1929 – 2015

LEWISTON — Louis R. Cortigene, 85, of Auburn, passed away Thursday, Aug. 20, at Central Maine Medical Center, following a brief illness.

He was born in Philadelphia, Pa. on Nov. 20, 1929, a son of the late Anthony and Louise (Lerro) Cortigene. He grew up in the Philadelphia area and attended local schools there. He was a graduate of South Philadelphia High School. He later attended and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania.

On July 29, 1953, he married Helene Arcidiacono and they started a family together. During that time, Louis worked as a chemist for Scott Paper Co. in Philadelphia. In 1968 they moved to Portland, where he worked for SD Warren for five years before moving to Michigan in 1973. While there he worked for Brown Paper Co. for seven years before relocating permanently back to Maine in 1980. He then worked for Fitchburg Paper Co. in Massachusetts for a short time before switching over to International Paper, from which he retired.

After retirement, Louis and Helene owned and managed The Brule House for thirty-five years. Louis was a highly intellectual man who developed several patents on various products over his years in research and development. He will be remembered for his quick wit and his dedication to work and family.

He is survived by his wife Helene of Auburn; his children, Anthony Cortigene and significant other, Ann Sylvester, of Lewiston, and Lisa Gribbin of Old Orchard Beach. He also leaves behind a brother, James Cortigene of Mequon, Wis.; a half-brother, Seth Cortigene of Houston, Texas; and two grandchildren; Nicole Taiani and husband, Anthony, and Randall Gribbin.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.