Jared Morton Paradee

ROCKLAND, ME — It is with great sadness the family of Jared M. Paradee announces his passing.

Jared, born November 4, 1978 in St. Albans, VT, will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Brenda A. Menard; father, Chris M. Paradee; siblings, Jessica A. Paradee and Elijah Paradee; daughter, Ramona; uncles and aunts, Norman and Sarah Menard, Michael Menard, Albert and Dawn Menard, Cheryl Moran, and Craig and Kate Paradee; cousins, Elizabeth Menard, Emma Menard, Landis Menard, Colin Menard, Caleb Menard, Joshua Menard, Casey Moran, Amanda Moran, Johanna Stebbins, and Jill Anne Paradee; nephews, Wesley and Clark; nieces, Adley, Arabella Grace, and Mary Anne; and many friends. Jared was predeceased by his Pépère, Furman N. Menard; Mémère, Teresa C. Menard; Grandpa, Francis M. Paradee; Grandmother, Edith M. Graves; and Uncles, Colin W. Paradee, and Joseph A. Menard.

Jared grew up and attended schools in Fairfax, VT before moving to Farmington, ME and then Rockland, ME.  Jared was known, even as a child, for finding joy in the simplest of things, having a curious spirit, being kind, and spreading beauty in the world through his art across multiple mediums, his creativity, and repurposed treasures. His greatest joy and love though was time with his daughter, Ramona, the light of his soul, who he wanted the world for; he enjoyed playing with toys with her, going on walks together, being outside together, building with Legos together, reading books and overall just being with her watching her learn and grow.

Jared was a devoted father, son, and friend. Despite his own struggles with his mental health, he was always willing to help others with an empathetic ear and heart in his community. A favorite of Jared’s was to brain storm party themes and create decorations for “Hot Pink Flannel” parties. Whenever someone needed a hand, he was prepared to support them however he could. He endured with great courage through many difficult times, and we are so thankful to all those who were able to offer him their support during these times and share in his joys as well. A special thank you and immeasurable gratitude from our family is to Virginia Souza for believing in Jared and providing him with safe shelter, friendship, and moral support towards reaching his goals. We thank all who shared their prayers, thoughts, and time for Jared and our family especially during the last year.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jared’s life at the following:

Visitation on Friday, May 19, 2023, 5:00 - 7:00pm is open to family and friends at The Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Avenue, Swanton, VT.

Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, May 20, 2023, beginning at 1:00pm at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Church Road, Fairfield, VT. Internment following the Mass in St. Patrick Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions to be made to Ramona by check made payable to: “Vermont Higher Education Investment Plan” with Ramona’s name in memo, mail to: Brenda Menard, 40 Snowcrest Rd., Fairfax, VT 05454. “The Gift of College” gift cards can also be purchased in-person at Kinney Drugs, CVS Pharmacy, and Cumberland Farms, and online at Walmart.com. This fund is supporting Jared’s wish to help give her the world he wanted for her.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com