1932 – 2012

LEWISTON — Ernest R. LaBrie, 79, of 100 Campus Ave., Lewiston, has gone to his heavenly home. On the morning of Nov. 29, he passed away unexpectedly, with his wife, Jacqueline, at his side. Though he was frail in health, he was strong in spirit and had eternal faith in God. He loved his family and quietly enjoyed his retirement years.

Ernest was born Dec. 30, 1932, in Lewiston. He was the son of Victoria Gagnon and Ernest LaBrie, who are both deceased.

After his youth was spent in Auburn, Ernest enlisted in the United States Air Force and was sent to Japan as a supply technician during the Korean conflict.

When he returned to the States, he became engaged to Jacqueline Beauchesne of Lewiston.They were married on July 3, 1954, at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he attended police training courses and joined the Lewiston Police Department. During his tenure with the force, he completed coursework in criminal justice at the University of Southern Maine and Northeastern University in Boston. He served many years as a patrolman, juvenile officer and retired with the rank of detective.

He began a second career with Bates College Security and achieved the rank of assistant security director, serving the college in that capacity until 1994. He then accepted a retirement position with the Bates College athletic department, where he was active until 2001. In his retirement, he enjoyed reading and spiritual studies and was a great fan of the New York Yankees.

Ernest is survived by his wife of 58 wonderful years, Jacqueline; and his daughter, Susan, of Manchester, N.H. He was the grandfather of four, Camellia, who lives in Milford, N.H. with her husband, Brian Sousa, Nathan and Perry Gagne, who live in Hudson, N.H., and Astra Gagne, who also resides in Milford, N.H. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Lucien Asselin; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sisters, Violet Indrysek and Loretta Young; and his brother, Robert LaBrie.

His wife, Jackie, would like to thank their dearest friends, Connie and Larry Albert of Lewiston, as well as Harold Williams of Auburn, for their unconditional love and support of both Ernest and Jackie.

Family and friends are invited to share online condolences with the LaBrie family at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.

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