1940 – 2015

LEWISTON — Henry J. Michaud, 75, of Auburn, died Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 9, at d’Youville Pavilion.

He was born Jan. 15, 1940, in Squawtec, Quebec. The son of Edouard and Marie (Hebert) Michaud, he moved to the U.S. at the age of 3, settling in Litchfield with his parents and brothers, where he and his siblings later worked as lumberjacks in the family business. He married the love of his life, the former Ruth Cyr, on Feb.13, 1960. Henry was a leather cutter in the shoe industry for many years, often working first shift at one shop and then working second shift at another shop to support his family.

Henry was a gifted sportsman, playing in the local softball league for Knapp Shoe, where he was legendary for his switch hitting and fielding skills. The other teams dreaded it when “Hank” stepped up to bat because they knew it was probably headed out of the park! He was also an avid golfer, where he was able to sink two verified holes-in-one. Like softball, he played that sport both left- and right-handed. His favorite, though, was the harness racing circuit. He owned and trained many different horses throughout his years in the industry, and included his children in the sport. He proved that careful, humane training would produce champions, with some of his horses being fast enough to race at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. He also had a gift when it came to carpentry, having restored the family’s first home and built two beautiful homes after that. People often marveled at his inherent skills when it came to construction.

Henry is remembered as a loving, devoted husband and father. He was known for his gentle soul and friendly demeanor.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ruth; and their five children and their spouses, Joe and Denise Michaud of Leeds, Larry and Debbie Michaud of Avondale, Ariz., Cathy and Keith Blais of Auburn, Patty Michaud of Utah and Bill and Joyce Michaud of Phoenix, Ariz. He is also survived by three brothers and their spouses, Andy and Diane Michaud of Greene, Sam and Mary Ann Michaud of Lewiston and Maurice Michaud of Florida. He was the proud grandfather of 14 children and great-grandfather of 18 children.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edouard and Marie; three brothers, Roger, Joseph and Paul Michaud; one daughter, Betty Jo Michaud; and one great-grandson, Jonah Michaud.

The family would like to thank the staff of d’Youville Pavilion at Saint Mary’s and the Androscoggin Hospice. Your loving and compassionate care of Henry and his family will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be shared at guydostiefuneralhome.com.