Donald Strout, lovingly known as “Papa,” passed away on February 20, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m., at the age of 72. Born on April 28, 1953, Donald was a lifelong resident of Maine, a place he deeply loved and proudly called home. He was looking forward to celebrating his 73rd birthday this coming April. Donald came from a large family and was one of many siblings, a part of his life story that helped shape who he became and the values he carried throughout his life. Donald was a strong, gentle, and faithful man. A devoted Christian, he loved God and lived his life guided by faith, humility, and quiet kindness. His faith sustained him through life’s challenges and brought him comfort and peace throughout his life. Donald was an incredibly hard worker. At one point in his life, he held three jobs at the same time and worked overnight shifts for many years, sacrificing rest and comfort to provide for his family. His work ethic, dedication, and sense of responsibility were a true reflection of his character. 

Donald’s only love was his wife, Cathy Strout, whom he married in June of 1979. Together they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and devotion. Some of Donald’s favorite moments with Cathy were going for rides together, often stopping at Sabattus Lake to walk around and quietly watch the nature unfolding around them, stopping for coffee, reading the Bible side by side, and rewatching old shows and movies they grew up loving. Donald lovingly took in Donnie Strout, Heidi Strout, and Johnathon Strout as his own children — not by obligation, but by choice and by heart. He was a true father in every sense of the word. He is survived by his children Donnie Strout and his wife April Strout, Heidi Strout, and Johnathon Strout and his wife Ashley Strout. 

Years ago, Donald bravely faced throat cancer and endured extensive surgery that permanently changed how he lived. Through it all, he showed remarkable resilience and unwavering trust in God, eventually becoming cancer-free. Though his body changed, his spirit and faith never wavered. Donald found joy and peace in life’s simple blessings — fishing, playing his guitar, and beginning each day with a hot cup of black coffee. He also loved listening to music through his headphones, often becoming so absorbed in the music that when Cathy called his name, he didn’t always hear her — happily lost in the songs he loved. 

Donald adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was incredibly proud of each and every one of them. One of the ways he showed his love was through the nicknames he lovingly gave — names that became part of family lore and will forever bring smiles. His grandchildren, listed in order, include Shannon Reny (“pork chops”), Edward Espeaignette (“big man”), Jordan Strout (“sparkplug”), Darian Strout (“Tata”), Aaron Nyetera (first “porcupine,” later “buddy”), Aaliyah Nyetera (“the wee”), Tye (“tough guy”), Gavin Strout (“bud”), and Logan Strout (“logie”), along with many other grandchildren whom he loved deeply and was immensely proud of. His great-grandchildren, whom he cherished dearly, are Izabella (“asparagus,” later “sparky”), Hanna (“hanna banana”), Ian (“toughy”), and Parker (“little man”). 

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a constant source of love, stability, and comfort. He had a way of making people feel safe, supported, and deeply loved — often without needing many words. Donald’s passing followed complications from aspiration pneumonia and sepsis, a sudden and heartbreaking decline that came far too quickly. He passed peacefully with his wife, children and their spouses, and some of his grandchildren by his side. As he passed, snow gently began to fall, a quiet and peaceful moment that felt like a final blessing. Donald’s favorite color was blue, especially a soft robin’s egg blue, a color that now holds special meaning for all who loved him. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 21 at 11:00 a.m. at Sabattus Community Baptist Church. Family kindly invites all who attend to wear blue in honor of Donald. In accordance with Donald’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sabattus Community Baptist Church. Forever loved. Forever missed.