LINCOLN—After a very long and hard-fought haul with various medical issues, Gilbert E. Solomon, 80, passed away May 19, 2023, at his residence. As the story goes, Gilbert was born in the middle of the Penoscot River on the Ferry between Chester and Lincoln on October 6, 1942, a son of Joseph and Henrietta (Ireland) Solomon.

Gilbert has always been a strong hardworking man, he started working in the woods at age 12, obtained his Commercial Driver's License at age 15, holding his CDL until his death. He owned and operated S&S Logging out of Chester for many years and in 1986 began his long-haul career out of transportation companies in Bangor. He and Carolyn became “team drivers” and drove all over the country for many years. In later years, Gilbert returned to Maine and hauled logs or drove dump truck. He could operate any kind of equipment.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, jig saw puzzles, crafting with Carolyn, making beanhole beans, or selling produce out of his little farm stand. He was a member of the Penobscot Indian Nation.

He is survived by his life partner of 37 years Carolyn Dickinson; son Reggie, several grandchildren, niece, nephews, and cousins. A heartfelt thankyou to a special cousin Linda Chesley and her husband Cary for their love and support over the years. He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers Randolph and Harold, half-brother Jerome, daughter Lisa and son Joe.

A graveside service will be conducted 2PM Thursday June 29, 2023 at Pine Grove Cemetery, Hartland. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org or the American Heart Association www.heart.org