Obituary of Delano A. Duplessis

Delano “Del” A. Duplessis, 84, of Van Buren, Maine, passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2021 while at home doing what he loved, gardening. Del was born to parents Levite Casmir Duplessis and Nora (Michaud) Duplessis, on July 7, 1936, in Keegan, Maine. He attended Van Buren public schools and graduated high school in 1954. Del married Valtrude Jacqueline Beaulieu in 1957, who survives him. Del is also survived by son Jeffrey Duplessis (Kathryn) of Idaho Falls, Idaho, daughter Debra Paradis (Jim) of Stockholm, Maine, daughter Lisa Cyr (Alan) of Van Buren, Maine, son Dean Duplessis (Rachel) of Presque Isle, Maine, granddaughters Nicole Pelletier and Dr. Kristin Guerrette, grandsons Dominique Cyr and Jade Duplessis, and brother Leo James Duplessis. He was predeceased by parents Levite and Nora Duplessis, and brother Levite “June” Duplessis, Jr. Del viewed life as one big journey filled with infinite learning experiences that was the motivation for his many accomplishments. During his early work life Del quickly became an accomplished brick layer and served his country in the Maine National Guard; however, Del’s entrepreneurial spirit quickly led him to later build two sports equipment manufacturing companies (Simplex Mfg. and Graphite Technology), earning two patents, and late in life creating a small woodworking business building first-rate cabinets. Del enjoyed the challenge of making things, and if he could, making them bigger and better. His love of gardening frequently produced big yields and huge pumpkins. Del especially loved flying, owning several airplanes throughout his life and accomplishing a dream from his youth to become a licensed private pilot. The folks who knew Del most likely benefited in some way from his generosity and were perhaps also recipients of his candor in colorful opinions and prose concerning life, people, and experiences. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021 at St. Bruno-St. Remi Catholic Church, Main St., Van Buren. Friends and family may greet the family Friday morning 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at St. Bruno-St. Remi Catholic Church.