Rene “Joey” LeBlanc

CHESTERVILLE – Rene “Joey” LeBlanc, 61, of Chesterville, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, with his beloved wife by his side.

Born on Dec. 15, 1963, in Rumford, Maine, Rene was the son of Rene LeBlanc and Geraldine (Webster) LeBlanc. He graduated from Dirigo High School and earned his degree in electrical engineering through the ROTC program at the University of Maine at Orono. On July 13, 1985, he married Melinda Fuller, beginning a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. During his four years in the U.S. Air Force, Rene and Melinda were known for their memorable Christmas displays in Florida. Following his military service, Rene embarked on a 22-year career with the State of Maine, finishing as the System Section Manager. He was respected for his work ethic, intellect, and dedication to his colleagues and community.

Rene lived life with a wide smile and an even wider circle of friends. Whether running errands or on a road trip, it was common for him to stop and chat with someone he knew—or someone he’d just met. He had a genuine gift for connection and was truly loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Joey’s creative spirit knew no bounds. From launching model rockets and crafting custom embroidery, to 3D printing toys for his grandchildren and laser engraving, his hands were always busy turning imagination into reality. He was the man who could make anything happen—if his wife or kids could dream it, he could build it. He loved his Cuckoo clocks, fish tanks, cooking up feasts, listening to records, camping, playing cribbage, and—famously—asking, “who sings it?!” whenever a song came on.

Above all, Rene was a devoted husband, proud father, and adoring grandfather. He leaves behind his wife, Melinda LeBlanc and their cherished dogs Alfred and Eli of Chesterville; children, Mallory LeBlanc of Lewiston, Alexander LeBlanc and wife Diana of Brunswick, Brandon LeBlanc and wife Melissa of Dixfield, and Brooke LeBlanc-Houghton and husband Troy of Carthage. His grandchildren—Amelia, Oakley, and Benjamin—were his pride and joy.

He is also survived by his sisters Cathy Newman and husband Ralph of Coplin Plantation, Patti Richards and husband Peter of Canton, and by the loving members of the Fuller family, especially Joan, who held a special place in his heart. He was predeceased by his parents and his father-in-law, Alan Fuller.

Rene “Joey” LeBlanc leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and boundless creativity. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit will live on in every project finished, every song played, and every warm memory shared.

Messages of condolence may be sent to: http://www.finleyfuneralhome.com

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at Greenwood Cemetery, Weld Street, Dixfield, Maine. Immediately following the service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Gathering and reception at Boondocks Farm, 1 Shelakis Drive, Canton, Maine.

Arrangements by FINLEY FUNERAL HOME, 15 Church Street, Livermore Falls, Maine