AUBURN – Joanne “Joan” Marie Dufour died Jan. 11 at the Androscoggin Hospice House, after courageously battling a long illness.

She was born on May 2, 1941, in Presque Isle, daughter of Camille and Lucille Albert Clavette. She was raised in Lewiston, worked at Country Kitchen for 20 years, before retiring due to illness. She lived in California for a number of years, till returning to this area.

Through the years, she devoted herself to her loving grandchildren Chad and Ryan, now living in Fall River, Mass., and 5-year-old Kadyn, who has been residing in her home since birth.

She was the light of her life, having always wanted a daughter. “Mei-Mei” and Kadyn were inseparable. Her son Ken has always been the love of her life, and they have shared a very special relationship. She loved biking, roller-blading and skating.

Joan is known for her dancing years, and had won many championships…….disco and ballroom were her specialty. She enjoyed fast cars, flowers, and was an avid doll collector. She appreciated all that God had to give, like the oceans, and landscapes. She loved and appreciated life. Her friendships were long-lasting and loyal. She gave often putting others first.

Survivors include her only son, Ken Dufour and fiancé, Misty White; her grandchildren, Chad Dufour, Ryan Dufour and Kadyn Dufour; two brothers, Herby Clavette and wife, Bernice, of Sabattus and Norm Clavette and wife, Lorraine, of Lewiston; four sisters, Jackie Clavet and husband, Roland, of Lewiston, Terry Ford and husband, Lore, of Whitefield, Diane Wyman and husband, Harold, of Turner, and Susan Wright of Lewiston; 16 nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Camille and Lucille Clavette; three brothers, Richard, Raymond and Joseph; and one sister, Jeannine Brown.

Much gratitude from family goes out to “awesome Dr. Austin,” and the nurses, cooks and staff and volunteers at the Hospice House, for giving her such wonderful care and support during this very difficult time of her life.