Donald T. Deschaine

WINSLOW – Donald T. Deschaine, 89, passed away at home on Feb. 15, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his cherished wife of 65 years, Joan (Vigue), his daughter Cynthia (Bill), his son Randall (Cathi), along with his four adored grandchildren, Lauren and Matthew Engel of Massachusetts, Candice Deschaine Christian (Adam) and Hayley Deschaine Cohen (Bryan) of North Carolina. Don also received a wonderful visit from his one-year old great granddaughter, Emily Addison Christian, just one week before his passing. He is also survived by his brother Roland (Vernette), and sisters Gloria Gamache of Kansas and Theresa Perkins of Connecticut. His dear brother Claude passed away in 2019, survived by his wife Gladys. Don was born in Millinocket on January 12, 1933, the son of Pierre “Ned” and Leona Deschaine. Moving to Waterville at a young age, he attended St. Francis Elementary School, then Waterville High School, graduating in 1950. Upon graduation, he enrolled in the Army in 1953, serving his country well during the Korean Conflict. Upon his return from Korea, he married Joan in May of 1956 , and soon began his career at Laverdiere’s Super Drug stores, where he worked his way up from one of their very first Store Managers to become Senior Vice President of Operations, and a member of the company’s Executive Board. With his strong work ethic and great dedication to the company, he was known as a firm, but kind and inspirational leader to countless numbers of employees, as he helped guide the company to its full contingent of 72 stores before it’s sale to Rite Aid in 1994. While Don’s professional career was marked with great success, there was nothing as important to him as the time he spent with his family. From weekly ski trips to Sugarloaf and Saddleback Mountains when Cindy and Randy were young, to his years owning a camp at China Lake, and finally to his winters in Naples, Florida, being surrounded by his family and good friends is what made Don the happiest. Whether it was a walk to the beach, riding his bike, or a round on the golf course, he graciously welcomed all friends, old and new, along his life’s journey. Everyone left Don with a smile, and a better outlook on life. He had great pride in Cindy and Randy’s professional accomplishments, with Cindy a nurse at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, and Randy following his footsteps to become a retail executive at Food Lion Supermarkets of Raleigh, North Carolina. His swift inclusion of his daughter in law Cathi, and son in law, Bill to the family was also one of good cheer and great kindness. Don was truly a member of the “Greatest Generation,” resourceful and capable in so many ways. His gardens were legendary, producing bushels of vegetables every year. He taught himself all manners of home repair, and he would so generously share his talents with his children’s families as well. To Don, there was nothing that couldn’t be fixed, repaired, or renewed without some ingenuity and creativity. No mention of Don’s life would be complete without noting his enduring, life-long love for Joan. Over 65 years of marriage, through highs and lows, adventures, and quiet times, she was always his sweetheart, and she certainly always will be.Don’s family would like to extend their sincere thanks to MaineGeneral Medical Center’s Hospice and Home Care, especially his wonderful Nurse, Marcia Stetson, for the knowledgeable and compassionate care she provided Don over his illness. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 13, at 10:00 am at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by burial at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.
In lieu of flowers, Donations in Donald’s memory may be made to Maine General Hospice and Home Care, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, Maine 04903