Lionel A. Bouffard

Lionel Arthur Bouffard-a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, business partner, companion, and friend-passed away peacefully at his residence in Saco, Maine, on May 29, 2025. He was 94 years young, full of stories, charm, and the unmistakable spirit of someone who lived life on his terms.
Born in Biddeford, Maine, on October 10, 1930, to Joseph and Fabiola (Beaudet) Bouffard, Lionel was a man of strong character, a fluent Frenchman, and, as his family liked to joke, 'a product of Canada produced in Biddeford, Maine'. It's where he grew up, went to school, and began shaping the values of hard work and loyalty that defined his life.
Lionel's work ethic was legendary-he remained active and sharp right up until the end. Even when mobility slowed him down, he was known to cruise around his property in Saco, keeping an eye on landscaping projects or anything that needed his signature touch. If there was something to fix or supervise, Lionel was your man.
His first job was at White Star Laundry in Biddeford, followed by a 28-year tenure at Pepperell Manufacturing Company in Biddeford, where he rose to the position of manager. Later, he worked side-by-side with his sons, Michael and Roger, at the Mary Carter Paint Store, which he proudly owned and operated in Biddeford for 8 years. In 1969, Lionel took on his most ambitious venture, purchasing the Normandie Motel on East Grand Avenue in Old Orchard Beach. The motel became a labor of love and a cherished family enterprise where everyone pitched in over the years.
Though business ran in his blood, Lionel's greatest joys came from life's simple pleasures-fishing, boating, snowmobiling, and most of all, being surrounded by family. He was a generous soul with a giant heart, always quick to lend a hand and even quicker with a clever joke or playful tease. Known for his fearless nature and youthful energy, he famously hopped on his grandson's small bike at age 89 just to prove he still could-and at 93, he opted for an elective hip replacement, walking faster in rehab than some half his age.
Lionel was a true gentleman until the end-opening doors, telling stories, and courting his beloved fiancée of 36 years, Patrice Gilbert, with grace and humor.
He was predeceased by his wife, Lorraine (Poirier) Bouffard, whom he married on March 31, 1951; his parents, Joseph and Fabiola; his eldest son, Roger Bouffard; brothers Edmond, Andrew, and Renald Jean "Joe" Bouffard; and sisters Blanche Chabot and Marie Ange Perreault.
He is survived by his loving partner, Patrice of Saco; his son, Michael Bouffard and wife Melanie of Sebago; his daughter, Amy Calo and husband Thomas of Biddeford; his daughter, Jenny Straetz of Saco; Patrice's children, Leslie Yerxa of Tennessee and Matthew Randall and his wife Anne of Gorham; and Patrice's 5 grandchildren. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who admired and adored him.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Hope Memorial Chapel, 480 Elm Street, Biddeford. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 4, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Church in Biddeford, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.
All who knew Lionel are invited to join in celebrating a truly remarkable life-one full of grit, laughter, generosity, and love. Bring your favorite Lionel story, and don't be surprised if he left one last laugh for you somewhere along the way.