08/27/2026
The Sanford Water District is saddened to learn of the passing of former Superintendent Dennis T. Knowles, who served the District from 1980 until his retirement in 2011.
Dennis was a true “water guy”, someone who made public water supply his life’s work. During his tenure, Dennis oversaw significant improvements to the District, including the development of three new sources of water supply and the implementation of the District’s wellhead protection program.
His commitment to the water profession extended well beyond Sanford. Dennis served as President of the Maine Water Utilities Association (MWUA) in 1989, was a recipient of the Jeff Nixon Distinguished Service Award, served as President of the Southern Maine Regional Water Council, was an active member of the MWUA Water Resources Committee, and was a longtime member of the New England Water Works Association.
Dennis made a lasting difference at the Sanford Water District and in Maine’s water profession. Much of the system and organization we have today was shaped by his leadership, dedication, and commitment to providing affordable, safe and reliable drinking water to the community.
We are grateful for Dennis’s many years of service and extend our sincere condolences to his wife Penny, his family, friends, and the many colleagues who had the privilege of working with him.
Dennis will be greatly missed, but his contributions to the Sanford Water District and the water profession will not be forgotten.
Dennis T. Knowles — August 9, 1941 – August 24, 2026
Obituary:
Dennis T. Knowles, 85, of Kennebunk, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Seal Rock Healthcare in S**o following a period of declining health. Dennis was born in Hartland, Maine, on August 9, 19
