AUBURN — Beloved veteran police officer Paul “Bud” Caouette died at 61 Sunday at Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old.
The response from the police community was swift, with Auburn and neighboring departments quick to post statements on social media, remembering Caouette’s years of service.
“We lost a member of our family today,” a statement from Auburn police said, adding that Caouette “served this community with pride, honor and distinction. He touched many lives and he will always be an honored part of our family.”
Caouette served in Auburn from 1995 until his retirement in 2016. He was a well-known and visible member of the department and community, often seen on his police motorcycle. Caouette ran Auburn-Lewiston Motorcycle Rider Education.
A number of fundraisers were held by local law enforcement late last year in honor of Caouette, assisting him and his family with medical expenses. Many wore #TeamBud T-shirts and other items, with a logo depicting Caouette.
Among other compliments about Caouette, Auburn police said he was brave, funny, compassionate and generous — a mentor, coach and friend. Caouette was also a U.S. Marines veteran.
“Bud’s family in blue — and his community — feel this loss very deeply and we mourn a good man,” the Auburn statement said. “We extend our deepest sympathy to his family. We will be here to support his wife, his daughters and his beautiful grandchildren during this difficult time and ALWAYS. Bud would expect no less.”
Within an hour online, the post from the Auburn Police Department received more than 200 shares and 100 comments.
In response, other law enforcement officials reacted.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office said, “Condolences to Bud’s family. May he now Rest In Peace. Thank you for your service. You will be missed.”
Paul “Bud” Caouette
Retired Auburn police officer Paul “Bud” Caouette, center, received a check for $10,949.80 from Lt. Rick Coron, right, and John Story from L-A Harley-Davidson following a fundraiser for Caouette in October 2016. Caouette died Sunday following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
A logo for #TeamBud was created in 2016 in honor of Bud Caouette. The retired Auburn police officer died Sunday. He was 61 years old.
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