Paul Francis Cote

WATERVILLE – Paul Francis Cote passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Feb. 4, 2025.

Born in Bangor, Paul was raised in Brewer. He was an Eagle Scout and enjoyed the outdoors and camping as a youth. Following his graduation from Brewer High School and the University of Maine, Paul embarked on his career in education at Lubec High School. Those early years in Lubec held a special place in his heart. He later established roots in the Farmington area, where he taught middle school science in the Mt. Blue school district. While in Farmington, Paul demonstrated his commitment to faith and community as a leader in the Knights of Columbus and an active member of St. Joseph’s parish. After earning his master’s degree in educational leadership, he concluded his distinguished career as a principal in the Carrabec schools.

Paul’s passion for youth development extended beyond the classroom to his cherished summers at camps. First at Teco Lodge near Machias and later at Camp Kennebec on Salmon Pond in Belgrade, he created lasting memories with campers and his family at the lake. The friendships formed during those years remained treasured throughout his life.

Paul was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Marcella Cote of Brewer, and his sister Kathleen Hughes and her husband Paul of Cornville.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Susan Cote of Waterville; sister Ann Wright and husband Rick of Bowling Green, Ky.; daughter Elizabeth Ouellette and Scott Johnsen of Westbrook, son Paul J. Cote of Waterville, son Patrick Cote and his wife Tracey of Oakland; and grandsons Caden, Beckett, and Lexington Cote, who shared precious after-school hours with their grandfather throughout their elementary years.

A private memorial service with the immediate family will be held.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Veilleux Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, Elm Street Waterville, Maine. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of their website: http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.