2026 Obituaries

Vera (Pulminskas) Martin, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, caregiver, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. She was 77 years old.

Born on May 16, 1949, in Hannover, Germany, Vera was the cherished daughter of Peter and Edith (Stachowski) Pulminskas. From an early age, she possessed a remarkable curiosity about the world and a deep desire to help others, qualities that would define her life's work and legacy. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Boston University, Vera embarked on a distinguished career in medicine. She first excelled as a laboratory technologist in the rapidly advancing field of hematology, later rising to Hematology Department Manager. Never content to stop learning, she continued her education and became a skilled Nurse Practitioner, dedicating her professional life to improving the health and well-being of those in her care.

Vera's commitment to service extended far beyond her profession. For more than three decades, she volunteered in Callao, Peru, where her medical expertise and tireless dedication helped establish a community clinic that provided free healthcare to underserved families and individuals who otherwise lacked access to medical treatment. Through her compassion and perseverance, countless lives were touched, and a lasting resource was created for the community she so deeply cared about.

Closer to home, Vera devoted herself to animal welfare through her volunteer work with Midcoast Humane. She opened her home and heart to numerous foster puppies, nurturing them until they could find loving forever families. Whether caring for patients, supporting communities abroad, or helping animals in need, Vera gave generously of herself and found joy in making life better for others.

Equally important to Vera was the gift of bringing people together. She delighted in organizing gatherings for family and friends, creating opportunities for connection, laughter, and treasured memories. Holidays, celebrations, and simple afternoons spent around a table were transformed by her warmth, energy, and thoughtful attention to every detail. Vera had a unique ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and loved, and the relationships she cultivated became one of her greatest legacies.

An avid traveler and adventurer, Vera embraced the world with enthusiasm. She visited every continent except Australia, always eager to learn about new cultures and experiences. Winters often found her skiing and snowshoeing through the White Mountains, while summers were spent exploring the outdoors she loved so dearly, sailing the coast of Maine, canoeing the Saco River, hiking Mt. Washington Valley, and even sailing throughout the Caribbean. Her adventurous spirit, curiosity, and appreciation for nature inspired those around her to seek beauty and wonder in everyday life.

Above all else, Vera treasured her family. She was a devoted and loving wife, a proud and supportive mother, a caring sister, and a beloved aunt whose guidance, generosity, and unwavering encouragement enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her strength, kindness, intelligence, and boundless energy left a lasting impression on family, friends, colleagues, and communities near and far.

Vera is survived by her husband, Dr. Kenneth Ault; her sons, Karl Ault and Ian Ault; her sister, Regina Cameron; her brother, Peter Pulminskas; her nephews, Benjamin Pulminskas and Erik Cameron; her nieces, Allison Cameron and Jessica Cameron; and two grandnephews. She also leaves behind many dear friends, colleagues, community members—and even four-legged and winged pets—whose lives were enriched by her companionship and generosity.

Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, Vera's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the communities she served, the lives she healed, and the countless acts of kindness she inspired. She will be remembered always with love, gratitude, and admiration. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Midcoast Humane, 5 Industrial Parkway, Brunswick, ME 04011. A celebration of Vera's life will be announced at a later date.