Scott Matthew Lemelin
June 27, 1968 ~ May 19, 2020
Scarborough - Scott Matthew Lemelin, 51, passed away unexpectedly from a cardiac event on May 19, 2020.
Scott was born on June 27, 1968 in Chicopee, MA to parents Lois (Andrews) Lemelin and Richard Conrad Lemelin. Scott grew up in Maine and graduated from South Portland High School in 1986 where he played soccer and baseball. Scott went on to play soccer in college at the University of New England. Graduating from UNE in 1990, Scott began his career as a Physical Therapist at Granite Hill PT in Brunswick and married the love of his life, Eileen Raftice in 1997. In 2003 Scott opened his own practice, Advanced Physical Therapy. Eileen joined in 2005 helping Scott grow the business and together they were a great team.
After several years together in South Portland on Settler Road, Eileen and Scott moved to Scarborough and welcomed son Matthew in 2006 and daughter Carly in 2008. Scott loved every part of being a Dad, to his children and his dogs Bailey, Whiskey and Bogey. He was a devoted husband and father.
Scott was always active and loved all things outdoors. Growing up, he rode dirt bikes and snowmobiles with his brother, Rick and best friend, Chris. He enjoyed hunting with his grandfather and developed a talent for fixing things. Scott had a wide variety of interests and hobbies including, drawing with Carly, playing the piano, ping pong, reading, teaching his kids to ski, music, dancing, golf and hitting the links with Matthew. He had a thirst for knowledge and was a passionate life-long learner who endlessly researched every topic that sparked his interest.
Scott had a larger-than-life personality and a big, infectious laugh and he was an entertaining storyteller. He worked hard and loved life. From yearly vacations at Higgins Beach with the Raftice clan to snowmobiling adventures in Moosehead with the Lemelin's, there was always fun to be had. He was part of an annual horseshoe tournament where he and brother in law Jimmy were 5-time legendary champions. He and Eileen and the kids spent happy times with family on Woods Pond and the causeway at Long Lake. They enjoyed annual camping trips to Bayley's Campground.
Scott is predeceased by his father, Richard Lemelin and his father-in-law, Robert Raftice, Sr. He is survived by his wife Eileen; children Matthew and Carly; beloved dog Bogey; his mother, Lois Lemelin and her fiance John Pineau; mother-in-law, Susan Raftice; brothers, Rick and wife Angela and Ryan and wife Lindsay. He treasured his relationships with his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and was a wonderful role model to his many nieces and nephews, who adored him. Scott also leaves behind a big extended family and countless friends, neighbors, patients and co-workers who will miss him dearly.
To say that Scott will be missed is an understatement. He has touched the lives of many, both professionally and personally. He was everyone's go-to guy. Scott's last teachable moment was a reminder of how precious life is.
Visiting Hours celebrating Scott's life will be held Tuesday, June 9 from 4-7PM at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made payable to the "Estate of Scott Lemelin". Donations will serve as an education fund for Matthew and Carly Lemelin. Please send to 3 Barnswallow Court, Scarborough, ME 04074.
Attendees are requested to wear a mask at all services. Per state restrictions, up to 50 people will be permitted in the building at any given time. The Funeral Home staff will rotate visitors through to make sure everyone in attendance is able to pay their respects. Social distancing practices are requested to be observed.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Photo Gallery
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
I recently heard of Scott’s passing. Ten years ago I was in an auto accident that required years of physical therapy. It was my good fortune to select Scott for my weekly sessions. Caring and clinically skilled, he brought me through a difficult time and helped me return to good physical health. I looked forward to my torture on ‘Reggae Fridays’ though he insisted, “It hurts me to hurt you!” I loved his humor and storytelling; and I can imagine what a wonderful husband and Dad he was. My deepest condolences to Scott’s family. Peace to you all. Jennifer Fitzpatrick
– Jennifer Fitzpatrick
Scott and I worked together from HealthSouth to the Pinnacle Rehabilitation Network over 3 decades. An incredibly brilliant Therapist who always questioned the status quo and challenged us all to be better. He was a patient -first Therapist. His amazing sense of story-telling and humor made him so interesting . I love Scott and personally devastated losing him far too early. My heart goes out to the family and his community. I am a better person for knowing Scott and gifted to say he was a good friend. Bob Worden Pinnacle P.T.
– Bob worden
Our hearts are broken. Scott was the best of the best. So talented, knowledgeable and kind. He helped Harry and I through so many injuries. My prayers are with all of his loved ones during this very unexpected and difficult time. With our sincere sympathy and love, Patti and Harry Sundik
– Patricia Sundik
I was a patient of Scott’s in 2006. We talked about son’s as mine was 5 at the time and he was anxiously awaiting Matthew’s arrival. My condolences to his family, he was a great guy!!
– Penny Nichols
Scott was one of a kind. My heart breaks for Eileen, Mathew, Carly and his family and close friends. I will cherish many fond memories of sharing an office with Scott many years ago at GHPT as we began our PT careers together. He was a passionate, inquisitive therapist and professional, always looking for better ways. He knew how to liven a room, and keep things real. He loved his family and was so proud of his children. A wonderful person taken too soon. Rest in peace. Sincere and deepest condolences, prayers to Eileen, Matthew and Carly. He will live on in our many fond memories. Denise Dumont, Sophia and Ella
– Denise Dumont-Bernier
Scott’s passing is such a sad loss for so many. My heart breaks for those closet, especially, Eileen, Matthew and Carly. I will always remember the times Scott and I got to play table tennis together. It was usually as much talk as playing. But insightful and meaningful as well as fun. Thoughts and prayer are with the whole family.
– Philip Chamberlain
Scott became my PT in 2006 when he was on Sewall Street. It was on meeting him that I remembered him as a fourth grader at Kaler School the year I had his brother in fifth grade. He had been on crutches for a broken leg. During my tenure that first series of PT, he moved his office down the street to the green building, and his wife was carrying Matthew. Scott cured me both with his PT skills and his kindness and humor. He lit up the office! In 2014 I was back to PT for another surgery. He had his partner who also was great, do my PT. It had been 8 years since I had seen him. He had changed greatly. He was so much in love with his family and involved with their activities. Still the man in the room, but so humble and so happy! It took my breath away to hear of his sudden passing! My heart goes out to his family. Know of my thoughts and prayers for you all. I don’t need to tell you how wonderful Scott was. The finest thing is that he was able to impart so much joy to so many for so long! God Bless you, Scott! Maureen Regan
– Maureen Regan
Both Larry and I were shocked and so, so sad to receive the office letter informing us of Scott’s untimely death. It was, as you say, WAY too soon. Scott tended to us through muscle pulls, orthopedic surgeries and Larry’s Parkinson’s Disease. Always with a smile, a story, a joke AND his uncompromising professional expertise. Eileen and children, we send our deepest condolences. There are really no words adequate to express our sorrow and we cannot imagine yours. It just isn’t fair. Sending you, Matthew and Carly our love. Robin Ratcliffe and Larry Pixley
– Robin Ratcliffe and Larry Pixley
A good friend, gone much too soon. Lots of fond UNE memories. Rest in peace, Scott. Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the Lemelin and Raftice families. . . Doug and Susan Biggs
– Doug and Susan Biggs
I always wanted to be in the group with Scott for our Kaler school field trips because he was always fun to be around and his mom was one of the nicest Mom’s who volunteered for the field trips. And I think of Scott often whenever I hear “Band On The Run” by Paul McCartney… Because in first grade we had a story called”chicken on the run” and Scott sang it just like the song….. He had Ms Cavalier holding back her laugh out loud moment….he always made me laugh . My deepest sympathies to his entire family and friends.
– Kathy Baker Carter
We were so sorry to hear about Scott’s passing. We could write a book about all the good times and memories we had with Scott. The countless times he spent with our family when he was growing up will be in our memories forever. He always brought a lot of joy, laughter and love into our home. He was like another son to us. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with the family. Larry n Carol
– Larry
I am so sorry to hear of Scott’s passing. I was a patient of his for a few injuries and he always fixed me up both physically and mentally. I will miss his smile, his laugh and our random conversations of music, TV, politics and dirt bikes. I would not be enjoying my day to day activities if it were not for his guidance, knowledge and care. Thank you, Scott. My very best to the entire family. –Zach Magoon
– Zach Magoon
I am so sad to hear of Scott’s passing . . . I was a patient for several years off and on and was thorough pleased with Scott’s work. I absolutely praised Scott for his expertise in handling my issue. We had many great conversations during my therapy sessions. My heart goes out to Scott’s family. Very sad! He was too young to leave us. I will miss Scott!! Don Cyr.
– Donald Cyr
It is with a heavy heart that I write this message. To Eileen and children he spoke of you with joy and happiness. He had so much compassion and care for the people around him. He is a good man and we will miss him. Al and Virginia Brown
– Allan Brown
Dear Lemlin Family~ I’m so sorry to hear of Scott’s passing. I remember Scott in high school as one of the nicest, kindest and funniest people. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Julie Darling Barrett
– Julie Darling Barrett
I was devastated when I heard this news. Scott was a larger then life, type of guy, a care giver, tons of stories and as his patient, always made me laugh, I will miss, “it hurts me to hurt you”. To Eileen Matthew and Carly, I am so so sorry. He would go on and on about you and the kids, and had so much love for all of you. I will miss him. My deepest condolences.
– Keri Mayo
We will miss seeing and talking to Scott around the neighborhood–every memory we have of encounters with him bring a smile to our face. Scott seemed to have such a zest for life! Eileen, Matthew and Carly, words can’t express how sorry we are for your loss… Brett and Julie
– Brett and Julie Coffin
Our condolences to Scott’s family. We are sorry to hear of his passing. We both were Scott’s instructors in the UNE PT program and remember him as someone who was passionate about Physical Therapy. You always knew when Scott was in the classroom. Even though our courses weren’t in his interest area, Scott tolerated our efforts to teach him as much as we could and he demonstrated that academically at all times. After graduating he always recognized and remembered us and talked about the days at UNE. We will miss his sense of humor and commitment to the practice of Physical Therapy. We are so sorry for your loss. Nancy and Neil Schuster
– Nancy and Neil Schuster
Rest in Peace Scott. Prayers and thoughts for your family.
– Tina Maietta
I was so deeply saddened to hear of Scott’s death. He was such a force! I was fortunate to have been a patient of his and I am very grateful for his expertise, knowledge and good spirit. He guided me through 2 injuries with caring, skill and never ending entertaining stories. I ache for his family trying to absorb this tragic loss. My thoughts are with Eileen, the rest of the office staff and his family.
– Kris
One thing I’ll remember about Scott is that he had a thing about getting the dollar amount on the gauge to a round amount when he filled his gas tank. We used to tease him about it at PT and when I got a round amount I would report it to Scott at my next session. The day after Scott passed and before I had heard the news, I filled my tank without paying attention to the amount and when it was full, I was amazed to see that not only had I ended up with .00 in the dollar amount but in the gallons as well. Amazing I thought and said I have to take a picture and show Scott when I’m at PT tomorrow. When I heard of Scott’s passing shortly after, I thought immediately it was his spirit saying goodbye and don’t forget all the laughs we had together in PT. I’ll miss you Scott. You were a character.
– Robin Schulte
I was arguably one of Scott’s worst PT patients. He would tell me all the time that he should drop my as a patient. I never remembered what count I was on,never did the exercise he told me to do at home and slouched all the time. But injury after injury in highschool he still saw me. I remember he made me do hip bridges on a ball and well he wasn’t looking I wedged my shoes under the ball so it would stay still because it was too hard. When he saw that his expression was priceless and all he could do was laugh. I must have impressed him because he hired me to work for him while I was in highschool and to watch Matthew and Carly. He was such a bright light and positive influence in my early life. This world will be a little darker without him.
– Stephanie McDonough
I just found out about Scott and I am devastated. What a wonderful man and physical therapist. The Best. I will miss his humor, intelligence, conversations, his knowledge. My heart goes out to Eileen , His children, his family. he was a remarkable person and will be greatly missed.
– diane manzi
To Eileen, Bob and Jim. I am so heartsick over reading of Scott’s passing. Scott and I hit it off the first time we met when he was at Granite Hill. HealthSouth had 6 outpatient centers with very talented folks running them. But, Amy and I would talk often about how intelligent Scott was. He would never say it, but he was the brightest person in the room. After I left and Scott soon left HealthSouth, I would go visit him on Sewall St. as he opened, expanded and moved to a larger space. I wanted to work with Scott badly, but I could never pull it off. He was devoted to his Mom’s wellbeing to the nth degree. Before he met Eileen he told me he would probably never have kids. He did not think he would be a good father. I was so astonished, but I remember saying he was right. He would not be a good father. He would be the best father and husband. Because he cherished each and everyone in his life. While we did not see each other very often, when we did see each other at say the Cape gym, it was like no time had passed since we last talk. This makes zero sense to me and I apologize for my ramble. Scott was simply the best and I am a much better person because I knew Scott. Sincerely, Joel Rogers.
– Joel Rogers
Of all the physical therapists I have had (and there have been many) Scott was, by far, the most knowledgeable and intuitive. His ability to hear what I was saying and craft treatments is why I am still walking at age 72 rather than rolling around in a wheelchair as had been predicted. I am so sorry that you left this world so young…there is such a need for your talents. Thanks for believing me and for all the great discussions we had during treatments. You will be missed.
– Linda Meyer
My Deepest Condolences to the Lemelin Family..and Ryan and Lynsey and boys …sending Prayers and Blessings to you both and the boys…I’m am so sorry to hear of your brother…God Bless you all. Love Aunt Barbara Lee.
– Barbara lee Ward
Scott and I shared office space for a year and then he moved his practice to the green building on Sewall st. He was a joy to know and a wonderful therapist. I experienced him as a PT I referred to; was my personal PT; and a friend. He is greatly missed! Cathie Crute, MD
– Catherine Crute
I very recently started searching for my friend Lois and her fabulous sons to discover that Scott passed 4 years ago. I have such wonderful memories of Scott and Rick and especially their Mother Lois who was a spectacular mother and friend to me!! I am heartbroken for Scott’s family and their loss and I have no words that can possibly express how profoundly heartbroken I am. Even though I have not seen Scott in many years he will always have a place in my heart. Anyone who met Scott and got to know him will tell you what a spectacular person he was!! With all my respect and love, Donna Buzzell