1925 – 2014

LEWISTON — Florence Marie Andre Lamare, 88, a resident of Marshwood Center in Lewiston, went to rest with the Lord on Sunday, May 25.

She was born in Livermore Falls on July 30, 1925, the daughter of the late Joseph and Marie Louise (Drouin) Fortin. Florence spent her early years in Lewiston. Despite her limited formal schooling, Florence was fluent in two languages and was an avid reader. In addition, she loved to sew and was an excellent cook.

On Nov. 11, 1947, she married Norman Joseph Lamare. A loving, devoted wife and homemaker all of her adult life, Florence raised seven children and was an active participant in her kids’ and grandkids’ lives. She was the most dedicated, loving and selfless mother to her children. She loved her grandchildren to the moon and back. There truly was nothing more important to her than her family. Florence has many angels waiting for her in Heaven and will be most remembered here for her kind heart and love for her family.

Florence was a dedicated Christian and servant of the Lord. She was always willing to help those in need, never turning anyone away. She would put the needs of other people ahead of her own.

For the past eight years, Florence Marie Andre Lamare was a proud resident of the Marshwood Center nursing home. She enjoyed and participated in all of Marshwood’s daily activities and was president of the Senior Council. In addition, she was active in its fundraising programs. She also participated in the annual American Heart Association Heart Walk.

Despite failing eyesight toward the end of her life, Florence became an accomplished artist. Her artwork has been displayed at the Portland Sidewalk Art Festival, as well as numerous times at Marshwood.

Survivors include her seven children, all of the Lewiston and Auburn area: Fern Lamare and his wife, Therese, Linda DeLong and her husband, Jim, Joyce Thibodeau and her deceased husband, Glenn, Carol Fortier and her husband, Michael L., Florence Wood and her husband, Keith, Norman Jr. and his wife, Barbara, and James Lamare and his fiancée, Barbara; in addition, she leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.

Florence was predeceased by her husband, Norman Joseph Lamare; her parents; her brothers, Fernand and Norman Fortin; and a son and daughter who died as infants.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at Marshwood Center for their compassionate care and support of Florence and her family. A special thank-you to her R.N., Rachel, and the staff of Marshwood’s recreation room for filling her days with love, laughter and enjoyment.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at www.lynchbrothers.com.