1930 – 2014

LEWISTON — Roland O. Martel, 83, longtime resident of Lewiston and most recently of Auburn, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday morning, March 16, at d’Youville Pavilion.

He was born in Lewiston on Dec. 23, 1930, a son of the late Antoine and Dorothy (Coulombe) Martel. He grew up in the Lewiston area and attended local schools. He was a graduate of St. Dominic Regional High School, Class of 1949. After high school, Roland served our country in the U.S. Army and served during the Korean conflict. On Oct. 22, 1960, he married his wife, Lorraine Robert, and they started a family together.

For many years, Roland was a shoe worker for Shapiro Bros. He later worked for other local businesses as a bookkeeper and supervisor, until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion and the Holy Cross Knights of Columbus, where he served as treasurer for many years. He was also very active in Holy Cross Church. Roland loved to cook and will always be remembered for his dedication to the Holy Cross bean suppers, of which he was the head cook for many years.

He enjoyed playing cards, reading mystery novels and making puzzles. He was also an avid gardener, who loved to grow and tend to vegetables.

He is survived by his three children, Joline Jacques and her husband, David, of Cumberland, Conrad Martel of Lewiston and Elaine Ouellette and her husband, Albert, of Auburn. He also leaves behind two sisters, Pearl Forgues of Lewiston and Doris Rainville of New Hampshire; three sisters-in-law, Marilyn Robert of Lewiston, Muriel Majumder of Auburn and Laurianne Lambert and her husband, Roland, of Lewiston; as well as his grandchildren, Nicholas and Melissa Jacques, Angela Martel, Timothy Labonte and Curtis and Mallory Ouellette; a great-granddaughter, Ryelee Labonte; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 52 years, Lorraine; his first wife, Jeannine Larochelle, and their infant son, Ronald; a daughter-in-law, Donna Martel; one brother, Fernand; and two sisters, Regina Shepard and Viola Hansler.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories of Roland through his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

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