AUBURN — Marie Ange Lessard, 83, of 1092 Hotel Road, Auburn, formerly of Blake Street, Lewiston, died peacefully Monday, July 12, at the John F. Murphy Home.

She was born on Nov. 10, 1926, the only child of Philippe and Ida (Gosselin) Lessard. She attended St. Peter’s School, and was a member of Prince of Peach Parish at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

She lived with her parents until the death of her mother on April 14, 1986. With the help of her cousin, Lorraine Samson, Marie and her father went to live at the Oddfellows Home in Auburn until his death on Jan. 26, 1989. Lorraine was instrumental in finding homes locally for Marie so other relatives could easily visit, and subsequently found her a place with a Mr. and Mrs. Robert in Lewiston. The Roberts were very good to Marie and when Mrs. Robert died, Mr. Robert could no longer care for her.

Marie moved to John F. Murphy Home, 1092 Hotel Road, Auburn in August 2004. Marie had a special place in her heart for all animals. She begged and asked the team for “un petit chien blanc.” The team broke down and agreed to let Marie adopt a miniature white poodle.

Unfortunately, “Princess” died of old age about 18 months later. Marie did adopt another miniature grayish poodle. She named him Popeye! He was her faithful companion. Marie enjoyed her friends and staff at the Social Learning Center, shopping, swinging outside on the swing, feeding the birds, planting flowers, all types of arts and crafts, going on picnics, boat rides, especially train rides, and to any animal parks and farms.

She enjoyed her French culture and language. She loved listening to French music, watching the Mass on TV, and the “Price is Right” with Bob Barker. She was the happiest living with her housemates and the caregivers at JFM.

She is survived by cousins, Flo Chandonnet, Lorraine Samson, Donald Martin, Andre DuBois and his wife, Janet; her special friend Noella; housemates, Geraldine, Bobby, George and most of all, the loving, wonderful and exceptional caregivers at JFM on 1092 Hotel Road.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Lessard family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.