Van Buren Cove, Long Lake--- Jim E. Marquis, 64, started his new journey February 5, 2017. He was born May 15, 1952 in Van Buren, a son of the late Ernest and Justina (Pelletier) Marquis, and was a 1970 graduate of Van Buren District School.
After attending Southern Maine Vocational School, So. Portland, Jim went onto work over 40 years with Loring Air Force Base as Utility Foreman in their water and utility systems department. He was proud of his many accomplishments with Loring during his many years of service. He was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the American Legion, Post #49. Jim was a figurehead of Van Buren Cove on Long Lake and always had his door open to share a story, and was never shy to share a good-natured joke. He loved living on the lake and was well known in Van Buren as driving his truck with the license plate "T17-R3", the location of Van Buren Cove. Over his three-year battle with cancer, Jim never felt sorry for himself. He faced each day with courage and dignity. A plaque on his wall was one of his favorite life mottos:
"You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only chance you have."
Jim and his family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to his healthcare providers at Hospice of Aroostook, Aroostook Cancer Care, and Borderview Rehab and Living Center for their devoted and compassionate care.
He is survived by: two sisters, Rita Marquis of Van Buren and Marge Levasseur and her husband Jim of Fort Kent; his devoted companion, Phyllis Doucette and their cat Sam of Van Buren; three nieces whom he always cherished, Michelle Thibodeau and her husband Adam of Steep Falls, Robin Jandreau and her husband James of Fort Kent, and Billie-Jo Caron and her husband Billy of Fort Kent; six great nieces & nephews; and many close friends he has met through all walks of life.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Saturday, February 11, 2017, at St. Bruno-St. Remi Catholic Church, Van Buren. Relatives and friends may greet the family Saturday morning 8-9:30 AM at Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren. Spring burial will be in St. Bruno Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's name may be made to: TAMC Aroostook Cancer Care, 140 Academy St., Presque Isle, ME 04769. To share condolences online, please visit ww.LajoieFuneralHome.com
