SMITHFIELD - Alfred "Wayne" Cappen, 69, of Smithfield, Maine, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, with his family by his side at Lahey Hospital in Burlington, Massachusetts. Wayne was a loving husband, father, and papa. He often said, "The highlight of my life was marrying Linda and raising my three children; everything else is just decoration." Wayne was born on March 17, 1956, in San Antonio, Texas. A true Texan at heart, he attended Vidor High School before joining the United States Navy. In the Navy, he served as an Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Apprentice with Patrol Squadron Forty-Four at Naval Air Station in Brunswick, Maine. After completing his military service, Wayne dedicated his professional life to the shipbuilding industry. He began as a shipfitter and later became a dedicated warship designer at Bath Iron Works. His innovative designs and unwavering dedication made significant contributions to the evolution of the shipbuilding industry. Wayne was an integral part of the industry, leaving a lasting impact with his exceptional skills and commitment. Throughout his career, Wayne and his wife, Linda, lived and worked in Bath. Where he established himself as a respected and admired figure in his profession and within the community. After retiring, Wayne moved back to Texas with Linda, later relocating back to Maine to be closer to his family. Wayne met his bride, Linda Patterson, through mutual friends in Bath. They married on August 4, 1975, sharing 49 years of inseparable happiness. Together, they raised three children and supported them in all their endeavors. Wayne was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Topsham, where he served in various capacities, including as Scoutmaster. Wayne devoted a substantial part of his life to the meticulous preservation and celebration of the legacies of two prominent family lineages: the Patterson family and his own—the William and Joiccine Williamson families. His research and dedication to genealogy enabled him to uncover and share the rich narratives of family ancestors, bringing their histories to life. He uncovered stories of resilience and triumph that shaped identities through generations. This work brought him immense joy, fostering a deeper connection to his heritage. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Diana Cappen; a sister, Deena Cappen; and a brother, Mark Cappen. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Cappen, who was the joy of his life and his partner in all things. His children also survive him: Shawn Cappen of Smithfield, Shannon Porter and her husband, Christian, of Portland, and Kimberly Leask and her husband, Lance, of Winthrop; ten grandchildren: Gavin, Travis, Victoria, Isaac, Kaylee, Keedra, Katelynn, Kiara, Lilyana, and Lance Jr; and nine great-grandchildren: Scarlett, Lucas, Lincoln, Delilah, Aiden, Liam, Everleigh, Josiah, and Elianna. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Aleta Cappen of Vidor, Texas; his nephew, Seth Cappen, and his wife, Allison; and his great-niece, Piper of Beaumont, Texas. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, embracing his warm companionship, and admiring the remarkable legacy he crafted throughout his life. He was loved by his family and all those who knew him. Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Staples Funeral Home in Gardiner, Maine. A celebration of life will take place on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 33 Pinewood Drive, Topsham. A graveside service with Military Honors will follow this at 1:00 PM at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery Association – Section J, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta. We invite friends and family to share memories and upload photos of Wayne to his memorial page at www.staplesfuneralhome.com. Your shared stories and images will help us remember and celebrate the life of this remarkable man, including his contributions and the love he shared with all of us. Arrangements and guidance are provided by Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, located at 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.