1937 – 2015

AUBURN — Gerard R. “Jim” Lebrun of Lewiston died Sunday, Jan. 4, at the Androscoggin Hospice House after a brief illness.

Gerard was born in Lewiston on March 31, 1937, a son of the late Joseph and Emelda (Labonte) Lebrun, growing up in Little Canada.

He married the love of his life, Marie Mae Bourgoin, on June 25, 1960, at St. Mary’s Church in Lewiston. After being drafted by the U.S. Army, Gerard was stationed in Paris, France, where he and Marie lived for two years.

He was employed in area shoe shops and later at Bath Iron Works, until his retirement. Gerard was a proud veteran, often speaking of his military experiences.

He enjoyed his weekly rides with his wife and sisters to the Maine coastline, casinos and shopping for the best deals he could find. Gerard loved hunting and fishing with his son and grandson, Ryan. He loved watching his grandchildren in their many sports, especially hockey. He never missed a game by his Boston Bruins, no matter how tired he was.

He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and pepere, and will be dearly missed by all of us. He led his life by example, always showing respect, kindness and generosity to all who knew him. It was often said that if you needed help, Jim and Marie would be there to lend a hand.

He is sadly missed by his wife of 54 years; daughter, Carol Sirois; son, James and wife, Linda; grandchildren, Ryan Lebrun and fiancée, Ange Estes, Travis Lebrun, Felicia Marcoux and husband, Brandon, Katelyn Lachance and husband, Shawn, and Craig Sirois; and great-grandchildren, Hailey, Gabe and Jack Marcoux and Darrius Diaz. He also leaves behind his sisters, Exilia Beaulieu, Simonne Pelletier, Lucienne and husband, Joseph Giguere, Jeanne D’Arc Lebrun, Priscilla Bard and Cecile Brodeur; and a brother, Guy and wife, Joanne Lebrun.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Roger and Bertrand; sister, Claudette Rancourt; and son-in-law, Daniel Sirois.

The family wishes to thank Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for the wonderful care provided by the nurses and aides who made it possible for Gerard to remain in his home for as long as possible. We also wish to recognize the compassion, care and friendship shown by Dr. Maria Ikossi, whose guidance through this difficult time helped us tremendously. Gerard appreciated all of the wonderful people who helped him, especially his wife, Marie, who worked tirelessly keeping him as comfortable as possible.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories of Gerard through his guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.