Edgar J. Dupuis

OLD TOWN - Edgar J. Dupuis, 91, beloved husband of Estelle V. Dupuis, passed away peacefully March 24, 2013, at a Bangor hospital after a short period of failing health. His final days were spent surrounded by family members. He was born June 18, 1921, in Old Town, son of the late Ambrose and Euphimie (Boudreau) Dupuis. He graduated from Old Town High School, class of 1940. Edgar proudly and courageously served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II, being awarded the Bronze Star for bravery while participating in the battles of Guadalcanal, Northern Solomons, New Guinea and Luzon in the Pacific Theatre. After the war, Edgar married the love of his life, Estelle Martin, and together they raised their six children, surrounding them with love of family and with all the treasures and values that life would offer. Edgar worked most of his career at Old Town Shoe as a specialty hand sewer, and for many years at the local paper mill before retiring in 1986. He was an active member of Old Town Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 3381, and for periods was active in the local American Legion Post No. 84, Orono and Old Town Knights of Columbus. Referred to by his siblings as "TeGar," Edgar was always a unique individual who profoundly touched the hearts of so many, from all in his immediate family to his siblings, extended nieces, nephews and cousins, and his many friends and extended lifetime acquaintances. Edgar led a very active and productive life. He loved being with his family and friends. He enjoyed playing cards and discussing the current events of the day, especially a spirited discussion on politics. To his immediate family, his 91 years seem all too short, but the many who were touched by him always understood the full quality of his existence, which far exceeded the quantity of time that he lived. His devotion to his family was unparalleled, which is a true testament to the life that he lived and the man that he was. To his wife of 66 years, his devotion extended to her care during her years with Alzheimer's disease. To his children, he was the epitome of a role model, which in turn passed on to their children. To his grandchildren, he was their loving, guiding, and joyful "Pepe," a Pepe like no other. As sad and painful as his passing is, his memory will always draw a smile through the tears when thinking of the endless happy times. His exuberant personality was infectious on so many levels and to so many in and outside the family. He will be missed in ways that are too numerous and too difficult to express. His spirit will live on in all of us forever. A light has gone out, without so much as a flicker, and what is left is the precious memory of how brightly it burned and the warmth that it gave us. Edgar is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Estelle (Martin) Dupuis; daughter, Janice Dennis and husband, William, of Woodbridge, Va.; and sons, Robert Dupuis and wife Karen, of East Lyme, Conn., Michael Dupuis and wife, Mary Ellen, of Old Town, Thomas Dupuis of Santa Barbara, Calif., and Mark Dupuis and wife, Sandra, of Burlington, Vt. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Christopher and Scott Dennis of Virginia, Renee Lavallee and husband, Dennis, of Connecticut, Danielle O'Connor and husband, Jeffrey, of Connecticut, Lauren Dupuis of New York City, Stacey and Joseph Dupuis of Vermont, Matthew Dupuis and wife, Amy, of Eddington, and Kaleigh Dupuis of Old Town; very special great-grandson, Rowan Dupuis of Eddington; loving daughter-in-law, Sharon Dupuis Saucier, of Old Town; sisters, Joseline LeBlanc of Old Town, and Juliette Paradis and husband, Maynard, of Old Town; brother, Romeo Dupuis and wife, Lois, of Milford; brother-in-law, Larry Spinney of Old Town; sister-in-law, Loretta Gallant of Old Town; many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Edgar was predeceased by his beloved son, Jeffrey Dupuis; brother, Lionel Dupuis; sisters, Mary Spinney and Delima Parady; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Alice Dupuis, Eudore Collins, Rudolph Parady, Francis LeBlanc, Leo Thibadeau and Antoinette Dupuis. The family expresses their sincere appreciation to the doctors, palliative care unit and attending nurses at Eastern Maine Medical Center for their unfailing love and care during Edgar's final moments. The family recognizes and expresses their sincere appreciation to Dr. Christopher Ritter and his staff for the many years of care and counsel given to Edgar. Visiting hours will be held 4-9 p.m. Friday, April 19, at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Saturday, April 20, at Holy Family Parish Church, 429 Main St., Old Town, with Father Rudy Leveille, celebrant. Immediately after the service, family and friends are invited to Holy Family Parish Church for a luncheon and sharing of happy memories. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 or visit www.alz.com.