Ashland, Maine - Elden E. "Junior" York Jr., 72, husband of the late Karen G. (Blair) York, passed away Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at a Bangor health care facility, surrounded by his daughters and son-in-law. Junior was born June 16, 1954, in Ashland, the son of Elden E. Sr. and Marie "Ella" (Long) York.

He was a graduate of Ashland High School, class of 1974, and was married to Karen G. Blair on January 25, 1975. Junior owned and operated York's Welding for more than 40 years and traveled all over the state of Maine and Canada to help fix anything big or small. He fabricated many things, but the one thing he specialized in was homemade gates.

In addition to his parents, Junior was predeceased by his high school sweetheart and wife of 45 years to the day, Karen G. York, on January 25, 2020; one sister, Cathleen M. York; father-in-law, Angus Blair; mother-in-law, Avril (Colbath) Blair; brothers-in-law, Les McPherson, Melvin Theriault, and Rodney and Norman Blair; one sister-in-law, Virginia Burpee; nephew, Mark McPherson; and very special friend, Rodney Allen. He is survived by two daughters, Autumn A. Howes and her husband, Dana II, and Mary Ann "Marzie" York, all of Ashland; grandchildren, Johnathan Howes and his wife, Cameo, and Julian Marie Howes; brothers, "The York Boys," Charles and Carl York, all of Ashland, and Edwin York and his wife, Susan, of Sweden, ME; sister, Leona York of Caribou; many nieces, nephews, family members and friends. Junior had numerous businesses and individuals he worked for, too many to list.

In keeping with Elden's wishes, there will be no services at this time. Elden and Karen will be laid to rest together later next year. Those who wish may contribute in memory of Junior to the charity of organization of one's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Giberson-Dorsey Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 144 Main St., Fort Fairfield. Online condolences may be expressed at gibersondorseyfuneralhome.com.