John William Dakin

John William Dakin, 82 passed away Tuesday December 7, 2021, at Ledgewood Manor in Winham, ME.

John was born to the late Roy Dakin and the late Priscilla Patershall on November 1, 1939, in Belfast, ME. He was raised there in Belfast and later graduated from the town’s Crosby High School.  It was there he had discovered his love for sports. Lettering in basketball, baseball, and football. He went on to attend the University of Maine Presque Isle, majoring in physical education, where he played baseball and co-captained their basketball team. He was also class officer and KDP Fraternity member for four years before graduating. John then went on to receive his master's from the University of Southern Maine, and he was ultimately inducted into the UMPI Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

After college, John first served briefly as a P.E. teacher at Westbrook High School. He was quickly blessed with a long and fruitful career at Southern Maine Community College (SMCC, formerly SMVTI) from 1967 through 2002. There he served 32 years as the school’s Athletic Director. He first coached basketball at the college and led his team to 5 conference championships and 199 wins. He followed that by coaching baseball, during which time he led his team to 7 conference titles. He served as president of the Maine/Northern New England Small College Conference. In 2004 he received an Athletic Contributor award in his name for SMCC, and in 2006 was inducted into the School’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He even served as interim Dean of Students for a few years before retirement. 

Though his success in a long career of leadership in athletics was beyond admirable and impressive to say the least, it waned in comparison to his success as a husband, father, friend, and more. He cared for others passionately, he loved with all his heart, and he gave freely to any in need. He never met Strangers, only new friends. 

He is survived by his lovely wife of 32 years, Stephanie Dakin, his daughter, Torrey Bennett and her husband Steven. His sons; Chad Dakin, Tony Donnelly and his wife Heidi Todd Donnelly and his wife Jennife. His sister, Dodie McKeen, and 5 beautiful grandchildren.

 He was known by many and loved by all. John will be truly missed by each and every one, but by none more than his family. We have cherished every moment with him here on earth and rejoice with him now at his arrival home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.