ORONO — About 40 close friends and relatives of outgoing Gov. John Baldacci gathered Tuesday night at the Penobscot Valley Country Club in Orono to recognize his years of service to the state of Maine.

Bob Baldacci, the governor’s older brother, said his family is proud of his track record. “He is a real guy, very genuine. He deeply cares about people and he loves the state. He always has had this deep sense of public service. He brought dignity and respect to the governor’s office.”

Additional Photos

Skip and Carolyn Chappelli, Gov. Baldacci, and Jack and Betty Cashman. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Baldacci brothers, from left, Peter, Robert, John and Joe Baldacci at Gov. John Baldacci's party Tuesday. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Gov. John Baldacci, right, along with nephews and nieces including, left to right, Robert Baldacci of Waltham, Mass.; Andy Baldacci of Bangor; Caroline Baldacci 11, of Bangor, and Olyvia Baldacci, 9, of Bangor. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Governor John Baldacci and George Hale of Bangor at a private party for the governor at the Penobscot Valley Country Club in Orono Tuesday. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Gov. John Baldacci, center, his cousins Paul Mitchell, left, of Waterville and Billy Mitchell, also of Waterville. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Debbie Baldacci, first lady Karen Baldacci and Elizabeth Baldacci.. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Jack Cashman of Brewer, chairman of the state Public Utilities Commission, along with Valerie and Bill Osborne of Bangor at the private party for Gov. Baldacci. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Baldacci said his brother has not announced what his future may hold, but added that he could be interested in pursuing a career in teaching.