Surry - B. Dennis Payson Jr., passed away unexpectedly due to complications from surgery. He passed peacefully while surrounded by loved ones and will be missed by many. He is survived by his mother Ellen Spooner and husband Peter, his father Burton Payson and wife Fran, and by many immediate and extended family.

Dennis’ journey through life touched all that he met. He was simply hard to forget after meeting. Whether it was his infectious smile or quick whit, he left a lasting impression. If you were lucky, he may have indulged you in a quick joke or funny anecdote. The ultimate gift was hearing him play an instrument especially the drums. His love of music was contagious during his lifelong obsession. He would frequently play at family gatherings, holidays, before and after work, basically anytime he could. His drums currently sit in the great room of his house, which he played daily for all to hear.

As a vault of knowledge, he would often use his charm and impress you with all he knew about sports, especially ice hockey. He faithfully followed his beloved Boston Bruins and could give you any important stat for any player from any era at a drop of a hat.

Dennis was an avid golfer and would hit more balls in one day than a P.G.A professional. As the constant perfectionist, he was always critiquing his swing coming up with the next technique. He’d take any opportunity to tell those who asked.

Work was another passion of his. He was a self-made success who, with his wife Vicki by his side, worked tirelessly to establish his flooring business, Carpet One, which has been going strong for over 30 years. He also invested in commercial property and created the ultimate retirement plan: pizza and golf. His continued passion for golf resulted in joining Colin Gillies to create Traditions Golf and Learning Center and Pat’s Pizza of Holden. After playing a round he would proudly provide entertainment to patrons perfecting his new craft as a pizza maker.

His numerous talents and gifts of music continue to bring joy to his family and friends and captured the heart of the love of his life Vicki. Family means the world to Dennis. Even with all his successes, his proudest moments involve his sons, Justin, Benjamin, and Nicholas, and continues with his grandchildren, Grady, Kyla and Riley.

He would have good and bad days but you would never be able to tell the difference. It’s impossible to capture the essence of a man who touched an incredible amount of people, young and old, near and far.

A Celebration of Dennis’ Life will be held on Tuesday April 24 from 3-6 PM at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center Street Bangor, Maine. In lieu, of flowers, please write a note, fond memory, or moment to Vicki and family for the Book of Dennis, as he is our hero and his story needs to continue.

Donations in Dennis’ memory may be made to: Bangor Human Society, 693 Mount Hope Avenue, Bangor, Maine 04401, or to your local shelter. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com