Irene Anita Turcotte

Irene "Anita" (Gosselin) Turcotte, 84, of Lewiston passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on January 15, 2024, at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. Born on December 18, 1939, to the late Lucien and Marie Gosselin. Originally from Virginia, she made her journey to Maine with her parents and sister following her father, who served in the Navy.

Irene, known as "Anita," to those close to her, graduated from Lewiston High School in 1957, where she found the love of her life, Richard C. Turcotte, Sr. The couple married on January 10, 1959 at St. Peter & Paul Church.

Together with her husband, “Dick”, they enjoyed weekend trips to places like Montreal. She would often reminisce “dancing til dawn” at the Studebaker Club.

Anita began her career in the Lewiston shoe shops and later worked at local businesses, including the Mail Room. She recently retired from Marden’s, where she formed close bonds with her co-workers, who affectionately called her "Chuck."

Anita cherished reading, playing games, crossword puzzles and most of all spending time with her family and friends.

Her family remembers her as a tenacious matriarch and loving leader of the family. She had a way of making the people in her life laugh, feel heard, valued and loved. Her sense of humor and treasured stories will be passed down through generations.

Survived by her children, Richard C. Turcotte Jr. and Vickie Lynn Poto and her husband Thomas Poto; four grandchildren, Tyler Turcotte and his fiancee Stephanie Elwell, Alec Turcotte and his wife Laura Turcotte, Jessica Poto, Matthew Poto and his wife Katherine Blessis-Poto; three great grandchildren, Harrison and Grant Turcotte, Avyanna Jacobs as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband and her sister Lucina “Lou” Beaulieu and her daughter in law, Del Anne Turcotte.

The family expresses gratitude to the entire staff at CMMC for ensuring her comfort and providing exceptional care during her stay. A heartfelt thank you is extended to her healthcare provider, Renee Fagone, NP, for her compassionate and readily available care. Special appreciation is also conveyed to Central Maine Cardiology, and, finally, the family acknowledges the staff at Androscoggin Home Healthcare for their continuous support and care.

A service will be held at Gracelawn Memorial Park on 980 Turner St, Auburn on Friday February 16th at 12:00 pm. Afterwards, we invite family and friends to gather for a celebration of life at (place to be determined)

Memorial donations may be made in Anita’s honor to the Androscoggin Hospice House located at 236 Stetson Rd, Auburn, ME 04210

Condolences can be shared on the guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.