James Edward Brinkler, 83, of Newcastle, Maine, often lovingly referred to as Bebe, passed away peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by his family, on December 14, 2025.  Born on May 10, 1942, in Lynn, Massachusetts, he was the son of Dorothy (Murphy) and Frederick Brinkler.

Jim received an Associates Degree in Engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology, and received a Bachelor's Degree with honors in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University, all while working full time and having 3 small children at home, with a fourth child to come later. He went on to build a distinguished career at Maine Yankee in Wiscasset, ME, surviving many referendums, rising from the role of engineer to assistant plant manager, where his professionalism and dedication were widely respected. 

Deeply committed, and a true pillar of his community, Jim served as a Newcastle firefighter for over 20 years, was a member of the Newcastle Town Selectmen, and volunteered extensively with the Alewife restoration efforts at the Damariscotta Mills Fish Ladder, a community project near and dear to his heart. His successful grant writing on behalf of several community projects benefited the community at large and enabled the purchase of new fire trucks for the Newcastle Fire Department. In earlier years, he was a Bristol Boy Scout leader and Little League coach, guiding countless young people with patience, integrity, encouragement, and his signature good humor. 

Jim was a man of strong principles and quiet generosity, known for his “wicked quick” sense of humor and his genuine respect for others. He never hesitated to lend a hand and always took the time to help where it was needed most. Above all, he cherished his family. He especially loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and spending time surrounded by those he loved.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Cyndi (nearly 60 years); his son, Michael and wife Carole; his daughter, Mia and husband Marvin Farrin; his son, Jamie and wife Gretchen; his cherished grandchildren, Alexis, Liam, Jade, Jewel, Levi, Eli, Malachi, Addie, Celia, and Bodhi; and his great-grandson, Owen. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara and her husband, Michael Burke; as well as numerous, cherished nieces and nephews.

Jim was predeceased by his son Dan; his brother, Kenneth; and his parents Dorothy and Frederick Brinkler.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Emergency Department and ICU team at Miles Memorial Hospital, as well as the Lincoln County Ambulance crew, for their exceptional expertise, compassion, and dedicated care.

Jim will be dearly missed and forever loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00pm, on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home in Damariscotta.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00am, on Friday, March 6, 2026 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Newcastle.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543.  Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: www.StrongHancock.com.