1940 – 2017

LEWISTON — Lorraine R. Blanchette, 76, of Lewiston, died peacefully Sunday, Jan. 22, at Marshwood Center, surrounded by her family and friends.

Born on Dec. 11, 1940, she was the daughter of Lucien J. Gagnon and Yvette G. Sarrazin Gagnon. Lorraine was a homemaker, caregiver and businesswoman. She was a very forgiving individual.

Lorraine enjoyed family outings, playing cards, decorating for all holidays and cooking for her family. Lorraine and her husband were owners of Blanchette’s Hall, hosting Saturday night dances and many weddings and showers. Later they opened Blanchette’s Pizza and Variety, then added the Rainbow Coffee Shop where Lorraine was known by her customers for her delicious muffins.

She is survived by her son, Bert M. Blanchette and wife, Bonnie; daughter, Denise G. Blanchette; and son, Paul M. Blanchette; sister, Rita Corriveau and husband, Adrian; brother, Phillip Gagnon and wife, Kathy; brother, Robert Gagnon; and sister, Diane Atwood and husband, Chuck; grandchildren, Casey Pomerleau and husband, Chad, Amber Bourque and fiancé, Brandon O’Connor, Arleigh Blanchette; and several great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, Marcel R. Blanchette; daughter, Doris P. Blanchette; parents, Lucien and Yvette Gagnon; sister, Pauline Y. Charest; and brother, Bertrand N. Gagnon.

The family would like to extend a grateful thank-you to the doctors and staff at Central Maine Medical Center and Marshwood Center.