In Memoriam: Melvin George Mathieu, a Cherished Husband, Father, and Community Stalwart

WATERVILLE, MAINE – Melvin George Mathieu, a beloved husband, father, and pillar of the Waterville community, passed away peacefully at home on May 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 77 years old.

Born on February 20, 1947, in Waterville, Maine, to parents Lionel George Mathieu and Françoise Aimée (Rodrique) Mathieu, Melvin was a second-generation French-Canadian immigrant. He attended Waterville schools, where he excelled in hockey and baseball, and went on to serve his country with honor during the Vietnam War, stationed in Alaska.

A Devoted Husband and Father

Upon his return from Alaska, Melvin proposed to the love of his life, Marcia Marie (King) Mathieu, and they embarked on a remarkable 54-year journey together. Melvin and Marcia were inseparable, and their love for each other was evident to all who knew them.

Melvin and Marcia welcomed two children into their lives, Renée (Mathieu) Dusch and Ryan Mathieu, who became the center of their world. Melvin was a devoted father, always present at his children’s sporting events and activities, and he took great pride in their accomplishments.

A Dedicated Worker and Community Servant

Melvin spent the majority of his career working in the boiler house at Scott Paper Company in Winslow, where he eventually advanced to the position of pipe fitter. His outstanding work ethic and ability to work well with others made him a valued member of the team.

After the mill closed, Melvin continued his career at Bath Iron Works until his retirement. Even after he retired, Melvin couldn’t sit still and worked as a “cabbie” in Waterville, providing a friendly and reliable service to the community.

Melvin was also a dedicated volunteer, delivering Meals on Wheels rain, snow, or shine. He made many friends among the people he regularly visited, bringing them not only food but also a warm smile and friendly conversation.

A Passion for Sports and the Arts

Melvin was an avid sports fan, and he loved cheering on his favorite teams, including the Red Sox, Bruins, Sea Dogs, and Commanders. He never missed a game and could often be heard enthusiastically cheering or grumbling from the sidelines.

In addition to sports, Melvin had a passion for the arts. He loved to dance, and he and Marcia were regulars at the VFW in Waterville, where they could be found lighting up the dance floor.

A Legacy of Love and Service

Melvin Mathieu will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire Waterville community. He was a kind, caring, and generous man who always put others before himself. His legacy of love and service will live on forever.

Melvin is survived by his loving wife, Marcia; his daughter, Renée (Mathieu) Dusch, and her husband, Jim Dusch; his son, Ryan Mathieu, and his partner, Heather Orcutt; his grandchildren, Isabel and Zachary Link, Sawyer, Isaac, and André Dusch, Liam Mathieu, and great-granddaughter, Violet Link.

He is also survived by his sisters, Louise Mathieu, Rita and husband David Card, Jean Mathieu, and brothers Carl and Leo Mathieu, as well as his great friends, Bob Pelletier and Franny Poulin.

A funeral service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Waterville on May 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Melvin’s memory to the Waterville Area Food Bank or the Maine Veterans’ Home.

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