Dennis Ellsworth Colley, 77, will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, and a man whose life was deeply connected to the waters of Maine. Born on April 28, 1949, in Newton, Massachusetts, Dennis lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and a love for family.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Barbara Laforge Colley, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. They married when Barbara was just 19 years old and, from that day forward, were rarely apart. Together they weathered every season of life, including years of illness, injury, and adversity, always remaining devoted to one another. Barbara's warmth and kindness balanced Dennis's quiet strength, and he especially enjoyed the company of her many friends, who became part of their extended family.

He also leaves behind his daughter, Lisa Johnson and her husband, Colin; his son, Nathan Colley and his partner, Jessica; and his three grandsons, Lucas, Drew, and Ryan.

Dennis dedicated much of his working life to Blue Rock Industries in Westbrook, where he spent approximately 35 years, beginning as a truck driver and later serving as shop supervisor. He also owned and operated York County Diving for many years, with his friend Larry Livingston, combining his work with one of his greatest passions.

There was nowhere Dennis felt more at home than on the water. An avid boater and scuba diver, he was known throughout the community for recovering vehicles that had broken through the ice on local lakes, installing and repairing moorings throughout Casco Bay, and harvesting scallops from Maine's coastal waters. As captain of his beloved 34-foot Silverton, Dennis found his greatest happiness cruising the islands with Barbara, family, and friends—watching seals, sharing stories, lending a helping hand to fellow boaters, and creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

To those who knew him, Dennis was unforgettable: a big, strong, sun-tanned man with smiling eyes, a deep, gentle voice that occasionally broke into song, and a steady, dependable presence in the lives of those he loved. He was the kind of father his children could always count on. While his younger years were marked by remarkable physical strength and determination, time revealed a gentler side. Though he remained proud and strong-willed, he became increasingly patient, tenderhearted, and appreciative of his family.

Dennis endured more challenges than many experience in a lifetime. Through every hardship, he met life with extraordinary resilience, courage, and perseverance. Those who loved him will remember the unbelievable strength that carried him through physical pain and difficult times.

His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the countless days spent on the water that brought him so much peace. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 21 from 1:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland, with a time for sharing between 3:00p.m. and 4:00p.m. 

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to The Maine Heart Association https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/maine.