BIDDEFORD – Alberic “Percy” Dionne, 69, longtime resident of Biddeford, passed away after a brief illness early Friday morning on Aug. 12, 2022, in Scarborough.

He was born in Biddeford on Dec. 12, 1952, a son of Gladys Beaulieu and Alberic “Savage” Legendre.

Percy graduated from Biddeford High School, class of 1972. He was a member of the Tigers’ gymnastics team during high school, serving as an important member of the 1971 and 1972 state championship teams. In 1972, Percy was undefeated in the rings. Percy’s gymnastics experience turned into a lifelong interest in health and fitness.

At the age of 44 in 1997, Percy set a world record in bench press, pressing 500 pounds at the low bodyweight of 188 pounds. He was a fixture at the Surf 6 bench press competition in Old Orchard Beach for many years. Percy enjoyed weightlifting and was always willing to share his knowledge with others. He will be sadly missed by many.

Percy started working at an early age and developed an interest in the electrical field during high school. After briefly working for Camille’s Electric, he went on to own and operate Percy’s Electric in Biddeford for 48 years. Percy made many lasting relationships with his customers, becoming friends with many. The family remembers many electricians during this period, notably Mark Casavant and Chuck Turgeon, who worked with Percy for 45 and 43 years, respectively. Through his business, Percy happily helped many local organizations and individuals within the community.

Percy was always highly supportive of his children and grandchildren. Their interests, whether dance, football, powerlifting, or baseball, became his passions too. Percy also encouraged education, helping both of his children achieve graduate degrees. His love for family reflected his faith in Jesus Christ. Percy was a Christian, influenced at an early age by the preaching of Billy Graham. Graham’s televised events gave Percy hope and encouragement during difficult times as a child.

Percy also pursued various hobbies during his life. He enjoyed rebuilding classic automobiles, and Percy was especially proud of his 1963 split-window corvette. In addition, Percy liked playing billiards, which was formed at an early age working in the pool halls of Biddeford. At a charity event, he won a match against the world nine-ball champion. Whether though his hobbies or work, Percy’s gregarious personality was evident. He was sociable, enjoying long conversations on a variety of topics. Percy also had a playful side, always quick with a joke or involved in pulling pranks. He especially enjoyed dinning out with family and friends.

He was predeceased by his father Alberic “Savage” Legendre and by his brother Alberic “Ricky” Legendre.

He is survived by his mother Gladys Beaulieu, his son Steven Dionne, his daughter Kristel Hill and her partner Scott Brettle, five grandchildren: Devan Ruel, Jalysa Hill, Beau Dionne, Isabelle Dionne, and Edmund “Teddy” Dionne. He is also survived by seven siblings: Jean Brooks and husband Ricky, Rachel Casavant and husband Marc, Patricia Cote, Lisa Legendre, Carleen Parker and husband Ray, Kathy Black and husband Mark, Samantha Newman, and Rod Legendre and wife Denise, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James Street, Saco. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., on Friday, Aug. 19, 2022, at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco. To view Percy’s memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit http://www.cotefuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Seeds of Hope in Biddeford – http://www.seedsofhope4me.org/donate

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