1954 – 2016

LEWISTON — Paul Rodrigue died on Thursday, Dec. 8, with his family by his side at Russell Park Manor after battling a long illness.

He was born in Lewiston on July 14, 1954, the the son of Fernand and Alma (Tardif) Rodrigue.

Paul attended Lewiston schools, St. Peter’s Catholic School, Holy Family School and Lewiston High School. He graduated from the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking in New York City; received his certification in jewelry repair and diamond settings from the Holland School for Jewelers in Selma, Alabama; and received a degree as a gemologist from The Gemological Institute of America in Santa Monica, Calif..

Paul started his career as a watch repairman at the Value House until their closure. He then went to work for Carlyle and Co. in the Auburn Mall where he became a jeweler and master craftsman. During that time, he received his gemologist degree. When the company closed their doors, Paul set up shop in his home and did the work for the area jewelry stores. In 1994, he opened his own jewelry store “Paul Rodrigue Jewelers” in the Lewiston Mall, which he ran until 2005. He then re-opened his store as a kiosk in 2006 in the Auburn Mall for the Christmas Season.

Paul loved to laugh and enjoyed life to the fullest. He was a generous, compassionate man and family and friends were everything to him. He loved all of the holidays and enjoyed being with all the people. He was ready with a story or a joke everywhere he went, was quick witted and made people laugh. Paul was well-traveled going to Europe several times seeing Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, Canada and many states of the United States. His favorite place was Las Vegas, Nev., where he enjoyed the energy of the casinos and all the shows. He also loved playing intense strategic games and joined clubs where he could enjoy the challenge. Paul liked going to fine restaurants, movies, especially comedies, plays and rock concerts.

He is survived by his father; his sister and best friend, Doris Martineau and her husband, Roger, of Sabattus; and his nephew, Christopher Martineau of Carthage, Texas.

He is predeceased by his mother.

We wish to thank the staff of Russell Park Manor for their friendship and loving care of Paul for the past 3 years.

Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralalternatives.net