Walter Francis Gley

Walter Francis Gley, age 60, a 20-year resident of North Berwick passed away on June 15th, 2021 from an aggressive colon cancer that had spread to his liver and lungs. Born on April 16th, 1961, he was the son of Toni Benevides Gley and John Gley. Walter grew up in Mystic, Connecticut and learned the trade of carpentry from his best friend’s father, the late Michael Contino. He and David Contino remained the best of friends throughout their lives. Walter’s skills were varied, and he could do electrical, plumbing, and frame to finish work. There was nothing he couldn’t fix and his many customers appreciated his attention to detail and craftsmanship. His skills were put to good use at home as well in the historic Morrell/Ballentine house, which he took great pride in and loved to share with people through the North Berwick Historical Society.

Walter had two daughters, Kassandra Caldarone, age 33, of Westerly, Rhode Island and Madison Gley, age 17, of North Berwick.  He was a proud Dad who was devoted to Madison – bringing her to daycare, school and different activities. He loved all the kids, driving them to school in the Expedition, music blasting and singing along. One year the kids even celebrated his birthday, making him a special hat with the words “Walter’s Taxi” on it! Madison graduated from Noble High School on the 12th of June, and Walter was extremely proud of her academic honors and the fact that she will be going on to Eckerd College in the fall.  Walter also recently re-connected with his sister Stacy Zujus and brother-in-law Greg Zujus and he enjoyed their support and company while he was so sick. His partner in life, Kim Gauthier, was by his side when he passed. Their relationship was complicated, but Walter loved Kim and was happy to have his last days with her care and support.

Walter loved to go camping, and he always provided our camping families with a fantastic fire and laughter. He was known for bringing the fun, whether it be a homemade potato gun, fireworks, or scavenging driftwood to erect a flagpole on the beach. He was known at SouthArm for starting the Christmas tree in August tradition which always brought the crew together to make something beautiful and fun. Walter was outgoing and naturally made friends and connected with people. He was thoughtful and had a great sense of humor – he generated lots of laughs around the campfires over the years!

A memorial will be planned at a later date. Walter’s wish was to be cremated, and his ashes will be spread at Popham Beach, a place that always has had great memories and friendships associated with it. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a GoFundMe account set up to help pay for medical expenses incurred throughout his diagnosis and care @ https://gofund.me/efab59f0

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