OBITUARIES | Sept. 20, 2026 – BIDDEFORD GAZETTE

A review of this week’s obituaries from the Biddeford Saco area

NORMAND J. LALIBERTE

Aug. 29, 1938 – Sept. 14, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | Normand J. Laliberte Sr. 88, of Biddeford, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Monday, September 14, 2026.

He was born in Biddeford on August 29, 1938, a son of Rosaire and Diana (Sicard) Laliberte.

Normand graduated from St. Louis High School, class of 1956. He served his country in the United States Army. After the service, he went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Southern Maine.

He married his wife, Francoise Roux on August 29, 1964. They began their journey together raising three children.

Normand started his career in banking with First National Bank in North Berwick as branch manager. He later worked as a loan officer for Kennebunk Savings Bank, Northeast Bank and later for Sanford Savings & Loan.

Normand was an avid golfer and a member of the Biddeford & Saco Country Club. He was a member of the St. Louis Alumni Association and self-appointed Biddeford High Schools biggest sports fan. He will be sadly missed.

He was predeceased by an infant daughter Michelle, two brothers Raymond and Roger, and two sisters Joanne Laliberte and Doris Lafortune.

He is survived by his wife Francoise Laliberte and three children Denise Legendre and husband Rod, Nicole Adams and husband Charles and Normand Laliberte Jr. He is also survived by nine grandchildren Caitlin and husband Adam, Danielle and husband Jacob, Heather, Kyle, Dylan, Tyler and wife Danielle, Alyssa, Nolan and Addison, seven great grandchildren Micah, Sadie, Henry, Penelope, Boden, Bennett and Fiona. He leaves behind his sister Constance Wentworth, brother-in-law Raymond Lafortune, sister-in-law Brenda Laliberte, and in-laws Al, Martha and Sue Roux, nieces, and nephews.

The Funeral Service will be private. Burial will be in the family lot at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Biddeford.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations in Normand’s name to – Biddeford Athletic Association, 20 Maplewood Avenue, Biddeford, Maine 04005 | FULL OBITUARY

ELAINE G. LARIVIERE

Jan. 29, 1950 – Sept. 15, 2026

COTE FUNERAL HOME | Elaine G. Lariviere, 76, of Dayton, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Portland.

She was born in Biddeford, Maine on January 26, 1950, one of four children to Fernand and Madeleine (Valliere) Goulet.

Elaine lived a life filled with love, faith, family, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys found on the farm she cherished. Throughout her life, she found happiness in the countryside, surrounded by the animals and beauty she loved so much. Her favorite horse, Rocky, held a special place in her heart, though she loved all the creatures that shared her farm life, including horses, cows, pigs, goats, geese, chickens, honey bees, and the fruit trees and flowers that made her home bloom with life.

She often said she had a good life on the farm, and much of that happiness came from the people who shared it with her. The barn community became an extended family, filled with friendship, laughter, and countless memories.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She was an active member of her church community and found great joy in teaching Religious Education, helping young people grow in their faith. She treasured the friendships and support she found through her church and community activities. She was also a devoted sports fan who never missed an opportunity to cheer on the New England Patriots.

Above all else, she loved her family. Whether celebrating milestones, attending events, sharing meals, or simply spending time together, family was the center of her world. She delighted in creating memories with those she loved and took great pride in watching her family grow. Those who knew her will remember her warm smile, generous spirit, sense of humor, and her ability to make people feel welcome.

Her life is a reminder that happiness is often found in the people we love, the communities we build, the faith we share, and the simple beauty of each day. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, faith, and love that will continue to live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her. If there is a horse show in heaven, she is already on the microphone, greeting old friends, making people smile, and keeping an eye on Rocky.

Elaine was predeceased by her husband, Donald Lariviere, on February 17, 2024.

She is survived by her two daughters, Donna Lariviere and Crystal Lariviere; and by her grandson, Caleb. Elaine is also survived by three siblings, Normand Goulet and spouse Rolf, Richard Goulet and wife Ann, and Nancy Goulet and husband Timothy; as well as by many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, at St. Philip Church, 404 Goodwins Mills Road, in Lyman. Burial will be private. | FULL OBITUARY

ROBERT EDWARD ODDO

April 23, 1969 – Sept. 8, 2026

HOPE MEMORIAL CHAPEL | Robert Edward Oddo, 57, died of natural causes in Biddeford on September 8, 2026.

Robert was born in Ravenna, Ohio on April 23, 1969 to John Robert Kline and Carol Oddo. “Robbie” spent much of his childhood with his grandparents Robert and Mary Kline and family in Norwalk, OH.

In 1987 he met his lifelong love, Rhonda, and they married in 1995. Robert loved being a father to their two sons, Alexander and Vincent.

A man of a number of interests, Robert pursued his passion for the culinary world. He opened several pizza shops, first in Ohio and later in Maine. He also made a mark as a Chef for several New England Universities.

Robert enjoyed skiing, biking, roller blading and skateboarding and most of all exploring new places. He loved God and was especially connected to nature and animals.

His Italian heritage resulted in trips to Sicily with his sons, where he visited relatives and friends on the island. His spirited nature led to friendships with many people.

In addition to his immediate family, parents, half and step siblings, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, Robert is survived by Frank Coletti of Biddeford, Maine whom he considered a brother.

Robert was cremated with a celebration of life to be announced at a later date. If you would like to contribute to funeral expenses, Click Here | READ FULL OBITUARY

MONIQUE DUMONT

March 7, 1939 – Sept. 9, 2026

HOPE MEMORIAL CHAPEL | Monique Dumont, 87, of Biddeford, Maine, peacefully passed away, surrounded by her loving family on September 9, 2026, at St. André Health Care Facility.

She was born on March 7, 1939, in Packington, Quebec, Canada, a daughter of Eugene Beaulieu and Berthe (Beaulieu) Beaulieu.

Monique married Aurele Dumont in Packington, Quebec, on August 6, 1960. In 1963, they relocated to Biddeford, where they built a loving life and raised their family.

After moving to Biddeford, Monique devoted herself to raising five children. At the age of 41, she began working at the Nike shoe factory in Saco, Maine, and Exeter, New Hampshire. She later pursued her love of antiques and acquired Rivergate Antiques Mall in Kennebunk, Maine.

Monique and her late husband were parishioners of St. Joseph Church and former members of St. André’s Church, Good Shepherd Parish.

Monique was well known for her delicious brown sugar pies, especially during the holiday season. She loved caring for her family and making sure everyone was well fed. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Card playing was one of her favorite pastimes, and she enjoyed many memorable games with friends and family.

Her family was especially proud of her accomplishments, including mastering a new language, earning her GED, and obtaining her driver’s license later in life, during her empty-nest years.

Monique was predeceased by her husband, Aurele Dumont; her son, Steven Dumont; and her brother, Marcel Beaulieu.

She is survived by her daughter, Martine B. Raymond of Kennebunkport; her three sons, Camillien D. Dumont and his wife, Lucille, of Biddeford; Nelson S. Dumont of Saco; and Pierre Dumont and his wife, Sherri, of Caribou; as well as eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Viewing will be for family only.

A graveside service of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Cemetery in Biddeford. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Monique’s memory may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 | FULL OBITUARY

JOYCE M. COLE

March 12, 1959 – Sept. 12, 2026

Joyce M. Cole (Hoctor), 67, of Prescott, Arizona, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026.

Joyce was born in Biddeford, Maine, on March 12, 1959, to Robert James Hoctor and Rita Alice Gaudette. She attended Thomas College before enlisting in the United States Navy. She proudly served her country for four years, including time stationed at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

Throughout her life, Joyce was married to Robert Sturman and later Timothy Cole, relationships that brought important people and chapters into her life. Of all the roles she held throughout her life, being a mother and grandmother were the ones she treasured most.

Joyce had a strong faith in God that remained an important part of her life. She found joy and peace in nature and loved music, but nothing was more important to Joyce than her family. Her children and grandchildren were at the center of her world, and the love she had for them was immeasurable. Her family finds comfort in their faith and in believing that Joyce is now at peace and in the presence of God.

Joyce is survived by her children, Rita L. Sturman Nicely, Joseph R. Sturman, and Sarah Cole; her grandchildren, Sebastian Sturman and Athena Nicely; her sisters, Shirley Boucher, Carol Poirier, and Linda Archambault; as well as many dear friends, coworkers, and extended family members.

Information regarding a celebration of Joyce’s life will be shared with family and friends at a later date.

Joyce will be deeply missed, but the love she gave so freely will remain with her family always. They find comfort knowing that she is at peace with God and hope that somewhere beyond this life, she is surrounded by beautiful music, the peacefulness of nature, and the love of those who went before her. Her memory will live on through her children and grandchildren and in the many lives she touched along the way.

GARY A. BATES

Oct. 5, 1969 — Sept. 11, 2026

DENNETT, CRAIG & PATE | Gary A. Bates, 56, passed away suddenly at his home on September 11, 2026.

Born in New Jersey on October 5, 1969, Gary was the son of James and Lee (Shaffer) Bates. Following his high school graduation, he worked in Florida before eventually making Maine his home.

A skilled carpenter and craftsman, Gary worked throughout the Biddeford and Buxton area for many decades. His talent and dedication were evident in projects ranging from small home improvements to extensive renovations. Known for his knowledge, friendly nature, and unwavering trustworthiness, Gary earned the respect and appreciation of countless clients and friends.

In 2009, Gary married Susan Ferreira. Together they welcomed the love of their lives, their daughter, Kelsea Elizabeth, in 2010. Gary was a devoted husband and father who cherished the time he spent with his family.

Gary is survived by his wife, Susan; his daughter, Kelsea; his mother, Lee of Florida; his sister, Robin Sloan and her husband, David, of Florida; and his brothers, Jay Bates and Scott Bates of New Jersey. He will also be lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Friends and relatives may call Saturday September 19, 2026 from 11 to 1 pm at the Dennett, Craig & Pate Funeral home, 13 Portland Road, Buxton. | FULL OBITUARY

PHILLIP PELLETIER, Addendum

NOTE | Family members requested an addendum to the obituary notice of Phillip Pelletier, which was previously published by the Biddeford Gazette.

There will be a Celebration of Phil’s Life on October 13 at The Kelp Shed at Hermit Island, Phippsburg, Maine. Service will begin at noon and conclude with refreshments and entertainment.

The Biddeford Gazette publishes local obituaries as a community service with no charge to the families and survivors.

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