OLD ORCHARD BEACH – Robert Gerard Violette, 70, of Old Orchard Beach, died Tuesday afternoon, March 22, at his home, surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born in Lewiston, on Jan. 12, 1935, the son of Ludovic and Gladys (LeBrun) Violette. He attended Lewiston schools.

He worked in construction for many years, as a member of the Carpenters and Millwrights Local 407, even serving as the financial secretary for a number of years. In 1977, he and his wife, Jeanne, moved to Old Orchard Beach and constructed and ran the Neptune Motel, which was sold in 2004.

He was a member of the Richelieu Club and was active on the Old Orchard Planning Board until 1989, when he suffered a stroke that paralyzed his left side. He was a communicant of St. Margaret’s Church in Old Orchard.

He and his wife enjoyed going on cruises, as well as traveling to Florida and Foxwoods. He gave nicknames to many friends and family members, often teasing that he was an angel. The tourist children agreed, adding that he was “L’Ange Noir avec des Cornes” (The Black Angel with Horns).

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jeanne Filteau; two sons, Gregory and his wife, Michelle, of Limerick and Thomas and his wife, Janice, of Springvale; one daughter, Kathy and husband, Gregory Butterfield, of Old Orchard Beach; two brothers, Arthur and Roland; two sisters, Rita and Theresa; five grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; two great-grandsons; and five stepgreat-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Francis and Roger; and stepgrandchild, Brandy Butterfield.

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