Christopher Durkee

ISLESBORO - Christopher Jon Durkee, 62, originally of Islesboro, Maine, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026, following complications from cardiac arrest.
Christopher was born on December 25, 1963, at Camden Community Hospital to Mary Louise Durkee and George Adelbert Durkee. One of twelve children, he was named Christopher in honor of his Christmas Day arrival.
Although Maine would always be home, Christopher moved to South Carolina in 2007 and built a life he was incredibly proud of in Charleston. He loved the warm weather, though he never lost his unmistakable Maine accent, and returned to Maine every summer to spend time with his family. He may not have missed the cold, but he always carried Maine with him.
Christopher was an exceptionally hard worker and a man of many talents. He attended culinary school at a young age and held numerous chef positions throughout the country. Over the years, he also worked as a house painter and lobsterman. For many years, Christopher was a dedicated employee of Detyens Shipyards, Inc., where he served as Supervisor of the Paint Department. His career there was an important part of his life, and he took tremendous pride in his work and the relationships he formed with his coworkers.
Known to many simply as "Durkee," he was most at home in "Durkee's Kitchen," cooking incredible meals for the people he loved. An amazing chef, Christopher showed his love by feeding others. He also carried on his mother's tradition of making her famous fudge, which he carefully sent to family and friends.
Music was always playing in Christopher's home, and usually playing loudly. He was also a gifted harmonica player, a skill he taught himself. He loved sailing, biking, gardening, NASCAR, smoking brisket, and caring for his home and yard.Christopher took great pride in his beloved back deck, which he transformed into his own little resort. His large hanging ferns welcomed visitors, and he could often be found in his rocking chair, listening to music and watching the birds. He was always trying to outsmart the squirrels and even greased the bird feeder poles to keep them away.
Above all, Christopher loved his children deeply. Funny, sentimental, generous, and a big softy at heart, he regularly called loved ones just to catch up and was always ready to bring someone a meal or lend a hand.
Christopher is survived by his three children, Olivia Lee, Alexandra Brochu and her husband Zachary Brochu, and Winston Durkee and his fiancee Lori Ward; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Bella and Carter Gallant, children of Olivia and Ian Gallant; Ava, Delta, and James Lee, children of Olivia and James Lee; and Paityn Ward and Evelyn Durkee, children of Winston and Lori. He also leaves behind a grandson, expected in January 2027, to Alexandra and Zachary, whose anticipated arrival brought him great joy.
He is also survived by his siblings, Carolyn Leach, Susan Durkee, George 'Brother' Durkee IV, Carole Nichter, Randy Durkee, Christine Weatherl, Murton Durkee, and Jennifer Richardson; his former wife and dear friend, Valli Gaylor; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers in both Maine and South Carolina.
Christopher was predeceased by his parents, Mary and George Durkee, and his brothers Michael Durkee, Brian Durkee, and Joseph Durkee.
Christopher will be remembered for his remarkable work ethic, his enormous heart, his love of music, the gourmet meals he made, and the way he brought people together. His family will especially remember the deep and unmistakable love he had for them, a love they will carry with them always.
Friends and family are invited to join the Durkee family from 8:30-10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026 at the Islesboro Community Center for a time of remembrance, with pastries and coffee, as we gather to celebrate Christopher's life and share our favorite memories of him. A graveside cemetery service will follow at 10:30 a.m. for family, close friends, and those who wish to join us in honoring Christopher and saying a final goodbye at Maple Grove Cemetery.
We are incredibly grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown to our family during this difficult time.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Limerock Street, Rockland. Please share memories and condolences with Christopher's family, here on their Book of Memories.2d:{"dateTime":"2026-09-2