Mason Police Chief Kevin Maxwell has died after a long battle with cancer, passing away on Saturday, April 11, surrounded by extended family.
A wake was held for Maxwell on April 17, attended by members of law enforcement, firefighters, emergecy responders, and family and friends. The wake included a traditional formal walkthrough at Michaud Funeral Home in Wilton.
Maxwell has been with the department for 14 years, and served 11 as chief of police. Maxwell had been on medical leave from the department, which is currently being led by Sgt. Richard Fortin as acting police chief. In an announcement of Maxwell’s passing posted by the Mason Select Board on the town’s website, the board confirmed that Fortin will continue to serve as acting police chief in the immediate future.
The board expressed their thanks to Maxwell for his long service to the community.
“Chief Maxwell led with compassion and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” the board’s statement reads. “He was deeply passionate about education and training within the department, always striving to ensure that those he led were prepared, supported, and empowered to serve the community with professionalism and care. His kindness toward residents was evident in every interaction, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.”
Prior to his service in Mason, Maxwell has also served in several other local communities, having spent his entire adult life in law enforcement. He has previously served in the communities of Brookline, Milford, Lyndeborough, both as a police officer and prosecutor and chaplain.
“Even through his sickness, Chief was always upbeat. He never lost faith in the Lord, and showed it with his courage through this battle,” the Mason Police Department shared in a Facebook post about Maxwell’s passing. “Chief Maxwell has served the Town of Mason for the past 14 years of dedicated police officer, supervisor and Chief. He will missed by many of you worked with him, and the people he served as a police officer. Prayers for his family as they go though this time.”
Maxwell is survived by his wife, Christine, five sons, and eight grandchildren.
A funeral, prayer service and burial are scheduled for Saturday, May 23 in Dublin.