Joseph A. Therrien

HALLOWELL – Joseph, “Uncle Joe”, was born on March 20, 1931. He went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 14, 2023 at the age of 92.

Uncle Joe served in the Navy during the Korean War on a LST from 1951-1955. While in the Navy, he served as the Company Chaplin. He was a French professor at Michigan State as well as Western Illinois University, in Macomb, Ill. where he taught for 18 years. He spent many of his summers on the island of Corsica, France, where he was known as Tahday Therrien. This island was very dear to his heart and it is here that he acquired his love of fine wine. Uncle Joe lived in Good Hope, Ill., for 47 years where he taught the majority of the town to play cribbage. From 1983-2000, Uncle Joe bought, sold, and refurbished antiques out of his home in Good Hope.

Uncle Joe moved back to his hometown of Hallowell in 2017 to be closer to family. He loved music and could play a full upright piano with the best of them. He had an intense passion for the game of cribbage and showed no mercy when playing. Although he was never dealt a 29 hand, he was fortunate enough to see one during one of his games, which was a highlight in his life. Uncle Joe lived life to the fullest and all who met him loved him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Alphonse and Marion Therrien; and his sister, Kathryn Shepherd.

He is survived by his nephews Dennis Shepherd and his wife, Emily, Ronald Shepherd and his wife, Susan, Terry Shepherd and his wife, Brenda; several great- and great-great nieces and nephews; and two very dear friends, Donald and Jean Thompson.

At the request of Uncle Joe, there will be no services.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St., Augusta. Memories, condolences, and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

Donations in his memory can be made to the

Maine Veterans’ Home,

35 Heroes Way,

Augusta, ME 04330


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