Joseph R. Nadeau

Portland, ME – Joseph R. “Ronny” Nadeau, 84, died peacefully Thursday, December 22nd, 2022 after a long illness. He was born March 28th, 1938 in Millinocket, the son of Edmund L. and Cecile A. (Thibodeau) Nadeau. Ronny was a graduate of Stearns High School, class of 1957. After graduation, Ronny served his country in the U.S. Army for 4 years. Ronny worked in Connecticut for several years and then through his loving sister, Anita, met my mother, Helen. They were married for 43 years. After marriage, he settled down with me and my mom in his hometown of Millinocket. He worked at the Great Northern Paper Company for many years and was previously a member of the B.P.O.E. Elks Lodge #1521. He was a devout Catholic and a former parishioner of St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Millinocket, in addition to churches in Greater Portland. In 1986, he moved his family to South Portland and worked at Maine Medical Center until his retirement. My dad believed in good honest work and his work ethic was admired by many. Ronny was an avid bowler, winning many amateur competitions and had many trophies. Dad always had a smile on his face and was so kind to everyone. He was a man of little words, but when he spoke, you listened and learned. Ronny enjoyed spending time with his family and friends more than anything else. He is survived by his wife, Helen (Hersey) Nadeau of South Portland, whom he adored; his daughter, Wendy (Nadeau) Wagnis and son-in law, Joseph, of Steep Falls; two sisters, Mary A. “Annette” Nadeau, and Anita (Nadeau) Blaisdell, both of Millinocket; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Ronny was predeceased by siblings, Richard, William, Arthur, Alden, Edmond, Wayne, Robert, Wela, Nadine & Gilda. A graveside service and reception will be held Spring of 2023 in Millinocket. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 1024 Broadway, South Portland, ME. To view Ronny's memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com In lieu of flowers, to honor my dad’s memory, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.