Donald L. Kane, 96, died peacefully on January 24, 2024 at Gosnell Memorial Hospital.  Don was born in Portland on October 7, 1927 the son of Louis and Mary (Currie) Kane. He attended Portland High School. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps serving in China. After returning to Portland, he held several jobs at Portland Ice Company, Heinz Warehouse and St. Johnsbury Trucking. He was known as a hard worker earning the nickname 'hurricane'.

On February 22, 1952, he married Mary (Towle) Kane at Holy Cross Church after the City of South Portland had to make special efforts to clear a path of snow that piled up during the 1952 Blizzard.

Don enjoyed spending time with his large family. He enjoyed special summer events, especially trips to the camp, and road trips across the country. He was known by his Meeting House Hill neighbors for his extended daily walks, friendly smile and helpful hand. During the summer, he enjoyed nurturing his vegetable garden and then sharing the harvest with family and friends. He was a devout communicant of Holy Cross Church and involved in many aspects of church operations. He was fortunate that he was able to continue enjoying most of his activities until the past several months.

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife, a son-in-law, Daniel Brown, one grandson, Timothy Brown, and one great grandson, Connor York.  He was predeceased by his eight younger siblings – sisters Joan Kane, Marjorie Mowatt, Louise Fortin, Helen Hatch, Jean Stimpson and brothers Clifford, Thomas and John.

Don was a dedicated and supportive father of six children. He is survived by his three daughters, Diane Brown, Jody (Shawn) Shoemaker, Julie (Justin) Costello, and three sons, David (Paula) Kane, John (Leah) Kane and Michael (Melissa) Kane. Also, survived by 16 grandchildren (Christina Fernald, Angela York, Dan and Richard Brown, Phillip and Chad Shoemaker, Jaela, Coleman and Briana Costello, Brittany, Ryan, Brendan, Evan, Kevin, Kathryn and Caroline Kane) and 5 great grandchildren (Daniel, Sophia, Lillian Fernald, Chaia Costello, Orlin Shoemaker).

Visiting hours celebrating Don's life will be held on Monday, January 29 from 4 pm to 7 pm at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Tuesday, January 30 at Holy Cross Church, South Portland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the South Portland Food Cupboard, 130 Thadeus Street, South Portland, 04106.