George R. Blouin

AUBURN – George R. Blouin, 87, of Auburn, passed away in Lewiston on Dec. 3, 2024.

Born in Lewiston on Jan. 18, 1937, he was the son of the late George and Laurette (Lebel) Blouin. He grew up in Lewiston, attending local schools until the age of 14. He then attended the Eymard Preparatory Seminary in Suffern, N.Y. After six-and-a-half years, he left the seminary and went to the University of Maine-Orono where he earned his undergraduate degree. He went on to earn a master’s degree from SUNY Stony Brook. George moved to Lowville, N.Y. and started his career teaching English and drama.

In 1967, he moved to Plainview, N.Y., to join the inaugural faculty at the brand-new John F. Kennedy High School. He taught English and was head of the drama department for most of the next 40 years. He inspired hundreds of students to explore drama through the many plays and musicals he produced, directed, and occasionally starred in, including “Inherit the Wind”, “Bye, Bye Birdie”, “Mame”, “The Sound of Music”, “The Fantasticks” many more, including his personal favorite, “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown”. Of course, George was Charlie Brown. He founded the Kennedy High School chapter of the National Thespian Society and counseled many graduating classes as their faculty advisor. He also produced, with great fanfare, a number of high school graduation ceremonies.

Many of his English students believed George was the original inspiration for the “Dead Poets Society”. His English classes were legendary. He hooked students with his now infamous intro. “Hello, class. I’m Mr. Blouin. Not Bl-ouh-in, Blow-in, or Blow-you-in. Blouin.” Then, out of nowhere, he jumped onto his chair and declared, “I’m 5’5 and 7/8ths. Anyone taller? You’re a freak. Anyone shorter? You’re a midget. This is my classroom. It is heaven. In it, I’m God. If you don’t like it, go to hell.” That introduction had students eating out of the palm of his hand for the remainder of the year and for years to come.

He built lifelong relationships with his students, and many made impacts that have stuck with them their whole lives. George was a larger-than-life educator. He was inspirational to so many. His Facebook page is flooded with hundreds of messages from former students who refer to him as “iconic,” “unique,” and extraordinary.” So many feel honored, blessed, and deeply privileged to be part of George’s educational legacy.

George loved his life in New York. He had a passion for the opera and loved attending as many Broadway shows as possible. He especially loved “Hamilton”. George traveled all over the world during his lifetime.

After retirement, George moved back to Maine. He continued his enthusiasm for the arts. He was an accomplished piano player and loved his family history. George kept and displayed family antique furniture and documents about his relatives throughout his home in Auburn. He would always tell stories of growing up in Lewiston and the many influences that shaped his life.

In 2004, George wrote a book named “A Time That Was.” It was published in 2005. In the book, he recounts many memories of family life, holidays, and his French-Canadian heritage. George was very proud to be French-Canadian. He was very active with the Franco-American organization in Lewiston.

He is survived by his cousin, Jeannette Laroche of Lewiston.

He was predeceased by his cousins Ray Bernard of Tucson, Ariz., Jeannette Guay of Lewiston, Monique Theodossin of Las Vegas, Nev., and Bill Lebel of Waterbury, Conn.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul, Upper Church, at 122 Ash St. in Lewiston. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Lewiston. The Funeral Mass will be broadcast live on the Prince of Peace Parish Facebook and YouTube pages, as well as at http://www.princeofpeace.me. A celebration of life will be planned for late spring in Long Island.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family on George’s memorial page at http://www.albert-burpee.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Albert & Burpee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 253 Pine St., Lewiston, 782-7201.

In honor of George a scholarship fund will be established. This scholarship will be awarded to one or more deserving graduating seniors from the Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School who exemplify Mr. Blouin’s passion for literature, drama, and the arts. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the scholarship fund. More information will be provided once established.