AUGUSTA – Dr. Karl B. Colbath, 55, of Stevens Road, passed away early Monday morning, Jan. 16, holding his wife’s hand. He lost his courageous battle against cancer which began in October 2004.

He was born in Bangor on July 7, 1950, the oldest son of Burton and Ethel Stanhope Colbath.

He spent most of his youth in North Vassalboro and went on to graduate from the University of Maine at Orono. Knowing he wanted to help people in some way, he attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. He opened his optometric practice in downtown Augusta almost 30 years ago and moved the office to Meadow Road a few years later. Many of his patients became good friends and he eagerly looked forward to their visits, cards, gifts and phone calls over the past year.

He was very active in promoting better eye care for Maine. He was involved with the Maine Optometric Association and was an officer of the organization for several years, including serving as president. He was appointed by Gov. McKernan to the Maine State Board of Optometry and reappointed to serve on that board by Gov. King. He served in various positions on the board and was its president for several years.

He loved the outdoors and could be found many weekends with his “winter family” at Saddleback Mountain where he served as a ski patroller for 25 years. He enjoyed the long rides to the mountain with Hank, Dennis, Bob and Paul. He especially appreciated the time Fran and Heather spent with him this past year, keeping Saddleback alive for him with photos and slide shows.

He also loved photography, and would cherish the times he and Bob Ellis would spend talking photography and optometry. He will now spend his time on the mountain with Jen, taking photos, helping Barry milk his cows every morning and dancing with Lucie Rose and her Peppermint Twist monkey.

He is survived by his best friend and wife of 10 years, Dora Dostie; his mother, Ethel Stanhope Colbath; brother, Phil Colbath and his wife, Barrie; beloved niece, Jennifer White; mother-in-law, Rita “Mere” Dostie; brothers-in-law, Ronald, Marc and John Dostie and their families; and his “boys,” Gunner and Hunter.

Dr. Colbath thanks all those who touched his life during the past 15 months – his family, friends, and the caring staff at MaineGeneral Medical Center and Healthreach Hospice.