WEST ROCKPORT — Linwood W. Thorndike, 72, a lifetime resident of West Rockport, passed away peacefully July 19th, 2014, at his home.

He was born April 16, 1942, in the same house where he lived and died, the son of Ralph and Ellen Thorndike. Predeceased by his father; his mother; and his brother, Ralph, Linwood leaves behind his sister, Barbara Drake and her husband, Donald; his daughters, Judith Belanger and her husband, Bryan, and their sons, Bryan Jr., Matthew, Benjamin and Samuel of Lee, N.H., and Rebecca Macomber and her husband, Elwin, and their sons, Seth and Colby of Belmont, N.H.; a sister-in-law, Donna Thorndike; as well as great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and longtime friends, Lois Bragg, Don Frye and Jeff Hall.

Linwood held several jobs in his lifetime including working at the Rockland Exxon, Edwards Ice Cream, Armour Meats, Pool Brothers, Rockport Green Grocer, Rockland Wholesale and Fisher Manufacturing; but Linwood's real love was his home where he spent much of his time gardening. He inherited his green thumb from his mother, and always had an abundance of fresh veggies that he loved to share. He also had a fondness for getting in his car and going for a drive with no real destination. He especially enjoyed visiting Harborside in Cape Rosier.

His other loves were his family and sports. Known as "Grandpa Baseball" to his grandsons, Linwood had a love for all sports and remained an active supporter of local and professional sports.

A conversation with Linwood would often reveal his infectious smile and signature wink. He will be remembered as a hard-working man, good friend, loving father and a proud grandfather, with a tight hug that would often take you off your feet.

He attended the Orffs Corners Community Church in Waldoboro.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit Thursday, July 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland. A funeral service will be held Friday, July 25 at 2 p.m. at the West Rockport Baptist Church at 545 Park Street. Interment will follow in West Rockport Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to a local sports charity of ones choice.