POLAND SPRING – Ronald Zorn, 72, of Poland Spring died peacefully at his home on Thursday, Feb. 14, succumbing to prostate cancer.

He was born in Philadelphia; he established a strong work ethic early in life, learning to provide for himself in his teens after the estrangement of his parents and death of his mother.

He was married in 1966. Three years later, he and his wife and infant son left the city life of Philadelphia, moving to Poland Spring with two beloved dogs in tow.

Ron graduated an English major from Temple University in 1957. His love of and appreciation for literature and in particular poetry lasted his life. A masters of social work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1962 led to a life commitment to being available to those who sought counseling.

As a clinical social worker, he quickly appreciated the value of engaging a family systems approach in relieving individual struggle. He was a founding member of the Smiling Moose Family Therapy Alliance. His ongoing interest in poetry and the creative writing process drew him to engage in the masters of fine arts program at Goddard College, which he completed in 1994.

He was known for his unconditional giving to the dogs and cats that moved in and out of his life, his interest in and knowledge of blues and early jazz, his affection for and collection of books, his thorough reading of daily newspapers, and his dedication to the creative writing process and his writers groups. He enjoyed a diverse selection of movies, often initiating animated discussions afterward.

A devoted sports spectator, his commitment to the Red Sox was total and his understanding and acceptance of the “dance” of boxing mystified many. At age 42, he took up running. He was a member of the Androscoggin Harriers Running Club, enjoying the camaraderie and competition. He participated and completed numerous races, including 11 marathons.

He wished to acknowledge and express his appreciation to all the people who sought his counsel over the years, allowing him to develop and share his skills to support movement beyond disabling emotional pain and personal struggle. He believed in the inherent goodness of all people. His thoughtful reflections on life, his way of thinking and associations, his contagious enthusiasm toward his many eclectic interests and his gentle, kind ways of connecting with his family, friends, and clients will be missed.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Julia Huttel; their son, Michael Zorn and his wife, Nicole Cawley, of Connecticut; and their daughter, Jennifer Zorn and her husband, Joe Greeley, of South Portland; and two cats.

The family wishes to thank Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, whose in-home hospice services were greatly appreciated.