1916 – 2003

AUBURN – Bertrand D. Lavoie, 86, formerly of 22 Golder St., Lewiston, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, July 16, at his son’s house.

Born in Lewiston on Dec. 21, 1916, he was the son of Jules and Georgianna Lelieve Lavoie. He attended local elementary schools and was a graduate of Assumption Preparatory High School in Massachusetts.

He was a World War II combat infantry veteran, serving in the Pacific Theater and fighting at Guadalcanal, the Northern Solomons, New Guinea and the Philippines. On Feb. 10, 1947, he married the love of his life, Yvette Lemaire. She passed away in May, 2002.

He worked in the family construction business, J.J. Lavoie and Sons and went on to establish Colonial Decorating, a painting contracting firm, with his friend and partner Joseph Dussault. They served clients in the Lewiston/Auburn area for many years.

He built his own house on Golder Street in Lewiston where he and his wife raised their four children. His backyard was a favorite location for family and friends to gather and watch Lewiston High School football games.

He had many interests including gardening, reading, trips to Foxwoods, family gatherings, sports and traveling. A member of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, he was also a former member of Post 22 of the American Legion. He took great pride and joy in the academic, athletic and personal accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

He spent his final year of life under the love and care of his son Daniel in his Auburn home. His final wish was to thank both Dr. Roger Austin and all of the devoted care-givers from the Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice for the wonderful care they provided both he and his wife Yvette in their time of need.

Survivors include three sons, Marc and wife Linda of Lewiston, Daniel of Auburn, Ronald and wife Zoe of Saco; a daughter, Diane and husband Charles Bleakney of Lewiston; six grandchildren, Angela and Jeffrey Lavoie, Melissa and Allison Bleakney, Jessica and Jason Lavoie.

He was predeceased by a brother, Armand Lavoie; a sister, Carmen Lavoie Ginchereau.