It is Maine’s first-ever recorded death by Shark attack. The victim has been identified as 63-year old Julie Dimperio Holowach. A seasonal resident who lived in New York City. She was attacked in the water off Bailey Island.
Even as a seasonal resident, Ms. Dimperio Holowach made an impression on the local community.
“She was always the lady who had a smile on her face,” said Mary Coombs, a friend of Ms. Dimperio Holowach who lives in Bailey Island.
According to Women’s Wear Daily, Ms. Dimperio Holowach was a retired fashion industry executive who had worked at the VF Corporation and Kipling USA.
Ms. Dimperio Holowach was also a board member at Sea Bags, a tote bags and accessories company in Maine.
“Her passion for the ocean, the state of Maine and causes we believe in made her an invaluable supporter and friend,” said Don Oakes, chief executive of the company, in a statement.
Major Beal said Ms. Dimperio Holowach and her husband were “well-known, very respected individuals” in the town of Harpswell, which is northeast of Portland.
“The community is really at a tough juncture in trying to process yesterday’s event,” he said.
More from the NYT’s here. The Boston Globe has an in-depth interview with the kayakers who pulled her from the ocean here. (subscription may be required).
As noted yesterday, our thoughts and prayers are with the family and now the community – for the tragic loss of life and this unpleasant marker in the state’s history.
