1929 – 2018

LEWISTON – Lionel O. Lemieux, 89, formerly of 26 Second Street, Lewiston, Maine, and of Chicopee, Mass., where he resided for the past seven years with his daughter, Susan, died on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 22, 2018, at his daughter Christine’s home.

Born in Lewiston June 22, 1929, a son of late Pierre and Clarisse Letourneau Lemieuxl, he was educated in Lewiston schools. Lionel was a member of the Prince of Peace Parish at Holy Cross Church and while living in Chicopee was a member of Saint Rose-de-Lima.  He was married to the former Therese Gagne at Holy Cross Church Sept. 27, 1947. She died Feb. 2, 2007.

He enjoyed first and foremost his children and family.  He was a devoted son and father.  He cared for his mother throughout her life and was attentive to her every day when she entered the nursing home.  Likewise he spent entire days caring for his wife when she entered the nursing home never missing a day.

His favorite hobby was gardening. He was known to have the most beautiful gardens in the neighborhood. His vegetables were bountiful surrounded by spectacular flower beds. He loved cooking, taking care of his property, home , and spending time with his children and family.

He will be remembered for his kindness , his gentle way of teaching by example, his warm loving smile, his compassion, and above all his work ethic.  He took pride in his work and was known as one of the best leather cutters LL Bean ever had. He was nicknamed “The Bishop” by many for the simple fact that he was a man of faith relying on God to lead his way. As Bishop he taught us  to be respectful, kind, humble, and faithful to our Creator.  He is known by all as a “ good man” . He made crosses and distributed  them during times of liturgical celebrations, which will be available at the funeral home during the visitation.

He is survived by his seven children, Denis Lemieux married to Carlene Perreault of Auburn, Susan Lemieux of Chicopee Mass., Donald Lemieux married to Anita Cote, of Edgewater, Fla., Dr. Michael Lemieux formerly married to the  Mariette Lauze, of Oakland, Maine, Guy Lemieux married to Debra Pelchat of Turner, Maine, Christine Lemieux  married to David Nile of Lewiston, and Lena Lemieux married to James Vitagliano of Manchester, N.H.

He also is survived by 12 grandchildren, Danielle, Nicole, Celeste, Keith, Thomas, Denis, Andrei, Sara, Anthony, Trisha, Dante and Dario whom he loved immensely; and 10 great-grandchildren, Peter, Sophia, Abigail, Madeline, Cameron, Ailvia,  Mariyah, Ethan, Lilly, and Gwen.

He has two living brothers,  Donald Lemieux married to Lurline Didier of Zwolle, La., and Raymond Lemieux Sr. of Lewiston. He has one living sister-in-law Florence Michaud of Falmouth.

He is predeceased by a granddaughter, Melanie Lemieux, and his three brothers, Marc, Adrien, and Leo.

The family wishes to thank all those who took the time to visit him and all the social media wishes sent to his children.  Your words of sympathy meant more than anyone can imagine.  We wish to thank Beacon health for their kindness and support.

Visitation will be at The Fortin Group in Auburn Maine from 5-8 p.m., Monday Nov. 26.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Cross Church, 1080 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, Tuesday Nov. 27, at 11 a.m.  Committal at Saint  Peter’s Cemetery. A service of The Fortin Group Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home 217 Turner St. Auburn, Maine. Online condolences at www.thefortingroupauburn.com

Those wishing may make donations to

Saint Rose-de-Lima Church

600 Grattan St.

Chicopee MA 01020 

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