Obituary: Leo H Thiboutot
Leo H. Thiboutot, a familiar face in Brunswick’s community who balanced a steady work ethic with a love of rivers, woodlands and canvas, died on Aug. 7. He was 83.
Thiboutot was born on Dec. 19, 1942, in Brunswick, the son of Alphonse V. Thiboutot of Lewiston and Aldea E. Morin of Brunswick. After graduating from Brunswick High School in 1963, he began his career at the Pejepscot Paper Mill, where he spent 20 years before moving to Brunswick Coal and Lumber, where he remained until retirement.
Beyond his industrial work, Thiboutot served as an English translator for the mill’s French‑speaking customers, a role that reflected his bilingual upbringing and his willingness to bridge communication gaps in the local workforce. He also answered the call of duty early on, serving six years in the Army National Guard after high school.
Family was central to Thiboutot’s life. He married Carol A. Templeman of Pensacola, Fla., on Oct. 31, and the couple would have marked their 63rd wedding anniversary later this year. Together they raised four daughters: Caleen Alexanderson of Marshfield, Mass.; Stephanie Bollinger of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Alison Hartill of Bath, Maine; and Heidi Flanders of Bowdoinham, Maine. He delighted in his seven grandchildren—Jonathan, Bailey, Blane, Ian, Cole, Kate and Michael (MJ)—often joining them on fishing trips, hunting outings and storytelling sessions.
When he wasn’t working, Thiboutot could be found pursuing his passions. A dedicated fly‑fisherman, he tied his own flies and taught the craft to anyone who showed interest. One of his favorite spots was Lindsay Cove on Pierce Pond in New Portland, a place he returned to season after season. In his later years he discovered a talent for oil painting, teaching himself by studying the televised lessons of Bob Ross. The result was a collection of cheerful landscapes that adorned his home and those of family and friends.
Those who knew him recall a man who was always ready to lend a hand. “No request was too big or too small,” a family member said, noting his reputation for generosity throughout the neighborhood.
Thiboutot is also survived by his brother, Luke Thiboutot of Topsham, and two sisters, Corrine Dumont and Nina Thiboutot, both of Brunswick. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews and close friends who will miss his steady presence and warm humor.
The family expressed deep gratitude to the staff at Andwell Hospice in Lewiston for the compassionate care provided during his final weeks.
A memorial service will take place on Aug. 21 at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 132 McKeen St., Brunswick. The service runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a reception in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local conservation fund in honor of Thiboutot’s love of Maine’s outdoors.
