1928 – 2003

LEWISTON – Fernand Lucien Pontbriand, 75, died peacefully early Sunday morning following an inspiring battle with cancer. He was surrounded by devoted and loving family.

He was born in Auburn, Aug. 2, 1928. He was the son of Arthur and Ida Simard Pontbriand

He attended St. Louis Parochial School, graduated from Edward Little High School and the University of Maine, Orono, in 1950.

He entered the United States Army in 1951 and served until 1953. Upon his discharge, he worked briefly at Pontbriand’s Hardware. He owned and operated Valley Computers, Valley Sports, and managed the Downs Restaurant at the Lewiston Race Track. At the time of his death, he was general manager, partner and owner of Lost Valley, Inc.

He was a director of the Auburn Savings Bank from 1964 to 1998, serving as chairman of the board for 20 years. He also served as secretary of his condominium association at Old Orchard Beach.

He was devoted to his community. Among the many volunteer positions he held were Eucharistic minister for St. Marguerite d’Youville Pavillion, St Mary’s Regional Medical Center, St Louis Church and the Elder Care Services. He served on the board of Tri-County Mental Health Services where he held the position of treasurer. He also served on the Church Council at St. Louis Catholic Church, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Maine Ski Association and worked with Catholic Charities.

He had many interests including geneology, technology, travel, the arts, and a fondness for the ocean. He was a great organizer and had a penchant for hosting many gatherings to keep people connected, such as the “Out to Lunch Bunch Group.”

He was a loving and caring brother, uncle and friend. He was devoted to his life long animal companions, Patches and Simon.

He will be deeply missed by all who were inspired by his compassion wit, and humanity.

He is survived by two brothers, Bertrand and his wife Carmen Pontbriand, and Gerald and his wife Thelma Pontbriand; one sister, Muriel and her husband Frank Bartasuis;

a sister-in-law, Edwina Pontbriand; a special cousin, Muguette Gardner; 17 nieces and nephews, Judy Durgin, Claire Bryant, Jane Turner, Janet Cutter, Constance Maloney, Robert Pontbriand, Thomas Pontbriand, Daniel Pontbriand, Edward Pontbriand, Linda Pontbriand, Mark Pontbriand, Steve Bartasuis, Julie Bibeau, Michael Bartasuis, David Bartasuis, Laurie Chapman and Maureen Mooney.

He was predeceased by his parents; and one brother, Leo Pontbriand.

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