1924 – 2013

TOGUS — Julien J. “Duke” Dupont, 89, a former resident of Jay, peacefully passed from this world on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at Togus Springs Veterans’ Hospice. Since 1996, he made his home in Mount Vernon, with his grandson, Jason Beckler and his wife, Karen, and their son, Quinn.

He was born in Livermore Falls on April 4, 1924, the son of Alfred Dupont and Julia (Phillipon) Dupont. He was a 1942 graduate of Jay High School. Julien served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a surgical technician in central Europe during World War II. He was honorably discharged as a corporal in 1945. He married Dorothy Hopkins in 1946; she passed away in 2001.

He began working at an early age at Deshaies Market in Chisholm. He was sergeant for Jay Police Department for many years. He also worked at International Paper Co., in the finishing department on four and five at the Androscoggin Mill in Jay, retiring in 1986. After his retirement from the mill, he worked in the local grocery stores in Jay and Livermore Falls. He finished his career at Walmart in Augusta, having proudly worked until the age of 87.

Julien was a communicant of St. Rose of Lima Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was a life member of Lane-Dube AMVETS Post No. 33 in Jay, having served as post commander from 1985-90. He was elected AMVETS state commander for 1992-93. Julien was also a life member at the Frank L. Mitchell VFW Post No. 3335 in Jay.

He was a kind and caring man, who loved his family, his community and his country. Affectionately known as “Pepe,” Julien was an avid cribbage player and enjoyed gatherings of all kinds. His good-hearted humor, sense of fun and compassion touched all who knew him.

He is survived by two daughters, Carol Beckler of Naples and Karen Dupont-Gibbs of Belgrade; one son, John Dupont and his wife, Betsy, of Scarborough; three grandchildren, Jamie Beckler of Ontario, Canada, Jason Beckler and his wife, Karen, of Mount Vernon and Ryan Gibbs of Bangor; three great-grandchildren, Nicholas Beckler, Debi Beckler and Quinn Beckler; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by eight brothers, Armand, Emilian, Loyola, Laurier, Yvan, Dollard, Real and Richard; and his sisters, Claudette Ryder and infant sister, Candid Dupont.

The family would like to thank the staff at the VA Togus Hospital, 3 North and Togus Springs Hospice for the amazing care, love and respect given to Julien. He considered you his angels.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.finleyfuneralhome.com.