LARRY MAHANEY

The death last weekend of Bangor businessman and philanthropist Larry Mahaney was, first, a loss for family and friends and second a loss to the many organizations he generously supported. He will be missed in both roles, his absence felt acutely by the many who relied on him.

Mr. Mahaney, the former chairman of the board and CEO of Webber Energy Fuels, died Sunday evening after suffering a massive stroke last week. He was 76. He was known for his work expanding Webber but also as a benefactor to his alma mater, the University of Maine, and to many other schools and colleges in Maine.

Upon his retirement in December 2001, he summed up his outlook on both business and athletics: “Business, like life, is a game of giving of oneself; and he who gives the most plays the game best.” A former standout athlete at Fort Fairfield High School, Mr. Mahaney had been a baseball coach there and a football and basketball coach at Brewer High School before joining Webber. Upon his retirement from Webber, some of his former players wrote to the BDN to describe the gifts he had given them.

“The concept of self-discipline, both physical and mental, the ability to deal with and overcome adversity and, most importantly, the necessity for taking responsibility for one’s own actions were only some of the lessons learned from Coach Mahaney,” one wrote.

“I’ll never forget his fire and enthusiasm and his teaching ability. He also had the one quality every great coach possesses – he could scare the hell out of you! He was a terrific coach for me and my good buddies who went on to play at the University of Maine,” wrote another.

Mr. Mahaney’s name can be found in several prominent places at UMaine, including its baseball diamond and, recently on an air-supported dome to be used for various sports and activities. Over the years, Mr. Mahaney has donated millions of dollars to improve athletic facilities on campus, when dollars for these benefits were scarce.

Born in Easton, on Feb. 8, 1930, Mr. Mahaney worked in Aroostook County potato fields during his youth. He once said these beginnings inspired him to do more. He did much more, substantially expanding a company, supporting universities, especially athletic programs, providing the facilities that may help others follow their own paths to success. He will remain an example of the wealth that is accrued by those who give back to their communities, a wealth that benefits both giver and receiver and endures as a legacy for decades to come.