1928 – 2003

AUBURN – Fernand Lucien Pontbriand, 75, died peacefully early Sunday morning, Aug. 10, following an inspiring battle with cancer.

He was surrounded by devoted and loving family. He was born in Auburn, Aug. 2, 1928, the son of Arthur and Ida (Simard) Pontbriand. Mr. Pontbriand attended St. Louis Parochial School, graduated from Edward Little High School and the University of Maine, Orono in 1950.

He entered the 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. Mr. Pontbriand 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 a devoted to his community. Among the many volunteer positions he held were: Eucharistic minister for St. Marguerite d’Youville Pavilion, 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. “Fern” had many interests including geneology, technology, travel, the Arts, and a fondness for the ocean. He was a great organizer and had penchant for hosting many gatherings keeping 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.

Survivors, Bertrand and Carmen Pontbriand (brother and sister-in-law), Gerald and Thelma Pontbriand (brother and sister-in-law), Edwina Pontbriand (sister-in-law), Frank and Muriel Bartasuis (sister and brother-in-law); Muguette Gardner (special cousin); 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.