Paul R. Dionne

BIDDEFORD – Paul R. Dionne, a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on April 17, 2025. A pillar of the Lewiston community, Paul spent his life in service to others through law, leadership, and family.

Born in 1942 in Lewiston, Paul was the eldest child of Angeline (Bois) and Armand Dionne and the beloved older brother of Rachel. A graduate of Lewiston High School, Kents Hill, and Providence College, Paul served his country with distinction as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning two Bronze Stars and two Vietnamese Crosses of Gallantry.

After returning home, Paul met his best friend and soulmate, Diane (LeBlanc), and they married in 1970. Together, they built a loving home, raising two daughters, Melodie and Michelle, and later welcoming five cherished grandchildren.

Paul earned his law degree from the University of Maine School of Law and dedicated his career to both law and public service. He served as Assistant District Attorney, became a partner in several law firms, and led as Mayor of Lewiston from 1980-1984, where he was instrumental in bringing the University of Maine system to Lewiston (UMLA).

Throughout his life, Paul was deeply involved in his community – serving on the Chamber of Commerce, leading the Central Maine Medical Center Board of Trustees, and earning recognition as one of Lewiston’s Citizens of the Year.

In 1996, Paul was appointed Maine’s first Executive Director of the Workers’ Compensation Board, serving under Governors King and Baldacci and later becoming President of the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions (IAIABC).

Even in later years, Paul’s passion for service never wavered. He returned to his roots in Lewiston in 2011 and founded the law firm of Dionne & Couturier. Committed to giving back to the next generation, Paul coached the Lewiston High School Mock Trial Team alongside his daughter for many years. Beyond his legal and mentoring work, Paul also authored two novels, with a third in progress.

Paul’s family was the center of his life and his greatest joy. He brought family together not only to celebrate major holidays and milestones but also the smallest achievements and everyday moments. Through his love, he fostered a family bond rooted in faith, support, and laughter.

Paul was a true friend to all. Those who knew him best understood how deeply he valued his relationships. From the racquetball court to the golf course, Paul loved to compete. He knew how to work hard, but play harder, and always stayed loyal to his friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 55 years, Diane; his loving sister, Rachel Merrill; his daughters, Melodie Dionne-Klick and her husband Michael, and Michelle Crowley and her partner Rob Marcotte; his treasured grandchildren, Michael Paul, Olivia, Charlotte, Brennan, and Mirisa, and her son, Ezequiel.

Paul will be greatly missed by all, but his loving kindness and his beaming smile will never be forgotten.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Visitation on Friday May 16, from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Fortin & Pinette Group, 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway, Lewiston. A Mass of Christian burial will be help on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. at the Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul Upper Church, 122 Ash St., Lewiston, followed by committal prayers, with military honors at St Peter’s Cemetery, Lewiston.

Please visit http://www.FortinPinetteGroupLewiston.com to sign Paul’s guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.

In lieu of flowers, consider contributions to the Paul R. Dionne Memorial Scholarship, which will honor his enduring legacy as a devoted public servant and compassionate leader. The scholarship will support high school students in the Lewiston-Auburn area and recognize individuals who reflect the qualities

Paul exemplified

throughout his life.

Donations should be mailed to:

Paul R. Dionne Memorial Scholarship

465 Main St. Suite 102

Lewiston, ME 04240