Obituary of Gary Edward Karam

Gary “Butch” Edward Karam, Jr. passed away December 26, 2020, after spending Christmas day at home with his family. He was born April 7, 1954. 

Butch was a graduate of Bangor High School, Class of 1973. He spent most of his working days as a brakeman/conductor for Bangor and Aroostook Railroad, working alongside his brother and father.  He was also a custodian at the University of Maine in Orono. He will be remembered by those that knew him as eternally positive and always willing to lend a hand to anyone at any time, no questions asked.  He was a one of a kind spirit, his personality bloomed like a cartoon character sprung to life, with that quirky grin and an unforgettable laugh, and that unquestionably Butchy dialect.   He made everyone feel like they were loved and important. He made small interactions turn into lifelong friendships and the list of those he considered true friends is immeasurable.

He loved the outdoors, bow hunting, and being on the water fishing. If he wasn’t doing those things, he could surely be found on the deck, grilling and enjoying the sunshine. He also had a passion for loud rock n’ roll and big hugs. If you were ever on the receiving end of a Butch hug, you most certainly remember it. It was strong, tender and unforgettable.

Family meant everything to Butch, he was a son, husband, brother, uncle, a grandfather and a dad, all roles that he took to heart. He especially took to the absolute love of his life, his wife Cathy. He lived for her and they were seemingly never apart. He loved and was particularly proud of his son and only child, Jason. The blueprint he laid, and the role model he was for Jason is exceptional. Perhaps his favorite role in recent years was that of ‘Grampy’ to his grandsons, four year old Calvin and three month old Max. His bond with Calvin was as special as any connection between child and grandparent could be. Together they were two peas in a pod, always laughing and looking to make each other smile, and you could tell he was going to be right there with Max before long too.

Butch was predeceased by his mother Joyce Eleanor (Hazelton) Karam.  He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Cathy; father Gary Edward Karam; son Jason Edward Karam and wife Monica; much loved grandsons Calvin and Max; brother Glen Karam and wife Heather Karam, and Glen’s children Jeremy Karam, Shannon Karam, Deanna Karam; brother Alan Karam and his children Dylan Karam and Shawna Philbrick; brother Niman Karam and wife Kimberly, and their sons Noah Karam, Abram Karam and Gabriel Karam; brother John Karam and his children Rachel Karam, Michelle Karam and Jared Karam.

A celebration of Butch’s life is being planned for June. 

Arrangements by Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, 299 Union St., Bangor.  Messages and memories may be shared with the family at kileyandfoley.com