1935 – 2013

LEWISTON — Joseph E. Gats, 78, a former resident of Livermore Falls, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 8, at d’Youville Pavilion, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born May 27, 1935, in Villa Park, Ill., the son of Matthew Gats and Bernadine (Donner) Gats. He was a graduate of Villa Park High School. Joe served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-59. He met his future wife, Denise Ann Ouellette of Jay, when he was stationed in Maine at Brunswick Naval Base; they were married on Nov. 21, 1959, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Jay. They made their home and raised their family on Munsey Avenue in Livermore Falls.

Joe worked at International Paper Company in Jay and later for IBEW Local 1253 in Fairfield. He was a communicant of St. Rose of Lima Church and also served as a Eucharistic Minister. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Amvets Post 33 in Jay.

He is survived by his wife, Denise A. Gats of Lewiston; two daughters and their husbands, Carol and Mike Truchon of Turner and Lisa and Chris Roney of Freeport; his son, Bill Gats and his wife, Kelli, of Livermore; and eight grandchildren.

He was predeceased by brothers, Robert, Matt and Danny Gats; and his sister, Janet Gats.

Messages of condolence may be sent to: www.finleyfuneralhome.com.