LEWISTON — Retired Sgt. 1st Class Emile Gaston Thibault “Gus,” a longtime resident of Lewiston passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 14, of natural causes at Russell Park Manor in Lewiston. Emile was a veteran of the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War, spending 15 of his 20-year service to our country deployed overseas.

Emile was the oldest son of Emile A. and Alice C. Thibault. His brothers Regis and Andre and his sisters Carmen, Delores, Angela and Andrea will miss him. Gus was a student at Holy Family Parochial School and earned his high school GED after joining the U.S. Army when he was 17. His nickname in the Army was Frenchy because French was his first language. He was very adept at languages speaking English, French, German and a bit of Chinese. After retiring, he spent 25 years with the Hall & Knight Company and as an independent master electrician.

Emile was predeceased by Ruth Gramlich Thibault, his wife for 32 years. Emile is survived by their children, Ludwig (Annette) Thibault of Tennessee, Theresia (Randy) Sullivan of South Carolina, Michele (Herman) Rich of South Carolina, Dominic (Carla) Thibault of Lewiston.

He is survived by his loving wife and devoted caregiver, Veronique Gagne Thibault; they would have celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on Feb. 14, and his stepdaughter, Lise (Dale) Harrington of Lewiston.

Emile was blessed with 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Gus was especially proud of two grandsons who followed his example, joined the Army, and served several tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Condolences may be shared with Emile’s family at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.