David L. Tobin

Former Representative David L. Tobin, 93, passed away on May 22, 2025, with his family by his side, in the home he and Joan built together. Born on October 22, 1931, son of the late Ernest Tobin and Doris (Phinney) Tobin. David lived a life rooted in love for his family, his community, and the state of Maine. A graduate of Gorham High School, David was a student-athlete who carried his love of teamwork and discipline throughout his life. He served his country during the Korean War as an Air Traffic Controller in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in England. After the military, David attended Maine Vocational Technical Institute and began a long and diverse career that included work as a service manager for both Pontiac and Ford dealerships, manager at northeast cold storage, and ultimately, as a letter carrier and employee for the U.S. Postal Service. David’s 14-mile daily mail route, accompanied by the family dog, Lady, took him to every house and business in South Windham and Little Falls, the place where he grew up and loved—delivering letters and packages, rain or shine, to friends, neighbors, and relatives. He took great pride in his work and the connections that came with it. David’s dedication to public service extended far beyond his profession. In Windham, where he lived most of his life, he served on the Town Council and chaired multiple planning and ordinance committees. He was instrumental in shaping local policies, most notably through his work on the 1980 and 1990 Comprehensive Planning Committees. His service extended to the state level as well, where he served in the Maine Legislature assisting veterans and voting to pass key environmental legislation that protected the natural resources of the state he loved and valued. David believed deeply in the power of education. He supported programs that helped provide Maine students with access to laptop computers, and he invested in youth through his longtime involvement in the American Legion sponsoring dances for local youth and as an active leader in Boy Scout Troop 802. Twice nominated for the Jefferson Award for Public Service, he also served on the Board of Directors for New Marblehead Manor and was involved in countless other civic initiatives that shaped the town of Windham and the lives of those in it. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Joan (Hawkes) Tobin, and their three children: Colleen Tobin (Leo), Bridget Gallagher (David), and James Tobin (Xavier). He leaves behind eight grandchildren—Hannah, Patrick, Blaine, Maura, Claire, William, Marin, and Emmy—and two great-grandchildren, Adeliah and Natalie. He was predeceased by his sister, Shirley (Tobin) Johnston, and his brother James P Tobin. David’s love of Maine—its lakes, rivers, and people—was evident in every part of his life. He was a storyteller and historian of Windham, Little Falls, and the Presumpscot River watershed, always eager to share knowledge with those around him. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. Summers at the Sebago Lake camp were treasured; children and grandchildren enjoyed swimming, fishing, toasting s’mores, and the daily visit of the ice cream truck. After retiring, David and Joan's home continued as a gathering place—hosting daily after-school visits from grandchildren that included snacks, walks and homework help. David Tobin lived a life of purpose and service. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and neighbor who made his corner of the world kinder, stronger, and more joyful. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Windham Neighbors Helping Neighbors (PO Box 1956, Windham, ME 04062) or to the Windham Veteran's Center (35 Veteran's Memorial Drive Windham, ME 04062) A private graveside burial will be at a later date.

David L. Tobin

October 22, 1931 - May 22, 2025

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