Donn Fendler | Was lost on mountain, 90

Donn Fendler, 90, who as a boy survived nine days alone on Maine's tallest mountain in 1939 and later wrote a book about the ordeal, died Monday in Bangor after being hospitalized for failing health, family members said.

Mr. Fendler collaborated with Joseph B. Egan on a book, Lost on a Mountain in Maine, which was required reading for many fourth graders in Maine. He also enjoyed visiting schools to tell his story.

"He loved Maine. He loved kids. He loved telling his story to kids to help them keep their cool if they get lost," his niece Nancy Fendler said.

Mr. Fendler said he used techniques learned as a Boy Scout to survive on Mount Katahdin, the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

He later received a medal from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was honored with a parade, and featured in Life magazine. - AP