Kevin Gerard Fahrman
July 20, 1955 ~ April 20, 2023
Resided in:
Falmouth, Maine
Falmouth – Kevin Fahrman
Our hearts swell with sadness as we say farewell to our cherished friend and Patron Saint of All Things Camera and Kindness, Kevin Fahrman, who departed suddenly at the age of 67. Maine grieves the loss of a beloved son, while his family and friends struggle to find solace in this heart-wrenching time. Kevin is survived by his wife, Patti Urban; his daughters, Sierra and Kelly; his son, Colin and his partner, Amy Anderson; and his brother, Brian Fahrman.
Kevin's profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him is undeniable. His unwavering support, endless patience, and remarkable technical expertise empowered many, enabling them to embrace their artistic vision. However, Kevin was more than just a skilled mentor; he was a gentle hero, a steadfast friend, and a source of laughter and love.
As we remember Kevin, we cannot help but smile through our tears at his infectious humor, practical jokes, and the long-held secret that he was a visionary behind Portland's Valentine's Day Bandit. Yes, you read that right. For decades, this mysterious figure warmed the hearts of the city by placing hundreds of red paper hearts on storefronts and notable landmarks, and huge banners in unexpected places. Kevin's simple yet powerful gesture brought joy and love to the community, reminding us all to cherish our loved ones and treasure the place we call home.
With a humble and gracious heart, Kevin selflessly devoted himself to his community, touching countless lives with his kindness and generosity. His unwavering commitment to his family was unparalleled, knew no bounds. One of Kevin's passions was SailMaine, where his daughter Sierra sailed for many years. He tirelessly captured the beauty of the races through his extraordinary photography, donating his time and talent to the cause. His love for sailing and the community is a testament to the incredible man he was.
We cherish the priceless work of art that was Kevin Fahrman, and we will miss him dearly. In the face of this tremendous loss, we unite in our grief and our love for Kevin. As we move forward, we must honor his memory by emulating his generosity of spirit, his selflessness, and his unwavering support for others. We strive to carry the light he brought into our lives, allowing his spirit to guide us in our quest to be better people.
Rest in peace, gentle giant. We will miss your brilliant mind, your kind heart, and your boundless love. Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that you live on in the countless lives you touched and the beautiful memories we hold dear.
In the words of a dear friend, "We'll see you when the light is just right.”
A celebration of the life of Kevin Fahrman will take place on Tuesday, April 25 at the Portland Yacht Club, Route 88 in Falmouth. There will be a gathering at 2:00pm, speakers at 3:00pm, and reception from 4:00 to 5:00pm.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of Portland.
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When a stranger has this much of an impact on your life, you grieve and give thanks. Thank you, Kevin. At almost 40 yrs old, the Valentine’s Day Bandit has impacted every year of my life. It brought me so much joy, it brought my children so much joy. We are just so, so grateful for you.
I sadly didn’t have the opportunity to meet Kevin, but his actions as the Valentine’s Day Bandit brought such incredible joy to our community for decades. Thank you, Kevin, for all you did to make this world a little bit better.
I did not know Kevin, but like so many was thrilled by the hearts posted all over the community on Valentine’s Day. What a gift! Thank you, Kevin. And my deepest sympathy to the family for their unexpected loss…
So sad to hear of this news and so proud of Kevin’s creativity and community engagement that affected so many so deeply! Our deep condolences to the family from Maine College of Art & Design (formerly Portland School of Art).
Kevin was one of my best friends at IHS
We would alway go in hiking trips on the Appalachian trail. He and I rode our bikes from Western Conn. to Pt Judith R.I. and stayed at Block Island for a week. Then cycled up to Cape Cod.
He dated my little sister Joanie for a year.
At least I have my memories. I will miss you and Tony Avampato who only passed a couple days earlier.
Bob Wixted
You have lost the love of your lives and it hurts very very much and my thoughts and prayers will hopefully give you a bit of Peace. My short time knowing Kevin has been so very special. May your hearts be full knowing that he made you and so many others happy and joyful.
I first met Kevin in 2022 when an image he entered into the Maine Photography Show was accepted and he was delivering it for display. We immediately connected on several levels. #1 photography,# boats and #3 outlook on life. He was so vibrant and funny. We talked for a 1/2 hour. His image of schooner rigging was original and like him full of life. When I redesigned the photo show and made it an invite show to highlight individual photographers I immediately invite Kevin. He accepted and was humbled by the company he was joining. No need as his work as I said is great. He showed up with 35 images and I was so happy that he got this opportunity.
To Kevin’s wonderful family. Like everyone I was stunned and saddened so much for you and everyone. I had just met Sierra at the reception for The Maine Photographers Showcase and saw what a wonderful connection she had with her dad. I am sure that all his children and wife had this as well. have faith that all will be well.
I had to announce at the beginning of the Maine Photographers Showcase that I might not be available as I had just broken my leg. Got many well wishes including from Kevin. Several days later low and behold Kevin had done the same. HHmmm ! Did that happen hanging hearts.
Sending lots of love. Thinking of all of you and holding you close to my heart.
I met Kevin when I took one of his SMCC classes probably 8-10 years ago. He was an inspiring educator and taught me A LOT about design. We also connected on a personal basis and our teacher/student relationship transcended the typical dynamic. I so deeply appreciate his influence and friendship. I know he is one of the Portland OGs with scads of friends from all walks of life, and I’m grateful for his stellar membership in our community. I want to express my hurt and sadness that he is gone. Our loss cant be soothedright now, but it does help to know that he has left a genuine legacy. Thank you, Kevin. You were one of the real ones!
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Kevin was my friend. I have lived next to Kevin and Patti for 21 years. We watched Sierra grow up, had many hundreds of streetside chats-I miss the days of fire pits in the driveway at happy hour- We took pottery classes together at Portland pottery- he was an artist through and through. The most special and touching thing he ever did for us was on the morning of our son Chesley’s birth: somehow he snuck into our room at Mercy hospital, literally moments after The main event-my husband, Pat had just put Chesley on my chest, and Kevin SO discreetly, took several gorgeous pictures of this fresh, still-wet newborn and me. I barely knew he was there that morning. A few days later Kevin stopped over with prints. I was and always will be blown away by Kevin’s magical thoughtfulness, tenderness and true generosity. A giver behind the scenes-doing everything for the sake of love and goodness-not for attention, praise, notoriety. Just because it came from his heart.
Thank you for making the world a kinder and happier place. The anticipation of the Valentines Day bandit was a great gift you shared; hearts secretly appearing around the area let us know true love and kindness still exist.
Though we’ve never met, you will be remembered fondly.
There’s a small group of us who could be called “Pierce-exx” – former colleagues of Kevin’s at Pierce Promotions who all now work at IDEXX (and he also worked here!). We’ve been sharing stories and really fond memories of Kevin and how he impacted our lives for the better. He took some us under his wing and taught us the ropes, he made our jobs easier with his amazing design work, and more importantly, he made us laugh and helped us keep our heads on straight in a crazy environment. None of us knew that Kevin was the “Valentine’s Bandit”, but now that we know that, all we can say is “of course he was”. After all, he had a lot of heart… a lot of heart. Rest in Peace my friend.
I was a client and he took the best photos – hands down! And as everyone knows, he was one of the nicest people on the planet.
I worked with Kevin when he was at IDEXX. So many great memories of Kevin and everyone in the graphics department. He was so creative, funny and witty. A warm and caring soul. Gone too soon. My sincere condolences to Patti and Sierra.
Kevin’s spirit will live on through his girls, Colin and most of all Patti. His friends will circle them all with love and support. He will be missed but he set an example we should all follow. Rest in peace Kevin.
Thx for all those 💕’s over the years! 💕 May God Bless
First of all, the Valentine’s Bandit pulled off the best public art annual event, ever. Obviously, he had lots of helpers, including the businesses of Portland. I once saw the flag in storage at the observatory and thought… they need to do a bit better in keeping the magic. The unknown of who ‘the valentine’s bandit was, and the consistency of his emblem, the massive coverage and the simple message, was indeed very special. I would like to know what Portland is doing to keep the hearts coming each Valentines Day. Also, is there a way to get involved for people who would like to be the elves for the Valentine’s day bandit, and continue his fantastic legacy.
Again, one of the most impressive pieces was how consistent each paper with a heart was… the shade of red and the placing. It was obvious if it was indeed the valentine’s day bandits work, vs a business or community who went rogue. That is part of what made this so incredibly magical, and something I looked forward to year after year. Sincerely, a true fan, Elizabeth Ann Miles
Love and kindness.
You are already missed, Kevin, and you always will be.
Kevin was a truly kind and loving soul.
I met Kevin decades ago in another lifetime, when Alan & I were building Deweys. He was the first bartender we hired, and we weren’t even done having the place built.
My heart goes out to Kevin’s family.
What an absolutely amazing, caring, talented, kind, and funny human being Kevin was. I loved him as an instructor and as a person without question. I major in the Communications and New Media Studies (CNMS) program at SMCC, and I took 3D Animation and Digital Art with him, and boy he knew how to be a great instructor and crack a joke or two from time to time while still remaining professional and approachable. I loved how he taught us what goes behind the scenes in 3D Animation from everything from Monsters, Inc. to Shrek and so much more, and how to explore your creative side with Photoshop in Digital Art. He was truly one of a kind and he will truly be missed. But one thing I know for certain: he will be very proud of the great work I am doing and how I am exploring my creative side. Kevin, you are truly a legend of legends and words cannot describe how much I miss you.
Rip buddy gone but we will never forget you ever
So sorry for the loss of Kevin he had a big heart from reading everything about him from the news that they posted on line and from his obituary he had a big heart he will be missed rest in peace my friend wish I could have met you because you were an amazing person from everything I’ve read about you.
He had a big heart
Caring, hard working man
He helped many people and was the Valentine’s Day bandit who put ❤️’s around town every year.
The hearts he put up every year at Valentine’s Day.
Caring had a big heart.
Valentine’s Day
The Valentine’s Day bandit
Kind, big hearted, open minded, extraordinarily talented, great sense of humor, generous in heart and soul.
He was an extremely talented artist and musician
His smile
Everything
Just by being him
You have made the world a better place in so many ways and I am sorry that I lost touch with you over the years. I wish I could have hugged you and told you that I love you before you left.
Soooo many things it’s hard to list them!
Many years ago I had the pleasure of working with Kevin and the joy of having him a friend. His many extraordinary talents, kindness, open heart, sensitive nature, wit and humor will be dearly missed. When people like Kevin leave this soon, it’s truly a tragedy but he will never be forgotten.
Driving him around in a 17ft Boston Whaler, as he bounces around the bow, trying to both capture the racing and keep his camera dry.
Damn it! Get back here
Damn Kevin! I am going to miss seeing you on Facebook!
I have a son who is friends with Sierra
Kevin made me laugh, really laugh, every day at Sweet Potato, so many years ago. He was a genuinely kind and sweet man. My sincere condolences to his family who had the fortune to share a life with him.
I met Kevin when we both worked at Moose Alley in the Old Port in 1980. Tall and handsome and charming, he could usually talk a drunk belligerent customer out of the bar without raising a hand. He had the gift of gab. The BEST story teller, joke teller and listener too. He taught me how to rock climb, attempted to teach me how to surf and patiently explained the basics of celestial navigation. He was natural born teacher and a truly wonderful friend. The photos that he took of family and friends at my wedding were amazing. He could capture a person’s soul with his lens. I will miss my dear friend for the rest of my days. We were all so lucky to know him. 💔
Oh, gosh. A beautiful and giving soul is now inspiring us all from above. Kevin has given joy to so many for so many years. My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.
Our deepest condolences.
The Noyes family
In a world that sometimes feels increasingly difficult to feel deep love and connection, I can only imagine the pain of the loss of those of you who knew Kevin. I never had the honor to know him; but his simple and rippling act of love, kindness, and generosity each year will never be forgotten. It is incredibly difficult to heal from sudden losses. Please be as kind and loving to yourself as possible.
To Kindness
Hello,you don’t know me: however I meet Kevin a few times down on the waterfront in Portland,he is one of the nicest people I’ve ever meet,never really knew who he was,just a nice person which is rare in today’s climate, so sorry for your family, Thank You for your time
I worked with Kevin at IDEXX many years ago. I actually knew he was the bandit so when I heard the story on NPR (all the way south in Knoxville, Tennessee) about the passing of the Portland, ME valentine bandit, I knew who they were talking about. As I recall, he would be up all night committing his good deed. I thought it was the coolest thing ever. What a great guy and what a great loss to the community and his family.
Kevin’s presence was a gift to all who knew him. His loss is felt far and wide. My condolences to his family.
We have been lucky to be among Kevin and Patti’s neighbors for the last 10 years. We have a special street, and Kevin is one of the key figures responsible for making it a warm and welcoming community. He makes everyone he talks to feel special and heard; he is an important role model to the kids; not to mention the unique place he has in all the families he has chronicled with his beautiful photography. We will miss you so much, and will try to be kinder and better people in your honor. – Lesley, David, Oliver, Sammy
Patty sending you and your family love and prayers
It always seemed we all got Valentine’s when we saw those hearts everywhere. He brought joy to perfect strangers and will be missed.
Valentine’s Day will never be the same. What a beautiful man to touch so many lives.
Kevin and I graduated from Immaculate High School together. I have so enjoyed reconnecting with Kevin on Facebook over the years and have been blown away by his amazing gift as a photographer. I was looking forward to seeing him at our upcoming reunion. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in God’s peace.
Good to know you
Marjorie Collins
Lived seeing all the Hearts around Portland on Valentines Day!!
Thank you so much fir you generous, kind acts!!
Thank You!
My sincere condolences to family and friends! His Valentines touched all of us! Want to thank him for such a generous and thoughtful tradition! Just Thank you!
My sincere condolences to Kevin’s family and friends! I just want to Thank Kevin for his generous kind act of being the Valentine Bandit! Made us all smile and so enjoyed his hearts all over Portland!
Just a community member who appreciated his act of kindness!
THANK YOU!
How do you spell love? – Piglet
You don’t spell it. You feel it. – Pooh
Kevin had great style, should I dare say Swagger? He was just a cool dude, confident, good, and just a genuine person.
Shocked and deeply sorry to hear of Kevin’s passing. We met through work at IDEXX. He was always approachable and bent over backwards to be helpful. He introduced me to Photoshop and opened my eyes to it some of its possibilities back when that software was still in its infancy. He was a visual artist, a musician, a renaissance man. Would that there were more like him. He’ll be deeply missed, but long remembered. My sincere condolences to family and friends.
Kevin was the first student I met at PSA.
I remember bombing around the boulevard with my dad in the 80’s seeing a heart on every house door. Dad says, “That is the Valentine Bandit.” Then 10 years later, I meet the legend my freshman year at IDEXX and learn his identity. I remember the jokes, the pranks, the unwavering can-do attitude, the joy, the talent, the laughs, and the beautiful pictures Kevin took of my family. My dad just passed away on Valentine’s day. It will always be a special time to remember them both.
I saw you over 50 years ago. We sat and “learned”, most of the time you drew, designed, and made me burst out with laughter from your cartoons. How did I know you were “good”? I saw your soul in your eyes…in your smile. In your voice. GENUINE. MY WORD FOR YOU.
IMMACULATE HIgh School
Kevin was good at bringing people together – if there was a professional project or a volunteer event and Kevin was involved, you knew that it was going to be good and it was going to be fun. He brought out the best in all of us. Condolences to Patti, his children and his family. Godspeed Kevin.
Our sincerest condolences to Kevin’s family. We will miss him. Sorry we are not able to be there with you during this time.
Thinking of you, dear Kevin. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Your ♥ will be missed and hopeful that your Crew will carry on your ♥ legacy ♥️
Rest in Power Mr. Fahrman. Thank you for sharing your love with us every Valentine’s Day.
Thank you for sharing the love
I did not know him personally My Mom the late great Helen Doughty Curran was a 1951 graduate of Portland High School I was blessed to spend my school and summer vacations with my beloved grandparents on Chebeague Island in Casco Bay ,hence Portland is near and dear to me The Valentine’s Day Bandit idea would warm even the coldest heart, May he rest in eternal peace and rise in glory
Ms Stephanie Charlotte Curran
New York City