Kenneth Schools Jr.

HOULTON - Kenneth Schools Jr. "Buddy," 66, passed away on November 26, 2025, surrounded by family after fighting a very short and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on March 18, 1959, in Houlton, to Kenneth and Winona (McAfee) Schools.
Instilled with the County work ethic, Kenneth worked hard his whole life, both in farm fields and in the woods. Ken was a true woodsman and spent years on the job running a skidder and a well-sharpened chainsaw. His skills were apparent because in 25 years he never once got injured. Wood was again his next choice of career, working as a planer operator for both Farrar's and later Bartlett's Sawmills. Ken's final ten years of yet another career in wood was for Vegetation Management as an arborist.
Retirement found Ken creating a custom-built forever home for both himself and the love of his life, Cindy. His artistry was apparent as he continued to landscape their beautiful property.
Ken was an artist with wood and would transform it into unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. He transformed tree burls into beautiful bowls that he carved with... a well-sharpened chainsaw. Ken's creations were shared with many friends and family. His handcrafted gifts are scattered throughout their homes and are treasured works of art.
Ken dearly loved his daughters and showed it in many ways, and was proud to be able to share his passion of craftsmanship and carpentry with his son, Tyler. Ken adored his grandchildren; he cherished every visit he had with them just to catch up.
While Ken was a quiet, private man who loved to be at home, many looked up to him as a friend and big brother. Other hobbies and interests of Ken's included: sports, music, feeding the birds, hunting, fishing, playing pool with Tyler, and enjoying the shop.
Ken is predeceased by his mother, Winona (McAfee) Schools.
Ken is survived by the love of his life, wife, Cindy "Cin," together 52 years; two daughters, Amanda (James) Folsom, Nichole (Jerry) Hanning, and son and best friend, Tyler Schools; Grandchildren-Devin, Haven, Bronson, Gage, Ariah, Fletcher, Ali, and Scarlett; Great-Grandchildren-Porter, with two more on the way: Callum and baby Folsom. Ken is survived by his father, Kenneth Schools Sr., siblings Lori, Diane (Bob), Ronnie (Patty), Phil, and Randy (Lori), several nieces and nephews, plus several great-nieces and great-nephews.
So many thanks go out to the health professionals in guiding Kenneth in his journey: Dr. Mark Cucuzzella (Internal Medicine-HRH); Northern Light Bangor's team of cancer doctors and compassionate nursing staff; Dr. Snyder-Lafayette Cancer Center-Brewer; Northern Light Presque Isle-floor two-all became part of Ken's family; and lastly, to the nursing staff and doctors at Houlton Regional Hospital, with a special recognition of Patty. You were all absolutely amazing to Ken and his family. It took a village, and Ken's family cannot thank each of you enough for your compassion and caring.
Ken will be remembered for his kindness, unwavering integrity, and love for his family.
"Go to your happy place and stay there."
At Ken's request, there will be no funeral.