Fr. George was born in Rumford, Maine on March 4, 1920 a son of George and Marie Anne (Roy) Goudreau.
After completing his clerical studies at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Toronto, he was ordained to the priesthood by the Most Reverend Daniel J. Feeny, Seventh Bishop of Portland, on May 22, 1948 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland.
While in active ministry, Fr. Goudreau served in the following parishes; as parochial vicar at the parishes of St. Matthew, Limerick (Summer 1948), St. Bernard, Rockland (1948-59), Cathedral, Portland (1959-61), as pastor at the parishes of St. Gabriel, Winterport (1961-72 ), St. Matthew, Hampden (1968-72) – new parish, and Sacred Heart, Waterville (1972-1992.)
Fr. Goudreau also served as a confessor to the Sisters of Mercy, as a chaplain to the Daughters of Isabella (Winterport), as chaplain and faithful friar to the Knights of Columbus (Waterville), as a member of the Diocesan Priests’ Senate and Diocesan Consultors, and as moderator to the Maine Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. During his retirement, Fr. Goudreau lived in Rumford and Florida.
In recent years, Father Goudreau could be found on most days watching Fox News on TV. He has a genuine interest in current events. This interest wasn’t limited to world events. He was an active member of the local community. When Father retired from parish work, he returned to his hometown of Rumford where he lived with his sisters for the last 20 years. During this time, he served on the Rumford Hospital Development Committee. Up until last year, Father administered the Sacrament of the Sick to those in need at the Rumford Hospital.
Father Goudreau was a kind and compassionate man. He brought consolation to the weak, the poor, and the suffering with his many acts of kindness, both great and small. We will especially miss his whole hearted laugh and great sense of humor.
Surviving are two sisters, Claire Goudreau of Rumford and Priscilla Dupill and Husband Henry of Rumford; three brothers, Robert Goudreau and Wife Elizabeth of Woburn, MA, Rev. Paul Goudreau of Hudson, FL, and Msgr. Joseph Goudreau of Arlington, VA; and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, a brother Maurice Goudreau, and two sisters, Jeanne Tozier and Pauline Goudreau.
If so desired contributions in Fr. George’s memory may be made to Parish of the Holy Savior 126 Maine Ave Rumford, ME 04276.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18