Van Buren--- Jean Paul Rioux, 90, peacefully entered into rest December 6, 2023, at the Aroostook House of Comfort, Presque Isle, with his loving family at his side. He was born June 6, 1933 in St. Jean de Dieu, QC, Canada, a son of the late Clement and Berthe (Ouellet) Rioux.

Jean Paul was born and raised in the logging industry. At a young age he won countless awards competing in skilled tree harvesting in Quebec. He later moved to Maine to pursue his career in the logging industry. He worked countless hours making his business a success, from buying timberland to harvesting and delivering the timber to local mills. His motto was "Hard work will not hurt you!" Jean Paul later retired to enjoy life with his precious wife. He was a parishioner of St. Bruno-St. Remi Church and was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus. Jean Paul was an avid outdoorsman who took great pleasure tending to his homestead and keeping his place immaculate. In addition, he was a gifted woodworker who made numerous treasures for his devoted family, such as lighthouses, birdhouses, and airplanes. Jean Paul was a true legend and his legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Huguette (Ouellet) Rioux of Van Buren; six children, Roberto Rioux and his wife Andrea of Oklahoma, Gabriel Rioux and his wife Michelle of Hamlin, Michelle Bouchard and her husband Bob of Van Buren, Carlene Lizotte and her husband Mark of Connor, Guildo Rioux and his wife Johnna of Florida, and Eric Rioux of Van Buren; three brothers and four sisters; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Jean Paul was predeceased by four brothers and one sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at St. Bruno-St. Remi Church, Van Buren. Relatives and friends may greet the family Saturday morning 8:30-9:30 AM at Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren. Spring interment will be in Grand River Cemetery, Van Buren. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean Paul's name may be made to: Aroostook House of Comfort, PO Box 867, Presque Isle, ME 04769.