Renee Sarah Lapointe

Van Buren and Old Town --- Renée Sarah Lapointe, age 21, passed away on January 17, 2026, in Old Town, Maine. She was born on December 28, 2004, in Caribou, Maine, the beloved daughter of Michael and Christine Lapointe of Van Buren.

From a very young age, Renée was gifted with extraordinary talent, determination, and a radiant presence. She was a natural performer who could sing, dance, and tumble, winning numerous awards and pageants.

Renée proudly held the titles of Little Miss Maine Potato Blossom and Pre-Teen Miss Maine Potato Blossom. She later earned the title of Junior Miss Maine America and went on to compete at the national level in Little Rock, Arkansas, an experience she was deeply proud of. Her stage presence, confidence, and grace left a lasting impression on all who watched her perform.

Renée was also a gifted and fiercely competitive athlete. She was named All-Aroostook in soccer and tennis and earned a place on the All-State soccer team. Known for her strength, skill, and signature flip-ins during soccer, Renée brought passion, confidence, and joy to every game she played.

Renée graduated from the University of Maine at Orono with a full scholarship, completing her degree a year early. During her time at UMaine, she was a proud member of the Pi Phi sorority, where she formed meaningful friendships and was known for her kindness, loyalty, and genuine care for others. Above all, Renée was known for her kindness. She was gentle, compassionate, and deeply loving, with a rare ability to make others feel seen and special.

Renée leaves behind the love of her life, Adolfo Cadillo of New Jersey; her devoted parents, Michael and Christine Lapointe of Van Buren; her brother, Colby Lapointe of Bangor, with whom she shared a uniquely close and special bond, and his wife, Julia Lapointe, whom Renée loved deeply and was so happy to welcome into her life, finally feeling as though she had gained a sister. She is also survived by her uncle, Nelson Gagnon and his wife, Violette of St. Leonard, New Brunswick; cousins, Valerie Thibodeau of Grand Falls, New Brunswick, and Venessa Gagnon of Edmundston, New Brunswick, who were like sisters to Renée. She also leaves behind a lifelong friend, Tina Belanger, and a special aunt, Geneva Cole of Lynn, Massachusetts, whom Renée loved tremendously.

Renée's journey included profound challenges, and she fought quietly and bravely through struggles that many could not see. Her family hopes her story serves as a reminder that mental health matters, that kindness is essential, and that no one should ever suffer in silence. Renée will be forever loved, deeply missed, and always carried in the hearts of those who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at St. Bruno-St. Remi Catholic Church, Main St., Van Buren. There will be no visiting hours. Spring interment will be in the parish cemetery. Arrangements are a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren. To share memories and condolences online, please visit Renee's tribute page at www.LajoieFuneralHome.com