Michael E. Ambrose

ORONO - Michael E. Ambrose, 72, passed away peacefully at his home March 21, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 27, 1953, in Bangor, the son of Edwin "Breezy" and Mary (Wahl) Ambrose.

A proud graduate of John Bapst High School, Class of 1972, Michael went on to attend the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking in New York in 1977. This marked the beginning of a distinguished lifelong career in the jewelry business. In 1983, he purchased DeGrasse Jewelry Store in Orono, originally founded by Jim DeGrasse in 1963. Over the decades, Michael built lasting, trusting relationships with his customers. He retired in December 2018, marking the occasion with his final "annual" Christmas party and sale-a beloved tradition for those seeking the perfect last-minute gift.

Even throughout his illness, Michael was a familiar face in Orono, often seen on his daily walks with pockets full of biscuits for every dog he encountered. He was a dedicated and hardworking member of the Orono Kiwanis Club for several years. Above all, family was his cornerstone; he was a kind, supportive, and genuinely caring presence in the lives of those he loved.

Michael's family wishes to extend special thanks to Dr. Gary Ross for his exceptional care and friendship, and to Jimmy Thomas for his steadfast support and companionship on many trips to Boston for treatment.

Michael leaves behind a wide circle of friends. He cherished his "Monday group" playing pitch at the Old Town American Legion, his cribbage partners who shared his love of a good cigar, and his fellow golfers at Penobscot Valley Country Club, where he was a member for many years.

In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his sister, Teresa A. Bowen, and his brother, John Ambrose. He is survived by his brother, Richard W. Ambrose and wife, Linda, of Glenburn; his nieces and nephews: Rachel Ambrose and her son, Keenan Ambrose Jones; Richard E. Ambrose and special friend, Shari Haley; Leah Ambrose and fiancé, Paul Dunbar; Benjamin "Ben" Bowen; Johnna M. Daugherty and husband, Franklin, and their children, Harry and Isla; and John W. Ambrose II.

Funeral prayers and the Rite of Committal will be held at 11:00a.m., Wednesday, May 27, in Riverside Cemetery, 170 Bennoch Rd., Orono. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.