Clermont G. Begin
HALLOWELL/CARRABASSET VALLEY – Clermont G. Begin, affectionately known as Clem to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Dec. 1, 2025, at the age of 86 in Hallowell. Born on Dec. 7, 1938, in St. Ludger, Quebec, Canada, Clem was a man whose presence was as substantial and heartwarming as his lifelong contributions to his community.
Clem’s early years in Canada laid a strong foundation for a life characterized by hard work, creativity, and dedication. After honing his culinary skills as a chef, he found his true calling in the construction industry. Clem’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish and successfully operate Sugarloaf Construction Company for over four decades. Under his leadership, the company not only built structures but also a reputation for quality and integrity.
Clem’s generosity extended far beyond the boundaries of his business. He was deeply committed to the Carrabassett Valley and Sugarloaf Mountain communities, where he supported numerous organizations. His contributions to the Carrabassett Valley Public Library, Carrabassett Valley Academy, Maine Huts & Trails, Sugarloaf Ski Club, and the R.H. Bell Chapel are just a few examples of his unwavering dedication to service. Clem served with distinction on several boards, including the Carrabassett Planning Board, the CVA and Bell Chapel boards of directors, The Franklin Memorial Hospital advisory board, and the board for Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation.
Clem’s life was also marked by his steadfast faith. As a Catholic, he lived by principles of kindness and compassion, which were evident to all who knew him. His warm, friendly nature made him a cherished member of his community.
When Clem wasn’t scaling rooftops and wielding a hammer, you could find him swinging a club on the links with friends.
Clem leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Rolande Begin, and a loving father to his daughters, Lucy Begin-Murray and her husband John Murray, and Chantal Mihm and her husband Charles Mihm. Clem’s role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, and he will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren Garrett Goodridge (husband Stefan), Maggie Murray, Jack Murray, Sophie Mihm, and Audrey Mihm.
Though Clem was preceded in death by his siblings Gaétan (wife Gabrielle), Laval, Laurian, and Claudette (deceased partner Gaston); he is survived by his siblings, Gisèle (partner François), Jean-Marc (partner Ginette), Francine (deceased partner Lowell), Fleurette (deceased partner Pierre), and Richard.
He equally left behind his in-laws: Jacqueline (husband Felicien), the late Estelle (husband Emille), Laurette (late husband Jacques), Jeanne D’Arc (partner Edward), the late Jean-Paul (late wife Gaétane), Jean-Noel (wife Jeanne Mance), Carmelle (husband Jean-Marie), Rosaire (wife Mireille), Christiane (partner Claude), and Guillaume (wife Guylaine).
His passing marks the end of an era for the Begin family, but his memory will live on through the love and stories shared by those who knew him best.
Clem will be remembered as a generous, friendly man whose actions spoke louder than words. His impact on the lives he touched and the community he served will endure for generations to come. The world is a better place for having been graced by Clermont G. Begin’s presence, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A funeral mass is scheduled on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11 a.m., at Sugarloaf’s Bell Chapel, 5085 Access Road, Carabbassett Valley. This mass will be live streamed, and a link will appear on Clem’s obituary page on our website. A memorial reception honoring Clem will immediately follow the mass at Sugarloaf’s King Pine Room. A private burial will take place after the reception at the family lot in Carrabassett Valley Cemetery.
Family and friends are encouraged to visit Clem’s Book of Memories at http://www.wilesrc to leave words of comfort, share a memory or photos. Honored to be caring for the family of Clem Begin is Wiles Remembrance Center – Farmington.
In lieu of flowers, donation in Clem’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association https://donorservices.alz.org.
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