Jeff Powers, co-founder of popular Bigelow Brewing Co. in Skowhegan, dies

Sep. 21—SKOWHEGAN — Jeff Powers, who along with his wife founded the popular Bigelow Brewing Co., died suddenly on Tuesday, according to a statement on the brewery's Facebook page.

No cause of death was immediately given.

Bigelow Brewing Co. has grown into one of the leading craft breweries in the state.

Powers' interest in brewing began when his wife Pam bought him a home brewing kit for Christmas in 1989, according to the brewery's website. He knew soon after that he one day wanted to open a brewery. That day came in 2014 when the couple, both 52 at the time, launched a microbrewery out of their barn, featuring two brews called Lying Bastard and Dementia Dog.

They would go on to create one of the top breweries in Maine, distributing to more than 700 locations. They focused on using ingredients and goods made by regional producers, and they were active in the community by supporting various causes. Plans are underway to relocate the brewery to the former Solon Manufacturing mill on the island in downtown Skowhegan. It wasn't clear Thursday if Powers' death may impact that relocation.

"Our Bigelow family is struggling to come to grips with the loss of such a compassionate, loyal, hardworking man," said the statement on Facebook. "He will be missed every day by his family and the Skowhegan community."

The public is invited to attend a memorial service that's scheduled to begin at noon Saturday, Sept. 30, at the brewery at 473 Bigelow Hill Road in Skowhegan.

This story will be updated.