1921 – 2003

PORTLAND – Joseph Albert Croteau Sr., 82, a resident of Oak Street Apartments, died Saturday at Maine Medical Center following a brief illness.

He was born in South Paris, Jan. 21, 1921, the son of Paul N. and Clarisse (Pomerleau) Croteau and was educated in the schools of Lewiston. Mr. Croteau served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII in the European Theater of operations. He was employed throughout his life in the local shoe industry, having worked as an edge trimmer for Dori and Clark Shoe Companies, retiring in 1983.

Mr. Croteau was a member of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, the Pastime Club and American Legion Post #22.

Survivors include four daughters, Mrs. Thomas (Marsha) Knoll of Fayette, Mrs. Randal (Jacqueline) Gray of Windam, Mrs. Frank (Jolene) Michaud of Portland and Mrs. Jack (Margo) Regan of Portland; three sons, Joseph A. Croteau, Jr. and his wife, Charlene, of Dayton, James P. Croteau and his wife, Cynthia, of Portland, and Jeffrey A. Croteau and his wife, Kathleen, of Portland; 19 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his long time companion, Cecilia E. Violette; a grandson, Frankie Michaud; and several sisters and brothers.