David Francis Plourde - age: 77
(February 15, 1946 to April 28, 2023
)
Resident of
South Portland, Maine
Obituary:
David F. Plourde, 77, died peacefully at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House. He was born the son of the late Janet Plourde (Paradis) and Clifford Plourde. After graduating from Van Buren High School, he went to work at the family business in Caribou, ME. In 1969 he married Gerri Gagnon, who he loved deeply until his last breath. They raised two children together, Stephanie and Jennifer.
In his younger years, Dave enjoyed travel, fast cars, and outdoor activities. He was an avid distance runner, cyclist, and tennis player. He also loved animals, a passion he passed down to his daughters. He had a curious mind, enjoying trivia, vocabulary, and psychology. More than anything, especially later in life, he appreciated his close family and his solitude.
Around 2001, Dave was diagnosed with an advanced-growth acoustic neuroma that nearly killed him. By the time it was diagnosed, he had experienced tinnitus, hearing loss, balance issues, and nerve damage. After the very delicate and life-saving surgery, he experienced facial paralysis and other nerve damage, hearing loss, and cognitive challenges that would stay with him until the end of his life. Forced to retire early, he made a simple but satisfying life in Southern Maine, frequenting restaurants near his home and becoming a beloved regular. He remained active until a stroke in January of 2023.
He is survived by his ex-wife Gerri, his children Steph and Jenn, a grandson Noah, and two of his siblings Rachel Plourde of Hampden, ME and Michael Plourde of Caribou, ME.
Dave's family would like to express their deep gratitude to the facilities that cared for him in his final months, particularly Maine General Hospital, Maine Medical Center, and finally Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
HART of Maine, Adoption Center and Shelter for Cats
302 Range Rd
Cumberland, Maine 04021
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