Martin W. Gonthier

Biddeford

Martin W. Gonthier, 88, of Biddeford, passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family by his side on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at home.

He was born in Somersworth, NH on November 2, 1932, a son of Joseph E. and Florida M. (Nadeau) Gonthier. He was a graduate of St. Louis High School, class of 1951.

In 1955, Martin completed the apprenticeship program in Machine Shop Practice & Administration at Saco Lowell Shops, where he was employed for 4 years. He worked as a Mechanical Engineer for Lund Manufacturing for 19 years. Martin simultaneously owned and operated his own business, Circle Products, for over 50 years, since it was founded in 1962, forging relationships with other manufacturers in the area. He retired in 2012 and donated his machinery, tools, and materials to Biddeford High School's Manufacturing Technology Program.

He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus. Martin was a man of great faith and a parishioner of St. Joseph's Church in Biddeford. He also worshipped at Most Holy Trinity in Saco and at St. Martha's in Kennebunk.

He was predeceased by his wife of 66 years Rejeanne "Jeanne" (Roy) Gonthier on May 24, 2020 and by sisters Marguerite in 1977 and Madeleine in 2006, as well as brother Marcel ("Mike") in 2010.

He is survived by four children: Michael Gonthier and wife Lorie, of Biddeford; Diane Ouellette of Old Orchard Beach; Celeste Cota and husband Joe, of Brewer; and Lisa Gonthier, and partner, Bruce Kennedy, of New Durham, NH.

Martin was "Pepere" or "Pep" to five grandchildren: Tracy Boucher and partner, Chris Hale;  Michele (Ouellette) Gadbois and husband, Kevin; Christopher Ouellette; all of Biddeford, ME; Shannon (Boucher) Pesackis and husband, Michael, of Fort Mill, SC; and Nola Prevost, of Brewer, ME.

He had five great grandchildren: Gabrielle Pesackis, Aiden Ouellette, Demitri Hale, Camille Ouellette, and Brady Gadbois.

Also surviving him is one sister, Martha Masse of Florida, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Martin and Jeanne were married on April 19, 1954. They renewed their vows in celebration on their 60th anniversary in the same church in which they were married. Martin called Jeanne his "bride" throughout their marriage and was at her side when she passed. Together they enjoyed traveling, visiting family in Connecticut and Quebec, sightseeing from Maine to Florida, and exploring other places such as the Bahamas and San Francisco. Their home was one of warmth and laughter, hosting many celebrations, from holiday gatherings to weddings and graduation parties. There was always room at the table with them.

Martin was a lifelong learner, continually interested in understanding more about the world. He earned his pilot's license in 1973 and shared his elevated perspective with his family and friends. He was an early adopter of engineering technology such as Computer Assisted Drafting, though he had been trained in drawing blueprints on paper, represented by the drafting table that occupied his home office for many years. His curious nature prompted exploration of feats of engineering like the Hoover Dam or Golden Gate Bridge and natural wonders like Mammoth Caves and Mt. Washington. He was always eager to pack up the Coleman stove and spend the day grilling burgers and steaks while picnicking with the family beside a mountain stream, on an island in Sebago Lake, or in the tall pines at Long Pond. He would race the kids to the end of the dock before diving in and encouraged a love of the outdoors through his own exuberance.

He had a sense of humor that shined along with the twinkle in his eyes while telling corny jokes and puns. He was quick to join in playing with the kids, on the floor or the lawn, and taught many to swim, fish, and drive. He loved a good steak, a good book, and a good laugh.

A Visiting Hour will be from 10-11AM with a Funeral Service at 11AM Thursday, October 14, 2021, at Cote Funeral Home, Saco. Burial will be private in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Biddeford. To view Martin's memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com .