January 18, 1933 – March 5, 2025

HARRISON — It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Homer Charles Pence, who died peacefully with his children by his side, on March 5, 2025 at the age of 92.

Homer lived a full life, marked by his passion and dedication to music, education, and, above all, his family and friends, remaining a loyal and steadfast presence to all who knew him.

Born in Indianapolis, Ind., on January 18, 1933, he was the son of Theodore Charles Pence and Lillian Kimbrel Pence. Homer attended elementary and high school in Indianapolis, Ind., graduating from Thomas Carr Howe High School in 1950. He attended Indiana University’s School of Music on a scholarship for two years before joining the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra in 1952 at the age of 19, becoming one of the youngest bassoonists in a major symphony orchestra.

Homer met Judith Isenbarger in Indianapolis during the fall of 1955, and their mutual passion for woodwind music quickly connected them, setting the stage for a lifetime of love and a shared sense of purpose. They were married on July 16, 1956.

Homer remained with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra until 1957, when he and Judith moved to Cincinnati with their infant son, Terry. While continuing his musical studies at the Cincinnati College – Conservatory of Music, from which he graduated in 1958, Homer was named Principal Bassoonist of the Cincinnati Little Symphony. Homer’s dedication to classical music transcended his own development, leaving a lasting impact on generations of music students and fellow musicians alike. In 1958, he was named Professor of Bassoon at Ball State University and was also a bassoonist with the Muncie Symphony Orchestra and the newly-formed Musical Arts Quintet. His students not only respected him for his musical expertise but also adored him for his mentorship, camaraderie, and unwavering support. He remained a professor for 35 years, during which time he also welcomed his second child, Kristin, and earned a Master of Arts degree in Music and English literature. He continued to inspire generations of musicians over many decades, remaining active in orchestra, and playing with several regional orchestras including the Peninsula Festival Orchestra in Wisconsin for ten summers, and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra in 1978 where he served as Acting Principal Bassoonist.

A longtime summer resident of Maine, Homer was a co- founder of the Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival in 1973, serving as the festival’s music director for ten years, and as a regular performer until 1995. Co-founding the festival with his wife, Judith, and close family friends Paul Boyer, and Morris and Kay Knight, was one of Homer’s proudest accomplishments.

After his retirement, he spoke often of the pride he felt in having helped assemble a remarkable group of individuals who would carry the festival’s tradition forward and ensure its legacy in inspiring future generations of chamber musicians. Homer, who became a year-round resident of Harrison after his wife passed away in 2006, was proud to see the festival continue to thrive and enjoyed attending the concerts with his family and friends until his passing.

Throughout his life, Homer remained deeply committed to learning and staying engaged with his community. He was a proud member of the International Double Reed Society and the Society of Indiana Pioneers. A Life Member of the Harrison Historical Society, Homer also devoted time as an instructor and board member of Senior College at Bridgton, where he served as chair for several years. His passion for education and community involvement was a cornerstone of his life.

He also found joy in hiking, swimming, and practicing Tai Chi. He cherished spending time with family and friends, particularly over a good happy hour, and was a devoted fan of Jeopardy, often answering questions faster than the contestants. His loss is deeply felt by everyone who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife and best friend of 51 years, Judith, who passed away in 2006. He was also predeceased by his son-in-law, Bill Magrath, husband of his daughter Kristin, who passed away in 2023.

He is survived by his son, Terry Pence (wife Rebecca); daughter, Kristin Magrath; grandchildren, Kelsey Pence and Alex Pence; and his longtime beloved companion, Audrey MacIntyre.

In July, there will be a memorial concert in Homer’s honor as part of this summer’s music festival in Harrison.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Harrison Village Library, PO Box 597, Harrison, ME 04040; The Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival, P.O. Box 544, Harrison, ME 04040; or the Ball State University Foundation, Muncie, IN 47306.

Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, 8 Elm Street, Bridgton. Online condolences may be shared with Homer’s family at www.chandlerfunerals.com