Madawaska--- Joel A. Dionne, 78, of Madawaska, our beloved father and husband, passed peacefully surrounded by his family on February 10, 2020, at Ridgewood Estates. He was born in St. David October 27, 1941, a son of the late Alphée and Rose (Malenfant) Dionne.

Joel is survived by Thérèse (Michaud), his wife of 50 years, his children and their spouses, Paul and Jenn, Jason and Brianna, and Michelle and Micah. He was blessed with 6 grandchildren, Sam, Luc, Leo, Solomon, Eve, and Emile. Joel is also survived by his sisters, Marge Williams (Bob) and Doris Smith (Stewart), and a sister-in-law, Pauline, along with many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Joel was predeceased by his brothers Eldage and Eldon.

Joel was a quiet man, known for his kind, gentle way and exceptional mechanical abilities. He grew up working in father's, Alphée's, engine machine shop, repairing cars, studied mechanical engineering, and became an accomplished maintenance planner for over 38 years at Fraser Papers. We were told countless times by those who worked with him of his impact on "keeping that mill running."  All his free time was spent with family on camping adventures and, later, at his beloved Chalet.  He developed a love for taking his motorhome long distances and flying to even farther destinations. Joel loved the outdoors and encouraged us to look and listen to what was around us—the birds, the rustling wind through the trees, the ocean. He loved to soak up God's most quiet places.  Joel truly led by example with his care for others, his actions of grace, and a life lived in devotion to his family. He never complained. He will be dearly missed, but we also rejoice knowing he is finally "home."

Joel's family would like to extend our thanks and appreciation for the loving care he received at Ridgewood by the amazing staff who supported him during his last few years; we will forever be grateful.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Friday, February 14, 2020, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Madawaska. Relatives and friends may greet the family Friday morning 8:30-9:45 AM at Lajoie Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 114-10 ^th Ave., Madawaska. Spring burial will be in St. David Cemetery.