AUBURN – Fernand O. Ouellette, 79, of Lewiston, passed away at the Hospice House in Auburn on Friday Sept. 15.

He was born in Lewiston on Jan. 9, 1927, the son of the late Edmond and Beatrice (Berthiaume) Ouellette.

He attended Lewiston schools until the eighth grade, when he served in the Navy during World War II. Upon his return home he went to work for many years at the Continental Mill, then later worked at the Brunswick Naval Air Station as a member of the crash and rescue team.

His life was full of activities. He was a member of many organizations, including the Knights of Columbus 106 as a 3rd and 4th degree member, and a past Grand Knight, The Elks Lodge, American Legion Post 22, the Jacques Cartier Club, and the Holy Family Parish.

He is survived by his wife, Irene (Chabot) Ouellette, of 55 years; three daughters, Rita (Michel) Lajoie of Lewiston, Doris (Gary) Witherell of Monmouth, and Diane (Thomas) Draper of North Monmouth; seven grandchildren, Denise Mochamer, John and Rachel Lajoie, Brent and Bryan Witherell, and Gina and Ashley Draper; and eight great-grandchildren.

He is predeceased by two brothers, Dorel and Conrad; two sisters, Theresa Delano and Germaine Ouellette; and an infant son, Joseph.