Auburn – Donald Normand Royer, 86, of Sabattus, Maine, passed away November 1, 2018 at Androscoggin Hospice House surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Lewiston on August 18, 1932, the third child of Alfred and Lillian Royer. Don was educated in Auburn schools after which time he joined the Marines in 1948. He was assigned to Camp Lejeune N.C. where following his training he served in The Korean War. The discipline and patriotism which he learned in the Marines never left him and Don was very proud of his military service. On July 12, 1952, he married Jacqueline Carpentier and they spent 65 wonderful years together. Don was employed for many years at Lown Shoe and then became a salesman for both the Dexter Company and the Imperial Company. He finished his career at his brother’s store, Bourques Market, which brought many happy memories there working together with his two brothers. He was a member of The American Legion Post 22 and the Chosin Few, an exclusive Fraternity of Honor for those who served in the Epic Chosin Reservoir Campaign in North Korea in 1950. Donald was an avid hunter, enjoyed traveling with his family throughout the U.S. and Canada, visiting casinos, attending fall fairs, watching sports, especially those in which his family participated, and mowing his lawn.
Donald is survived by his daughter: Irene, his son Fred and wife Karen, two grandchildren: Kristi Ouellette and husband Joe of Cumberland, Kelsi Gagne and husband Eric of Portland, three great-grandchildren: Elle and Emry Ouellette and Hadley Gagne, his brother: Roger Royer and wife Terry, sister-in-law: Madeleine Bilodeau, brother-in-law: Eugene Carpentier Jr. and wife Rena, and many very special nieces and nephews. Donald was predeceased by his parents Alfred and Lillian Royer, his wife: Jacqueline, brothers: Sylvio Royer and Roland Royer.
The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to The Androscoggin Hospice House, The Infusion Center, The Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Unit and the Emergency staff at St. Mary’s Hospital as well as Don’s daughter Irene, for all the kindness and wonderful care he received throughout his illness.
Visitation will be held at The Fortin Group Funeral Home in Lewiston on Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday at 11:00 AM, followed by committal Services at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Lewiston.
You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Don’s guestbook at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.A Service of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services, 70 Hortton St., Lewiston, Maine 04240. 784-4584.
