J. Arthur N. Lagassee

J. Arthur N. Lagassee, 71 passed away June 14, 2013 at the Togus VA Hospice following an 30 month battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He was born in Auburn, ME the son of Arthur & Elaine Lagasse. Arthur was a professional musician, military veteran, teacher, mentor, social worker, a friend, husband, and father. He was a graduate of St. Dominic High School, Lewiston, ME, held a Bachelor Degree of Music Education, and a Masters of Social Work. He served with the US Army, in Special Forces Airborne and was honorably discharged as a disabled veteran. He entered college where he was on the Dean’s List for 4 years, was a member of Phi Delta Omega College Honor Society, and taught college Jazz Band for 2 years, graduating as Salutatorian. He taught music for 14 years until a disability caused his retirement. He returned to college earning a Masters of Social Work, and was employed with the VA. In retirement, he continued to mentor numerous young jazz musicians, and was rewarded with two very exceptional students now playing at the highest levels. He served as a judge for state jazz festivals, and the Down East Country Music Association. He created, developed and published a piano method book, and a jazz improvisation method. Throughout his life he played professionally, in early years in Boston, New York City, and on cruise ships, then statewide in Maine. Arthur has fought his disease at every step with grace and courage. He and his family are very grateful for the compassionate and able care given to him at the Togus VA and Hospice Unit as his disease progressed. Arthur is survived by his wife Janet, son Nicholas and daughter -in- law Gretchen Lagassee of Auburn, his sister Georgette LePage and her husband Leo of Minot, nieces and nephews, and very special friends. He was predeceased by his sisters Carmen Jordan, and Charlotte Jean Lahey. You are invited to share your condolences with the Lagassee family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service with military honors Tuesday at 2:30 PM at Mount Auburn Cemetery. Those wishing may make donations to the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, 55 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston, ME 04240. A service of The Fortin Group/ Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services, 217 Turner St. Auburn 783-8545