Edouard Albert Mathieu

Edouard Albert "Eddie" Mathieu, 87, of Biddeford, Maine, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025.

Born on November 26, 1937, in the family home to Adrien and Jeannette (Pelletier) Mathieu, Eddie grew up on the family farm, where he developed the work ethic, teamwork, and ingenuity that would define his life. After graduating high school, he served in the U.S. Navy aboard a submarine.

While stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, he met the love of his life, Sonya. They were married on July 13, 1967, in Trooper, Pennsylvania – a partnership that lasted 58 years.

Settling in Maine, Eddie worked as an electrician at the Tannery Mill in Biddeford before launching his own successful general contracting business. His talents ranged from minor home repairs to large-scale construction projects, including building an entire hotel addition in Old Orchard Beach. In 1970, he worked alongside his brother Paul running a gas station and garage in Scarborough, and in 1971, he opened his own auto repair shop at home.

Eddie had a zest for life and a wide range of hobbies that brought joy to those around him. A fearless roller skater affectionately nicknamed "Kamikaze Pete," he glided across the rink with energy and style, often paired in graceful motion with his sister Lucille. He enjoyed family dart tournaments, regular visits to Las Vegas to visit his sister Anita and his brother Paul; and above all, playing billiards. His love for the game was serious-so serious that the dining room housed a full regulation billiard table, complete with professional lighting, score beads strung above the table, and a ball-shining ritual that was as legendary as it was precise. When you thought you could start the game, he would then exclaim, "time to shine the balls." He took a large, fluffy car buffer, flipped it over, made some adjustments, placed the billiard balls inside, and turned it on. Round and round the balls went. He was always eager to teach anyone how to pocket the balls.

As a skilled mechanic, he passed on his knowledge to his children and grandchildren, firmly believing in the value of hands-on learning: "Pay attention, because no one else will care enough about you to teach you," he'd say.

Known for his big personality, sharp wit, and love for bargaining, Eddie left lasting impressions wherever he went. Everyone who met him had a story to tell.

As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, Eddie found deep joy in teaching others about the Bible and God's Kingdom. He also contributed his time and skill to the construction and remodeling of approximately 36 Kingdom Halls throughout the region.

Eddie is survived by his beloved wife Sonya; children Janet Vermillion of El Cajon, CA; Ginger Lessard (Marc) of Newfield, ME; James Chadwick of Auburn, PA; and Rhonda Mathieu of Alpharetta, GA. He also leaves behind his sisters Lucille Moreau (Ernest) of Arundel, ME, and Anita Mathieu of Las Vegas, NV; as well as many grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.

He was predeceased by his mother Jeannette (Mathieu) Warner, his father, Adrien Mathieu, his stepfather Raymond J Warner of Biddeford; his sons Timothy A. Mathieu of Biddeford, ME and Raymond Taylor of San Diego, CA; and his brother, Paul Mathieu of Las Vegas, NV.

Eddie's legacy is one of skill, laughter, conviction, and deep family devotion. He will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered.