AUBURN – Donald “Donnie” L. Blaisdell, 73, passed away on May 19, 2024, at the Hospice House in Auburn following a long illness.

He was a beloved father, husband, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Donnie was born on Nov. 21, 1950, in Lewiston to Ervin and Marian (Bates) Blaisdell. He grew up in Leeds where he spent his formative years and graduated from Monmouth Academy. He worked 30 years in the maintenance department at CMCC and retired in 2015. He was known for his hard work, dedication, and being an occasional prankster which brought him joy.

But more than anything, Donnie was a devoted husband. He met his soulmate, Evelyn, of 45 years at the Kit Kat Lounge where their love story began. They brought their two families together. Together they raised and nurtured their children into loving, hardworking and humorous souls. In later years he loved when the kids would visit, spending time together, sharing stories, and admiring their achievements. It pleased him seeing pictures of his grand babies and sharing with Ev how lucky they were. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced.

In his free time, Donnie enjoyed woodworking, the outdoors, gardening, his home in which he took great pride in creating a landscape with a bridge, wagon wheel, and lawn swing that he built in his home away from home, “the garage”. There was nothing he could not fix or make. It is no wonder that someone likened his home to a state park. In most recent years his love for Gunsmoke and Rawhide repeats were a source of jokes amongst the family.

Donnie is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn, his children; Donna Andre (Nick), Lisa Blaisdell (Leslie), Brian Buteau, Jason Blaisdell, James Blaisdell (Monica), and Kelly Blaisdell(Danielle), his 10 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Siblings are twin sister Donna Lehl (Richard), brother Richard Blaisdell (Deneige) and sister Barbara Robitaille (Richard) and his many nieces and nephews and loved ones.

His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, brother Ronald Blaisdell and sister Shirley Maxwell.

The family wishes to thank Andwell (Auburn Hospice), and Androscoggin Home Health for their kindness and care.

Condolences and fond memories of Donnie may be shared on his memorial page at http://www.albert-burpee.com.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Albert & Burpee Funeral Home & Cremation Services 253 Pine St. Lewiston, 782-7201.

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