Bucksport Grocer Expanded Business, Dies at 73

Dale Tozier Sr. grew family's grocery stores across Maine before passing away.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:52pm

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Dale Tozier Sr., a grocer who expanded his family's grocery business from Bucksport to Searsport and Brewer, Maine, died on Monday at the age of 73. Friends and family remember Tozier as a devoted family man and pillar of the community.

Why it matters

Tozier's story highlights the challenges and rewards of growing a small, family-owned business in rural Maine over multiple generations. His ability to adapt and expand the business across multiple communities is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to serving local customers.

The details

Tozier took over the family's grocery store in Bucksport and grew the business by opening additional locations in Searsport and Brewer. He was known for his dedication to customer service and community involvement.

  • Tozier died on Monday, March 13, 2026.
  • Tozier had run the family's grocery business for decades.

The players

Dale Tozier Sr.

A grocer who expanded his family's grocery business from Bucksport to Searsport and Brewer, Maine before passing away at age 73.

Nolan Atherton

Tozier's grandson, who remembered him as a 'great grandfather' and 'real family man'.

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What they’re saying

“He was a great grandfather, a real family man,”

— Nolan Atherton, Tozier's grandson

The takeaway

Tozier's story demonstrates the enduring importance of family-owned businesses in Maine's small towns and the ability of entrepreneurs to adapt and grow their companies over multiple generations.