Donald Edward Gaudreau, went to be with the Lord on December 10, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 12, 1936 in Howland, son of Edward and Marie Louise (Beland) Gaudreau.
For a short period during his high school years he attended school in Canada where he became a Cadet in the Royal Canadian Army. There he learned how to be a “voice operator.” Don first discovered his love for amateur radio when he was 10 years old.
In 1954, he graduated from high school in Howland. Don then immediately enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He completed his basic training at Sampson Air Force Base, New York in 1955. Don was then sent to Keester Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS., where he studied to be a Ground Radio Operator. From there he was sent to Okinawa where he served until 1957. From 1957 to 1959 he was stationed at Dow Air Force Base in Bangor. From 1959 to 1961 he was assigned to Wheelus Air Force Base in Libya, North Africa. From 1961-1964 he served at Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, Maine and it was there that he concluded his military service. In his 10 years of service in all of his various locations, his primary duty was Ground Radio Operator. One of his most important assignments was his duty as Radio Operator for SAC or Strategic Air Command. He was also listed as a sharpshooter with a rifle as well as a pistol. After his completion of military service he attended and graduated from Coyne Electrical Technical School in Boston, MA. earning his master electrician license. Don then joined the Navy Reserves where he served as an electrician for 19 years. He also joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary working as an electrician as well as an amateur radio operator.
Don was primarily self-employed as an electrician for the next 50 years. He was simultaneously employed for Maine Central then Bangor and Aroostook Railroads.
Don was predeceased by his parents, his three eldest sisters, Marcelle, Rita and Carmen, his infant brother, and his infant children, Kerry Scott and Delores Ann.
Surviving are his wife, Mary Ann, his son, Timothy, a sister, Lorraine and a brother, Gerald.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the wonderful doctors, nurses and specialists that cared for Don over the years. As well as the many family members and friends who have shown much love and support.
A military service honoring Don’s life will be held in the spring at a date and time to be announced.
Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com.