdaughter SarahJoy Chaples and her partner Mike Farrington; grandchildren, Jacob, Bryce, Riley, Brady, Brian, and Nicholas; and great granddaughter, Kinsley. His grandchildren meant the world to him, and he was proud of who they are becoming. Additionally, he leaves behind his siblings and their spouses, Dottie Smucker, Carl and Sandy, Wade and Eunice, Betty, Lois, and Norman and Jeanne, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Ollie was predeceased by his parents, Powell Oliver Sr. and Hazel; his first wife, Cheri (Smith); his second wife, Kelli (Davis); and his brother, Dave.
A memorial service will be held at 1pm, May 21, 2022, at Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St., Ellsworth. In honor of Ollie, in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society, Memorial Processing Center, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com