Walter “Toppy” Puiia

FREEPORT – Walter “Toppy” Puiia, 88, of Freeport, Maine, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 6, 2026.

He was born in 1937, the son of James and Ada Puiia. As a young man, he worked in Freeport sewing shoes and later worked for CMP for 30 years. He was a proud Army Veteran.

Toppy’s true passion in life was the great outdoors. An avid sportsman, he found joy in the quiet moments spent in a deer blind or with a fishing rod in his hand. Many of his favorite stories were of the “big one that got away” or a successful hunting trip with family and friends.

When he wasn’t out in the woods or on the water, he could be found snowmobiling, ice fishing, driving his Ford truck and sitting in his chair, watching tv with his favorite beverage.

Walter is survived by his wife, Hedy; his daughters, Lorna and Kristine; his grandchildren, Zachary and Olivia; his sisters Barbara Reaves and Judy Puiia; many nieces, nephews; and extended family members

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ada, and brothers, James and Robert.

We will miss his quiet strength, his good advice, known as “Top’s Tips”, and his presence at his camp on Baker Pond, but we find comfort knowing he has found all the good spots “up there”.

There will be a private burial service in the spring.