1925 – 2003

RUMFORD – John E. Garneau, 78, of Ridge Road, Peru, passed away Sept. 17, at the Rumford Community Hospital. He was born in West Peru, March 22, 1925, a son of Omer W. and Mable A. (Knox) Garneau Sr. Mr. Garneau attended local area schools.

He served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. In 1946 he married his beloved wife, Midell (Pratt) Garneau in Rumford. For over 35 years he worked for the Oxford Paper Co., retiring in 1980.

Mr. Garneau was very involved in his community, for several years he served as the Selectman for the town of Peru and was the President of the Local 900 union, he also coached little league in the town of Peru for several years.

He was a member of the Robert Shand Post 16641 VFW, Fraternal Order of Eagles, American Legion Post 100, and was a former member of the Le Parasseux Snowshoe club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and was an avid chess player. He was a wonderful father, husband and friend to all who knew him.

Mr. Garneau is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Midell Garneau; one son, Larry Garneau of Peru; five daughters,

Avis Richards and companion, Bernard Belskis of Mexico, Paula Martin and husband John of Rumford, Jeanie Duguay and husband Peter of Mexico, Doris Lathrop and companion Mike of Kittery, and Joyce Crask of Terrel, Texas; four sisters, Frances Moffett and husband Vern of Sante Maria, Calif., Priscilla Hilgenberg and husband Donald of Matlacha, Fla., Beverly Powell of Peru, Jeanne Blunda and husband Vito of Peru; two sisters-in-law, Audrey Garneau of Peru and Julia Garneau of Canton; 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins; many special and dear friends, especially Bob Marcoux, John Mooney and Vito Blunda.

He was predeceased by one son, Paul Garneau in 2000; and three brothers, Cleston, Omer Jr. and Marshall.