We are saddened to share the unexpected passing of John A. Woodman, 61, of Standish, who passed away on October 5, 2026, as the result of an accident. John was born on May 16,1965, in Presque Isle, Maine.

John was a quiet man with a big presence and an even bigger heart. To those who knew him, he was truly a gentle giant. He didn’t need many words to let you know he cared—or, on occasion, that you should run. Either way, you understood him.

Though John didn’t have children of his own, he had a special place in his heart for all of “ours.” He was the uncle they chose and the one they knew loved them without needing to say much at all.

John grew up on Potterville Road in Windham, where he was one of 15 kids in a family of siblings, cousins, best friends and occasionally, yes, suspects. We hold close the memories of the simple days we shared growing up together: endless summer nights playing games, riding bikes, building buggies, swimming, laughing, walking to the river with a canoe and his dog, Buddy, and simply enjoying being together. Those simple days have become some of our fondest memories.

John loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling were among his favorite ways to spend his time. He was most at home outside, whether surrounded by the woods waiting for a deer, sitting in a boat with a fishing rod, or heading out on his snowmobile with his favorite people.

For years, John and the guys spent most weekends in his garage working on the toys they had fun destroying the weekend before. It was a routine that made perfect sense to them: break it, fix it, laugh about it, and do it all again next week.

For more than 30 years, John worked for Shaw Brothers Construction, where he was a highly respected equipment operator. His talent was well known, and his reputation spoke for itself. John worked hard and played hard. After a long week of work, his favorite place to unwind was Pat’s Pizza in Windham—if you know, you know.

Johnny, your friends and family thank you for the summers, the winters, and all the in-between. For the adventures and shenanigans, the crazy moments and the laughter, and most of all, for your friendship. You are loved and will be missed.

John is survived by his partner, Elaine Libby; his brothers, Shawn and wife Patty Potter, Jeff Potter and partner Amy Abildgaard, Eric and wife Laurie Potter; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Stuart Woodman; his mother, Marguerite Louise Potter; stepfather, Elden Potter; and brother, James Woodman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1-4pm at Spring Meadows Event Center, 59 Lewiston Road, Gray ME.

In Lieu of flowers donations in John’s name can be made to Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Northwoods Camp Fund, 41 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0041.