ORONO — Gordon M. Derby, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 24, after a long illness.

Gordon was born in Manchester, Conn., and also lived in Stafford, Conn., before moving to Maine as a young adult. He was self-employed as an auto mechanic, but enjoyed restoring classic autos, as well. Gordon made many friends in the Auburn area through his work. He loved cars and was a bit of a free spirit with a quick smile and great sense of humor. He was happy with his pickup truck and his German shepherds, Harley and Harley II. Watching NASCAR races was a favorite pastime and he was an avid fan of Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Gordon leaves his mother and stepfather, Natalie and Neil Sedlak of Stafford, Conn. He also leaves his stepsister and her husband, Melissa and William Perkins, currently of Germany; and his stepbrother and his wife, Neil Jr. and Lisa Sedlak; and a niece and nephew, Anna and Samuel, all of Virginia.

He was dearly loved by his family and will be missed.

The family is extremely thankful for the loving care and attention Gordon received from the outstanding staff at Orono Commons and the staff from Beacon Hospice who were there to assist, as well. They worked together to make Gordon’s final days comfortable. A special thanks to his wonderful friend, Kelly, who helped Gordon in his time of need and was his true guardian angel.