Midcoast lobsterman who died hauling traps known for work ethic

Roy Knight, a Harpswell Neck lobsterman known for his work ethic, died Aug. 10 while hauling lobster traps, according to an interview he gave for the book Salt in Their Veins: Conversations With Coastal Mainers. Knight described taking a job at Bath Iron Works after lobster season ended, saying it wasn’t about money—“you worked.” Raised in Harpswell Neck near Mitchell Field, he started helping on lobster boats in high school, despite his parents’ preference that he complete education. He later learned refrigeration systems at what is now Southern Maine Community College, then went to sea on the Grand Banks before switching among fishing types as stocks changed. He led the Interstate Lobster Co-op and supported local volunteer services, including Harpswell Neck Fire and Rescue.