Claude Patrice Godbout

AUBURN – Claude Godbout, 92, passed away peacefully on Feb. 21, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston.

Claude was born on July 14, 1933, in St. Ludge, Quebec, to Josephat and Laura (Villeneuve) Godbout. From a young age, he understood the value of hard work. At just 14 years old, he began working as a waterboy for the railroad in Montreal, and by 18 he had moved to Toronto for work and opportunity.

In his early 20s, Claude came to the United States to join his father and brother. Together, they worked as lumberjacks clearing forests across southern Maine, past Augusta, to make way for the Maine Turnpike.

Claude later found his lifelong trade at Marcotte Furniture, where he learned the craft of furniture repair. He continued his work at New England Furniture before opening his own upholstery and carpeting business in Auburn, where he became known not only for the quality of his work but for his strong work ethic, reliability, and the humor he brought to those around him.

After moving to Lewiston, Claude met the love of his life, Rita (Guerin) Godbout. They married in 1958 and built a life centered on love, faith, and family. They shared 58 years of marriage and raised five children together. Claude and Rita were devoted members of St. Louis Parish and St. Philip’s Parish, and were actively involved in their children’s many sports and activities.

Claude found his greatest joy in time spent with family, whether at camp, around his cars, or visiting loved ones in Canada. An avid outdoorsman, he loved the outdoors, especially hunting and snowmobiling, and took great pride in sharing his stories – often with a smile and a spark of humor.

Claude was predeceased by his beloved wife, Rita Godbout (2016); his son, Raymond Godbout (2018); his parents; and his siblings, Benoit, Emilien, Leandre, Laurette, and Estelle.

He is survived by his children, Susan Fecteau and her husband, Reggie, Roland Godbout and his wife, Mindy, Michelle Godbout-Clock and her husband, David, and Denise Sensenig and her husband, Rene, and a daughter-in-law, Shelly. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, Matthew, Christine, Jen, Zach, Shae, Nicolle, Nathan, Megan, Bailey, Connor, Travis, and Jared; and seven great-grandchildren, Melia, Jayce, Chloe, Brayson, Bennett, Olivia, and Cody.

Claude’s family was blessed beyond words to call him Dad and Pépère. His legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and love of the outdoors will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Committal prayers will take place in the spring at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Lewiston. Condolences and fond memories may be shared with family and friends at http://www.albert-burpee.com .

Arrangements are under the care of Albert & Burpee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 253 Pine St., Lewiston, 207-782-7201.