AUBURN – Roger J. Rheaume, 82, silently went home to the Lord on July 2, at The Hospice House in Auburn with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Lewiston on Sept. 4, 1925, the son of Delphis and Antonia (Berube) Rheaume. He attended local schools and worked in the mills until he enlisted in the U.S Navy at the age of 18 and served in WWII.

He then reenlisted in the U. S Marine Corps to serve in the Korean War. On Feb. 28, 1953, he married the former Barbara Corey and they settled in the Lewiston-Auburn area where they raised their five children. He was an extremely hard worker and was employed at L & A United Grocers until his retirement. He also worked part time at St. Mary’s Hospital as a security officer. One of his enjoyments in life, besides his family, was tuna fishing on his boat at Mackerel Cove, Bailey’s Island. Although he was a man of few words, he loved his children and grandchildren; he was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He loved his country and had a deep faith in God. He attended Mass at St. Gregory’s Parish in Gray for many years and continued his worship during Bible studies and Sunday Masses offered at his retirement home.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara; four daughters, Jacqueline Federico and her husband, David “Rocky” of Poland, Debra Ireland and her husband, Terry, of Bowdoinham, Cathy Vaillancourt and her husband, Roger, of Lewiston, Brenda Rheaume and her companion, John, of Livermore Falls; and one son, Stephen Rheaume and his wife, Carrie of Auburn; seven grandchildren (his pipsqueaks), Chad Federico, Stacey Laflamme, Kaycee and Troy Theberge, Lacey Emmons and Monica and Michael Fisher; five great-grandchildren, Devon, Madison, Mason, Trinity and Connor; and several nieces and a nephew.

He was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Muriel Minnehan, and a brother, Delphis “Junior” Rheaume.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Austin and the staff at The Hospice House. They were certainly a team of angels who showed compassion, kindness and love during our time of need.