Lewiston, ME - Rapheno Edmond Joseph "Junior" Thibeault , a devoted, brave, and beloved man, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by loved ones. He was a resident of Rumford, ME and formerly Mexico, ME.
Rapheno grew up in Mexico, ME, where he attended St. Theresa’s Catholic School and Mexico High School. He furthered his education at the Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute, studying Machine Tool Technology.
He proudly served in the Army during the Vietnam War, earning the Good Conduct Medal. Following his military service, Rapheno began a career as a machinist at Boise Cascade Paper Mill in Rumford, which later became Meade Paper. He retired after over 20 years of dedicated service.
On February 24, 1973, Rapheno married Janice Patrick, marking an important chapter in his life. He is survived by his partner, Janice M. (Patrick) Thibeault; his daughter, Jennifer L. Rinaldo, and her husband, Rick II, of Charlotte, NC; his son, Brian A. Thibeault, and his partner, Sandra Arena, of Norwood, CO; and his grandchildren, Eli S. and Grace E. Rinaldo of Charlotte, NC. He also leaves behind his beloved grandpup, Lola of Norwood, CO, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Rapheno was predeceased by his sister, Arlene Thibeau; his brother, Edgar Thibeau; and his parents, Evelyn M. (Cormier) Thibeau and Rapheno A. Thibeau.
Rapheno had a deep love for the outdoors, whether he was hunting, snowmobiling, camping in the summer, or casting a line into the water. He especially cherished evenings by the campfire and sunny days at Old Orchard Beach. And while he enjoyed many hobbies, he was also a true believer in professional wrestling, watching every match with the same seriousness others reserve for the evening news.
A proud and active member of his community, he participated in the VFW, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the American Legion. Wherever he went, Rapheno was rarely without his camera, always ready to capture meaningful moments with family and friends.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Central Maine Medical Center, specifically the ICU team, for their love, care, and compassion.
Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, December 5, 2025, at St. Athanasius Catholic Church, located at 126 Maine Ave, Rumford, Maine at 11:00 am. Following the Mass, a Committal Service with military honors will be held at St John Cemetery on Isthmus Rd, Rumford, Maine. A celebration of life will follow at St. Athanasius Church Hall.
To memories and condolences with the Thibeault family, please visit www.ThibsultRemembranceCenter.com
His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
