Gary Karam

Gary Edward Karam Sr. passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 1, 2026 at the Bangor Maine Veterans Home. Gary was 93 years old, and he lived a wonderful life. He was born in Waterville, Maine on November 3, 1932. He was the son of Edward Lewis Karam, and Lurline (Small) Karam. Gary spent his formative years in Brighton; Pittsfield; and Bangor.

Gary was educated in a one-room schoolhouse in Brighton, by his mother, through the fifth grade. Gary graduated from Bangor High School in 1951. While in high-school, Gary loved working at his father's photography studio, "State Photo". Gary then graduated from New York Institute of Photography. He served for several years in the US Army in Germany during the Korean War as a communications specialist. He married Joyce Eleanor (Hazelton) Karam of Bangor in 1952, and they had five sons over a ten-year period. Gary worked at the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad for 42 years, and he retired as a locomotive engineer. He was General Chairman of the United Transportation Union for the Enginemen of the B&A Railroad. Three of Gary's five sons followed his footsteps and worked for local railroads.

Gary married Judy (Sudds) Karam in 1993. Gary and Judy resided in Fairfield ME; Hampden ME; and Palm City FL for numerous years. Gary and Judy traveled the world, including cherished visits to Israel, Egypt, Hawaii, and other places.

Gary enjoyed fishing, boating, camping, hiking, skiing, reading, and taking photographs over many years. He loved nature and animals, and had numerous beloved pets. It was a rare occasion to find Gary without his camera, and he imparted much knowledge of the subject to those around him. He also enjoyed his role as the unofficial family historian- frequently taking the opportunity to regale family with facts and fun stories. Gary was a man of faith, family, and photography.

Gary was predeceased by: his parents; wife Joyce in 1990; older sister Lorraine; his firstborn son, Gary Edward (Butch) Karam Jr.; and Butch's wife Cathy.

Gary is survived by his wife Judy. Gary is additionally survived by his four remaining sons: Glenn and wife Heather; Alan and partner Karen; Niman and wife Kimberly; and John; as well as Gary's brother, Conrad, all of Bangor. Gary is also survived by his stepson Scott Spugnardi and Scott's wife, Denise. Gary is additionally survived by his grandchildren: Jason, Jeremy, Shannon, Deanna, Shawna, Dylan, Noah, Abram, Gabriel, Rachel, Michelle, and Jared. Gary is further survived by his step-grandchildren Amanda, Timothy, and Matthew, as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graveside service will be held 11 am. Friday, June 5, 2026 at Maple Grove Cemetery, Church Rd., Bangor. The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments at the Family Reception Center of Brooking-Smith, 163 Center St., 2 pm to 4 pm. Friday, June 5. The Karam family sincerely appreciates all thoughts and prayers from friends and family. Special thanks to the Bangor Veterans Home. Gary will be missed. We will have fond memories of his warm smile and zest for life.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in remembrance may be sent to the Bangor Humane Society, or a Christian charity of your choice.