Donald Gagne

Donald Marcel Joseph Gagne, 83, of Wells, Maine, passed away peacefully at his home on the evening of Sunday, October 4, 2026, with his devoted wife of 61 years, Jeannette, by his side.

Born on April 20, 1943, Don was raised in Hills Beach, Biddeford, Maine. He was the son of the late Roland and Yvette (Picard) Gagne and attended St. Andre School. A bit of a rebel in his younger years, he happily traded those wild ways for family life, marrying his best friend and the love of his life, Jeannette Brulotte, on July 3, 1965. Together they built their family home in Wells.

Following in his father’s footsteps from an early age, Don developed a passion for woodworking, turning a lifelong interest into a career of fine carpentry and craftsmanship. Over the years, family and friends were blessed to receive his artistry through one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts crafted especially for them. He spent countless hours in that “workshop” creating. A true music lover, Don had a record collection stretching all the way back to his favorite childhood artists, and loved the oldies. Music was a constant in his life—playing in the house, on every car ride, and filling his workshop as he worked.

Don’s adventurous spirit also fueled his lifelong love of motorcycles. He owned many Honda bikes over the years, his favorite being his Gold Wing—as well as a deep appreciation for classic vehicles. He loved the feel of the open wind and the freedom of a winding country road—journeys made even sweeter with Jeannette riding beside him.

In his later years, Don could often be found tinkering with bicycles for riders of all ages, seamlessly swapping parts from one frame to bring another back to life. The collection of bikes lining his roadside property became a familiar local landmark. Firm in his belief that “no child should be without a bicycle,” he took great joy in giving them away to anyone in need.

Don’s greatest pride was his family: his three children and their spouses, each of whom he admired for their hard work, independence, and devotion. He deeply cherished memories of family camping trips and outdoor adventures shared with them and his four grandchildren. Beyond outdoor adventures, many of Don’s happiest memories were the times spent around the dining room table, laughing and playing games with family and friends.

In recent years, he was blessed with the arrival of his great-granddaughter, Beatrice, who brought him immense joy as he watched her learn and grow during her weekly visits.

Don will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his quick wit and sense of humor, and his pride in living by the motto, “I’m a Gagne.”

Don was predeceased by his brothers Junior, Norman, Leo and Patrick, and sisters Monique Sylvestre and Judy Monahan.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Jeannette Gagne; his daughter, Peggy Welch, and her husband, John Welch, Jr., along with their daughters, Bryanna Morton and Olivia Welch; his son, James Gagne, and his wife, Brandy; his son, Steven Gagne, and his wife, Dawna, along with their sons, Landon and Emmett; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Beatrice Morton. He also leaves behind his siblings Roger Gagne, Dennis Gagne, Priscilla Roy, Linda Gosselin, Connie Frechette, and Guy Gagne, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life to be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at Litchfield’s Bar and Grill, 2135 Post Road, Wells, ME.