Roland A. Paquin Jr.

Old Orchard Beach

Roland Alfred Paquin Jr., 83, of Old Orchard Beach, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Thursday, November 16, 2023.

Roland was born in Biddeford on January 20, 1940, the son of Roland Sr. and Germaine (Chasse) Paquin. He attended Biddeford schools and graduated from St. Francis High School in 1957.  He then went on to receive his Associate's Degree from St. Francis Collage, and his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from the University of Southern Maine.

Roland had several careers that brought him fulfillment.  He first went to work for General Electric at their South Portland manufacturing plant, and remained with them for 20 years.  He then opened the Basford House in 1984, where he and his family offered long-term care to the elderly. Upon selling the nursing facility in 1997, Roland went to work for Fiber Materials Inc. and served as their Vice President of Finance until his retirement at age 71.

He met the love of his life, Linda Rowe, in 1980. Their love grew over the years, and in October of 1995 they entered into marriage.  The newlyweds settled in Biddeford and remained there until the late 1990's.  They later relocated to Old Orchard Beach.  Roland and Linda enjoyed daytrips and car rides to the White Mountains, Bar Harbor, and to Quebec.  Boating on Sebago Lake or in the Ocean brought Roland great pleasure.  Never in a hurry, he would gently cruise along taking in and appreciating the whole experience.

Roland was an integral part of the community and gave of his time generously to various organizations.  He was an Assistant Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts, he was the leader for the local Junior Achievement chapter for many years, a past president for Biddeford Pee Wee football, and belonged to the Antique Car Club.

Anyone who knew Roland would describe him as a kind, patient, and brilliant man, who always took the time to share his vast knowledge with others.  He will be dearly missed by many.

Roland was predeceased by two sons, Allen Rowe and Jessie Rowland.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Paquin; by his son Daniel Paquin and wife Lisa; by his four daughters, Stacey Welch and husband Richard Jr., Deanie Bissonnette and husband Joseph, Joy Rowland, and Jill Paquin-Carney and husband Mark; by 12 grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Lillian, Kyle, Sarah, Joseph 3rd., Christopher, Jessie, Madison, Jakob, Adam, and Aaron; by three great-grandchildren, Meara, Mariana, and Ellie-Rose; by one brother, Raymond Paquin; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be from 9:00am to 11:00am, with a Funeral Service at 11:00am on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James St., Saco.  Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Biddeford.