Francis Paul Kinchen
GARDINER – Francis Paul Kinchen, 90, of Gardiner, passed away peacefully at the Maine Veterans Home, Augusta on April 20, 2025, after an extended illness. He was born in Iberville, La., in 1935 to John L. and Mamie (LeBouef) Kinchen.
Paul attended St. Gabriel High School and graduated in 1953. After graduation he entered the U.S. Navy and proudly served for more than 20 years. His family was his greatest joy and sense of pride. He was an avid reader and instilled his love of books in all his children. He especially loved a good western and was a lifelong fan of Louis L’Amour.
Paul is survived by his wife of nearly 68 years, Judy (Kent); and five daughters, Dahn (Donny) Graham, Candy (Julio) Granda, Autumn (Dan) Wilson, Hope (Joey) Olivencia and April Kinchen; grandchildren Cecelia and Daniel Saldivia, Michelle (Hinton) Jackson, Christina (Hinton) Woznikaitis, Tracy Hinton, Katie Hinton, Andrew and Amanda Gregory, Leigh Marie and Kevin Wilson, Ariel Kinchen, Casey Olivencia; and numerous great-grandchildren. Survivors also include sisters Audrey, Lovey and Carol.
Paul was preceded in death by his eldest daughter, Robin; eldest granddaughter, Heather; parents John L. and Mamie (Lebeouf) Kinchen; brothers John Jr., Jim, Roger, Huey, Carl, Joe, and Austin, sisters Wilma, Thelma, Pearl, Ernestine, Ora, and June.
Services will be Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 110 School St., Gardiner, with a reception following in the church hall. A celebration of life and second service including full military honors will be in Baton Rouge, La. at a date to be determined.
The family would like to thank all those who spent time visiting with Paul in his final days, especially those who were able to make it to his 90th birthday party; your visits and presence brought him much joy.
Condolences may be shared at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries
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