G. Peirce Webber

A person could live many years in Bangor and not know of G. Peirce Webber. He was not well-known among those who go about their day-to-day routines outside of the world of philanthropy, although astute residents might have wondered at the coincidence of having a doctor’s visit at the Webber building at EMMC while one son or daughter was studying at Husson’s Webber Campus Center and another was making plans to attend Bangor YMCA’s Camp Webber.

The words “pillar of the community” spring to mind when thinking about G. Peirce Webber but they are not quite accurate. Mr. Webber, who died Tuesday at age 91, was more than that. He might best be characterized as the foundation that supported the pillars. He was generous with his gifts to so many organizations, yet it was often his advice that was most appreciated and valuable to the long-term well being of the community.

Mr. Webber’s unassuming and quiet dignity won the respect of all who knew him. Norman Ledwin, CEO of Eastern Maine Healthcare, not long ago observed, “He has extraordinary judgment, combined with patience and remarkable understanding of investments. He leads and guides very quietly. He’s sort of the E.F. Hutton of Bangor. Peirce listens to what committee members have to say and when it’s his turn everyone stops to listen, because he has such wisdom.”

Upon being graduated from Harvard College in 1933, Mr. Webber began to manage his family’s longtime land holdings, some 300,000 to 400,000 acres of Maine timberland. His acumen in the stock market not only made him and those lucky enough to listen to his investment suggestions wealthier, it made him highly sought after by social-service and other nonprofit organizations. His service throughout his long life is a standard for others to try to meet and a glimpse at what truly makes communities operate.

Bangor has lost a great deal with his death, but examples of Mr. Webber’s generosity will be appreciated for many generations to come.