Obituary published on Legacy.com by David E. Desmond & Son Funeral Home - Bath on Jul. 6, 2025.
Great Pond, ME – Frank Walter Moore, 85, of Bath, passed away on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025.
Frank, also lovingly known as "Frankie," was born in
Bath, Maine on October 19th, 1939, to Clarence and Ethel Moore. He was educated in the Bath school system and, in 1960, began a 41-year career at Bath Iron Works. Frank operated cranes at the Harding facility before moving to the main plant, where he expertly ran cranes #15 and #11. His skill and dedication made him a valued member of the team, often called in during off-hours due to his expertise and reliability.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Frank was an avid deer hunter from childhood. Taught the art of butchering by his father, he continued the tradition throughout his life, later working alongside his brother Billy and sister Janice. Hunting season was always a special time, bringing together family, friends, tradition, and hard work.
One of the most beloved traditions of being "upta camp" during hunting season was the annual Hunter's Party, where Frank played the harmonica, his father played the Pocatello, his mother the accordion, and Janice played the saw. About 16 years ago, this event evolved into Janice's Hoedown, held each August and featuring live music. Frank and Janice would once again join in with their instruments. The event setup became known as Frankie's Production, as he proudly orchestrated the layout of the stage and tents-with one rule: it had to be done Frankie's way.
Frank enjoyed many hobbies over the years, including snowmobiling, riding ATVs, boating, and fishing. He was also a talented woodworker, crafting hope chests, cabinets, and even a custom housing unit for his Kubota tractor to keep him warm during Maine's cold winters.
One of Frank's proudest creations was designing and building custom condiment trays for The Galley restaurant. Each tray was mounted to the wall with a specific placeholder, thoughtfully designed to free up table space and enhance the dining experience for patrons. Frank had been a loyal patron of The Galley since the early 1970s. After retirement, it became part of his daily routine-meeting up with fellow retired friends at 9:00 a.m. on weekdays for morning coffee, unless, of course, he was "upta camp."
Frank had a lifelong passion for boating. He started out with smaller boats but dreamed of something larger that would allow for overnight trips along the Maine coast. That dream became reality when he found the perfect vessel-a 30-foot cabin cruiser. He originally planned to name it the Maureen A, but his daughter had other ideas. During one of their coastal stops, they visited a harbor restaurant where Maureen spotted a greeting card with the words Instant Joy. And just like that, the boat had its name. Instant Joy lived up to its title, bringing years of happiness and unforgettable memories to all who had the pleasure of boarding her.
Frank is survived by his daughter, Maureen A. Moore; his brother, William "Billy" Moore; his sister, Janice Moore; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his grandson Joseph M. McCole, his brothers Clarence Jr. Moore and Harry Moore, and his sister Beverly Moore.
Frank will be deeply missed by all who knew him-for his steady presence, his unmatched work ethic, his creativity, and the joy he brought to family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, July 14th, 2025, with family visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by public visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with a graveside service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the
American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are under the care of Desmond Funeral Home | 638 High Street
Bath, ME 04530 | (207) 443-4567
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank Walter Moore, please visit our floral store.