Paul R. Lessard

WINSLOW -- Paul R. Lessard, age 72, went with the angels Aug. 29, 2010, after a long, courageous battle with cancer at his home, with his family by his side.

He was born May 14, 1938, in Waterville, the son of Royal E. And Gertrude M. (Breard) Lessard. Paul was educated in the schools of Waterville, graduating from Waterville High School in 1956. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the Navy. Paul worked at Scott Paper Co. for 35 years, retiring in 1992.

He was a member of St. John's Catholic Church and the American Legion of Waterville. Paul loved to dance, tell stories about when he was in the Navy, and spend time with his daughters and grandchildren. He also loved to be with his cats, Shadow and Frances.

Paul is survived by three daughters, Tammy Merrithew and her husband, Scott, of Burnham, Brenda Al-Ghamdi of Augusta, and Tina Berube of Winslow; three brothers, Neal Lessard of Virginia Beach, Va., David Lessard of Winslow, and Earl Lessard of Florida; a sister, Annette Noel, of Connecticut; four grandchildren, Tasha Bowden and her husband, Donald, of Augusta, Samantha Berube of Massachusetts, Dustin Merrithew of Burnham, and Holly Merrithew of Burnham; and four great-granddaughters, Ayannah Osman and Tatiana Rocque, both of Augusta, Alayna Atwood of Massachusetts, and Nathalie Robinson of Burnham.

He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Bert Lessard; and great-grandson Benjaman Atwood.

Paul was a great, loving father and supportive person to the community. The family would like to thank MaineGeneral HealthReach Hospice, his daughter Tina and other family members for all their help, allowing Paul to pass at home, where he wanted to be.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at the convenience of the family at Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterville, with Father Dan as celebrant. A gathering will follow the service at First Church of the Nazarene, Nazarene Drive, Augusta. At Paul's request, there will be no funeral or visitation hours.

Friends wishing may make donations in his memory to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 1 Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham, ME 04086-1240.

Arrangements under the care and direction of Dan & Scott's Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan.