Laurette M. Genest

Laurette M. Genest, 89, formerly of Sanford (more recently of Kennebunk), passed away peacefully at the Newton Center in Sanford on May 14, 2008.She was born in Van Buren on June 4, 1918, a daughter of Benjamin and Julie (Cyr) Levasseur, and moved to Sanford in her early twenties.Laurette was a devoted wife and mother, always putting her family's needs before her own.She was an avid knitter, and kept her family warm with hand-made mittens, hats and scarves. She later took up machine-knitting, eventually acquiring 3 machines, one of which was computerized and allowed her to create fancy sweaters with colorful yokes and hats with cartoon characters for her grandchildren.She is survived by her four sons, Richard Genest and his wife Rita of North Berwick, Edward Genest and his wife Janis of California, Philip Genest and his wife Jeanie of Shapleigh, Ronald Genest, of Sanford and one daughter, Patti Genest of Wells, as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She is pre-deceased by her beloved husband, Patrick G. Genest, and a daughter, Juanita Nielsen. At the family's request, services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Lafrance-Lambert & Black Funeral Home, 29 Winter Street, Sanford. To leave the family a message of condolence please use the "condolences' tab to the left.