Paul Joseph Cloutier

Paul J. Cloutier, 88, of Sanford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Summer Commons in Sanford, Maine. Paul was born on September 30, 1935, in Sanford, Maine, to Arthur and Irene (Tremblay) Cloutier. He grew up in Sanford and attended the local Catholic schools. Paul proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1953 to 1956. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Sanford, where he embarked on a fulfilling journey. In 1963, Paul married Anita Blouin, and together they shared nearly 61 years of marriage, raising three children. Paul's professional life was diverse; he held various jobs before finding his niche with the Laborer’s Union, where he dedicated many years until his retirement. Even after retiring, he continued to work part-time at Associated Eyecare in Sanford for an additional 18 years. Paul was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, fishing, and playing horseshoes. He and Anita purchased land on Mirror Lake in Newfield in 1967, where they built their camp, spending countless summers enjoying family time on the water. In their retirement years, Paul and Anita enjoyed many winters in Fort Myers, Florida, creating enduring memories together. Known for his BBQ chicken and secret sauce, Paul loved hosting gatherings for friends and family. He also found joy in woodworking, crafting cherished heirlooms for loved ones. A devout Catholic and communicant of St. Therese of Lisieux Parish in Sanford, Paul was deeply involved in his community. He was a 3rd and 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Marine Corps League, and the American Legion. Paul will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and family man. His outgoing nature, sense of humor, and storytelling skills endeared him to many, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. His legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. Paul's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy will continue to shine brightly. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sylvia Royal and his daughter-in-law, Christine Cloutier He is survived by his loving wife, Anita Cloutier of Sanford; his children, Lucille Rivard and her husband Chris of Acton, Gerard Cloutier of Escondido, CA, and Claire Bell and her husband Christopher of Mountain Home, Idaho; grandchildren, Victoria Heritage, Aaron Rivard, Bryce Darnell, Reagan Cloutier, and Taylor Cloutier; great-grandchildren, Charlotte Heritage and Everett Darnell; his sister, Monique Morin of Sanford; brothers-in-law, Paul “Ray” Blouin and his wife Judy of Connecticut, and Marcel Blouin of Sanford, along with many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, March 22nd, at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home located at 580 Main Street in Springvale. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 23rd, at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish located on North Avenue in Sanford. Interment will follow in the spring at Notre Dame Cemetery in Springvale. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider sending a memorial contribution to St. Thomas School, 69 North Avenue, Sanford, Maine 04073 or St Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. You can also donation by clicking the tabs below. Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.