Madawaska--- Gerald "Tobee" Deschaine, 82, peacefully passed away December 27, 2024, following several years of failing health. He was born July 12, 1942, in Madawaska, a son of the late Joseph X. and Isabelle (Guerrette) Dechaine, and was a graduate of Madawaska High School, Class of 1961.

Tobee was the former owner and operator of Deschaine Sanitation, Madawaska and surrounding areas, for over 60 years, until his retirement in 2008. He was exceptionally proud to build his business from the ground up and support his local community as it grew to the size he was able to transfer to his son in 2008. Previously he worked at Frasier Paper Mill in various departments for over 15 years, until he was able to establish his sanitation business. During his younger years, Tobee enjoyed deer hunting with his son and friends but cherished many memories over his many years at the family camp on Birch Point.

He is survived by two children, Tammy Sirois and her husband Philip of St. Agatha, and Todd Deschaine and his wife Shawna of Madawaska; six siblings, Dick Deschenes, Roger Dechaine, Michael Dechaine, June Dechaine, Diane Daigle and Terry Lagasse; four grandchildren, Dereck Dionne, Jaymes Wing, Reagan White, and Delaney Deschaine; three great grandchildren, Abram, Adrienne, and Romeo; several step grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Tobee was predeceased by his beloved wife of 53 years, Murielle (Nadeau) Deschaine, and two siblings Ellis Dechaine and Rinette Cyr.

Funeral services were held privately and at the convenience of the family Arrangements were a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 114 – 10th Ave., Madawaska. To share condolences online, please visit www.LajoieFuneralHome.com