Christian John Andrew Small

South Burlington -

Christian (Chris) John Andrew Small, 84, passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2025, at the McClure Miller Respite House following a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Chris was born in southern England and grew up in north London; later he lived in Bristol and Edinburgh before moving to Portland, Maine in the late 1990's. In the UK he worked for the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, which reflected his deep reverence for nature, and where his reputation as "Chainsaw Man" was launched.

He was a "train spotter" from a young age, joining his long-time friend Jim on many "loco" adventures; that passion led to his many years of volunteer work with the Maine Narrow Gauge Railway - initially as a track repairman and later serving on the Board of Trustees.

As a parent Chris was keen to pass on his love of the arts and the English language that developed in his early years through a close bond with his Grandfather (the British artist Percival Small) - and his daughter Sabrina's childhood was strongly influenced by this love.

He is predeceased by his beloved barn cat, Sparta, and many other pampered house-cats.

Chris is survived by his wife Jean Fraser, his daughter Sabrina Small, and many "Small" cousins and other relatives based in Edinburgh, Scotland. A "Celebration of Life" service will take place in Portland, Maine early in 2026.

If you would like to remember Chris and honor his memory, donations in his name to Breakwater School (856 Brighton Ave., Portland ME 04102) are appreciated.