Fort Kent-- Eric Werntgen, 46, beloved educator, athletic director, and coach lost his recent battle with depression on Thursday, January 28, 2021. Often deemed "the tallest man in Fort Kent", his personality and demeanor stood out more than his stature. Born to Herman (Will) and Joyce Werntgen on November 22, 1974 he was the youngest of three siblings (Kurt and Neal) and grew up in the backwoods of Essex Junction Vermont. Basketball and spending time with friends was how he spent his childhood days, which naturally transferred into a career in education spent around sports and people where he influenced so many students, athletes and members of the greater community. Through his connections with the University of Maine at Fort Kent and Maine School Administrative District No. 27, Eric was known throughout Aroostook County, Maine, and his native Vermont.  He will forever be remembered by all those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.  His energy, passion, and enthusiasm for life is how Eric will want to be remembered as he deeply cherished the relationships he had with others. While he will be missed by so many, he is survived by his beautiful daughters Lily and Avery and their mother Robin, his mother Joyce, brothers Kurt and Neal, step-brothers Matt and Mike, step-sister Lisa, niece Mallory and nephews Aidan, Aireon and Hunter. Arrangements have been entrusted to Lajoie-Daigle Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers please make donations to either:

• Fort Kent Community High School Athletic Department at 87 Pleasant Street, Fort Kent, ME  04743
• The Center for Grieving Children at https://greatnonprofits.org/org/the-center-for-grieving-children
• The Maine Chapter of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org/chapter/maine