Lionel J. Morneau

Brother Lionel J. Morneau died at the age of 86 at the St. Andre Health Carre Facility in Biddeford on Friday, June 23 after a long illness. Brother Lionel was born May 16, 1920 in St. Rose de Degele, Quebec, Canada the son of Elise & Helene (Rioux) Morneau.He entered the juniorate of the Brothers of Christian Instruction at Alfred, ME on April 1, 1935 and the novitiate of the Brothers at LaPrairie, Quebec, Canada on August 15, 1936.He made his perpetual profession on August 15, 1942 and spent 70 years in religious life. Brother is survived by his brother Gerard Morneau of Brunswick and his sister Mary Gaudette of Estero, FL. Brother Lionel had a long and varied career. He taught in schools at Plattsburg, NY, and in Maine at schools in Waterville, Alfred, Sanford and Biddeford. He also taught in Canada at schools in Grand Mere and Dolbeau. He served as receptionist in Cap Rouge, Quebec, and as Assistant Perfect in Plattsburg. He enjoyed working in the Alfred orchards during the latter part of his working years. After his formal retirement at Alfred in 1985 due to health problems, he continued to serve the Alfred Community in varied ways mostly in a number of maintenance tasks. Brother Lionel was truly a man of God, forgetful of himself, entirely devoted to God's people. He taught the young during his early years and cared for his brethren during his elderly years. No doubt Jesus' words apply to him. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in Heaven. (Mt 5 :12) Come to me, you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart ; and you will find rest for yourself. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light. (Mt 11 :28-30)Vistitng hours will be Monday, 7 :30 to 8 :30 PM at the Brothers' Chapel in Alfred. A concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 :00 AM Tuesday in the chapel. Burial will follow at the Brothers' cemetery.Arrangements are being conducted through the Lafrance-Lambert & Black Funeral Home, 29 Winter St., Sanford, ME.To leave on-line messages please use the "condolence" tab on the left.