EAST MILLINOCKET -- Robert J. "Bob" Thibodeau Jr. died May 8, 2007, surrounded by his loving family at home, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bob was born August 5, 1953, in Lincoln, the son of Stella (Gagliardi) Thibodeau and the late Robert J. Thibodeau Sr.

Bob was a graduate of Schenck High School, Class of 1972. He served in the U.S. Air Force for three years. After serving his country, he moved back to East Millinocket to raise his family. He worked at Great Northern Paper for many years, retiring in 2002. He was a member of the DAV, JFK Chapter No. 6, where he served as adj/treasurer. Bob loved to spend time at his camp, fishing and hunting with family and friends. He enjoyed his daily crossword puzzles and playing pool. He most recently received a plaque for his dedication and support for honoring our military troops. He was very proud of the men and women of our armed forces.

Bob is survived by his two loving daughters: Denise A. Smith and her husband, Cory, of Oregon, and Angela M. Thibodeau and her fiance, Greg Hale, of East Millinocket; his loving mother, Stella G. Thibodeau and companion, Dick Michaud, of East Millinocket; four sisters: Cathy and her husband, Danny Hinse, of East Millinocket, Sandy and her husband, Chummy Kimball, Mary and her husband, Mike Thompson, and Sharon Thibodeau, all of Medway; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Bob will also be missed by Brianna, his beloved adopted cat, who stayed by his side throughout his illness. She gave him great joy and comfort. Bob was a very generous and caring man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Many thanks to Gibby, Alwin, and George for the trips to Boston, and to Pat and Larry for the many rides to his treatment. Special thanks to his sister, Sharon, who faithfully took care of her brother every day throughout his illness, and many thanks to Donna, Kathy, and Rob of Community Health and Counseling Services. At Bob's request, there will be no visiting hours.

Gifts in memory of Bob may be sent to Katahdin Area Support Group, 10 Field Street, Millinocket, ME 04462. Arrangements are by Bouchard-Lamson Funeral Home, East Millinocket. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.lamsonfh.com.