Valens "Dan" St. Pierre

Valens Daniel Joseph “Dan” St. Pierre, 86, of Auburn, Maine, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May 7, 2026, after a long illness with pancreatic cancer, just 20 days shy of his 87th birthday.

Dan was born on May 27, 1939, in Van Buren, Maine, to Lawrence St. Pierre and Catherine Mazzerolle. He grew up in Turner and Lewiston and entered the United States Army at the age of 18.

On November 18, 1961, Dan married the love of his life, Marie Jeanne. Together they built a life centered on love, hard work, and family. Dan spent most of his adult life working at General Electric as an inspector and in heat treat before retiring in 1994.

Dan became an accomplished prospector, known for discovering what is believed to be one of the largest gold nuggets ever recorded in Maine, and perhaps the largest. The specimen, weighing approximately 1¼ ounces, is currently displayed at the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum in Bethel.

Dan had a passion for adventure and discovery. He loved gold prospecting, searching local quarries for gems, and metal detecting. Above all else, however, Dan treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie Jeanne St. Pierre; his son, Daniel St. Pierre and wife Rebecca; his daughter, Susan Anderson and husband Donald; his grandchildren, Korey, Rebecca, and Christian; and his great-grandchildren, Landon, Jenna, Desto, Marcus, and Miles. He is also survived by his brothers, Phil and Paul, and sisters, Marilyn and Pauline.

Dan was predeceased by his brothers Ronald, Normand, and Robert, and his sisters Carlene and Florence.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gustavo Churrango, Dr. Rausch and his team, and Andwell Hospice Services, especially nurse Julie. The compassion, dedication and skill we experienced while navigating this difficult path was a blessing to our family and will always be remembered.