SACO – Paul R. “Dick” Lajoie, 82, passed away at home on Nov. 6, 2022. Dick was born in Lewiston on May 13, 1940, a son of the late Ernest and Amelia Lajoie. Growing up in Portland, he graduated from Deering High School in 1959. Following graduation, Dick enlisted in the United States Navy. After his honorable discharge, Dick moved to New York to continue his technical education to establish his career with the former New England Telephone Company. Always wanting to come back to Maine, Dick put in for a transfer to come home to Maine. For over 36 years, Dick worked throughout Maine to install and repair phone systems in commercial and residential buildings, retiring in 1999. Following his retirement, Dick enjoyed his pursuit of life-long learning and physical fitness. He enjoyed wood working, house remodeling and furniture restoration, off road biking, golf, skiing, reading, and studying military history. However, his biggest passion in life was his love for long-distance running. Throughout his life, he completed many road races, marathons, and participated in several Beach to Beacon Road Races where he was proud to place in his age-group. Though he was devastated to give up running later in life, he supported, taught, mentored and coached many others to help them achieve their fitness goals. He was a very generous and giving individual with a great sense of humor who had the ability to communicate with anyone, regardless of age. He was an avid Patriots and Red Sox fan who loved family gatherings and spending time with those he loved. Dick was an incredible soul who will be deeply missed. Dick’s Family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the caregivers at Hospice of Southern Maine. He is predeceased by his sisters, Doris Burke, Rochelle Malia and Joan Wilcox; brother, Robert Lajoie and his beloved cats, Abbey and Mr. Stubbs.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nian Lyman-Lajoie of Saco; daughter, Amy Lajoie of Nevada; stepsons, Eric Severy and wife Ashley of Durham and Joel Severy of California. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Lajoie and wife Joan of Florida and several nieces and nephews. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Friday, November 18 at 1 p.m., at Brooklawn Memorial Park, Congress Street, Portland. A reception and Celebration of Dick’s life will follow from 2-4 p.m., at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. To view Dick’s memorial page, or to share a condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Hospice of Southern Maine, or The Special Olympics, an organization that Dick held near

to his heart.

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