Stephen R. Gagnon

Stephen R. Gagnon, 64, of Old Orchard Beach, Maine, passed away peacefully after a long, brave fight with prostate cancer, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 28th, 1960, in Sanford, the beloved son of Richard and Lillian Gagnon, both of whom predeceased him.
Steve grew up in Waterboro, Maine, and graduated from Massabesic High School, where he served as class president and was named the school's Most Valuable Player in basketball-an achievement he remained proud of throughout his life. He later attended Husson College, preparing for a career that would lead him to fulfill his dream of owning his own business. He succeeded in building a flourishing painting business in the Southern Maine community, admired by many for his fairness, dedication, and skill. Through his work, Steve formed lasting friendships with countless local tradespeople whom he respected deeply.
On November 3rd, 1990, Steve married the love of his life, Katherine (Bernier) Gagnon. Together they recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. Steve loved being surrounded by family, and nothing brought him more joy than sharing his life with his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Katherine; his children, Brett Gagnon (Abby) and Katie Rideout (Courtney); and his stepchildren, Jessica Crockett and Andrew Crockett (Heather). Steve was a proud grandfather to Aria, Maceo, Giorgia, Madison, Charlotte, and Rocco, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
Steve is also survived by his siblings, Brenda Ridley (Bill), Brian Gagnon (Tina), and Craig Gagnon; and by his in-laws Lori Grassi (Chris), Rodney Bernier (Sherene), Debra Martin (Kevin), James Bernier (Lisa), and Daniel Bernier, all of whom he shared close relationships with.
He is also survived by his stepmother-in-law, Susan Penna Bernier, and his step-siblings Beth, Steven, and Billy.
Steve was proud of his roots and family connections, and he is survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who he loved dearly.
He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Therese Bernier Burns; his father- and mother-in-law, L. Philip Bernier and Patricia Ann (White) Bernier; his step-siblings Michael and Melissa; and his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Andrena Gagnon.
Steve's life was filled with laughter, generosity, and an incredible ability to bring people together. He loved hosting gatherings-always the life of the party-and never missed an opportunity to reach out to friends or family just to stay connected. He was an avid NASCAR fan, a passion passed down from his father, and he enjoyed attending races whenever he could.
Some of Steve's happiest memories came from time spent outdoors with his family. He loved taking his kids on camping adventures, starting in tents, then moving to a pop-up camper, a travel trailer, and eventually to a cherished camp on Thomas Pond in Casco, Maine. There he created countless joyful moments-celebrations with friends and family, pontoon boat rides, afternoons spent jumping in the lake, and evenings gathered around the campfire surrounded by the people he loved. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and the countless lives he touched.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday December 6, 2025 at the Elks Lodge, 68 Ocean Park Rd., Saco, Maine, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. A eulogy and reflections will be offered at 5:00 p.m.