AUBURN — Reginald Janelle, 82, formerly of Lemay Avenue in Lewiston, passed away peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at the Androscoggin Hospice House.

He was born in Auburn, a son of Reginald and Alma Croteau Janelle; he was the youngest of 14 children. On June 24, 1961, he married Joanne Biron, his wife of 53 years.

Reginald was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, in which he served during the Korean War. He worked as a plumber for most of his life, which was a dream job for him.

Reginald “Papa” was a strong, loyal, patient and honest man. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing with family and friends. He loved card games, ice fishing, country music and old westerns. He will be remembered for his big smile and his love of making people laugh.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne; a son, James Janelle and wife, Kimberlee, of Auburn.; a daughter, Donna Norcross and husband, Steven, of Auburn; six grandchildren, Courtney Vincent and husband, Justin, Lindsey Lessard and husband, Scott, Alex Janelle, Kelsey Janelle, Bo Norcross and Kailey Norcross; four great-grandchildren, Parker and Cooper Lessard and Drew and Benjaman Vincent; and two sisters, Theresa Blouin and husband, Ron, of San Diego, Calif., and Blanche Wilson of Lewiston.

He was predeceased by his mother and father; six sisters, Anne Marie Janelle, Eva Gagne, Elsie Sirois, Victoria Ross, Prescilla Labonte and Germaine Doyon; five brothers, Laureat, William, George, Adrien and Laurier; and many loving sisters- and brothers-in-law.

Special thanks are extended to the caring and compassionate staff at Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice House.

You are invited to share your condolences with the Janelle family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.