Bangor, Maine - Gary Edward Karam Sr. passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 1, 2026, at the Bangor Maine Veterans Home. Gary was 93 years old and lived a wonderful life. He was born in Waterville, Maine, on November 3, 1932, to father Edward Lewis Karam and mother Lurline (Small) Karam.

Gary spent his formative years in Brighton, Pittsfield, and Bangor. Gary graduated from Bangor High School in 1951, then New York Institute of Photography. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean War as a communications specialist. He married Joyce Eleanor (Hazelton) Karam of Bangor in 1952, and they had five sons over a ten-year period. Gary worked at the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad for 42 years, and he retired as a locomotive engineer. He was general chairman of the United Transportation Union for the Enginemen of the B&A Railroad. Gary married Judy (Sudds) Karam in 1993. Gary and Judy resided in Maine and Florida for numerous years. Gary enjoyed fishing, boating, camping, hiking, skiing, reading, and taking photographs over many years.

Gary was predeceased by his parents; wife, Joyce, in 1990; older sister, Lorraine; his firstborn son, Gary Edward (Butch) Karam Jr.; and Butch's wife, Cathy. Gary is survived by his wife, Judy. Gary is additionally survived by his four remaining sons, Glenn and wife, Heather, Alan and partner, Karen, Niman and wife, Kimberly, and John; as well as Gary's brother Conrad, all of Bangor. Gary is also survived by his stepson, Scott Spugnardi and wife, Denise. Gary is additionally survived by his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, June 5, 2026, at Maple Grove Cemetery, Church Road, Bangor. The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center St., from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday, June 5.

The Karam family sincerely appreciates all thoughts and prayers from friends and family. Special thanks to the Bangor Veterans Home. Gary will be missed. We will have fond memories of his warm smile and zest for life. Friends and family are welcome to read the full obituary and express condolences at BrookingsSmith.com.