LEWISTON – Dolores G. LeBlanc, “Del”, 80, passed away May 1, 2024, peacefully at home with family by her side.

Del was born Jan. 4, 1944, in St. George d’Beauce Quebec, daughter of Emile and Juliette Lachance along with 14 siblings. Dolores married Fernand LeBlanc of Lewiston, July 1960 and moved to the U.S. where she began her incredible journey of strength and hope.

After working at Billings Shoe, she and Fernand became entrepreneurs, owning a boarding house and later Ferns Tavern in 1970. In 1982 she opened Del’s ‘n Decks, eventually renamed to Del’s Place, creating a legacy that most people know her by today. Del not only created a name for herself, but she went on to inspire her daughters to also venture into business ownership. In 1999 she started a life-long relationship with Ronald Vaillancourt filled with wonderful times. She retired from Del’s Place in 2010. From 2010 to 2014 she became the treasurer to the Midtown Athletic Club run by her daughter, Carol LeBlanc.

Del was predeceased by her parents; five siblings; a former husband; and partner of 25 years, Ronald Vaillancourt.

She is survived by her daughters Linda Camire and Carol LeBlanc; three grandchildren, Kevin Camire, Diana Martinez and Ryder Smith; and six great-grandsons who will have lasting memories of the love she gave them.

Del was a force, a pillar of strength, and she filled many peoples’ lives with love, understanding, compassion and joy. She will be remembered for her grit, her tenacity, and her courage.

A special thanks to Androscoggin Home Hospice Team for their tremendous support.

Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., June 12, at Gracelawn Memorial Cemetery, 980 Turner St, Auburn. Immediately following will be a Celebration of Life at VFW, 588 Minot Ave. in Auburn.

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