1925-2012

LEWISTON — Robert H. Croteau, 86, of Waterboro and formerly of Lewiston, died Sunday, Nov. 18, at Togus Veterans Hospital in Augusta.

Robert was born in Lewiston on Nov. 20, 1925, the son of Henry and Bernadette Plante Croteau. Robert grew up in Lewiston, entered the U.S. Navy in 1943 and was honorably discharged in 1946 with several ribbons, stars, a Purple Heart and a Presidential Ribbon while serving on the USS Philadelphia, the “Galloping Ghost of the Sicilian Coast”.

Robert was former president of the Pastime Club for many years and was employed at Cushman Shoe and other shoe shops in the Lewiston and Auburn area.

Robert resided with his foster son, David L. Beaudette for more than forty years. For the last six years, Robert lived with David and his wife, Michelle in Waterboro where he spent quiet, quality time which he enjoyed very much. There, he enjoyed time with his Alan and Alicia as well as Norman Gagne and Muriel of Lewiston.

Robert was very proud of his grandson, PV2 Tylor Raymond, David’s son, who is currently active in the Army Airborne Field Artillery Regiment. As Tylor so movingly stated, “No words can begin to describe the impact Pepe’s actions had upon, not only the ones close to him but also the ones so far”. A man with simple words, with even greater meaning.