AUBURN — Albert J. Blais, 81, of Russell Street, Lewiston, died Sunday, Aug. 26, at the Hospice House of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, with his family by his side.

He was born in Rumford, March 9, 1931, a son of the late Joseph and Eleanor Roy Blais. He was educated in Lewiston schools and graduated from Hanson Barber School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, where he was awarded two Bronze stars.

Mr. Blais was a member of the Prince of Peace Parish at Holy Family Church and operated Blais Barber Shop, until June of this year. He enjoyed bowling, traveling, going to the casino and most of all puttering in his beautiful backyard. He was the happiest when friends and family filled his backyard and enjoyed his pool.

Al will be remembered for his service to our country; he was extremely proud to be an American Army Veteran. He was also known by many as the local barber; between barbering at the Brunswick Naval Air Base and his own business “Blais Barber Shop” he barbered for more than 50 years. He turned his business over to a wonderful Marine, Don Bourgoin 18 years ago; but never wanted to stop working and manned the shop one day a week for all those years. He loved his customers, he enjoyed the conversations about politics, family, the Bruins and any other subjects that would come up.

His family will remember him as a loving spouse, father, grandfather and friend who was always there for everyone. He was our Hero.

He is survived by his wife, the former Jeannine Rousseau of Lewiston, whom he married Nov. 17, 1956; three daughters, Suzanne Blais and her companion, Gary Boilard, of Auburn, Michelle Bates and husband, Larry, of Minot and Denise Blais of Danbury, Conn.; four grandchildren, Kassidy, Erin and Deklan McManus and Conner Pettengill; and four stepgrandchildren, Kyle and Brian Bates and Darcy and Megan Pettengill.

He was also predeceased by his sisters, Louise, Theresa, Irene and Alice; his brothers, Ray, Bert, Normand and Maurice; and stepgrandchild, Justin.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Pandi and the staff at the St. Mary’s Infusion Center specifically Jennifer Hazen and the nurses at the Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice Center. Your kindness and compassion was more than any family could ask for.

Online condolences may be shared at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.